bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monophyletic origin of magnetotaxis and the first magnetosomes
Authors: Lefèvre Christopher T. , Trubitsyn Denis , Abreu Fernanda , Kolinko Sebastian , de Almeida Luiz Gonzaga Paula , de Vasconcelos Ana Tereza R. , Lins Ulysses , Schüler Dirk , Ginet Nicolas , Pignol David , Bazylinski Dennis A.
Published: January 2013

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT), the transfer of genetic material other than by descent, is thought to have played significant roles in the evolution and distribution of genes in prokaryotes. These include those responsible for the ability of motile, aquatic magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) to align and swim along magnetic field lines and the biomineralization of magnetosomes that are responsible for this behaviour. There is some genomic evidence that HGT might be responsible for the distribution of magnetosome genes in different phylogenetic groups of bacteria. For example, in the genomes of a number of MTB, magnetosome genes are present as clusters within a larger structure known as the magnetosome genomic island surrounded by mobile elements such as insertion sequences and transposases as well as tRNA genes. Despite this, there is no strong direct proof of HGT between these organisms. Here we show that a phylogenetic tree based on magnetosome protein amino acid sequences from a number of MTB was congruent with the tree based on the organisms' 16S rRNA gene sequences. This shows that evolution and divergence of these proteins and the 16S rRNA gene occurred similarly. This suggests that magnetotaxis originated monophyletically in the Proteobacteria phylum and implies that the common ancestor of all Proteobacteria was magnetotactic.
Politics of love: narrative structures, intertextuality and social agency in the narratives of parents with disabled children
Authors: Hanisch Halvor
Published: January 2013

Recent research has highlighted how parental narratives can be important in the resistance against disabling processes. This article contains analyses of enabling language in narratives published by Scandinavian disability rights organizations. First, drawing on the work of Fisher and Goodley, I point out that the material constitute a threefold: normality narratives, resistance narratives, and narratives that demonstrate an appreciation of the present and the child’s individual alterity. Second, I demonstrate that the last narrative draws on Romanticism rather than linguistic resources from disability culture. Third, I show that these narratives are hyperboles – texts that strengthen and emphasise the valuation to the point where the narrative structure transcends narrative consistency. Fourth, drawing on the work of Kristeva, I argue that this form of narration constitutes an intimate politics of love.
Ideology and Interests in the Political Marketplace
Authors: Bonica Adam
Published: January 2013

I develop a statistical method to measure the ideology of candidates and political action committees (PACs) using contribution data. The method recovers ideal points for incumbents that strongly correlate with ideological measures recovered from voting records, while simultaneously recovering positions for PACs, unsuccessful challengers, and open‐seat candidates. As the candidate ideal points are estimated independently of voting records, they represent a useful new resource for testing models of legislative behavior. By incorporating nonideological covariates known to influence PAC contributions, the method also shows promise as a platform for furthering our understanding of PAC contribution behavior.
Preterm birth trends in Greece, 1980–2008: a rising concern
Authors: Baroutis Georgios , Mousiolis Athanasios , Mesogitis Spyros , Costalos Christos , Antsaklis Aris
Published: January 2013

Objective

To identify preterm birth trends in Greece.

Design

Retrospective epidemiological study.

Setting

Women giving birth in Greece from 1980 to 2008.

Population

Live births beyond the 24th gestational week.

Methods

Data acquisition from the Hellenic Vital Statistics records. Statistical analysis of preterm birth rate among neonates estimated for each year.

Main outcome measures

Total number of births and preterm births, as well as rate of preterm birth by gestational week. Stillbirth rates by gestational age.

Results

3 218 463 births occurred during the period under study, 151 594 (4.7%) of which were preterm. A steep rise in preterm births was noted during the final years of the study, reaching 9.6% in 2008. This was mainly due to the “late preterm” sub‐group (34+0–36+6 gestational weeks). The rates of stillbirth fell in a constant way regardless of the maturity index.

Conclusions

Although preterm birth etiology is multifactorial, the selective rise in the “late preterm” group possibly was due to an increase in medical reasons necessitating a preterm delivery, changes in obstetric practice, or both. Further studies are needed to estimate the precise effect of each contributing factor.
Myogenic tone is impaired at low arterial pressure in mice deficient in the low‐voltage‐activated CaV3.1 T‐type Ca2+ channel
Authors: Björling K. , Morita H. , Olsen M. F. , Prodan A. , Hansen P. B. , Lory P. , Holstein‐Rathlou N.‐H. , Jensen L. J.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Using mice deficient in the CaV3.1 T‐type Ca2+ channel, the aim of the present study was to elucidate the molecular identity of non‐L‐type channels involved in vascular tone regulation in mesenteric arteries and arterioles.

Methods

We used immunofluorescence microscopy to localize CaV3.1 channels, patch clamp electrophysiology to test the effects of a putative T‐type channel blocker NNC 55‐0396 on whole‐cell Ca2+ currents, pressure myography and Ca2+ imaging to test diameter and Ca2+ responses of the applied vasoconstrictors, and Q‐PCR to check mRNA expression levels of several Ca2+ handling proteins in wild‐type and CaV3.1−/− mice.

