bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in finger length ratio between males with autism, pervasive developmental disorder‐ not otherwise specified, ADHD, and anxiety disorders
Authors: De Esther I , Verheij Fop , MA; T Wiegman , Ferdinand Robert F
Published: July 2010

Children with autism have a relatively shorter index finger (2D) compared with their ring finger (4D). It is often presumed that the 2D:4D ratio is associated with fetal testosterone levels and that high fetal testosterone levels could play a role in the aetiology of autism. It is unknown whether this effect is specific to autism. In this study, 2D:4D ratios of 144 males aged 6 to 14 years (mean age 9y 1mo [SD 1y 11mo]) with psychiatric disorders were compared with those of 96 males aged 6 to 13 years from the general population (mean age 9y 1mo [SD 1y 10mo]). Psychiatric disorders were divided into autism/Asperger syndrome (n=24), pervasive developmental disorder‐not otherwise specified (PDD‐NOS; n=26), attention‐deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)/oppositional defiant disorder (ODD; n=68), and anxiety disorders (n=26). Males with autism/Asperger syndrome (p<0.05) and ADHD/ODD (p<0.05) had significantly lower (though not significantly; p=0.52) ratios than males with an anxiety disorder, and males with autism/Asperger syndrome had lower ratios than those in the comparison group. These results indicated that higher fetal testosterone levels may play a role, not only in the origin of autism, but also in the aetiology of PDD‐NOS and of ADHD/ODD. Males with anxiety disorders might have been exposed to lower prenatal testosterone levels.
Specific postural support promotes variation in motor behaviour of infants with minor neurological dysfunction
Authors: De Victorine B , De Agnes H , PT; Tineke Dirks , Hadders‐Algra Mijna
Published: July 2010

This study evaluated the effect of specific postural support on motor behaviour of infants with and without minor neurological dysfunction (MND). The following questions were addressed: (1) Does application of supportive pillows affect the time during which the infant exhibits general movements (GMs) or specific movements? We defined specific movements as movements of specific parts of the body that occur in a specific, recognizable way. (2) Does application of pillows improve the quality of GMs or the repertoire of specific movements? (3) Is a pillow effect affected by neurological condition? Forty healthy, term infants (16 males, 24 females; mean age 3.04m [SD 1.24mo], range 1–5mo) participated in the study. Twenty were neurologically normal and 20 had MND. Spontaneous motor behaviour in a supine position was video‐recorded for 180 seconds in four conditions applied in random order: support by a pillow in (1) the shoulder region, (2) the pelvic region, (3) the shoulder and pelvic region, or (4) no pillow support. Two independent assessors evaluated the quality of GMs. The other movement parameters were assessed with a computer program. Duration of movements was determined and a variation index, consisting of the number of different specific movements in a condition, was calculated. The presence of pillows did not affect the time spent in GMs, specific movements, or GM quality in either group. In neurologically normal infants the shoulder pillow with or without pelvic pillow induced an increase in the variation index (p >0.01), whereas in the infants with MND, all pillow conditions resulted in a substantial increase of the movement repertoire (p >0.001). Our results demonstrate that specific postural support promotes variation in motor behaviour of young infants. This is particularly true for infants with MND.
Diagnostic pitfalls in paediatric ischaemic stroke
Authors: Braun Kees P J , Kappelle L Jaap , Kirkham Fenella J , De Veber Gabrielle
Published: July 2010

Diagnosing ischaemic stroke and determining its cause is difficult in children. Both are important for selection of treatment and prediction of outcome. This study explored the diagnostic changes that lead to a delay in the correct diagnosis of paediatric stroke. Case histories of 45 children with ischaemic stroke (31 males, 14 females; median age 6y; age range 2mo–16y) were retrospectively reviewed. The initial clinical diagnosis, based on the interpretation of presenting symptoms, was compared with the final aetiological stroke diagnosis after completion and review of diagnostic work‐up. The type of diagnostic change, consequent time delay until correct diagnosis, reasons for change of diagnosis, and alterations to management were evaluated. Twenty‐four diagnostic changes were identified; 19 in ‘primary stroke diagnosis’ (symptoms initially not attributed to stroke), and five in ‘aetiological diagnosis’ (incorrect initial determination of type or cause of stroke). The median interval between initial and final diagnosis was 7 days (3h–2y). The change in diagnosis led to therapeutic alterations in 17 patients. Risk factors for childhood stroke differ from those in adults. Stroke is frequently not recognized as the cause of the child's symptoms, and the correct determination of stroke aetiology takes time. We recommend that children with stroke be evaluated in a centre with expertize, using standardized diagnostic protocols and careful follow‐up.
MM:2 The test of infant motor performance: a self‐instructional CD program (V.4)
Authors: CAMPBELL SK , LIAO P‐j M , GIROLAMI GL , KOLOBE T , OSTEN ET , LENKE MC
Published: July 2010

