bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shape Comparison between 0.4–2.0 and 20–60 μm Cement Particles
Authors: Holzer Lorenz , Flatt Robert J. , Erdoğan Sinan T. , Bullard Jeffrey W. , Garboczi Edward J.
Published: March 2010

Portland cement powder, ground from much larger clinker particles, has a particle size distribution from about 0.1 to 100 μm. An important question is then: does particle shape depend on particle size? For the same cement, X‐ray computed tomography has been used to examine the 3‐D shape of particles in the 20–60 μm sieve range, and focused ion beam nanotomography has been used to examine the 3‐D shape of cement particles found in the 0.4–2.0 μm sieve range. By comparing various kinds of computed particle shape data for each size class, the conclusion is made that, within experimental uncertainty, both size classes are prolate, but the smaller size class particles, 0.4–2.0 μm, tend to be somewhat more prolate than the 20–60 μm size class. The practical effect of this shape difference on the set‐point was assessed using the Virtual Cement and Concrete Testing Laboratory to simulate the hydration of five cement powders. Results indicate that nonspherical aspect ratio is more important in determining the set‐point than are the actual shape details.
High‐Conductivity Tellurium‐Based Infrared Transmitting Glasses and their Suitability for Bio‐Optical Detection
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Wilhelm Allison A. , Lucas Pierre
Published: March 2010

Many biological molecules carry a net surface charge and have the potential to be monitored in drinking water by electrodepositing them on an optical sensing element and measuring their spectroscopic fingerprints in the infrared (IR) spectral region. In this detection scheme, glasses with high conductivity and excellent IR transmitting property are essential. Therefore, it is necessary to develop suitable materials that combine these properties. In this paper, a series of high‐conductivity IR transmitting glasses in Ge–As–Te and Ge–As–Te–Cu systems are reported. The conductivity, thermal stability, IR transmitting property, as well as chemical durability are studied. Their suitability for bio‐optical detection applications is also evaluated. Some glasses in these two systems have relatively high conductivities (near 10−4 (Ω·cm)−1), and exhibit superior thermal stability, excellent IR transmitting property, as well as good chemical durability. The electro‐deposition and spectroscopic tests of protein molecules indicate that these glasses are promising materials for bio‐optical detection applications.
State of the art and recommendationsKangaroo mother care: application in a high‐tech environment
Authors: Nyqvist KH ,   and an Expert Group of the International Network on Kangaroo Mother Care, Anderson GC , Bergman N , Cattaneo A , Charpak N , Davanzo R , Ewald U , Ludington‐Hoe S , Mendoza S , Pallás‐Allonso C , Peláez JG , Sizun J , Widström A‐M
Published: March 2010

Since Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) was developed in Colombia in the 1970s, two trends in clinical application emerged. In low income settings, the original KMC model is implemented. This consists of continuous (24 h/day, 7 days/week) and prolonged mother/parent–infant skin‐to‐skin contact; early discharge with the infant in the kangaroo position; (ideally) exclusive breastfeeding; and, adequate follow‐up. In affluent settings, intermittent KMC with sessions of one or a few hours skin‐to‐skin contact for a limited period is common. As a result of the increasing evidence of the benefits of KMC for both infants and families in all intensive care settings, KMC in a high‐tech environment was chosen as the topic for the first European Conference on KMC, and the clinical implementation of the KMC model in all types of settings was discussed at the 7th International Workshop on KMC. Kangaroo Mother Care protocols in high‐tech Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) should specify criteria for initiation, kangaroo position, transfer to/from KMC, transport in kangaroo position, kangaroo nutrition, parents’ role, modification of the NICU environment, performance of care in KMC, and KMC in case of infant instability.

