bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USGS46 Greenland Ice Core Water – A New Isotopic Reference Material for δ2H and δ18O Measurements of Water
Authors: Coplen Tyler B. , Qi Haiping , Tarbox Lauren , Lorenz Jennifer , Buck Bryan
Published: September 2013

Ice core from Greenland was melted, filtered, homogenised, loaded into glass ampoules, sealed, autoclaved to eliminate biological activity, and calibrated by dual‐inlet isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry. This isotopic reference material (RM), USGS46, is intended as one of two secondary isotopic reference waters for daily normalisation of stable hydrogen (δ2H) and stable oxygen (δ18O) isotopic analysis of water with a mass spectrometer or a laser absorption spectrometer. The measured δ2H and δ18O values of this reference water were −235.8 ± 0.7‰ and −29.80 ± 0.03‰, respectively, relative to VSMOW on scales normalised such that the δ2H and δ18O values of SLAP reference water are, respectively, −428 and −55.5‰. Each uncertainty is an estimated expanded uncertainty (U = 2uc) about the reference value that provides an interval that has about a 95‐percent probability of encompassing the true value. This reference water is available in cases containing 144 glass ampoules that are filled with either 4 ml or 5 ml of water per ampoule.
Development and psychometric testing of the online Adolescent Diabetes Needs Assessment Tool (ADNAT)
Authors: Cooper Helen , Spencer Joy , Lancaster Gillian A. , Titman Andrew , Johnson Mark , Wheeler Sara Louise , Lwin Rebekah
Published: September 2013

Aim

To report on the development and psychometric testing of the Adolescent Diabetes Needs Assessment Tool.

Background

TheUKhas the fifth largest paediatric diabetes population in the world, but one of the poorest levels of diabetes control, highlighting the need for intervention development.

Design

Mixed methods following recommendations for questionnaire design and validation.

Methods

A total of 171 young people (12–18 years) participated between 2008– 2011. Methods included item selection using secondary framework analysis, item review, pre‐testing, piloting and online transfer. Statistical tests assessed reliability using item‐total correlations, interitem consistency and test–retest reliability; and validity using blood glucose (HbA1c) levels and the Self‐Management of type 1 Diabetes in Adolescence questionnaire.

Results

The Adolescent Diabetes Needs Assessment Tool consists of 117 questions divided between six domains of educational and psychosocial support needs. It combines reflective questioning with needs assessment to raise self‐awareness to support adolescent decision‐making in relation to diabetes self‐care. Thirty‐six of the questions provide self‐care and psychosocial health assessment scores. Face and content validity of the scoring items were all positively evaluated in terms of appropriateness and readability and tests for validity found significant correlations with Self‐Management of type 1 Diabetes in Adolescence and weak correlation with HbA1c, which compared favourably with Self‐Management of type 1 Diabetes in Adolescence, the only comparable (USA) tool. Item response analysis validated the use of simple additive scores.

Conclusions

The Adolescent Diabetes Needs Assessment Tool combines reflective learning with needs assessment to support patient‐centred clinical consultations.
Therapy targets in glioblastoma and cancer stem cells: lessons from haematopoietic neoplasms
Authors: Cruceru Maria Linda , Neagu Monica , Demoulin Jean‐Baptiste , Constantinescu Stefan N.
Published: September 2013

Despite intense efforts to identify cancer‐initiating cells in malignant brain tumours, markers linked to the function of these cells have only very recently begun to be uncovered. The notion of cancer stem cell gained prominence, several molecules and signalling pathways becoming relevant for diagnosis and treatment. Whether a substantial fraction or only a tiny minority of cells in a tumor can initiate and perpetuate cancer, is still debated. The paradigm of cancer‐initiating stem cells has initially been developed with respect to blood cancers where chronic conditions such as myeloproliferative neoplasms are due to mutations acquired in a haematopoietic stem cell (HSC), which maintains the normal hierarchy to neoplastic haematopoiesis. In contrast, acute leukaemia transformation of such blood neoplasms appears to derive not only from HSCs but also from committed progenitors that cannot differentiate. This review will focus on putative novel therapy targets represented by markers described to define cancer stem/initiating cells in malignant gliomas, which have been called ‘leukaemia of the brain’, given their rapid migration and evolution. Parallels are drawn with other cancers, especially haematopoietic, given the similar rampant proliferation and treatment resistance of glioblastoma multiforme and secondary acute leukaemias. Genes associated with the malignant conditions and especially expressed in glioma cancer stem cells are intensively searched. Although many such molecules might only coincidentally be expressed in cancer‐initiating cells, some may function in the oncogenic process, and those would be the prime candidates for diagnostic and targeted therapy. For the latter, combination therapies are likely to be envisaged, given the robust and plastic signalling networks supporting malignant proliferation.
Diurnal variation of carbohydrate insulin ratio in adult type 1 diabetic patients treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
Authors: Nakamura Tomoaki , Hirota Yushi , Hashimoto Naoko , Matsuda Tomokazu , Takabe Michinori , Sakaguchi Kazuhiko , Ogawa Wataru , Seino Susumu
Published: September 2013