This CD‐ROM is a new, enhanced version of a program for learning to administer and score the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP), an assessment of movement skills in infants from 34 weeks post‐menstrual age through 4 months past term. The TIMP has been normed on a U.S. population‐based sample of 990 infants. Research has documented the test's predictive validity to 5‐year outcome from assessment at 3 months as well as the match between items and handling of infants by their caregivers. Each of the 42 items on the TIMP is presented in the CD with text describing the administration and scoring of the item. Item descriptions are accompanied by videos of infant performance and the scores assigned to each performance. Video quizzes are provided for testing knowledge of accurate scoring. Research on the first version of the CD showed that individuals could become reliable raters with this self‐instructional method at a rate similar to those who engaged in a much lengthier program of reading, workshop attendance and video scoring practice (Liao and Campbell, Pediatr Phys Ther 2002; 14: 191–198). The new CD includes more videos than the earlier version as well as enhanced description of the rationale for scores assigned to each performance. Length: Variable. Because this is an interactive learning program, time to complete varies, but an overview of the content takes about 45 minutes.
MM:3 The children with special health care needs podcast series
Authors: CARBONE P
Published: July 2010

The Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) Podcast Series utilizes a new medium (the podcast) to present current and state‐of‐the‐art clinical reviews to pediatric residents and pediatricians who care for children with disabilities. The podcast represents an innovative method of presenting teaching materials. Audio content can be downloaded to portable media players on demand, and later listened to at the user's convenience. Podcasting is spreading quickly because of the rapid adoption of MP3 players, increasing familiarity with electronic transfer of information, and the desire of learners to have fresh content. The CSHCN Podcast Series is a set of interview‐style lectures that are posted on ‘Podcasting from the U’ (http://www.utah.edu/podcast), a website recently developed by the University of Utah for public access of audio‐based educational content. Each podcast addresses an issue relevant to the care of medically complex pediatric patients. The first podcast in the series is an interview with Sarah Winter, MD on the recent American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Policy Statement on developmental surveillance and screening. The second podcast in the series is an interview with John Carey, MD on a recent AAP Clinical Report on the genetic evaluation of the child with mental retardation or developmental delay. All podcasts in the series can be downloaded free of charge and serve to improve dissemination of new and important information to pediatricians and trainees. We are in the process of incorporating these podcasts into the pediatric residency curriculum and evaluating their effectiveness as teaching tools.

Acknowledgements:

This work is posted on the Podcasting from the U website, maintained by the University of Utah Department of Marketing and Communication. Jason Smith, coordinator of the Podcasting from the U website, assists in editing.
Neurodevelopmental disorders in children with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss: a clinical study
Authors: CHILOSI ANNA M , COMPARINI ALESSANDRO , SCUSA MARIA F , BERRETTINI STEFANO , FORLI FRANCESCA , BATTINI ROBERTA , CIPRIANI PAOLA , CIONI GIOVANNI
Published: July 2010

Aim  The effects of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) are often complicated by additional disabilities, but the epidemiology of associated disorders is not clearly defined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and type of additional neurodevelopmental disabilities in a sample of children with SNHL and to investigate the relation between these additional disabilities and the aetiology of deafness.

Method  One hundred children with severe/profound SNHL (60 males, 40 females; mean age 5y 7mo, SD 3y 6mo, range 8mo–16y) were investigated using a diagnostic protocol including neurodevelopmental, genetic, neurometabolic, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment.

Results  Forty‐eight per cent of the sample exhibited one or more additional disabilities, with cognitive, behavioural–emotional, and motor disorders being the most frequent. The risk of additional disabilities varied according to the type of aetiology. Thirty‐seven out of 80 individuals with available MRIs showed signal abnormalities, in particular brain malformations (46%) and white matter abnormalities (54%). Frequency and type of disability were associated with aetiology (p=0.015) and MRI data (p<0.001).

Interpretation  A multidimensional evaluation, including aetiological, neurodevelopmental, and MRI investigation, is needed for planning therapeutic intervention, such as cochlear implantation in children with severe to profound hearing impairment. The aetiology of deafness is a relevant risk indicator for the presence of an associated disorder.
The emotional startle effect is disrupted by a concurrent working memory task
Authors: King Rosemary , Schaefer Alexandre
Published: July 2010

Working memory (WM) processes are often thought to play an important role in the cognitive regulation of negative emotions. However, little is known about how they influence emotional processing. We report two experiments that tested whether a concurrent working memory task could modulate the emotional startle eyeblink effect, a well‐known index of emotional processing. In both experiments, emotionally negative and neutral pictures were viewed in two conditions: a “cognitive load” (CL) condition, in which participants had to actively maintain information in working memory (WM) while viewing the pictures, and a control “no load” (NL) condition. Picture‐viewing instructions were identical across CL and NL. In both experiments, results showed a significant reduction of the emotional modulation of the startle eyeblink reflex in the CL condition compared to the NL condition. These findings suggest that a concurrent WM task disrupts emotional processing even when participants are directing visual focus on emotionally relevant information.
Postauricular and superior auricular reflex modulation during emotional pictures and sounds
Authors: Benning Stephen D.
Published: July 2010

The postauricular reflex is a relatively new psychophysiological measure of appetitive emotional processing during picture viewing. However, the degree to which other auricular (i.e., superior and anterior auricular) muscles might exhibit reflexive activity congruent with that found in the postauricular muscle has not been investigated, nor has the robustness of postauricular reflex modulation across stimulus modality. In this study, postauricular reflexes were the only reflexes that showed consistent emotional modulation across ears and genders. Additionally, postauricular reflexes were significantly modulated for both emotional pictures and sounds; in both cases, postauricular reflexes were greatest during pleasant stimuli.
All‐trans retinoic acid for treatment of chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Böcher Wulf O. , Wallasch Christian , Höhler Thomas , Galle Peter R.
Published: July 2010

Background/Aims: In vitro studies in the subgenomic hepatitis C virus (HCV) replicon system have identified all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) as a potential therapeutic against hepatitis C. Thus, the antiviral potential of this drug should be assessed in vivo.