Conclusion: Implementation of the original KMC method, with continuous skin‐to‐skin contact whenever possible, is recommended for application in high‐tech environments, although scientific evaluation should continue.
Functional dissection of Escherichia coli phosphotransacetylase structural domains and analysis of key compounds involved in activity regulation
Authors: Campos‐Bermudez Valeria Alina , Bologna Federico Pablo , Andreo Carlos Santiago , Drincovich María Fabiana
Published: March 2010

Escherichia coli phosphotransacetylase (Pta) catalyzes the reversible interconversion of acetyl‐CoA and acetyl phosphate. Both compounds are critical in E. coli metabolism, and acetyl phosphate is also involved in the regulation of certain signal transduction pathways. Along with acetate kinase, Pta plays an important role in acetate production when E. coli grows on rich medium; alternatively, it is involved in acetate utilization at high acetate concentrations. E. coli Pta is composed of three different domains, but only the C‐terminal one, called PTA_PTB, is specific for all Ptas. In the present work, the characterization of E. coli Pta and deletions from the N‐terminal region were performed. E. coli Pta acetyl phosphate‐forming and acetyl phosphate‐consuming reactions display different maximum activities, and are differentially regulated by pyruvate and phosphoenolpyruvate. These compounds activate acetyl phosphate production, but inhibit acetyl‐CoA production, thus playing a critical role in defining the rates of the two Pta reactions. The characterization of three truncated Ptas, which all display Pta activity, indicates that the substrate‐binding site is located at the C‐terminal PTA_PTB domain. However, the N‐terminal P‐loop NTPase domain is involved in expression of the maximal catalytic activity, stabilization of the hexameric native state, and Pta activity regulation by NADH, ATP, phosphoenolpyruvate, and pyruvate. The truncated protein Pta‐F3 was able to complement the growth on acetate of an E. coli mutant defective in acetyl‐CoA synthetase and Pta, indicating that, although not regulated by metabolites, the Pta C‐terminal domain is active in vivo.
The Dose-Dependent Effect of Chronic Administration of Haloperidol, Risperidone, and Quetiapine on Sexual Behavior in the Male Rat
Authors: Zhang Xiang Rong , Zhang Zhi Jun , Jenkins Trisha A. , Cheng Wei Rong , Reynolds Gavin P.
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Antipsychotic drug-induced sexual dysfunction is a common and problematic side effect, which may diminish quality of life and lead to treatment noncompliance. Up to date, there is still a scarcity of basic research regarding the chronic effects of most antipsychotic agents on sexual behavior.

Aim

The present study investigated the effect of a range of doses of three antipsychotic drugs (haloperidol, risperidone, and quetiapine) on male rat sexual competence following chronic administration.

Methods

Twelve groups of Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 7 each) received by gavage haloperidol (0.25, 0.5, or 1 mg/kg), risperidone (0.125, 0.25, or 0.5 mg/kg), quetiapine (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) or vehicle (distilled water) in the corresponding control groups, respectively, once daily for 21 days. Sexual function was evaluated by the copulatory behavior test 10 hours after the last dose.

Main Outcome Measure

The male rat behavioral parameters of copulatory test.

Results

Sexual function was widely and significantly suppressed by high dose haloperidol (1 mg/kg) after 21 days administration compared with the control group, which included both frequency and latency of intromission and ejaculation. Only ejaculation latency was significantly impaired after administration with 0.5 mg/kg haloperidol. Compared with the control group, high dose risperidone (0.5 mg/kg) significantly decreased the frequency of mounting. There were no significant changes in sexual behavior with the lower doses of either haloperidol or risperidone. Sexual behavior was not influenced by any dose of quetiapine.

Conclusions

Haloperidol and risperidone, but not quetiapine, could impair sexual competence in a dose-related manner in male rats.
Male Sexuality and Cardiovascular Risk. A Cohort Study in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Monami Matteo , Boddi Valentina , Cameron-Smith Michela , Lotti Francesco , De Vita Giulia , Melani Cecilia , Balzi Daniela , Sforza Alessandra , Forti Gianni , Mannucci Edoardo , Maggi Mario
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Although penile blood flow (PBF) has been recommended as an additional diagnostic test in identifying erectile dysfunction (ED) patients at risk for latent cardiovascular disease, no study has ever assessed the possible association of PBF and the relational component of sexual function with incident major cardiovascular events (MACE).

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate whether severity of ED, PBF, and other factors related to a couple’s relationship predict incident MACE.

Methods

A consecutive series of 1,687 patients was studied. Different clinical, biochemical, and instrumental (penile flow at color Doppler ultrasound) parameters were evaluated.