To estimate the carbohydrate‐to‐insulin ratio (CIR), a formula dividing a constant, usually 300–500, by the total daily dose (TDD) of insulin, is widely utilized. An appropriate CIR varies for each meal of the day, however. Here, we investigate diurnal variation of CIR in hospitalized Japanese type 1 diabetic patients treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion. After optimization of the insulin dose, TDD and total basal insulin dose (TBD) were 34.9 ± 10.2 and 9.3 ± 2.8 units, respectively, with a percentage of TBD to TDD of 27.3 ± 6.0%. The products of CIR and TDD at breakfast, lunch and dinner were 311 ± 63, 530 ± 161, and 396 ± 63, respectively, suggesting that in the formula estimating CIR using TDD, the constant should vary for each meal of the day, and that 300, 500, and 400 are appropriate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, respectively.
C‐reactive protein in psoriasis: a review of the literature
Authors: Beygi S. , Lajevardi V. , Abedini R.
Published: September 2013

A great deal of research has addressed the elevation of C‐reactive protein (CRP) among psoriatic patients and the role of this marker in assessment of disease severity and progression. However, there are some discrepancies in this area. We sought to figure out the relationship between CRP values and disease severity as well as the changes in marker levels after treatment through an extensive literature review. Comparison between CRP levels in psoriatic patients and those in healthy or non‐psoriatic individuals was also another focus of this review. A thorough search in Pubmed and Embase was conducted for articles investigating different aspects of CRP measurement in patients with psoriasis. Overall, 32 articles were found to meet our inclusion criteria. Of 28 studies comparing the CRP values in psoriatic patients with those of controls, 24 found a statistically significant difference. In addition, 12 out of 16 papers examining the association between disease severity and CRP values noted significant results. With regard to CRP changes over the course of a treatment, all 15 studies addressing this issue revealed a significant decrease in marker levels. In conclusion, high CRP levels only for moderate and severe forms of disease might be inferred from the literature and there is no sufficient evidence suggesting a similar association for mild disease as well. Moreover, CRP may serve interchangeably with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) as a measure of disease severity in the case of untreated psoriatic patients who do not have disease related arthritis. For other patients, however, a careful clinical examination and PASI calculation still remain the mainstay of severity assessment.
Overview of the use of dermoscopy in academic and non‐academic hospital centres in France: a nationwide survey
Authors: Breton A.L. , Amini‐Adle M. , Duru G. , Poulalhon N. , Dalle S. , Thomas L.
Published: September 2013

Background

Dermoscopy is acknowledged to improve the diagnostic accuracy of melanoma by several concordant meta‐analyses. However, the use of dermoscopy was not considered as a high level of evidence diagnostic tool by French Health Authorities. However, as shown in Australian, American and in our recent surveys, dermoscopy is used by most of dermatologists in private practice.

Objectives

To analyse the use, beliefs, teaching given and research produced in dermoscopy in dermatology departments of French hospitals.

Methods

A questionnaire about the use, available equipment, teaching activities and published research on dermoscopy was mailed to all chairmen of dermatology departments in French both academic and non‐academic hospitals.

Results

Seventy‐six of 110 mailed questionnaires were returned. The majority of centres claimed to use dermoscopy (97.5%), but it seemed heterogeneous among practitioners according to their age and position. The use of dermoscopy was four times higher in non‐academic centres (P = 0.015). Centres located in the south east of France were higher users comparing with others (P = 0.004). Earlier detection of melanoma was the most important advantage reported. Excessive training time was the most important reported disadvantage. Twenty‐five percent of centres had dedicated clinics for pigmented lesions. Few centres (14.5%) run formal dermoscopy training programs. Most centres (74.7%) declared a use of dermoscopy for the diagnosis of non‐tumoral diseases.

Conclusions

This is the first European study evaluating the use of dermoscopy among hospital. Despite a large use, dermoscopy‐dedicated teaching and research time appeared to be insufficient.
Confirmation of oxidative stress and fatty acid disturbances in two further Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome families with identification of a new mutation
Authors: Bullón P. , Morillo J.M. , Thakker N. , Veeramachaneni R. , Quiles J.L. , Ramírez‐Tortosa M.C. , Jaramillo R. , Battino M.
Published: September 2013

Background

We have previously reported oxidative and fatty acids disturbances in one Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS) family. This Mendelian condition characterized by palmar plantar keratosis and severe aggressive periodontitis, is caused by mutations in the cathepsin C (CTSC) gene. In this study, we have analysed two further unrelated PLS families to confirm this association.

Methods

Mutations were identified by direct sequencing of CTSC. Biochemical analyses were performed in probands and their relatives in order to determine plasma levels of vitamin E, CoQ10, lipid hydroperoxides (HP) and fatty acid patterns.

Results

Pathogenic CTSC mutations were identified in both families including a new mutation (c504C>G). Both probands showed low levels of vitamin E and CoQ10, and high levels of lipid HP, and also very low levels of docohexaenoic acid.