Results

Our data indicated that CaV3.1 channels are important for the maintenance of myogenic tone at low pressures (40–80 mm Hg), whereas they are not involved in high‐voltage‐activated Ca2+ currents, Ca2+ entry or vasoconstriction to high KCl in mesenteric arteries and arterioles. Furthermore, we show that NNC 55–0396 is not a specific T‐type channel inhibitor, as it potently blocks L‐type and non‐L‐type high‐voltage‐activated Ca2+ currents in mouse mesenteric vascular smooth muscle cell.

Conclusion

Our data using mice deficient in the CaV3.1 T‐type channel represent new evidence for the involvement of non‐L‐type channels in arteriolar tone regulation. We showed that CaV3.1 channels are important for the myogenic tone at low arterial pressure, which is potentially relevant under resting conditions in vivo. Moreover, CaV3.1 channels are not involved in Ca2+ entry and vasoconstriction to large depolarization with, for example, high KCl. Finally, we caution against using NNC 55–0396 as a specific T‐type channel blocker in native cells expressing high‐voltage‐activated Ca2+ channels.
Nationalist Hegemony Over Islamist Dreams in Iran and Pakistan: Who Were Shariati and Maududi?
Authors: Paşaoğlu Mehmet Talha
Published: January 2013

This article examines two prominent ideologues, Ali Shariati of Iran and Maulana Maududi of Pakistan, in order to determine their influence on national politics in the second half of the 20th century. Were they only fundamental actors of political Islam in their societies, or did they also have a significant impact on the reformation of Iranian and Pakistani nationalism? If they did, who exactly were Shariati and Maududi, and what are their legacies? In order to answer these questions, this article focuses on the Iranian experience with nationalism before and after the Iranian Revolution (1979) and Pakistani nationalism embedded with Islamism from independence (1947) until the end of the 1980s. In light of Ranajit Guha's concept of hegemony, this article brings to the foreground the possibility of alternative ways of thinking and belonging.
Courting the Dragon: Australia's Emerging Dialogue With China
Authors: Camilleri Joseph A. , Martin Aran , Michael Michális S.
Published: January 2013

Australia and China have evolved a synergistic relationship driven largely by the rapidly expanding Chinese demand for Australian resources. China's growing political and economic influence, regionally and globally, has prompted for different reasons the leadership of both countries to develop new channels and forms of communication. It has left Australian society with the unfamiliar task of engaging with a major center of power whose cultural and political traditions are radically different from its own. This article explores the scope and limitations of Australia's emerging dialogue with China. It makes the case for a sustained and multidimensional dialogue that harnesses more effectively the energies of civil society as well as business and government, thereby facilitating the task of redefining the relationship in a period of far‐reaching transition.
Syncope associated with swallowing in two British Bulldogs with unilateral carotid body tumours
Authors: Phan A , Yates GD , Nimmo J , Holloway SA
Published: January 2013

Carotid body tumours were diagnosed in two British Bulldogs that each had a history of syncopal episodes induced by eating, drinking or pulling on the leash. In both dogs, a cervical mass was identified using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging, with carotid body tumour (CBT) being the histopathological diagnosis. A heart base mass was also identified in one dog by both CT and echocardiography. Swallowing syncope has been reported in the human literature in association with cervical mass lesions, but this is the first report in dogs. The present cases emphasise the value of advanced imaging of the head and neck in dogs presenting with clinical signs of syncope associated with swallowing and the importance of careful manipulation of the neck in patients with CBTs.
Normative and counter‐normative stress messages and symptom reporting: Implications for health promotion and a methodological artefact for stress research
Authors: Ferguson Eamonn , Lawrence Claire
Published: January 2013

Objectives

There is increasing use of counter‐normative health messages (i.e., evidence‐based health information about cause–effect relationships that run counter to shared normative beliefs, e.g., stress can lead to personal growth). The current studies examine the effect of normative and counter‐normative messages about stress on levels of symptom reporting. Predictions are derived from reactance, social comparison, and self‐enhancement theories.

Method and design

Two studies focus on the development of the messages, and two experimental studies examine the effect of manipulating normative and counter‐normative messages on symptom reports. The final study controls for mere‐measurement effects and explores the role of stress process variables (appraisals and coping).

Results

Exposure to a normative message (stress causes ill health) results in reduced symptom reporting compared to a counter‐normative message (stress provides challenge, growth, and development) and control groups. The results suggest that people may use symptom reporting strategically to indicate coping. Based on the argument that beliefs about stress and health are stored as mental models, the theoretical associations derived from stress theory are only observed when a normative message is presented.

Conclusions

Counter‐normative stress messages may carry no tangible benefits compared to normative messages. Some stress research may suffer from inherent methodological bias when normative information is provided in information and consent sheets.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject? At present, nothing is known about counter‐normative health messages, despite the fact that they are becoming widely used as a public intervention.

What does this study add?

A clear operational definition of counter‐normative messages.

A test of three competing theories for counter‐normative messages that focus of the stress–symptom link.