Main Outcome Measures

Information on MACE was obtained through the City of Florence Registry Office.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 4.3 ± 2.6 years, 139 MACE, 15 of which were fatal, were observed. Cox regression analysis, after adjustment for age and Chronic Disease Score, showed that severe ED predicted MACE (hazard ratio [HR] 1.75; 95% confidence interval 1.10–2.78; P <0.05). In addition, lower PBF, evaluated both in flaccid (before) and dynamic (after prostaglandin-E1 stimulation) conditions, was associated with an increased risk of MACE (HR=2.67 [1.42–5.04] and 1.57 [1.01–2.47], respectively, for flaccid [<13 cm/second] and dynamic [<25 cm/second] peak systolic velocity; both P <0.05). Reported high sexual interest in the partner and low sexual interest in the patient proved to have a protective effect against MACE.

Conclusions

The investigation of male sexuality, and in particular PBF, and sexual desire, could provide insights not only into present cardiovascular status but also into prospective risk.
Molecular Characterization of Three Ethylene Responsive Element Binding Factor Genes from Cotton
Authors: Jin Long‐Guo , Li Hui , Liu Jin‐Yuan
Published: March 2010

Ethylene‐responsive factors (ERFs) are important regulators of plant gene expression. In this study, three novel ERF genes, GhERF2, GhERF3 and GhERF6, were isolated from cotton (Gossypium hirstum) using rapid amplification of cDNA ends‐polymerase chain reaction. Transient expression analysis using GhERF‐green fluorescent protein fusions showed that these three proteins were targeted to the nucleus. Fusion proteins consisting of GhERF2, GhERF3 or GhERF6 coupled to the GAL4 DNA binding domain strongly activated transcription in yeast. Furthermore, GhERF6 was shown to be able to bind specifically to GCC boxes using a particle bombardment assay in tobacco cells. Semi‐quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction revealed that GhERF2 and GhERF3 are constitutively expressed in all organs, while GhERF6 is only constitutively expressed in vegetative organs. When plants were treated with ethylene, abscisic acid, salt, cold and drought, the transcripts of GhERF2, GhERF3 and GhERF6 were rapidly induced to high levels. Promoter analysis also indicated that the 5′ upstream regions of the three genes possess elements induced by these physiological and environmental factors. Collectively, our data suggest that GhERF2, GhERF3 and GhERF6 might function as positive trans‐acting factors in the plant responses to ethylene, abscisic acid and other stresses and provide useful clues for further research into the mechanism of them in regulating cotton multiple stress responses.
Prevention and Care of Stroke in Low- and Middle-Income Countries; the Need for a Public Health Perspective
Authors: Mendis S.
Published: March 2010

Stroke is a leading public health problem, causing significant disability and premature mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). A public health strategy is required for the prevention and care of stroke in LMIC. Although specific estimates are difficult to calculate, increasing cost-effective interventions that reduce cardiovascular risk in the population can have a substantial impact on stroke burden. Public health interventions that address tobacco use, unhealthy diet (salt and transfat), and physical inactivity of the population need to be complemented with equitable stroke services. The main components of an equitable stroke service include:

• assessment and management of cardiovascular risk in primary care,

• assessment and follow-up of transient ischaemic attack (TIA) patients,

• provision of secondary prevention through a primary health care approach,

• education of the public, health care staff and patients with stroke,

• equitable access to acute stroke care and stroke rehabilitation and

• community and family engagement for support to care givers and stroke patients.

Unless services for stroke care are complemented with prevention programmes to reduce stroke risk in the population, health care costs will continue to escalate due to increasing rates of stroke.
Feasibility and Safety of Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Thrombolysis in Patients with Stroke on Awakening: Initial Single-Centre Experience
Authors: Breuer L. , Schellinger P. D. , Huttner H. B. , Halwachs R. , Engelhorn T. , Doerfler A. , Köhrmann M.
Published: March 2010

Background

Up to 25% of all acute ischaemic strokes occur during sleep. Because of the unclear time window, patients with stroke on awakening are usually not considered for acute therapy and excluded from most acute treatment trials.