Methods: Twenty highly treatment experienced serotype 1 patients with non‐response to conventional or pegylated interferon‐α (Peg‐/IFN‐α) and ribavirin were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of monotherapy with ATRA (group A) or a combination of ATRA and PegIFN‐α2a (group B). HCV RNA was assessed by bDNA assay and if negative by highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction.

Results: During treatment, five of 10 patients in group A had a drop of viraemia >1log, while in group B after 8 weeks five of 10 dropped >2log, and three of 10 cleared HCV RNA from serum. Viraemia relapsed after treatment cessation. ATRA was rather well tolerated, with transient headache, dry skin and mucosa representing the most common side effects.

Conclusions: The viral load reduction under ATRA monotherapy, although limited and transient, supports the antiviral activity of ATRA. However, the rapid loss of HCV RNA in three of 10 previous non‐responders under ATRA and PegIFN‐α2a treatment demonstrates a strong additive or synergistic ATRA effect and calls for a controlled trial to assess the therapeutic potential of this drug.
Interaction of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs in Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers
Authors: Venerito Marino , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: July 2010

Background:  Gastric (GU) and duodenal ulcers (DU) are in most instances either induced by Helicobacter pylori infection or by nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Whether eradication of H. pylori is beneficial in NSAID users for preventing NSAID induced GU and DU has been the focus of different studies.

Materials and Methods:  Mechanisms shared by both H. pylori and NSAIDs for the induction of GU and DU were reviewed and randomized controlled trials on H. pylori eradication for prevention and healing of GU and DU in patients requiring NSAID therapy were identified by a PubMed search.

Results:  Key factors in the induction of GU and DU for both H. pylori and NSAIDs are a decrease in pH, imbalance between apoptosis and proliferation, reduction in mucosal blood flow, and recruitment of polymorphonucleates in distinct compartments. For primary ulcer prevention, H. pylori eradication before starting an NSAID therapy reduces the risk of NSAID induced GU and virtually abolishes the risk of DU. H. pylori eradication alone is not sufficient for secondary prevention of NSAID induced GU and DU. H. pylori infection appears to further increase the protective effects of proton‐pump inhibitors (PPI) to reduce the risk of ulcer relapse. H. pylori eradication does not influence the healing of both GU and DU if NSAID intake is discontinued.

Conclusions:  Duodenal ulcer is more closely related to H. pylori infection than GU in NSAID users. H. pylori eradication is recommended for primary prevention of GU and DU in patients requiring NSAID therapy. PPI therapy is mandatory for secondary prevention of gastroduodenal ulcers, and appears to further reduce the risk of ulcer relapse in the presence of H. pylori.
Sequential Statistical Improvement of the Liquid Cultivation of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Duque‐Jamaica Rocio , Arévalo‐Galvis Azucena , Poutou‐Piñales Raúl A. , Trespalacios Alba A.
Published: July 2010

Background:  Colonization of the gastric mucosa by Helicobacter pylori is one of the most important causes of acute and chronic gastric pathologies in humans. Achieving the growth of H. pylori in liquid media is of great importance in the development of clinical studies. In this study, we developed a sequential optimization strategy based on statistical models to improve the conditions of liquid culture of H. pylori.

Materials and Methods:  Four statistical models were sequentially used. First, a Box‐Behnken design was used to select the best process conditions (shaking speed, inoculum concentration, and final volume of culture). Secondly, a general factorial design was used to evaluate the influence of adding gel blocks or gel beads (shape and composition). Then a D‐optimal reduce design was carried out to allow the selection of the most influential factors in increasing the cell concentration (culture media components). Finally, another Box‐Behnken design was used to optimize the concentration of the culture media components previously selected.

Results:  After 12 hours of liquid culture a concentration of 25 × 108 cells per mL (9.4 log10 cells per mL) of H. pylori was obtained, compared with a predicted 32 × 108 (9.5 log10 cells per mL), which means between 1 and 5 log10 units higher than some previous reports.

Conclusions:  The sequential statistical approach increased the planktonic H. pylori cell culture. The final culture media and conditions were: Brain Heart Infusion, blood agarose (1.5% w/v), lamb’s blood (3.18% v/v), DENT (0.11% v/v), and Vitox (0.52% v/v) at 60 rpm and 37 °C with filtered CO2 (5% v/v) bubbled directly into the culture media in a final volume of 76.22 mL.
Psychological outcome profiles in childhood‐onset temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Micallef Silvana , Spooner Claire G. , Simon Harvey A. , Wrennall Jacquie A. , Wilson Sarah J.
Published: July 2010

Purpose:  To examine the effect of childhood‐onset temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) on long‐term psychological function and to identify outcome profiles related to the natural course and treatment of TLE.