Demonstrating for the first time, that in the domain of stress and health, counter‐normative messages are at best ineffective.

Demonstrating for the first time that only when the stress–coping–symptom links are made explicit do the theoretical associations observed in the literature emerge. This may be a potential methodological artefact in stress research that needs to be controlled.
Motor influences on judgment: Motor and cognitive integration
Authors: Mullet Etienne , Cretenet Joël , Dru Vincent
Published: January 2013

Performing motor behaviours (arm flexion vs. extension) that correspond also to lateralized peripheral activations (left vs. right side) of the motivational systems of approach versus avoidance have been previously shown to impact cognitive performance and judgment. Three experiments are reported that examined the combined effect of these variables, as a kind of motor integration, on the implementation of information integration rules in various judgment tasks: judging of a person's attractiveness from personality information, judging of the severity of health risk from alcohol and tobacco intake, and attributing blame to a perpetrator from information as to intent and severity of harm done. It was found that the congruence between these motivational activations consistently influenced the use of interactive information integration rules, compared to additive ones. This set of findings showed that cognitive rules might also be embodied. Motor integration affects cognitive integration in judgment.
Miniaturized Handheld Confocal Microscopy Identifies Focal Brain Invasion in a Mouse Model of Aggressive Meningioma
Authors: Peyre Matthieu , Clermont‐Taranchon Estelle , Stemmer‐Rachamimov Anat , Kalamarides Michel
Published: January 2013

Invasion of the brain parenchyma by a meningioma classified by histological criteria as World Health Organization (WHO) grade I meningioma, implies that the tumor has greater likelihood of recurrence and a biological behavior similar to the more aggressive WHO grade II meningiomas. It is therefore important to detect microscopic foci of brain invasion during surgery in order to maximize the resection and/or adapt imaging follow‐up. In this study, we tested the sensitivity of two handheld confocal imaging devices to detect foci of brain invasion in two types of meningioma mouse models: in a genetically engineered mouse model and in a syngeneic xenograft model. Confocal imaging offered precise images of meningothelial and fibroblastic mouse meningiomas as well as malignant meningiomas, which corresponded exactly to the pathological findings. Imaging showed a sharp definition of the brain‐tumor interface and enabled identification of embedded nerves and vessels. Importantly, in both mouse models used in this study, extension of tumor along Virchow–Robin spaces into adjacent brain was detected by imaging. In conclusion, this novel technique, following validation in clinical trials, may open new possibilities for use in operating rooms to influence both decision making during the surgery and planning for additional treatments.
Magnetic properties of siliceous marine sediments in Northern Hokkaido, Japan: a quantitative tectono‐sedimentological study of basins along an active margin
Authors: Itoh Y. , Kusumoto S. , Inoue T.
Published: January 2013

The formation processes of the late Neogene sedimentary basins in Northern Hokkaido have been investigated on the basis of rock magnetism, structural geology and numerical modelling. Untilted site‐mean directions of remanent magnetization of the Wakkanai Formation, obtained from oriented core samples in Horonobe, suggest remarkable counterclockwise block rotation (ca. 70°) since the late Neogene. Uniform microscopic fabric of the siliceous sediments was inferred from the alignment of the principal axes of the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS). After correction for tectonic rotation, the maximum axis of AMS, which reflects the sedimentary fabric of the dominant paramagnetic minerals, is in an E‐W direction, which is concordant with the influx direction of diatomaceous particles into the N‐S elongate sedimentary basins. The difference in the bulk initial magnetic susceptibility of the siliceous sediments of the Wakkanai Formation between the depocenter of the basin and its peripheral part implies that terrigenous non‐magnetic fraction has been sorted out during transportation of the detrital grains as gravity flows. As for the development mechanism of the N‐S elongate late Neogene basins in Northern Hokkaido, their depocenter arrangement and subsidence pattern indicates dextral motions upon a longitudinal fault zone along the Eurasian convergent margin. Dislocation modelling was adopted to explain vertical displacement and rotational motion around the study area and successfully restored the deformation pattern based on the assumption of dextral slip at a left‐stepping part of a strand of the transcurrent fault.
Wide range of clinicopathological features in immune‐mediated autonomic neuropathies
Authors: Koike Haruki , Sobue Gen
Published: January 2013

Autonomic neuropathies can occur primarily or secondarily to various underlying diseases. The clinical features of autonomic neuropathies vary with the severity and the modality of autonomic dysfunctions, the degree of somatic involvement, the presence or absence of anti‐ganglionic acetylcholine receptor antibody and the extent of unmyelinated fiber loss. Primary autonomic neuropathies, which usually affect both cholinergic and adrenergic functions, are divided into autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy, acute autonomic and sensory neuropathy, and acute autonomic sensory and motor neuropathy based on the concomitance or absence of sensory or motor dysfunctions (although the nosological relationship of acute autonomic sensory and motor neuropathy to Guillain–Barré syndrome should be carefully considered). The monophasic clinical course and frequent presence of a history of antecedent infections suggests that immune mechanisms participate in these neuropathies. The discovery of the anti‐ganglionic acetylcholine receptor antibody significantly expanded the spectrum of autonomic neuropathies, especially autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy, to include cases with chronic progression mimicking pure autonomic failure. Patients with primary autonomic neuropathies might manifest restricted forms of autonomic dysfunctions, such as cholinergic dysautonomia, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction or acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis. Some immunological diseases, such as paraneoplastic syndrome, connective tissue diseases and celiac disease, might also cause diverse autonomic neuropathies. As many non‐immunological diseases are known to cause various types of autonomic dysfunctions, excluding such diseases is important for the diagnosis of immune‐mediated autonomic neuropathies.
Minimally Invasive Transcrestal Guided Sinus Lift (TGSL): A Clinical Prospective Proof‐of‐Concept Cohort Study up to 52 Months
Authors: Pozzi Alessandro , Moy Peter K.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