Aim

To evaluate the feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging-based intravenous thrombolysis in patients with stroke on awakening in a routine clinical setting.

Methods

Forty-five patients with stroke on awakening clinically qualifying for intravenous thrombolysis and presenting within 6 h after symptom recognition were admitted to our institution between October 2006 and May 2008. Following an institutional protocol, patients received magnetic resonance imaging as a first-line imaging modality and were offered mismatch-based thrombolysis whenever possible. Baseline demographic data, clinical, laboratory and imaging findings were analysed. Outcome was assessed using the modified Rankin Scale score at 3 months.

Results

Magnetic resonance imaging screening was feasible in 43/45 patients (96%). After screening, 10 patients (22%) were treated with intravenous thrombolysis. There were no differences between treated and untreated patients regarding cardiovascular risk factors, stroke aetiology, previous prophylactic treatment and symptom recognition to door time or door to imaging time. Outcome was comparable in both groups despite a trend towards more severe strokes in the intravenous thrombolysis group. Only one asymptomatic and no symptomatic haemorrhage were observed.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that magnetic resonance imaging-based thrombolysis is feasible and possibly safe in patients with stroke on awakening (SOA). Randomised clinical trials for patients with stroke on awakening are needed to further test the safety and efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis in this patient group. The results of our study may help to initiate and design such studies.
Production and Validation of Putonghua- and Cantonese-Chinese Language National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Training and Certification Videos
Authors: Cheung R. T. F. , Lyden P. D. , Tsoi T. H. , Huang Y. , Liu M. , Hon S. F. K. , Raman R. , Liu L.
Published: March 2010

Background and purposes

The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is an integral part of acute stroke assessment. We report our experience with new Putonghua- and Cantonese-Chinese language NIHSS (PC-NIHSS and CC-NIHSS) training and certification videos.

Methods

A professional video production company was hired to create the training and certification videos for both PC-NIHSS and CC-NIHSS. Two training and certification workshops were held in Chengdu and Beijing, and two workshops in Hong Kong. The instruction, training and group A certification videos were presented to workshop attendees. Unweighted κ statistics were used to measure the agreement among raters, and the inter-rater agreements for PC-NIHSS and CC-NIHSS videos were compared with those of original English language NIHSS (E-NIHSS) videos.

Results

The pass rates using PC-NIHSS and CC-NIHSS videos were 79% and 82%, respectively. All possible responses on individual scale items were included. Facial palsy and limb ataxia (13%) showed poor agreement, nine (60%) to 10 (67%) items showed moderate agreement (0·4<κ<0·75), and three (20%) to four (27%) items showed excellent agreement. When compared with E-NIHSS videos, the agreements on best gaze, visual fields, facial weakness and aphasia were less for PC-NIHSS videos, and the agreements on commands for level of consciousness and visual fields were less for CC-NIHSS videos. Nevertheless, there was no difference between PC-NIHSS or CC-NIHSS and E-NIHSS videos in the agreement on total score.

Conclusions

Compared with E-NIHSS videos, PC-NIHSS and CC-NIHSS videos show good content validity and inter-rater reliability. Availability of these videos may facilitate the proper use of NIHSS among physicians and nurses in Putonghua- or Cantonese-speaking communities.
Twin Screw Extrusion of DDGS‐Based Aquaculture Feeds1
Authors: Kannadhason S. , Rosentrater Kurt A. , Muthukumarappan K. , Brown Michael L.
Published: March 2010