Methods:  Psychological function was studied in a prospective, community‐based cohort of childhood‐onset TLE, approximately 13 years following seizure onset. Fifty‐three patients were assessed using a semi‐structured psychosocial interview, supplemented by self‐report questionnaires measuring quality‐of‐life, depression, self‐esteem, and anxiety.

Results:  Common patterns were observed, giving rise to four distinct patient groups and psychological outcomes: (1) patients who experienced spontaneous remission of their seizures fared best; their psychological profile was characterized by heightened worry about the possibility of seizure recurrence; (2) patients who progressed to surgery and were seizure free reported adjustment difficulties associated with learning to become “well”; (3) patients who progressed to surgery and were not seizure free had the poorest psychological outcomes, with depression featuring prominently; and (4) patients with ongoing intractable epilepsy reported psychological and social features consistent with the effects of their chronic illness.

Discussion:  Patients with childhood‐onset TLE face distinctive long‐term psychological challenges. The specific nature of these challenges can be understood in terms of the natural evolution and treatment of their epilepsy.
Persistence of lymphocyte function perturbations after granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor mobilization and cytapheresis in normal peripheral blood stem cell donors
Authors: Marmier‐Savet Caroline , Larosa Fabrice , Legrand Faezeh , Witz Brigitte , Michallet Mauricette , Ranta Dana , Louvat Pascale , Puyraveau Marc , Pouthier Fabienne , Deconinck Eric , Tiberghien Pierre , Robinet Eric
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND: The short‐term effects of granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) have been extensively studied, but recent reports of G‐CSF–induced genetic perturbations raised concerns regarding its long‐term safety. In this respect, duration of G‐CSF–induced perturbations has been less studied than short‐term effects and needs to be evaluated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: G‐CSF mobilization–induced immunologic alterations were prospectively analyzed in a cohort of 24 healthy donors. Blood samples were taken before G‐CSF administration; at the time of administration; and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and analyzed for blood cell counts and in vitro cytokines (interleukin [IL]‐2, ‐8, and ‐10) and immunoglobulin production, quantified in the culture supernatant of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) after, respectively, phytohemagglutinin and pokeweed mitogen stimulation.

RESULTS: Platelet, granulocyte, monocyte, B, and dendritic blood cell counts as well as the IL‐2, ‐8, and ‐10 secretion by PBMNCs, perturbed at the time of G‐CSF mobilization, returned to baseline values at 1 month, with T‐cell and natural killer cell counts recovering at 3 months. In vitro immunoglobulin production was increased up to 6 months after mobilization.

CONCLUSION: Although assessment of the potential long‐term risk of G‐CSF administration will require prolonged observation of larger cohorts, our data show that the duration of immunologic perturbations may be more persistent than previously anticipated, especially for B‐cell functional alterations. Most perturbations remain, however, transient with a return to baseline values within 1 year.
The extent of amotosalen photodegradation during photochemical treatment of platelet components correlates with the level of pathogen inactivation
Authors: Liu Weiqun , Cimino George D. , Corash Laurence , Lin Lily
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND: Amotosalen plus ultraviolet A (UVA) light inactivates a broad range of bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and leukocytes in platelet (PLT) and plasma components. Upon UVA illumination a small fraction of amotosalen reacts with the nucleic acid of contaminating pathogens and residual white blood cells and the remaining fraction undergoes photodegradation into defined photoproducts. The levels of amotosalen and photoproducts can be accurately quantified.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This study evaluated the relationship between the extent of photodegradation of amotosalen and the level of pathogen inactivation in PLT components. PLT components containing of 3.78 × 1011 to 7.23 × 1011 PLTs in 300 to 450 mL of 35% to 50% plasma and 50% to 65% PLT additive solution and up to 5 × 106 red blood cells (RBCs)/mL were prepared. Each component was contaminated with 105 to 106 colony‐forming units/mL Klebsiella pneumoniae and treated with 115 to 200 µmol/L amotosalen and 0 to 3 J/cm2 UVA light. For each treatment condition, the level of K. pneumoniae inactivation (log‐reduction) was measured by microbiologic methods. The initial and postillumination amotosalen concentrations (µmol/L) were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS: For a defined set of treatment conditions, the extent of amotosalen photodegradation was consistent and reproducible. The bacterial log‐reduction correlated linearly with the extent of amotosalen photodegradation with a regression correlation coefficient (r2) between 0.845 and 0.890 regardless of the treatment variables such as PLT content, component volume, plasma content, RBC content, initial amotosalen concentration, and UVA dose.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that the extent of amotosalen photodegradation can serve as an intrinsic actinometer which directly correlated with the level of pathogen inactivation.
The Relative Resilience of Property: First Possession and Order Without Law in East Timor
Authors: Fitzpatrick Daniel , Barnes Susana
Published: July 2010