This study describes a new procedure for sinus elevation using computer‐guided planning and guided surgical approach through the use of computer‐aided design (CAD)/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAM)‐generated surgical template in combination with expander‐condensing osteotomes thus providing a minimally invasive surgical technique.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐six consecutive patients were treated with 136 implants placed by transcrestal‐guided sinus floor elevation technique and the patients were followed for at least 3 years in function. The drilling protocol is customized based on the bone density of each implant site to achieve an insertion torque ranging between 45 and 55 Ncm. Titanium temporary abutments were connected to the implants with prosthetic screws tightened to 35 Ncm and an acrylic resin provisional restoration was adapted and delivered immediately. Six months after initial loading, a definitive CAD/CAM‐generated restoration was delivered. Outcome measurements assessed were implant and prosthesis survival rate, biological or biomechanical complications, marginal bone level changes, total alveolar ridge bone height before and after procedure, periodontal parameters measured as well as patient's perception of pain levels during recovery period.

Results

Mean follow‐up was 43.96 (range from 36 to 52) months. Cumulative implant survival rate was 98.53% at 3 years. No biological or mechanical complications were encountered and no prosthetic failures occurred during the entire follow‐up period. Mean marginal bone loss (MBL) during the first year of function was 0.33 ± 0.36 mm, while at the 3‐year follow‐up, the mean MBL was 0.51 ± 0.29 mm. The mean residual bone height of the alveolar crest prior to grafting was of 6.7 ± 1.6 mm (range 5.1–9.2 mm), while, the mean bone height gained was 6.4 ± 1.6 mm (range 3.2–8.1 mm). All patients reported low levels of pain and found to have normal periodontal parameters.

Conclusion

This proof‐of‐concept study suggests that the use of guided surgery to perform transcrestal maxillary sinus floor elevation for alveolar ridge height augmentation is a successful minimally invasive technique for the short‐ to medium‐term follow‐up, thus avoiding the extended treatment time and morbidities associated with maxillary sinus floor augmentation.
Morphological evidences of Bio‐Oss® colonization by CD44‐positive cells
Authors: Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Hernández‐Cortés Pedro , Aneiros‐Fernández José , Camara Miguel , Mesa Francisco , Wallace Stephen , O'Valle Francisco
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Our objectives were to examine vascular and cellular colonization in anorganic bovine bone (ABB) after 6 months of healing in human maxillary sinus augmentation grafts.

Material and methods

Fifty unilateral maxillary sinus augmentation procedures were performed on 50 consecutive patients. Bone cores were obtained through the implant receptor sites 6 months later and evaluated with morphological image analysis and immunohistochemical techniques.

Results

Image analysis revealed a mean of 35.44 ± 16% vital bone, 31.66 ± 15% non‐mineralized tissue, and 32.72 ± 25% remnant ABB particles. In our patients, neovascularization in 46.3% of cases was demonstrated within ABB particles 6 months after sinus floor augmentation surgery. Neovascularization of ABB particles was inversely related to age, directly to osteoclast number per mm², and not influenced by habits or disease. CD44‐positive cells colonization was found in 74% of cases. An important correlation was found regarding CD44 expression and number of vessel in ABB particles (r = 0.624 P < 0.001, Pearson). Osteopontin expression was detected on the interstitial boundary of bone with ABB particles and within the osteocyte lacunae and bone canaliculi and was relationship with presence of CD44‐positive cells inside ABB particles (r = 0.388, P = 0.046, Pearson).

Conclusion

In conclusion, images compatible with osteone colonized by osteocytes CD44 positive and neovascularization in ABB particles were observed after 6 months of graft maturation. These biologic events have not previously been morphologically and immunohistochemically documented.
Endoscopic diagnosis of gastric intestinal metaplasia: A prospective multicenter study
Authors: Fukuta Nobuhiro , Ida Kazunori , Kato Takahiro , Uedo Noriya , Ando Takashi , Watanabe Hidenobu , Shimbo Takuro ,   Study Group for Investigating Endoscopic Diagnosis of Gastric Intestinal Metaplasia
Published: January 2013

Background

Intestinal metaplasia (IM) of the gastric mucosa has long attracted attention as a premalignant lesion involved in gastric carcinogenesis. However, endoscopic diagnosis of IM has remained unclear for a long time. In recent years, the methylene blue staining technique and narrow‐band imaging (NBI) magnifying endoscopy have facilitated clinical diagnosis of IM, although these methods have some problems due to their complexity. Simple methods for diagnosis of IM using conventional endoscopy and the indigo carmine contrast (IC) method are necessary.