Conclusions

The previously reported oxidative and fatty acids disturbances were confirmed as a feature of this condition in two further families. There are low levels of antioxidant markers and high levels of oxidative markers, in addition of low levels of some anti‐inflammatory fatty acids in persons suffering PLS and some of their relatives.
Risk‐taking behaviour may explain high predation mortality of GH‐transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Duan M. , Zhang T. , Hu W. , Xie S. , Sundström L. F. , Li Z. , Zhu Z.
Published: September 2013

The competitive ability and habitat selection of juvenile all‐fish GH‐transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio and their size‐matched non‐transgenic conspecifics, in the absence and presence of predation risk, under different food distributions, were compared. Unequal‐competitor ideal‐free‐distribution analysis showed that a larger proportion of transgenic C. carpio fed within the system, although they were not overrepresented at a higher‐quantity food source. Moreover, the analysis showed that transgenic C. carpio maintained a faster growth rate, and were more willing to risk exposure to a predator when foraging, thereby supporting the hypothesis that predation selects against maximal growth rates by removing individuals that display increased foraging effort. Without compensatory behaviours that could mitigate the effects of predation risk, the escaped or released transgenic C. carpio with high‐gain and high‐risk performance would grow well but probably suffer high predation mortality in nature.
A portable electro‐immobilization and laparoscopy system for sex determination and gonadal biopsy in largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides
Authors: Matsche M. A.
Published: September 2013

A portable electro‐immobilization and laparoscopy system is described that is suitable for sex determination, gonadal biopsy and immediate release of largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides. Continuous direct current at a power density of 52·2 µW cm−1 for 2 min was sufficient to immobilize fish for surgery, but induced a mild, transient hypokalaemia and hyperglycaemia. Insertion of a 4·8 mm laparoscopic instrument set through the urogenital pore provided access to the gonads for examination and biopsy with mild tissue trauma.
Ribose‐Induced Maillard Reaction as a Quality Index in Frozen Minced Chicken and Pork Meats
Authors: Tan Thuan‐Chew , Alkarkhi Abbas F.M. , Easa Azhar Mat
Published: September 2013

Minced meats underwent denaturation, oxidation and aggregation during frozen storage, causing decrease in denaturation enthalpy, sulfhydryl contents and protein solubility, as well as increase in protein carbonyl and disulfide contents. These changes were more evident in samples stored at −4C than those stored at −20C, as reactions occurred at faster rates at higher temperature. The addition of ribose on thawed minced meats followed by heating at 95C initiated Maillard reaction browning. Browning index () was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fresh minced meats than in frozen ones, decreased with storage time and were lower in minced meat stored at −4C than those stored at −20C. The biochemical changes in meat proteins during frozen storage reduced the availability of basic amino acids to take part in the Maillard reaction. Hence, could be used as freshness index in minced chicken and minced pork.

Practical Applications

Long‐term frozen storage of meat causes degradative changes which leads to the loss of functionality, flavor, texture and organoleptic properties of the meat. Due to these losses, fresh meat is often perceived to be of a better quality and often valued at a higher market price compared to those of frozen meat. This study proposed an alternative, simpler, quicker and cheaper method to identify between fresh versus frozen/thawed meat. The proposed method was based on the Maillard reaction between proteins of meat and ribose, yielding brown pigments (melanoidins) that can be measured as absorbance and converted into a freshness index. It was demonstrated that the biochemical degradation during frozen storage reduces the availability of meat proteins to react with ribose, yielding lower freshness index as compared to those of fresh meat. Thus, freshness index could be used as a quality control method to ascertain meat freshness and to evaluate supplier's reliability.
Quality and Shelf Life of Fresh Chicken Breasts Subjected to Crust Freezing with and without Skin
Authors: Dawson Paul L. , Chaves Byron D. , Northcutt Julie K. , Han Invee Y.
Published: September 2013

The effect of crust freezing (20 min, −85C) on raw chicken breast quality, with or without skin, during aerobic, refrigerated storage for up to 18 days was assessed using the International Commission on Illumination color parameters L*, a* and b*; tenderness; total aerobic (aerobic plate counts [APC]) and yeasts/molds counts. Skin on had significantly higher L* values compared with skinless breasts (average 75 versus 55), whereas a* and b* remained relatively constant regardless of the presence or absence of skin, freezing or time. For a* and b*, values oscillated between −2.10–0.78 and 1.38–3.77, respectively. Shear energy varied for skinless samples but tended to remain constant throughout time for skin‐on breasts. APC increased over time, exceeding 8.0 log10 cfu/mL of rinse, between 6 and 12 days of storage. Crust freezing did not affect color or tenderness of raw chicken breasts, with or without skin, but also did not extend microbiological shelf life.

Practical Applications

Raw poultry products are susceptible to spoilage and deterioration. Several freezing applications at the commercial level claim to improve quality attributes or extend shelf life of these products. Crust freezing, where the product is semi‐frozen only at superficial layers of tissue, is one such application. The current study found that crust freezing did not affect quality attributes of raw chicken breasts, with or without skin, but neither did it extend their shelf life under aerobic, refrigerated storage, based on aerobic plate count values. Although further investigation is needed, this research serves as the foundation for other studies to benefit the industry. Because crust freezing is widely accepted as a shelf life‐extending treatment, the results of this study imply that the freezing method, length of the crust freeze time, and the product type and form may influence the effectiveness of crust freezing for shelf life extension.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Alzheimer's Disease Progression in Older Adults: Results from the Réseau sur la Maladie d'Alzheimer Français Cohort
Authors: Soto Maria E. , Abellan van Kan Gabor , Nourhashemi Fati , Gillette‐Guyonnet Sophie , Cesari Matteo , Cantet Christelle , Rolland Yves , Vellas Bruno
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To assess whether angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE‐I) treatment is associated with less cognitive decline in older adults with Alzheimer's disease (AD) than in those using other hypertensive or no drugs.