Much of the recent literature on customary property relations in sub-Saharan Africa has highlighted underlying characteristics of negotiability and indeterminacy. Custom is prone to reinvention as resource claimants manipulate customary references across multiple forums for property legitimation and authority. This article focuses on the resilience of customary property relations in East Timor. Based on a study of customary authority in the village of Babulo, we conclude that traditional Timorese narratives of first possession, where land authority is claimed by groups that trace descent to a mythic first settler, have acted as adaptive and resilient focal points for the reproduction of customary property relations in historical circumstances of war, colonization, and occupation. While a finding of customary resilience is not new to postcolonial contexts, the relative novelty of our study lies in its structured explanation for resilience in circumstances of war and displacement, based on the social ordering capacity of first possession principles themselves. This explanation, which derives from focal point theories for cooperative property relations, also takes into account a number of limits on the ordering capacity of first possession principles, which support a conclusion of relative or constrained resilience, particularly in terms of contested interpretations of possessory authority in contemporary East Timor.
Reduction of body iron stores to normal range levels in thalassaemia by using a deferiprone/deferoxamine combination and their maintenance thereafter by deferiprone monotherapy
Authors: Kolnagou Annita , Kleanthous Marios , Kontoghiorghes George J.
Published: July 2010

Background:  Iron overload and toxicity is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in thalassaemia patients. New chelating drug protocols are necessary to treat completely transfusional iron overload and eliminate associated toxicity. Appropriate deferiprone/deferoxamine combinations could achieve this goal.

Methods:  A single‐centre, single‐armed, proof‐of‐concept study of the combination of deferiprone (75–100 mg/kg/d) and deferoxamine (40–60 mg/kg, at least 3 d per week) was carried out in eight patients with thalassaemia major (four men and four women) for 21–68 months. The patients were previously treated with deferoxamine and had variable serum ferritin [geometric (G) mean ± SD = 1446 ± 1035 μg/L] and magnetic resonance imaging relaxation times T2* cardiac (Gmean ± SD = 10.32 ± 6.72 ms) and liver (G mean ± SD = 3.77 ± 4.69 ms). The use of deferiprone (80–100 mg/kg/d) continued for 7–26 months in seven of the eight patients following the combination therapy. Organ function, blood and other biochemical parameters were monitored for toxicity.

Results:  The deferiprone/deferoxamine combination caused an absolute value increase in cardiac (G mean ± SD = 29.6 ± 6.6 ms, P < 0.00076) and liver (G mean ± SD = 25.9 ± 8.07 ms, P < 0.00075) T2* and reduction in serum ferritin (G mean ± SD = 114.7 ± 139.8 μg/L, P < 0.0052) to within the normal body iron store range levels. In two cases, normalisation was achieved within a year. Deferiprone monotherapy was sufficient thereafter in maintaining normal range cardiac (G mean ± SD = 31.4 ± 5.25 ms, P < 0.79) and liver (G mean ± SD = 26.2 ± 12.4 ms, P < 0.58) T2* and normal serum ferritin (G mean ± SD = 150.7 ± 159.1, μg/L, P < 0.17) in five of the seven patients. No serious toxicity was observed.

Conclusion:  Transfusional iron overload in patients with thalassaemia could be reduced to normal body iron range levels using effective deferiprone/deferoxamine combinations. These levels could be maintained using deferiprone monotherapy.
Habitat microclimates drive fine‐scale variation in extreme temperatures
Authors: Suggitt Andrew J. , Gillingham Phillipa K. , Hill Jane K. , Huntley Brian , Kunin William E. , Roy David B. , Thomas Chris D.
Published: July 2010

Most multicellular terrestrial organisms experience climate at scales of millimetres to metres, yet most species‐climate associations are analysed at resolutions of kilometres or more. Because individuals experience heterogeneous microclimates in the landscape, species sometimes survive where the average background climate appears unsuitable, and equally may be eliminated from sites within apparently suitable grid cells where microclimatic extremes are intolerable. Local vegetation structure and topography can be important determinants of fine‐resolution microclimate, but a literature search revealed that the vast majority of bioclimate studies do not include fine‐scale habitat information, let alone a representation of how habitat affects microclimate. In this paper, we show that habitat type (grassland, heathland, deciduous woodland) is a major modifier of the temperature extremes experienced by organisms. We recorded differences among these habitats of more than 5°C in monthly temperature maxima and minima, and of 10°C in thermal range, on a par with the level of warming expected for extreme future climate change scenarios. Comparable differences were found in relation to variation in local topography (slope and aspect). Hence, we argue that the microclimatic effects of habitat and topography must be included in studies if we are to obtain sufficiently detailed projections of the ecological impacts of climate change to develop detailed adaptation strategies for the conservation of biodiversity.
Starting points for small mammal population recovery after wildfire: recolonisation or residual populations?
Authors: Banks Sam C. , Dujardin Matthieu , McBurney Lachlan , Blair David , Barker Maree , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: July 2010