Patients and Methods

This study was a multicenter, prospective, randomized, comparative study involving 10 facilities. The appearance of IM was examined using conventional and IC methods with an electronic endoscope.

Results

Subjects included 163 patients, of whom 87 and 76 underwent conventional and IC methods, respectively. Sensitivity, specificity, and receiver operating characteristic/area under thecurve (ROC/AUC) of conventional and IC methods for the detection of IM in the gastric antrum showed that diagnostic performance of the conventional method was higher, but not significantly, than that of the IC method. Sensitivity, specificity and ROC/AUC of conventional and IC methods for the detection of IM in the gastric body showed that the IC method yielded better (but not significantly better) results than the conventional method.

Conclusion

The diagnostic performance of the conventional method did not significantly differ from that of the IC method. A villous appearance, whitish mucosa, and rough mucosal surface, as observed by both methods, and areae gastricae pattern, as observed by the IC method, were useful indicators for endoscopic diagnosis of IM.
Restoration of tree lines in an agricultural landscape: their effectiveness as a conservation management tool
Authors: Cottee‐Jones H. Eden W.
Published: January 2013

As remnant vegetation covers <15% of the Australian sheep‐wheat belt, it is important to identify conservation strategies suitable for use in agricultural landscapes. Tree lines are widespread ecological structures in rural areas, and are now the subject of government subsidy schemes in New South Wales. However, the contribution of tree lines to biodiversity conservation is poorly understood. To identify the conservation value of tree lines, the bird communities in 36 tree lines in Cowra Shire, New South Wales, were surveyed 4 times each. The results demonstrated that tree lines were used by a large number of species, six of which were threatened. Different taxa were associated with different physical tree line attributes, with tree line age an important predictor of species occurrence. While mature tree lines tended to support more species, as was reflected in higher Shannon Diversity Index scores, they also harboured relatively more introduced species and nest predators, while young tree lines provided the best habitat for threatened species. However, these tree lines will mature, and as they do so they will provide increasingly suitable habitat for the hyperaggressive native honeyeater, the Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala), and introduced species. Therefore, tree lines in agricultural landscapes may only be serving an important role for conservation on short time scales, and the suite of threatened species young tree lines currently support appear likely to decline further in the future.
Booderee National Park Management: Connecting science and management
Authors: Lindenmayer David B. , MacGregor Christopher , Dexter Nick , Fortescue Martin , Cochrane Peter
Published: January 2013

A 10‐year science–management partnership has focussed on three key issues within Booderee National Park in eastern Australia: the impacts of fire on native biota, the response of vertebrates to feral animal control and the control of Bitou Bush. What has been achieved to date and what are the partnership's key ingredients?
A genetic assessment of a successful seagrass meadow (Posidonia australis) restoration trial
Authors: Sinclair Elizabeth A. , Verduin Jennifer , Krauss Siegfried L. , Hardinge Jethro , Anthony Janet , Kendrick Gary A.
Published: January 2013

Seagrass meadows are in decline globally. Although numerous experimental methods have been implemented to restore meadows, few have been successful in the long term. Poor decisions on the sourcing of transplants from donor sites, including poor genetic integration and/or low genetic diversity, may impact on restoration success. However, despite evidence to suggest a positive association between genetic diversity and ecological resilience, there is usually little or no input from genetic data to inform on the genetic management of ecological restoration. Cockburn Sound has seen a 77% decline in seagrass cover since 1967. A transplant trial was conducted between 2004 and 2008 with sprigs of Posidonia australis being planted into a bare sand area. Survival was monitored annually, and in 2012, we compared genetic diversity in this transplant area with the original donor site. Genetic diversity in the restored meadow was very high and comparable to the donor site, with no genetic differentiation detected. The high level of genetic diversity and choice of site may have played an important role in the success of this restoration trial. The observed natural recruits around the site after establishment of transplants suggest that local restoration efforts may improve seafloor habitat and facilitate natural expansion of the meadow.
Word‐finding difficulties confound performance on verbal cognitive measures in adults with intractable left temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Busch Robyn M. , Chapin Jessica S. , Haut Jennifer S. , Dulay Mario F. , Naugle Richard I. , Najm Imad
Published: January 2013