Design

Four‐year prospective multicenter cohort study with a biannual assessment.

Setting

Memory clinics from 16 university hospitals in France.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults with mild to moderate AD (N = 616).

Measurements

Participants were stratified into four groups according to type and duration of antihypertensive drug treatment. Cognitive decline was assessed using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE). Linear mixed‐effects models were used to assess differences in decline in MMSE score between the four groups. Hypertension at each visit was included in the model.

Results

Sixty‐one participants had used ACE‐Is continuously, 57 had used them intermittently, 189 had used other antihypertensive drugs, and 309 never used any antihypertensive drugs. Continuous ACE‐Is users had a 4‐year decline in MMSE of 6.4 ± 1.6 points (P < .001), intermittent ACE‐Is users of 7.9 ± 1.1 points (P < .001), continuous or intermittent users of other antihypertensive drugs of 8.8 ± 0.7 points (P < .001), and never‐users of 10.2 ± 0.6 points (P < .001). MMSE decline between the four groups was significantly different (adjusted P = .02). In subgroup analysis, the 118 (19.2%) participants who had continuously or intermittently used ACE‐Is had a significant difference in 4‐year MMSE decline from the 498 (80.8%) who had never used ACE‐Is (7.5 ± 0.9 vs 9.7 ± 0.4; P = .03).

Conclusion

The use of ACE‐Is in older adults with AD is associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline independent of hypertension. Future research is needed to explore the role of ACE‐Is in long‐term AD progression.
Neurofibromatosis and fibrous dysplasia manifesting in the same patient: a rare case report
Authors: Sujatha Sampangi , Jatti Deepa
Published: September 2013

Neurofibromatosis and fibrous dysplasia show the presence of café‐au‐lait spots, bone lesions, and endocrinopathies. There has been speculation whether neurofibromatosis and fibrous dysplasia are different manifestations of the same disease or if these conditions are in some way related. We provide a case of whether neurofibromatosis and fibrous dysplasia complicated by hyperparathyroidism and osteoporosis.
Early Predictive Value of Susceptibility Weighted Imaging (SWI) in Pediatric Hypoxic‐Ischemic Injury
Authors: Messina Steven A. , Poretti Andrea , Tekes Aylin , Robertson Courtney , Johnston Michael V. , Huisman Thierry A.G.M.
Published: September 2013

Susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) provides information about the intravascular cerebral blood oxygenation level. Deoxyhemoglobin is increased in tissue with increased oxygen extraction fraction. Accordingly, the draining veins in hypoxic‐ischemic brain may reveal abnormally low SWI signal. We report on a boy with hypoxic‐ischemic injury (HII) after cardiac arrest and the ability of SWI to depict areas of HII by focusing on the venous cerebral drainage.
Voxel‐Based Morphometry of Disproportionate Cerebrospinal Fluid Space Distribution for the Differential Diagnosis of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Yamashita Fumio , Sasaki Makoto , Saito Makoto , Mori Etsuro , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Kudo Kohsuke , Natori Tatsunori , Uwano Ikuko , Ito Kenji , Saito Koichi
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether voxel‐based morphometry of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) space can accurately differentiate iNPH from other related neurological disorders.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with surgically proven iNPH and 24 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), 18 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), and 14 healthy elderlies were examined. Regions of interest (ROIs) in the ventricular/sylvian (VS) and high convexity/midline (HCM) areas were used in VBM, and differences in CSF volume within these ROIs among the 4 groups were examined.

RESULTS

The relative CSF volume in the VS‐ROI in the iNPH group (.64) was significantly higher than that in the AD, PD, and healthy control groups (.26, .29, and .17, respectively; P < .001), whereas the relative CSF volume in the HCM‐ROI was significantly reduced in the iNPH (.10) than in the other (.17, .16, and .16, respectively) groups (P < .001). Furthermore, the ratio of the 2 areas (VS/HCM) was markedly higher in the iNPH (6.87) than in the other (1.65, 1.74, .97, respectively) groups (P < .001), with sensitivity and specificity of .89 and 1.00, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The VBM‐based CSF space analysis can detect disproportionate changes in CSF space and differentiate iNPH patients from those with AD or PD and healthy elderlies accurately.
The Enduring Impact of Maladaptive Personality Traits on Relationship Quality and Health in Later Life
Authors: Gleason Marci E. J. , Weinstein Yana , Balsis Steve , Oltmanns Thomas F.
Published: September 2013

Over the past 5 years, the St. Louis Personality and Aging Network (SPAN) has been collecting data on personality in later life with an emphasis on maladaptive personality, social integration, and health outcomes in a representative sample of 1,630 adults aged 55–64 living in the St. Louis area. This program has confirmed the importance of considering both the normal range of personality and in particular the role of maladaptive traits in order to understand individuals' relationships, life events, and health outcomes. In the current article, we discuss the explanatory benefits of considering maladaptive traits or traits associated with personality disorders when discussing the role of personality in social and health outcomes, with an emphasis on adults in middle to later life, and integrate these findings into the greater literature.
Age‐dependent baseline values of faecal cortisol metabolites in the American mink (Neovison vison) under semi‐natural housing conditions
Authors: Rauch E. , Bergmann S. , Hagn A. , Meixensperger J. , Reese S. , Palme R. , Erhard M.H.
Published: September 2013