Six isocaloric (3.65 kcal/g), isonitrogenous (35% dry‐basis [db] protein), ingredient blends were prepared with 0, 17.5, 20, 22.5, 25, and 27.5% distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and other ingredients (soybean meal, corn, fish meal, whey, soybean oil, vitamin and mineral mix). The blends were moisture balanced to 15% db, then extruded in a twin screw extruder using a 2 mm die at 190 rpm, and a 3 mm die at 348 rpm. Analyses of the extrudates included moisture content, expansion ratio, unit density, bulk density, sinking velocity, color (L *, a *, and b*), water absorption, water solubility, and pellet durability indices. Increasing the DDGS level from 0 to 17.5% db resulted in decreased expansion ratios by 14.8 and 23.5% for the products extruded using a 2 and 3 mm die, respectively. No significant difference in expansion ratio existed for DDGS levels between 17.5 and 27.5% db for either die. The water solubility index (WSI) of the extrudates increased (25.2 and 24.0%) as the DDGS increased from 0 to 27.5% db for each die. The 0% DDGS had the highest expansion ratio and the lowest unit density, bulk density, and sinking velocity. The extrudates that contained 20 and 27.5% DDGS had the highest durability and sinking velocity values.
Effects of Dietary Heat‐killed Lactobacillus plantarum on Larval and Post‐larval Kuruma Shrimp, Marsupenaeus japonicus Bate
Authors: Thanh Tung Ha , Koshio Shunsuke , Ferdinand Traifalgar Rex , Ishikawa Manabu , Yokoyama Saichiro
Published: March 2010

Two feeding trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of heat‐killed Lactobacillus plantarum (HK‐LP) on larval and post‐larval kuruma shrimp, Marsupenaeus japonicus Bate. Five microbound diets were formulated to contain levels of a preparation containing 20% HK‐LP (HK‐LP Prep): 0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, and 1 g/kg. In the first experiment, zoea1 stage larvae were fed test diets for 8 d. Some parameters such as survival, developmental stage, metamorphosis to post‐larvae, and formalin stress resistance were evaluated. In second trial, post‐larval shrimp (16 ± 0.04 mg) were fed test diets for 30 d. Survival, body weight gain, specific growth rate, feed efficiency ratio, individual dry weight, total body length, osmotic and formalin stress resistances, and protease activity were evaluated. Results indicated that the larvae that received HK‐LP Prep at 0.1 and 1 g/kg diets showed significantly (P < 0.05) higher survival than that of the control group. For the post‐larval trial, shrimp that received HK‐LP Prep at 1 g/kg diet were significantly higher than the control group in most of the growth parameters and stress resistance. However, shrimp that received HK‐LP Prep at 0.1 g/kg diet were significantly higher than the control group in survival only. For protease activity, there was no significant difference detected among groups.
Dietary Bovine Lactoferrin Increases Resistance of Juvenile Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, to Enteric Septicemia
Authors: Welker Thomas L. , Lim Chhorn , Yildirim‐Aksoy Mediha , Klesius Phillip H.
Published: March 2010

Juvenile channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, were fed nutritionally complete, practical basal diets supplemented with bovine lactoferrin (Lf) at 0, 200, 400, 800, or 1600 mg/kg diet for 5 wk. Feed intake was significantly higher in fish‐fed diets supplemented with Lf compared to the control diet, but the increased feed intake did not translate to significant increases in growth performance. Hemoglobin, white and red blood cell counts, and resistance to low‐water stress also were not different among dietary groups (P > 0.05). Levels of Lf in diets had a significant effect on survival of channel catfish following challenge with Edwardsiella ictaluri: catfish fed 800 or 1600 mg/kg Lf had higher survival than the groups fed the control or 200 mg Lf diet. We established the break point minimum concentration of Lf for resistance to E. ictaluri infection as 1136 mg/kg. There was not a corresponding increase in activity of nonspecific or specific immune parameters with addition of Lf to diets, but plasma iron decreased significantly in channel catfish fed bovine Lf compared to the control group. However, no clear trend for level of dietary Lf, iron status, and resistance to E. ictaluri infection could be established.
An Efficient Technique for the Captive Breeding of an Endangered Freshwater Fish Salaria fluviatilis (Pisces: Blenniidae), with a Description of Its Ontogeny
Authors: Gil Fátima , Faria Cláudia , Carvalho Almada Vítor
Published: March 2010