This study sought to determine if word‐finding difficulties (WFDs), which are common in adults with dominant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), are related to performance on verbal cognitive measures, including memory. One hundred six individuals with left TLE and pathologically confirmed mesial temporal sclerosis completed comprehensive preoperative neuropsychological evaluations. Patients were divided into two groups based on the degree of benefit received from phonemic cueing on a confrontation naming task. Cognitive performance was then compared between patients with greater and fewer WFDs. Patients with greater WFDs demonstrated poorer performance on many verbal cognitive measures compared to those with fewer WFDs. In contrast, there were no significant differences between groups on any of the nonverbal cognitive measures. Chi‐square analyses indicated that below average verbal memory performance occurred at a significantly higher rate for patients with greater WFDs (42–46%) as compared to patients with fewer WFDs (18–24%). Results showed that WFDs confound performance on verbal cognitive measures in adult patients with left TLE, particularly on measures with high demands for lexical retrieval. This suggests that when patients have word‐retrieval difficulties, measures of verbal memory and verbal intelligence may be underestimated and potentially lead to misinterpretation of test performance and misinformation regarding risk of declines after surgical resection.
Antiepileptic drug treatment in pregnancy: Changes in drug disposition and their clinical implications
Authors: Tomson Torbjörn , Landmark Cecilie Johannessen , Battino Dina
Published: January 2013

Pregnancy is a state where pharmacokinetic changes are more pronounced and more rapid than during any other period of life. The consequences of such changes can be far reaching, not least in the management of epilepsy where the risks with uncontrolled seizures during pregnancy need to be balanced against potential teratogenic effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). This article aims to review the literature on gestational effects on the pharmacokinetics of older and newer generation AEDs and discuss the implications for the treatment of epilepsy in women during pregnancy. Pregnancy can affect the pharmacokinetics of AEDs at any level from absorption, distribution, metabolism, to elimination. The effect varies depending on the type of AED. The most pronounced decline in serum concentrations is seen for AEDs that are eliminated by glucuronidation (UGT), in particular lamotrigine where the effect may be profound. Serum concentrations of AEDs that are cleared mainly through the kidneys, for example, levetiracetam, can also decline significantly. Some AEDs, such as carbamazepine seem to be affected only marginally by pregnancy. Data on pharmacokinetics during pregnancy are lacking completely for some of the newer generation AEDs: pregabalin, lacosamide, retigabine, and eslicarbazepine acetate. Where data are available, the effects of pregnancy on serum concentrations seem to vary considerably individually and are thus difficult to predict. Although large‐scale systematic studies of the clinical relevance of the pharmacokinetic alterations are lacking, prospective and retrospective case series have reported an association between declining serum concentrations and deterioration in seizures control. The usefulness of routine monitoring of AED serum concentrations in pregnancy and of dose adjustments based on falling levels, are discussed in this review. We suggest that monitoring could be important, in particular when women have been titrated to the lowest effective AED dose and serum concentration before pregnancy, and when that individual optimal concentration can be used as reference.
Heritability estimates of tarsocrural osteochondrosis and palmar/plantar first phalanx osteochondral fragments inStandardbred trotters
Authors: Lykkjen S. , Olsen H. F. , Dolvik N. I. , Grøndahl A. M. , Røed K. H. , Klemetsdal G.
Published: January 2013

Reasons for performing study

The pathogenesis of osteochondrosis (OC) and palmar/plantar first phalanx osteochondral fragments (POFs) is multifactorial, but specific knowledge of heritability is limited.

Objectives

To improve the precision of heritability estimates and to estimate the genetic correlation between tarsocruralOCandPOFsin Standardbred trotters. Further aims were to examine whether the prevalence ofOC/POFswas different in theAmerican andFrench lineages that have contributed to theNorwegian population, and if the prevalence was affected by heterozygosity.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Categorical data on tarsocruralOCandPOFsfrom 2 radiographic studies performed in 1989 and 2007/2008 (n = 1217) were analysed with sire threshold models that included 230 sires.

Results

Heritability ofOCat the distal intermediate ridge of the tibia and/or the lateral trochlear ridge of the talus was estimated at 0.29 ± 0.15. ForOCat the distal intermediate ridge of the tibia only, the estimate was 0.40 ± 0.17. Heritability ofPOFsin all 4 limbs was estimated at 0.23 ± 0.13; for metatarsophalangealPOFsthis was 0.26 ± 0.13 and for medial metatarsophalangealPOFs0.32 ± 0.14. Estimates of genetic correlation betweenOCandPOFsranged from 0.68 ± 0.27 to 0.73 ± 0.28 but were not significantly different from a zero‐genetic correlation. Effects of lineages or heterozygosity were not observed.

Conclusions and potential relevance

This study confirmed a moderate to high heritability of tarsocruralOCandPOF, providing further evidence of the heritable nature of these diseases. Examination of specific lesions yielded the highest heritability; therefore, breeding programmes and future genome‐analysis studies should focus on predilection sites rather than the entire disease complex.
Global conservation status and research needs for tarpons (Megalopidae), ladyfishes (Elopidae) and bonefishes (Albulidae)
Authors: Adams Aaron J , Horodysky Andrij Z , McBride Richard S , Guindon Kathryn , Shenker Jonathan , MacDonald Timothy C , Harwell Heather D , Ward Rocky , Carpenter Kent
Published: January 2013