Wildfire is a major driver of spatio‐temporal variation in terrestrial ecosystems. Large wildfires are predicted to occur more frequently due to climate change. The mechanisms by which post‐fire recovery proceeds are influenced by the abundance of survivors, and their distribution in relation to habitat variability and refugia. Thus, characterising early post‐fire demographic processes is critical to understanding the demographic and community‐level responses of ecosystems to fire. The Black Saturday fires of February 2009 burnt an area of approximately 3500 km2 in Victoria, Australia. We quantified the effects of this high severity forest fire on the habitat, abundance, sex ratio and body mass of two small mammal species, the agile antechinus Antechinus agilis and bush rat Rattus fuscipes. We developed a hypothetical framework to distinguish in situ survival and rapid recolonisation as the processes underlying short‐term post‐fire distributions. These hypotheses were based on expected patterns of abundance over increasing distances from unburnt sources, and the estimated recolonisation capabilities of each species and sex. The agile antechinus and bush rat were present in burnt sites at 30% and 12% of the density observed in unburnt sites. In situ survival, and not recolonisation, was the most plausible explanation for our findings. Abundance and body mass data indicated a greater effect of fire on the bush rat than the agile antechinus. The bush rat showed a shift in topographic association, whereby drainage lines acted as post‐fire refugia. Our findings suggest these species do not depend on recolonisation for recovery, and that the bush rat will follow a nucleated recovery, expanding from topographic refugia. Thus, connectivity‐reducing management activities, such as salvage logging and firebreak and road construction, may not affect the early stages of population recovery in remaining stands of burnt forest. Rather, ongoing recovery is likely to be limited by demographic rates and resource availability.
Are invasive ants better plant‐defense mutualists? A comparison of foliage patrolling and herbivory in sites with invasive yellow crazy ants and native weaver ants
Authors: Lach Lori , Hoffmann Benjamin D.
Published: July 2010

Benefits arising from facultative mutualisms between ants and plants vary with the identity of the ant partner. Invasive and native ants are both attracted to plants that offer extrafloral nectar, but few studies have compared their abilities to displace herbivores and benefit plants. Yellow crazy ants Anoplolepis gracilipes have invaded eucalypt woodlands of Arnhem Land, northern Australia, where they displace the native dominant weaver ant Oecophylla smaragdina. We compared the plant defense services provided by A. gracilipes and O. smaragdina ants on trees with (Acacia lamprocarpa) and without (Eucalyptus tetrodonta) extrafloral nectar rewards through surrogate herbivore (termite) addition experiments and surveys of herbivore damage. Anoplolepis gracilipes were more likely than O. smaragdina to discover termites on A. lamprocarpa, but the likelihood of termite discovery on E. tetrodonta did not vary with ant species. Anoplolepis gracilipes were also more thorough in their attacks of termites, recruited 3.4–4 times more workers to termites, and were 3.4 times quicker at discovering termites on A. lamprocarpa than were O. smaragdina. Discovery of termites by other predators did not vary significantly between trees in A. gracilipes and O. smaragdina sites. Herbivory scores did not reflect the foliage patrolling pattern by the ants. Old A. lamprocarpa leaves and both new and old leaves and branches on E. tetrodonta in A. gracilipes sites had higher chewing herbivory scores than their counterparts in O. smaragdina sites. Our results reveal that the more aggressive and efficient foliar patrolling by A. gracilipes does not translate to increased plant protection. Ant invasions can disrupt native ant–plant mutualisms despite invasive ants possessing many traits associated with effective plant guarding.
Timing the arrival at 2340 m altitude for aerobic performance
Authors: Schuler B. , Thomsen J. J. , Gassmann M. , Lundby C.
Published: July 2010

This study tested the hypothesis that maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) and performance increase upon altitude acclimatization at moderate altitude. Eight elite cyclists were studied at sea level, and after 1 (Day 1), 7 (Day 7), 14 (Day 14) and 21 (Day 21) days of exposure to 2340 m. Capillary blood samples were taken on these days before performing two consecutive maximal exercise trials. Acclimatization increased hemoglobin concentration and arterial oxygen content. On Day 1, V̇O2max and time to exhaustion (at 80% of sea‐level maximal power output) decreased by 12.8% (P<0.05) and 25.8% (P<0.05), respectively, compared with the corresponding sea‐level values. Subsequently, these parameters increased by 3.2% (P<0.05) and 6.0% (P<0.05) from Days 1 to7, by 4.8% (P<0.05) and 5.7% (P<0.05) from Days 7 to 14, followed by 0.7% (P>0.05) and 1.4% (P>0.05) from Days 14 to 21, respectively. These data suggest that endurance athletes competing at altitudes around 2340 m should expose themselves to this altitude at least 14 days before competition.
Dentin xenografts to experimental bone defects in rabbit tibia are ankylosed and undergo osseous replacement
Authors: Andersson Lars
Published: July 2010