The welfare of an animal is ensured if it is able to fully satisfy its essential species‐typical needs in all functional aspects of behaviour. In mink, stereotypies and apathy, internal and/or external injuries as well as increased susceptibility to disease have been known to occur as a result of chronic stress. The non‐invasive method of analysing faecal cortisol metabolites (FCM) allows conclusions to be drawn about the stress level in the respective housing system. The objective of this study is to find out how the cortisol metabolites content in the faecal changes with increasing age of the mink under semi‐natural housing conditions. Thus, 40 American mink (Neovison vison) were housed in two outdoor enclosures imitating natural conditions. Throughout the entire study (13th to 32nd week of life), faecal samples were collected to measure cortisol metabolites. No differences in FCM concentrations between the two outdoor enclosures were found. In the young mink lower, less fluctuating FCM levels were found than in older animals. After the first faecal collection in the 13th/14th week of life, the level of metabolites decreased slightly (p = 0.032; 17th/18th week). From the 22nd/23rd week onwards until the 30th/31st week, shortly before the animals were pelted, continuously increasing concentrations were then measured. Increasing FCM levels with advancing age of the animals are probably attributable to the onset of sexual maturity and/or the respective season. This has to be taken into account in future studies using this method for assessing welfare and when comparing different mink housing systems.
Comparison of hepatic adaptation in extreme metabolic phenotypes observed in early lactation dairy cows on‐farm
Authors: van Dorland H. A. , Graber M. , Kohler S. , Steiner A. , Bruckmaier R. M.
Published: September 2013

The aim was to study the variation in metabolic responses in early‐lactating dairy cows (n = 232) on‐farm that were pre‐selected for a high milk fat content (>45 g/l) and a high fat/protein ratio in milk (>1.5) in their previous lactation. Blood was assayed for concentrations of metabolites and hormones. Liver was measured for mRNA abundance of 25 candidate genes encoding enzymes and receptors involved in gluconeogenesis (6), fatty acid β‐oxidation (6), fatty acid and triglyceride synthesis (5), cholesterol synthesis (4), ketogenesis (2) and the urea cycle (2). Two groups of cows were formed based on the plasma concentrations of glucose, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β‐hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) (GRP+, high metabolic load; glucose <3.0 mm, NEFA >300 μm and BHBA >1.0 mm, n = 30; GRP−, low metabolic load; glucose >3.0 mm, NEFA <300 μm and BHBA <1.0 mm, n = 30). No differences were found between GRP+ and GRP− for the milk yield at 3 weeks post‐partum, but milk fat content was higher (p < 0.01) for GRP+ than for GRP‐. In week 8 post‐partum, milk yield was higher in GRP+ in relation to GRP− (37.5 vs. 32.5 kg/d; p < 0.01). GRP+ in relation to GRP− had higher (p < 0.001) NEFA and BHBA and lower glucose, insulin, IGF‐I, T3, T4 concentrations (p < 0.01). The mRNA abundance of genes related to gluconeogenesis, fatty acid β‐oxidation, fatty acid and triglyceride synthesis, cholesterol synthesis and the urea cycle was different in GRP+ compared to GRP− (p < 0.05), although gene transcripts related to ketogenesis were similar between GRP+ and GRP−. In conclusion, high metabolic load post‐partum in dairy cows on‐farm corresponds to differences in the liver in relation to dairy cows with low metabolic load, even though all cows were pre‐selected for a high milk fat content and fat/protein ratio in milk in their previous lactation.
Attendance at specialist hepatitis clinics and initiation of antiviral treatment among persons chronically infected with hepatitis C: examining the early impact of Scotland's Hepatitis C Action Plan
Authors: McDonald S. A. , Hutchinson S. J. , Innes H. A. , Allen S. , Bramley P. , Bhattacharyya D. , Carman W. , Dillon J. F. , Fox R. , Fraser A. , Goldberg D. J. , Kennedy N. , Mills P. R. , Morris J. , Stanley A. J. , Wilks D. , Hayes P. C.
Published: September 2013

Primary goals of the Hepatitis C Action Plan for Scotland Phase II (May 2008–March 2011) were to increase, among persons chronically infected with the hepatitis C (HCV) virus, attendance at specialist outpatient clinics and initiation on antiviral therapy. We evaluated progress towards these goals by comparing the odds, across time, of (a) first clinic attendance within 12 months of HCV diagnosis (n = 9747) and (b) initiation on antiviral treatment within 12 months of first attendance (n = 5736). Record linkage between the national HCV diagnosis (1996–2009) and HCV clinical (1996–2010) databases and logistic regression analyses were conducted for both outcomes. For outcome (a), 32% and 45% in the respective pre‐Phase II (before 1 May 2008) and Phase II periods attended a specialist clinic within 12 months of diagnosis; the odds of attendance within 12 months increased over time (OR = 1.05 per year, 95% CI: 1.04–1.07), but was not significantly greater for persons diagnosed with HCV in the Phase II era, compared with the pre‐Phase II era (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.9–1.3), after adjustment for temporal trend. For outcome (b), 13% and 28% were initiated on treatment within 12 months of their first clinic attendance in the pre‐Phase II and Phase II periods, respectively. Higher odds of treatment initiation were associated with first clinic attendance in the Phase II (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.5–2.4), compared with the pre‐Phase II era. Results were consistent with a positive impact of the Hepatitis C Action Plan on the treatment of chronically infected individuals, but further monitoring is required to confirm a sustained effect.
SLC3A1andSLC7A9Mutations in Autosomal Recessive or Dominant Canine Cystinuria: A New Classification System
Authors: Brons A.‐K. , Henthorn P.S. , Raj K. , Fitzgerald C.A. , Liu J. , Sewell A.C. , Giger U.
Published: September 2013