Salaria fluviatilis is one of the few freshwater members of the family Blenniidae and occurs around the Mediterranean Basin. This species is vulnerable or endangered in most countries where it occurs. Thus, information on its developmental biology and the establishment of methods for ex situ reproduction of highly endangered populations, to preserve them until natural habitats are restored, are much needed. A technique for the culture of this endangered species in controlled conditions is presented, together with the description of the full developmental sequence, from egg to adult. The use of the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus at the onset of exogenous feeding proved to be an efficient way to allow larvae to reach the size when they can feed upon Artemia nauplii. Embryonic development lasted 12–14 d at 20–21 C. Newly hatched larvae measured 5.1 mm total length (TL). The mouth and anus were opened; the eyes were pigmented; there were almost no yolk; and the pectoral fins were small and unpigmented. Most larvae settled at 13.0–14.0 mm TL (27–31 d after hatching) and showed full juvenile pigmentation patterns at 27.0–28.0 mm TL (83 d after hatching). The larvae of this species showed agonistic behaviors once they began to settle.
Dietary Levamisole Influenced Hematological Parameters of Juvenile Pacu, Piaractus mesopotamicus (Holmberg 1887)
Authors: Yuji Sado Ricardo , De Almeida Bicudo ÁLvaro José , Possebon Cyrino José Eurico
Published: March 2010

Diseases outbreaks are a major concern in intensive fish farming because fish are exposed to stressors which may negatively affect their physiology. This study set out to determine effects of dietary levamisole (Levamisole HCl; SIGMA®) on performance and hematology of pacu, Piaractus mesopotamicus, juveniles. Fish (55.94 g) were stocked into 24 plastic aquaria (500 L; 15 fish per aquarium) and fed for 30 d with a commercial diet with 0, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg levamisole, and for an extra 15 d, with a control diet in a totally randomized design trial (n = 4). Biometrical and hematological data were collected. No significant differences in growth parameters were recorded for either control or supplemented diets. Hematological parameters, such as hemoglobin, plasma glucose, white blood count (WBC), and differential leukocyte count were influenced (P < 0.05) levamisole. WBC, lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, and special granulocytic cell numbers decreased significantly after 15 d. Dietary levamisole at 100 mg/kg diet for 15 d increased leukocyte production in juvenile pacu. However, levamisole administration for more than 15 d presented toxicity to lymphopoietic tissues. Information about long‐period administration, mode of action in weight gain, effects on hematology of levamisole in freshwater fish nutrition are scarce and necessary for its safe use in aquaculture.
Effect of Temperature on Consumption Rate of Main Yolk Components during Embryo Development of the Prawn Macrobrachium americanum (Crustacea: Decapoda: Palaemonidae)
Authors: García‐Guerrero Marcelo U.
Published: March 2010

The influence of temperature on proximate composition of Macrobrachium americanum eggs during embryonic development was analyzed. Berried females were individually held at 19, 23, 26, and 31 C (three per temperature). Egg samples were obtained every 48 h for biochemical analysis from egg extrusion to hatching. Duration of development decreased with increasing temperature. At 19 and 31 C, a certain amount of both lipids and proteins was sustained during development. At 23 C, energy consumption seemed to rely mostly on lipids with low protein depletion. At 26 C, protein increase was detected while energy demand seemed to be supplied mostly by lipids. For carbohydrates, small amounts were always present in all treatments without a significant trend in either production or consumption. It is concluded that 23–26 C is the proper temperature range for M. americanum egg incubation, although 26 C might be better in terms of total energy consumption and protein usage.
The Combined Effects of Temperature and Salinity on Growth and Survival of Hatchery‐Reared Juvenile Spotted Babylon, Babylonia areolata (Link 1807)
Authors: Xue Ming , Ke Caihuan , Wang Dexiang , Wei Yongjie , Xu Yibin
Published: March 2010