Abstract –  Purpose: After trauma and losses of teeth, bone augmentation with bone grafts or bone replacement material is sometimes required before implant treatment. The ideal bone replacement material has not yet been characterized. Dentin is known to undergo ankylosis and replacement resorption after replantation of teeth. Dentin has also been shown to contain bone morphogenic protein. These properties may possibly be used making dentin an alternative or supplement to bone grafting to defect areas prior to treatment with osseointegrated implants. The aim of this study was to investigate if dentin is ankylosed and replaced by newly formed bone when transplanted to bone defects. Materials and methods: Ten New Zealand rabbits were used for the experiment. The rabbits were subjected to surgical exposure and preparation of bone cavities in the tibia bilaterally. Dentin blocks from human premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were used as grafts. Dentin blocks were inserted in the cavities penetrating into the marrow space in 16 tibias. Four tibias were prepared with the same cavities, but without being subjected to dentin grafting and served as controls. Five rabbits were sacrificed after 3 months and five rabbits after 6 months. Histological processing and evaluation were performed and tissue conditions evaluated. The area of ankylosis was estimated. Results: All dentin blocks healed with ankylosis in contact with bone without inflammatory reactions. In the cortical regions of the tibia, fusion of bone with dentin was seen in 86% of the dentin surface after 3 months and 98% after 6 months. On the dentin blocks inserted into the marrow space, bone was formed on the dentin block on average covering 51% of the dentin after 3 months and covering 77% after 6 months. Resorption of the dentin was seen to a larger extent after 6 months with osseous replacement in the resorption cavities. Conclusion: Dentin xenografts have a potential to be incorporated in bone without inflammation and gradually resorbed and replaced by new bone.
Increased BDNF levels and NTRK2 gene association suggest a disruption of BDNF/TrkB signaling in autism
Authors: Correia C. T. , Coutinho A. M. , Sequeira A. F. , Sousa I. G. , Lourenço Venda L. , Almeida J. P. , Abreu R. L. , Lobo C. , Miguel T. S. , Conroy J. , Cochrane L. , Gallagher L. , Gill M. , Ennis S. , Oliveira G. G. , Vicente A. M.
Published: July 2010

The brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin fundamental for brain development and function, has previously been implicated in autism. In this study, the levels of BDNF in platelet‐rich plasma were compared between autistic and control children, and the role of two genetic factors that might regulate this neurotrophin and contribute to autism etiology, BDNF and NTRK2, was examined. We found that BDNF levels in autistic children (n = 146) were significantly higher (t = 6.82; P < 0.0001) than in control children (n = 50) and were positively correlated with platelet serotonin distribution (r = 0.22; P = 0.004). Heritability of BDNF was estimated at 30% and therefore candidate genes BDNF and NTRK2 were tested for association with BDNF level distribution in this sample, and with autism in 469 trio families. Genetic association analysis provided no evidence for BDNF or NTRK2 as major determinants of the abnormally increased BDNF levels in autistic children. A significant association with autism was uncovered for six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) [0.004 (Z(1df) = 2.85) < P < 0.039 (Z(1df) = 2.06)] and multiple haplotypes [5 × 10−4(χ(3df) = 17.77) < P < 0.042 (χ(9df) = 17.450)] in the NTRK2 gene. These results do not withstand correction for multiple comparisons, however, reflect a trend toward association that supports a role of NTRK2 as a susceptibility factor for the disorder. Genetic variation in the BDNF gene had no impact on autism risk. By substantiating the previously observed increase in BDNF levels in autistic children in a larger patient set, and suggesting a genetic association between NTRK2 and autism, this study integrates evidence from multiple levels supporting the hypothesis that alterations in BDNF/tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) signaling contribute to an increased vulnerability to autism.
Traditions and reception: interpreting Vatican II's ‘Declaration on the Church's Relation to Non-Christian Religions’
Authors: D'Costa Gavin
Published: July 2010

I examine the question of how tradition is received and passed on within the Church's Councils with specific attention to the problems of continuity and discontinuity. I use the example of Vatican II's ‘Declaration on the Church's Relation to Non-Christian Religions’ to explore the question of hermeneutics in both receiving and passing on the teachings of the Church. By looking at the historical development of this document I try to show that three important factors at work: first, the question of biblical interpretation; second, the question of determining which elements of tradition are authoritative and which not; and third, the influence of non-theological factors upon theological articulations. Through examining these factors, I argue for one particular approach to Council hermeneutics that is able to include and correct three other approaches. I argue that correct interpretations of Council documents do not represent the closure of tradition, but the opening up of tradition to future reception and re-formulation.

(‘if anyone preaches a version of the Good News different from the one you have already heard, he is to be condemned.’) Galatians 1:9.
Theology in ‘contact with its own times’: Advertising and Evangelization
Authors: Sullivan Patricia A.
Published: July 2010

The Catholic Church's efforts at evangelization must include even its own members in an age of growing secularization wherein religious impulses can be subordinated to culture even unconsciously. Bernard Lonergan observed that religious values should transcend cultural and personal values. But prominent advertising confirms that in contemporary Western societies religious values are subsumed under others, even where spirituality may be held important. The goal before the Church, then, is a transposition of values possible in focus upon a common perception of theology and the culture reflected in advertising—the felt transcendence of the human person. The Second Vatican Council called for the Church to engage with the world; if the message served by the Church is to be heard above the din of the larger culture, it must be delivered in manners persuasive upon the sensibilities of contemporary people. The powerful cultural transmitter that is advertising may assist in this task, for study of the anthropologies of advertising and theology reveals certain surprising commonalities suggesting that methods, if not media, could be equally effective in both realms. Advertising's use of ethnography and narrative, in particular, may provide lessons for the Church in defining audiences and targeting the message to them.
MALE GAMETOPHYTE DEFECTIVE 2, Encoding a Sialyltransferase‐like Protein, is Required for Normal Pollen Germination and Pollen Tube Growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Deng Yi , Wang Wei , Li Wen‐Qing , Xia Chuan , Liao Hong‐Ze , Zhang Xue‐Qin , Ye De
Published: July 2010