Background

Cystinuria, one of the first recognized inborn errors of metabolism, has been reported in many dog breeds.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine urinary cystine concentrations, inheritance, and mutations in theSLC3A1andSLC7A9genes associated with cystinuria in 3 breeds.

Animals

Mixed and purebred Labrador Retrievers (n = 6), Australian Cattle Dogs (6), Miniature Pinschers (4), and 1 mixed breed dog with cystine urolithiasis, relatives and control dogs.

Methods

Urinary cystinuria and aminoaciduria was assessed and exons of theSLC3A1andSLC7A9genes were sequenced from genomicDNA.

Results

In each breed, male and female dogs, independent of neuter status, were found to form calculi. A frameshift mutation inSLC3A1(c.350delG) resulting in a premature stop codon was identified in autosomal‐recessive (AR) cystinuria in Labrador Retrievers and mixed breed dogs. A 6 bp deletion (c.1095_1100del) removing 2 threonines inSLC3A1was found in autosomal‐dominant (AD) cystinuria with a more severe phenotype in homozygous than in heterozygous Australian Cattle Dogs. A missense mutation inSLC7A9(c.964G>A) was discovered inADcystinuria in Miniature Pinschers with only heterozygous affected dogs observed to date. Breed‐specificDNAtests were developed, but the prevalence of each mutation remains unknown.

Conclusions and clinical importance

These studies describe the firstADinheritance and the first putativeSLC7A9mutation to cause cystinuria in dogs and expand our understanding of this phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous disease, leading to a new classification system for canine cystinuria and better therapeutic management and genetic control in these breeds.
Controlling Vibrio vulnificus and spoilage bacteria in fresh shucked oysters using natural antimicrobials
Authors: Mahmoud B.S.M.
Published: September 2013

This study evaluated the efficacy of grape seed extract (GE), citric acid (CA) and lactic acid (LA) on the inactivation of Vibrio vulnificus and inherent microflora in fresh shucked oysters. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of GE, CA or LA against V. vulnificus was determined. Furthermore, the shucked oysters were artificially inoculated with V. vulnificus. The inoculated shucked oysters (25 g) were then dipped in 250 ml GE, CA or LA solutions for 10 min. The population of V. vulnificus in shucked oysters was determined. The effects of the treatments with GE, CA or LA solutions on the inherent microbiota in fresh shucked oysters during storage at 5°C for 20 days were also studied. The MICs of GE, CA or LA against V. vulnificus were 10·0, 5·0 or 1·0 mg ml−1, respectively. The concentrations of 500, 300 or 150 mg ml−1 GE, CA or LA solutions were needed to reduce the population of V. vulnificus to below the detection level (1·0 log g−1). Treatment with 500, 300, 150 mg ml−1 GE, CA or LA significantly reduced the initial inherent microbiota in fresh shucked oysters, and inherent levels were significantly (P < 0·05) lower than the control sample throughout refrigerated storage for 20 days.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Oysters filter large volume of seawater during their feeding activities that concentrate bacteria such as Vibrio vulnificus in their body. The presence of V. vulnificus in oysters has a serious impact on public health and international trade. There is increasing concern over the use of chemical preservatives. Furthermore, the food industry is looking for new natural preservation methods. This study indicated that lactic acid and citric acid wash solutions could offer an inexpensive, natural and strong approach to control V. vulnificus and spoilage bacteria in fresh shucked for the oyster industry.
Gender and Narratology
Authors: Gymnich Marion
Published: September 2013

In contrast to structuralist narratology, feminist narratology, which emerged in the 1980s as one of the first ‘postclassical’, context‐oriented approaches within narrative theory and was pioneered by Susan Lanser, is based on the assumption that gender is a category that is relevant to the analysis of the structural features of narratives. Seeking to link feminist theory and narratology, this branch of narrative theory has revealed blind spots and pitfalls of the supposedly gender‐neutral analyses of structuralist narratology. Moreover, feminist narratology has sought to relate textual features to relevant cultural contexts and has modified and reinterpreted narratological categories from a feminist perspective. Since the 1990s, feminist narratology has significantly broadened its scope by paying attention to a wider range of text types and media, and by drawing upon approaches and insights from linguistics. In addition, the shift from feminist theory to gender studies has left its traces in gender‐conscious approaches to narrative theory. In particular, Judith Butler's revisionist approach to gender and sex has rendered the categories that feminist narratology draws upon significantly more complex. Although a number of scholars have contributed to the challenging project of developing a feminist narratology, the validity of gender‐conscious approaches to the study of narrative structures is still contested today.
19th‐century Travel and the 21st‐century Scholar
Authors: Milsom Alex L.
Published: September 2013