We assessed the taxonomic diversity, geographic distributions, life history, ecology and fisheries of tarpons, ladyfishes and bonefishes (members of the subdivision Elopomorpha), which share many life history and habitat use characteristics that make them vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic stresses in coastal environments. This assessment of Red List status for the International Union for the Conservation of Nature reveals three species considered near threatened or vulnerable, three species of least concern, and 11 data‐deficient species. Although the taxonomy of tarpons appears stable, it is less so for ladyfishes and bonefishes. In aggregate, these species are distributed circumtropically and foray into temperate zones. Although they spawn in marine habitats, larvae of many species disperse into estuarine habitats, which are declining in area or degrading in quality. Several species support high‐value recreational fisheries, or culturally important small‐scale commercial and artisanal fisheries. Nonetheless, no formal stock assessment exists for any species, so improved data collection, information sharing and assessment techniques should facilitate socio‐economic development of individual fisheries. Catch‐and‐release recreational fisheries that promote conservation of tarpon and bonefishes in some regions are promising models to improve the conservation status of these fishes elsewhere, as well as the economic development of these fishing communities. Most tarpons, ladyfishes and bonefishes likely face significant challenges from anthropogenically mediated habitat loss and alteration, and several are vulnerable to both habitat degradation and overfishing. Broader protection and enhancements to fisheries habitat in all regions will benefit these as well as many other coastal fishery species.
Improved Efficacy of Proton Pump Inhibitor – Amoxicillin – Clarithromycin Triple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Eradication in Low Clarithromycin Resistance Areas or for Tailored Therapy
Authors: Prasertpetmanee Sanchai , Mahachai Varocha , Vilaichone Ratha‐korn
Published: January 2013

Objective

Standard triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication is no longer effective as an empiric choice in most areas. Even in low clarithromycin resistance areas, results ≥95% are infrequently achieved. This study was designed to search for a version of standard triple therapy for use low prevalence areas or as tailored therapy that is highly effective irrespective of CYP2C19 genotype.

Design

Two prospective pilot single center studies were performed in Thailand. H. pylori‐infected subjects were randomized to 7‐ or 14‐day regimens using a high‐dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) triple therapy consisting of lansoprazole (60 mg) twice daily, amoxicillin 1 g twice daily, and long‐acting clarithromycin MR 1 g once daily. H. pylori was defined as positive H. pylori culture; or two positive tests (rapid urease test and histology); CYP2C19 genotyping was performed. H. pylori eradication was evaluated by 13C‐UBT 4 or more weeks after treatment.

Results

Hundred and ten subjects were enrolled (55 each to the 7‐ and 14‐day regimens). Antibiotic susceptibility testing (25 strains) showed 40% metronidazole resistance but no clarithromycin resistance. CYP2C19 genotyping (64 subjects) revealed 56.3% rapid metabolizer, 29.7% intermediate metabolizer, and 14% poor metabolizer. The eradication rate with the 14‐day regimen was 100% (95% CI = 93.5–100%) and 92.7% (95% CI = 82–97%) with the 7‐day regimen. The difference was related to improved eradication at 14 days in rapid metabolizers (i.e. 100 vs 88.2%).

Conclusion

Triple therapy using a 14‐day high‐dose PPI and long‐acting clarithromycin provided an excellent cure rate (100%) regardless of the CYP2C19 genotype.
Direct renin inhibitor, aliskiren, attenuates the progression of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in the rat model
Authors: Aihara Yosuke , Yoshiji Hitoshi , Noguchi Ryuichi , Kaji Kosuke , Namisaki Tadashi , Shirai Yusaku , Douhara Akitoshi , Moriya Kei , Kawaratani Hideto , Fukui Hiroshi
Published: January 2013

Aim

Renin is a rate‐limiting enzyme of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), and several reports have shown that renin plays an important role in several pathological processes. Although RAS is known to play a pivotal role in the progression of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the role of renin is still obscure. The aim of the current study was to examine the effect of the clinically used direct renin inhibitor (DRI), aliskiren, on the progression of NASH in a rat model.

Methods

The effects of DRI on the choline‐deficient L‐amino acid‐defined (CDAA) diet‐induced rat NASH model was examined in conjunction with the activated hepatic stellate cells (Ac‐HSC) and neovascularization, both of which are known to play important roles in liver fibrosis development and hepatocarcinogenesis, respectively.

Results

DRI exerted a marked inhibitory effect against liver fibrosis development and glutathione‐S‐transferase placental form (GST‐P) positive preneoplastic lesions along with suppression of the Ac‐HSC and neovascularization in a dose‐dependent manner. DRI also inhibited the hepatic expressions of transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐beta 1), angiotensin‐II (AT‐II) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These results indicated that renin played a pivotal role in the liver fibrosis development and hepatocarcinogenesis of NASH.