The effects of temperature and salinity on growth and survival of juvenile spotted babylon, Babylonia areolata, were investigated by rearing snails at combinations of temperatures (20, 24, 28, and 32 C) and salinity (16, 22, 28, and 34 g/L) for 42 d. Groups of 20 animals were used in triplicate in each combination of conditions. Survival was significantly different among treatments due to temperatures but not due to salinities. The mean survival values for the various temperatures were 87.5, 92.5, 94.2, and 71.7% at 20, 24, 28, and 32 C, respectively. Growth, as measured by daily body weight and shell length gain, was influenced significantly by temperature, salinity, and the temperature–salinity interaction. The optimal status for culture snails was obtained at temperatures from 26 to 30 C and salinity from 26 to 30 g/L. The total production was shown to be best in these conditions and this coincided highly with the prevailing conditions in the natural habitat from which the animals originated.
Structural Changes and Functional Properties of Threadfin Bream Sarcoplasmic Proteins Subjected to pH‐Shifting Treatments and Lyophilization
Authors: Yongsawatdigul Jirawat , Hemung Bung‐Orn
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT:  Structural changes and functional properties of threadfin bream (Nemipterus sp.) sarcoplasmic proteins (TB‐SP) subjected to various pH conditions (pH 3, 5, 6.3, 9, and 12) after subsequent pH readjustment to pH 7 were investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the loss of α‐helical and β‐sheet structures of TB‐SP after being subjected to pH 3 or pH 12 treatments. The extent of structural and conformational changes of TB‐SP subjected to pH 3 was greater than alkaline pHs (pH 9, 12) and pH 5, respectively. The water holding capacity of lyophilized TB‐SP treated at pH 3 and pH 12 increased about 6.5‐ and 5.4‐fold, respectively, as compared to the crude counterpart. Both acid and alkaline pH treatments increased fat absorption capacity of lyophilized sample about 2‐fold, but drastically decreased its solubility. The water soluble fraction of extremely acidic (pH 3→7) and alkaline (pH 12→7) samples exhibited higher oil binding capacity as measured by diphenylhexatriene fluorescence and emulsifying activity. A gel‐like structure was formed when water‐soluble fraction of crude TB‐SP and those subjected to moderate pHs (pH 5, 9) at 2 mg/mL was prepared for the emulsion containing 50% oil (v/v). Functional properties of TB‐SP varied, depending on the pH‐adjustment process applied.
Physical Properties and Oxidation Rates of Unrefined Menhaden Oil (Brevoortia patronus)
Authors: Yin Huaixia , Sathivel Subramaniam
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT:  Unrefined menhaden oil was evaluated for thermal and rheological properties and its temperature‐dependent viscosity and lipid oxidation rate were determined. Peroxide value, free fatty acids, density, specific gravity, water activity, moisture content, and enthalpy of the unrefined menhaden oil were 5.70 meq/kg, 3.80%, 0.93 g/mL, 0.93%, 0.52%, 0.15%, and 20.2 kJ/kg, respectively. The melting point range of unrefined menhaden oil was found to be −69.5 to 27.21 °C. The menhaden oil exhibited non‐Newtonian fluid behavior at lower temperatures (5 to 25 °C), while it behaved like a Newtonian fluid at 30 °C. The oil apparent viscosity at 5 °C (0.22 Pa.s) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that at 30 °C (0.033 Pa.s). The average magnitude of activation energy for viscosity of the unrefined menhaden oil was 50.37 kJ/mol. The predicted apparent viscosity agreed (R2= 0.9837) satisfactorily with the experimental apparent viscosity. The minimal lipid oxidation rate of the oil was found at 25 and 35 °C for 6 h, higher lipid oxidation rates were observed when the oil was heated for 6 h at 45 to 85 °C. The rate of lipid oxidation for unrefined menhaden oil was temperature dependent (R2= 0.9425). This study showed that the magnitude of the apparent viscosity and oxidation rate of the unrefined menhaden oil was greatly influenced by temperature.
Effects of Seasonal Variation on Sensory Properties and Total Phenolic Content of 5 Lettuce Cultivars
Authors: Bunning Marisa L. , Kendall Patricia A. , Stone Martha B. , Stonaker Frank H. , Stushnoff Cecil
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT: Butterhead, crisphead, green leaf, red leaf, and romaine types of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) are all commonly available in U.S. markets. Sensory properties of lettuce may vary in response to environmental factors that often fluctuate widely throughout the growing season. Bitterness is generally thought to increase in lettuce grown at higher temperatures and may be related to phenolic content. This study evaluated sensory properties and total phenolic content of 5 lettuce cultivars harvested early, midway, and late in the growing season and investigated possible correlations with environmental temperature and light intensity indexes. Thirty panelists rated bitterness, appearance, flavor, texture, and overall acceptability of “Crisp and Green” (green leaf), “Crispino” (crisphead), “Green Forest” (romaine), “Lochness” (butterhead), and “Vulcan” (red leaf) lettuce. There was considerable variation in sensory ratings among the 5 cultivars (P < 0.005) but few differences within cultivars across the growing season. The crisphead cultivar, Crispino, received higher scores (P < 0.01) for flavor, texture, and overall acceptability and was rated less bitter (P < 0.05) than other cultivars. Total phenolic content varied significantly (P < 0.001) among cultivars with the red leaf cultivar, Vulcan, exhibiting the highest levels. There was no correlation between bitterness and total phenolic content or environmental factors. Differences among lettuce cultivars appear to have a larger impact on sensory and phenolic profiles than environmental variation during the growing season.
Use of intravenous sedation in the management of patients with high blood pressure
Authors: Woolcombe S. , Koshal S. , Bryant C. , Rood P.
Published: March 2010