This article examines the emergent use of tourism theory in 19th‐century literary studies in books published since the start of the 21st century. Areas in which such interdisciplinary methods have been particularly fruitful include studies of place‐oriented individual writers like John Ruskin and Sir Walter Scott as well as in narrowly focused studies of literary tourism. The article argues that tourism theory, as conceived by sociologist Dean MacCannell and later brought to the attention of literary scholars by Jonathan Culler, has been adequately integrated into literary studies about travel and tourism and thus its scholars need no longer apologize for interdisciplinarity nor for discarding the observance of strict boundaries between literary and non‐literary genres. Twenty‐first‐century studies on the ways in which Romantic and Victorian literature helped encourage, validate, and reflect upon travel have now made it impossible to study 19th‐century tourism without studying its literature.
Metagenomic insights into microbial metabolism affecting arsenic dispersion inMediterranean marine sediments
Authors: Plewniak Frédéric , Koechler Sandrine , Navet Benjamin , Dugat‐Bony Éric , Bouchez Olivier , Peyret Pierre , Séby Fabienne , Battaglia‐Brunet Fabienne , Bertin Philippe N.
Published: September 2013

Microorganisms dwelling in sediments have a crucial role in biogeochemical cycles and are expected to have a strong influence on the cycle of arsenic, a metalloid responsible for severe water pollution and presenting major health risks for human populations. We present here a metagenomic study of the sediment from two harbours on theMediterraneanFrench coast, l'Estaque andStMandrier. The first site is highly polluted with arsenic and heavy metals, while the arsenic concentration in the second site is below toxicity levels. The goal of this study was to elucidate the potential impact of the microbial community on the chemical parameters observed in complementary geochemical studies performed on the same sites. The metagenomic sequences, along with those from four publicly available metagenomes used as control data sets, were analysed with theRAMMCAPworkflow. The resulting functional profiles were compared to determine the over‐representedGeneOntology categories in the metagenomes of interest. Categories related to arsenic resistance and dissimilatory sulphate reduction were over‐represented in l'Estaque. More importantly, despite very similar profiles, the identification of specific sequence markers for sulphate‐reducing bacteria and sulphur‐oxidizing bacteria showed that sulphate reduction was significantly more associated with l'Estaque than withStMandrier. We propose that biotic sulphate reduction, arsenate reduction and fermentation may together explain the higher mobility of arsenic observed in l'Estaque in previous physico‐chemical studies of this site. This study also demonstrates that it is possible to draw sound conclusions from comparing complex and similar unassembled metagenomes at the functional level, even with very low sequence coverage.
Genomic divergence between the migratory and stationary ecotypes of Atlantic cod
Authors: Karlsen Bård O. , Klingan Kevin , Emblem Åse , Jørgensen Tor E. , Jueterbock Alexander , Furmanek Tomasz , Hoarau Galice , Johansen Steinar D. , Nordeide Jarle T. , Moum Truls
Published: September 2013

Atlantic cod displays a range of phenotypic and genotypic variations, which includes the differentiation into coastal stationary and offshore migratory types of cod that co‐occur in several parts of its distribution range and are often sympatric on the spawning grounds. Differentiation of these ecotypes may involve both historical separation and adaptation to ecologically distinct environments, the genetic basis of which is now beginning to be unravelled. Genomic analyses based on recent sequencing advances are able to document genomic divergence in more detail and may facilitate the exploration of causes and consequences of genome‐wide patterns. We examined genomic divergence between the stationary and migratory types of cod in the Northeast Atlantic, using next‐generation sequencing of pooled DNA from each of two population samples. Sequence data was mapped to the published cod genome sequence, arranged in more than 6000 scaffolds (611 Mb). We identified 25 divergent scaffolds (26 Mb) with a higher than average gene density, against a backdrop of overall moderate genomic differentiation. Previous findings of localized genomic divergence in three linkage groups were confirmed, including a large (15 Mb) genomic region, which seems to be uniquely involved in the divergence of migratory and stationary cod. The results of the pooled sequencing approach support and extend recent findings based on single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers and suggest a high degree of reproductive isolation between stationary and migratory cod in the North‐east Atlantic.
Road Crack Detection Using Visual Features Extracted by Gabor Filters
Authors: Zalama Eduardo , Gómez‐García‐Bermejo Jaime , Medina Roberto , Llamas José
Published: September 2013

Pavement management systems require detailed information of the current state of the roads to take appropriate actions to optimize expenditure on maintenance and rehabilitation. In particular, the presence of cracks is a cardinal aspect to be considered. This article presents a solution based on an instrumented vehicle equipped with an imaging system, two Inertial Profilers, a Differential Global Positioning System, and a webcam. Information about the state of the road is acquired at normal road speed. A method based on the use of Gabor filters is used to detect the longitudinal and transverse cracks. The methodologies used to create Gabor filter banks and the use of the filtered images as descriptors for subsequent classifiers are discussed in detail. Three different methodologies for setting the threshold of the classifiers are also evaluated. Finally, an AdaBoost algorithm is used for selecting and combining the classifiers, thus improving the results provided by a single classifier. A large database has been acquired and used to train and test the proposed system and methods, and suitable results have been obtained in comparison with other reference works.
Co‐evolution of specific amino acid in sigma 1.2 region and nucleotide base in the discriminator to act as sensors of small molecule effectors of transcription initiation in mycobacteria
Authors: Tare Priyanka , Mallick Bratati , Nagaraja Valakunja
Published: September 2013