Conclusion

Because DRI is already widely used in the clinical practice with safety, this drug may represent a potential new strategy against the progression of NASH in the future.
Ready‐to‐eat snack products: the role of extrusion technology in developing consumer acceptable and nutritious snacks
Authors: Brennan Margaret A. , Derbyshire Emma , Tiwari Brijesh K. , Brennan Charles S.
Published: January 2013

Consumer appeal for ready‐to‐eat (RTE) products is forecast to grow rapidly over the next 5 years as consumers demand convenient snacks with exciting sensory and textural properties. Extrusion technology has been used extensively in the production of cereal RTE snacks due to its ease of operation and ability to produce a variety of textures and shapes which appeal to consumers. Many of the existing RTE products are relatively high in sugar and salt, thus being regarded as energy dense but nutritionally poor foods. However, there exists a potential to manipulate the nutritional status of extruded RTEs by altering the digestion potentials of starch and protein, and by the incorporation of bioactive components such as dietary fibre. The review article explores some of the recent research in this field and illustrates opportunities by which the global food industry could react to consumers' requirements for healthful RTE snack products in the coming years.
Rheological, thermal and sensory properties of whey protein concentrate/pectin‐fortified mashed potatoes made from dehydrated flakes
Authors: Conforti Paula A. , Lupano Cecilia E. , Yamul Diego K.
Published: January 2013

The effect of different amounts of whey protein concentrate (50–150 g kg−1), low and high methoxyl pectin (5–15 g kg−1) on the rheological, thermal, structural properties and sensory quality of mashed potatoes prepared from dried mashed potatoes flakes was investigated. The response surface technique was used to analyse the effects of whey protein concentrate and pectin simultaneously on the consistency index, flow behaviour index, apparent viscosity and Casson plastic viscosity. Both whey protein concentrate and pectin decreased the consistency of the mashed potatoes weakening its structure in all concentrations assayed. Results suggest that whey protein concentrate interacts with high methoxyl pectin through non‐covalent interactions. Based on the sensory evaluation results, up to 100 g kg−1 whey protein concentrate with 15 g kg−1 of low methoxyl pectin and 15 g kg−1 of high methxyl pectin could be incorporated to dried mashed potatoes flakes without losing significantly the sensory quality of the product.
IUFoST's strategy to strengthen food security in rural areas of developing countries
Authors: Spiess Walter E.L. , Lund Daryl B. , Mercer Donald G.
Published: January 2013

One sixth of the world's population is food insecure with many of these people living in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Food insecurity, hunger and malnutrition have multiple reasons, many of which are beyond the reach and capacity of the food science community to remediate. Knowledge of food science and technology can dramatically improve the situation wherever food insecurity exists. This knowledge can increase our understanding of the conditions under which agricultural produce has to be handled, processed and distributed after harvesting. To develop practical measures, the Food Security Task Force of the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) is developing a strategy to expand and broaden the Food Science/Technology knowledge base in neglected geographical areas. Specifically, IUFoST is offering Food Science/Technology training material for non‐academic food industry entrepreneurs utilising distance education technology. Part of IUFoST's effort is the transfer of appropriate technologies for pilot‐scale processes which foster linkages between farmers and food industries and stimulate growing high value crops.
Preparation and functional characterisation of fish skin gelatin and comparison with commercial gelatin
Authors: Rawdkuen Saroat , Thitipramote Natthawut , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: January 2013

Gelatin was extracted from the skin of farmed giant catfish (GC) and tilapia (TP) at a yield of 19.50% and 23.34% (wet wt). It was high in protein (84–88%) but low in fat (0.09–1.24%) and ash content (0.15–0.17%). The GC exhibited lower emulsifying activity (24–35%), but greater foam ability (98–110%), water holding capacity (477–844%) and fat binding capacity (2541–3314%) than commercial beef skin gelatin (BF) (P < 0.05). GC and TP showed comparable functional properties to BF. SDS‐PAGE patterns of TP gelatin showed high band intensity for the α‐ and β‐components, while the lowest band intensity of the major component was found in the BF. From the study, it can be concluded that the farmed freshwater fish skin GC and TP is a prospective source for producing a significant gelatin yield with desirable functionalities. Because of these, fish skin gelatin could be more effectively and widely used in food industries as a good food ingredient.
The anus as a second mouth: anal suspension feeding by an oral deposit‐feeding sea cucumber
Authors: Jaeckle William. B. , Strathmann Richard. R.
Published: January 2013

Respiratory trees of holothurians are blind‐ended evaginations of the posterior digestive system that are rhythmically inflated with seawater via the anus, and are considered to have respiratory and excretory functions. We tested the assimilatory capability of the respiratory tree epithelium by exposing adults of the oral deposit‐feeding aspidochirotid sea cucumber Parastichopus californicus to (1) 14C‐labeled unicellular algae and (2) iron‐containing macromolecules, and then following the distribution of the labels in various body regions. The abundance of the 14C (nmol 14C g wet weight−1) varied among body regions. The majority of the label was associated with the respiratory trees. The next greatest concentration was in the rete mirabile of the hemal system. The amount of 14C within samples of the anterior digestive system, posterior digestive system, and body wall muscle at each sampling time was lower than that of the respiratory trees. The presence and abundance of the 14C label in samples of the hemal system and the physical association between the respiratory tree and the rete mirabile suggest initial uptake by the respiratory tree and subsequent transfer to the hemal system. The iron label from the protein ferritin and the polysaccharide iron dextran entered cells of the respiratory tree luminal epithelium. The presence of the iron label in mesenchyme cells within the connective tissue compartment of the respiratory trees exposed to ferritin further suggests directional transfer of materials. Holothurians with respiratory trees are nutritionally bipolar; the anus serves as a second mouth.