Sialyltransferases (SiaTs) exist widely in vertebrates and play important roles in a variety of biological processes. In plants, several genes have also been identified to encode the proteins that share homology with the vertebrate SiaTs. However, very little is known about their functions in plants. Here we report the identification and characterization of a novel Arabidopsis gene, MALE GAMETOPHYTE DEFECTIVE 2 (MGP2) that encodes a sialyltransferase‐like protein. MGP2 was expressed in all tissues including pollen grains and pollen tubes. The MGP2 protein was targeted to Golgi apparatus. Knockout of MGP2 significantly inhibited the pollen germination and retarded pollen tube growth in vitro and in vivo, but did not affect female gametophytic functions. These results suggest that the sialyltransferase‐like protein MGP2 is important for normal pollen germination and pollen tube growth, giving a novel insight into the biological roles of the sialyltransferase‐like proteins in plants.
EFFECT OF THE ADDITION OF DEFATTED DATE SEEDS ON WHEAT DOUGH PERFORMANCE AND BREAD QUALITY
Authors: BOUAZIZ MOHAMED ALI , AMARA WAFA BEN , ATTIA HAMADI , BLECKER CHRISTOPHE , BESBES SOUHAIL
Published: July 2010

Defatted palm date seeds (date seed fiber concentrate: DSFC) of two varieties, Allig and Deglet Nour, were milled into two fractions: fine (particle size ≤ 280 µm) and coarse (280 µm < particle size ≤ 600 µm). DSFC was used to replace wheat flour in bread at 1 and 3% replacement levels. Dough and bread evaluation revealed that the addition of DSFC with fine size caused the decrease of bread volume, the change of crumb color and slightly increase bread crumb firmness. On the other hand, the addition of DSFC with a coarse size affected the mixing characteristics, decreased significantly the specific volume exceptionally at 3% and the bread crumb firmness (P < 0.05). An enrichment of bread with DSFC at 1 or 3% increased the dietary fiber contents in bread with lightly adverse effects on bread quality.

PARACTICAL APPLICATION

Tunisia is considered to be one of the dates‐producing countries. The mean annual yield of date fruits is about 125,000 tons. From this, around 12,500 tons of date seeds could be collected. This by‐product of date processing industries could be regarded as an excellent source of dietary fiber with interesting technological functionality and many beneficial effects on human health.

Then, date seeds could present a value addition by extraction and use of date seed fiber concentrate in bread formulation.
RHEOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF PEACH PUREES
Authors: MASSA A. , GONZÁLEZ C. , MAESTRO A. , LABANDA J. , IBARZ A.
Published: July 2010

In this work, two commercial peach purees (21 and 11.9°Brix) industrially obtained have been studied at several temperatures involved in industrial processes. Viscoelastic functions were that of a weak gel, and decreased with temperature and increased with concentration. Rheograms were obtained in order to determine the yield stress, which is related to stability against settling during storage. Herschel–Bulkley equation was used to determine the consistency index and the flow index. Thixotropy was quantified by means of one empirical equation (Weltmann model) and two theoretical equations (Figoni–Shoemaker and Tiu–Boger models), which describe the first‐ and second‐order kinetic process of structure breakdown. Both peach purees show thixotropy under nonsteady conditions. The broken‐down structure increased with the applied shear rate and, practically, decreased as the temperature was increased for both peach purees. The breakdown kinetic constants decreased as the shear rate was increased for both theoretical equations following a power law dependency.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

It is necessary to know the thixotropic behavior of peach purees, since knowledge of the rheological properties is very important in order to improve the design, manipulation and calculation of all those unit operations during the process (i.e., agitation and filtration) and design equipment (i.e., pump systems and pipe sizing), mainly those based on heat and quantum transfer.
INFLUENCE OF PACKAGING CONDITIONS ON THE TEXTURAL AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS, MICROSTRUCTURE AND COLOR OF INDUSTRIALLY PRODUCED TURKISH WHITE CHEESE DURING RIPENING
Authors: AKALIN AYŞE SIBEL , KARAMAN AYŞE DEMET
Published: July 2010

A full‐fat Turkish white cheese was manufactured on an industrial scale and then packaged in a polystyrene container with brine containing 12% salt or a plastic pouch sealed under vacuum, before ripening for 90 days. With regard to textural characteristics, packaging in a plastic pouch resulted in cheeses with significantly higher hardness and cohesiveness (P < 0.05). Scanning electron micrographs showed a more compact and denser protein matrix for the cheese packed in the plastic pouch. Much yellowness was also obtained in cheeses with the plastic pouch (P < 0.05). The experimental cheeses had a similar sensory characteristics in the first 45 days (P > 0.05), but the taste and odor scores decreased in the cheeses packaged with the plastic pouch (P < 0.05) in the 60th and 90th days.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Turkish white cheese is generally ripened for 3 months in brine and marketed in a can or polystyrene package containing brine. Recently, cheese molds have been packaged in a plastic pouch without brine. The textural and sensory characteristics and color of the industrially produced Turkish white cheese packaged in a plastic pouch under vacuum or polystyrene container with brine were examined during storage. Higher hardness and cohesiveness was obtained by packaging in a plastic pouch; a more yellow color was also detected in the cheese with a plastic pouch. Sensory characteristics were not influenced by the packaging conditions during the first 45 days of storage, however, the taste and odor scores of the cheese with a plastic pouch were lower after 60 and 90 days.