The transcription from rrn and a number of other promoters is regulated by initiating ribonucleotides (iNTPs) and guanosine tetra/penta phosphate [(p)ppGpp], either by strengthening or by weakening of the RNA polymerase (RNAP)–promoter interactions during initiation. Studies in Escherichia coli revealed the importance of a sequence termed discriminator, located between −10 and the transcription start site of the responsive promoters in this mode of regulation. Instability of the open complex at these promoters is attributed to the lack of stabilizing interactions between the suboptimal discriminator and the 1.2 region of sigma 70 (Sig70) in RNAP holoenzyme. We demonstrate a different pattern of interaction between the promoters and sigma A (SigA) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to execute similar regulation. Instead of cytosine and methionine, thymine at three nucleotides downstream to −10 element and leucine 232 in SigA are found to be essential for iNTPs and pppGpp mediated response at the rrn and gyr promoters of the organism. The specificity of the interaction is substantiated by mutational replacements, either in the discriminator or in SigA, which abolish the nucleotide mediated regulation in vitro or in vivo. Specific yet distinct bases and the amino acids appear to have ‘co‐evolved’ to retain the discriminator‐sigma 1.2 region regulatory switch operated by iNTPs/pppGpp during the transcription initiation in different bacteria.
A single‐molecule approach to DNA replication in Escherichia coli cells demonstrated that DNA polymerase III is a major determinant of fork speed
Authors: Pham Tuan Minh , Tan Kang Wei , Sakumura Yuichi , Okumura Katsuzumi , Maki Hisaji , Akiyama Masahiro Tatsumi
Published: September 2013

The replisome catalyses DNA synthesis at a DNA replication fork. The molecular behaviour of the individual replisomes, and therefore the dynamics of replication fork movements, in growing Escherichia coli cells remains unknown. DNA combing enables a single‐molecule approach to measuring the speed of replication fork progression in cells pulse‐labelled with thymidine analogues. We constructed a new thymidine‐requiring strain, eCOMB (E. coli for combing), that rapidly and sufficiently incorporates the analogues into newly synthesized DNA chains for the DNA‐combing method. In combing experiments with eCOMB, we found the speed of most replication forks in the cells to be within the narrow range of 550–750 nt s−1 and the average speed to be 653 ± 9 nt s−1 (± SEM). We also found the average speed of the replication fork to be only 264 ± 9 nt s−1 in a dnaE173‐eCOMB strain producing a mutant‐type of the replicative DNA polymerase III (Pol III) with a chain elongation rate (300 nt s−1) much lower than that of the wild‐type Pol III (900 nt s−1). This indicates that the speed of chain elongation by Pol III is a major determinant of replication fork speed in E. coli cells.
Persistent organic pollutants meet adipose tissue hypoxia: does cross‐talk contribute to inflammation during obesity?
Authors: Myre M. , Imbeault P.
Published: September 2013

Lipophilic persistent organic pollutants (POPs) accumulate in lipid‐rich tissues such as human adipose tissue. This is particularly problematic in individuals with excess adiposity, a physiological state that may be additionally characterized by local adipose tissue hypoxia. Hypoxic patches occur when oxygen diffusion is insufficient to reach all hypertrophic adipocytes. POPs and hypoxia independently contribute to the development of adipose tissue‐specific and systemic inflammation often associated with obesity. Inflammation is induced by increased proinflammatory mediators such as tumour necrosis factor‐alpha, interleukin‐6, and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1, as well as reduced adiponectin release, an anti‐inflammatory and insulin‐sensitizing adipokine. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) mediates the cellular response to some pollutants, while hypoxia responses occur through the oxygen‐sensitive transcription factor hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1. There is some overlap between the two signalling pathways since both require a common subunit called the AhR nuclear translocator. As such, it is unclear how adipocytes respond to simultaneous POP and hypoxia exposure. This brief review explores the independent contribution of POPs and adipose tissue hypoxia as factors underlying the inflammatory response from adipocytes during obesity. It also highlights that the combined effect of POPs and hypoxia through the AhR and HIF‐1 signalling pathways remains to be tested.
A review of climate change impacts on urban soil functions with examples and policy insights from England, UK
Authors: Rawlins B. G. , Harris J. , Price S. , Bartlett M.
Published: September 2013

As of 2010, more than half of the global population resides in urban areas and relies to some extent on the functions, services and natural capital provided by urban soils. Greater extremes in climate predicted for the coming decades will impact on these urban soil functions to varying degrees. We provide an inventory of urban soil functions based on an extension to the typology of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (i.e. we added a ‘carrying function’ to those of supporting, regulating, provisioning and cultural functions) and review the climate drivers that are likely to have the most significant impacts upon them, using urban soils of England as an exemplar. We identify knowledge gaps, as in areas such as carbon cycling and storage, disease regulation and cultural services. We assess adaptation measures, which may ameliorate these potential, climate‐change‐related impacts including changes in construction practices, developments in green architecture and development proposals under the planning regime. We discuss the lack of policies relating to urban soils and the problem associated with monitoring their functions, as is often the case, when large quantities of soil are removed and replaced, leading to major transformation of soil properties, which may be unrelated to pedogenic processes.