Aim:  We aim to determine the prevalence of undiagnosed/poorly controlled hypertension and study the population demographics. We also aim to study the effects of intravenous midazolam on peri‐operative blood pressure and pulse. Finally, we aim to assess the value of screening for hypertension and determine the degree of white coat hypertension.

Material and methods:  A cohort of 83 patients with a pre‐assessment blood pressure recording ≥160/100 mmHg was studied. Oral surgery treatment was performed under intravenous sedation with midazolam or local anaesthesia alone where sedation was contraindicated. Blood pressure and pulse were monitored throughout surgery. Following treatment, patients were advised to attend their General Practitioner (GP) for assessment of their blood pressure and information regarding the outcome of this visit was requested.

Results:  Seventy‐three percent of the cohort had no previous diagnosis of hypertension. The use of intravenous midazolam significantly reduced peri‐operative blood pressure compared with local anaesthesia alone [reduction in systolic blood pressure (BP) of 40 mmHg and diastolic BP of 21 mmHg]. Fifty percent of those who attended their GP received active treatment for hypertension at the first visit. A further 25% were kept under review. Blood pressure measurements at hospital pre‐assessment were substantially higher than those recorded by GPs.

Conclusion:  A clear indication exists for the use of intravenous sedation with midazolam for oral surgery procedures in patients with high blood pressure. There is a significant prevalence of undiagnosed and poorly controlled hypertension. Blood pressure screening in the dental setting is a valuable tool for identifying hypertensive patients. White coat hypertension is significantly greater in the oral surgery department than at the GP surgery.
A chronosequence of understorey parasitic wasp assemblages in secondary broad‐leaved forests in a Japanese ‘satoyama’ landscape
Authors: MALEQUE MD A. , MAETO KAORU , MAKINO SHUN’ICHI , GOTO HIDEAKI , TANAKA HIROSHI , HASEGAWA MOTOHIRO , MIYAMOTO ASAKO
Published: March 2010

Abstract.  1. To infer the effects of forest aging on the abundance, genus richness and diversity, and genus composition of understorey parasitoids, we investigated the assemblages of braconids collected in Malaise traps in a chronosequence of secondary broad‐leaved forests (4–128 years old) in the satoyama landscape in the cool‐temperate region of central Honshu, Japan.

2. Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that the abundance of braconid parasitoids was affected by forest age (time since clear‐cutting) in the secondary broad‐leaved forests, although the effects on genus richness and diversity were not statistically supported.

3. The abundance of herbivore parasitoids decreased significantly with forest age. This is probably caused by the decline of insect herbivores associated with the decrease in forest floor vegetation along the chronosequence.

4. The opposite trend was observed for detritivore parasitoids, which significantly increased in abundance with forest age, probably along with forest floor litter mass, though no significant change in the abundance of wood‐borer parasitoids was observed with forest age.

5. Genus composition of braconid parasitoids was affected by forest age, as determined by canonical correspondence analysis. Genera of detritivore parasitoids were mostly confined to older plots, those of herbivore parasitoids were rather abundant in younger plots, and those of wood‐borer parasitoids were more broadly distributed.

6. Therefore, we conclude that the presence of mixed forest stands of various age classes at the landscape level would contribute to the conservation of diverse assemblages of host insects and their parasitoids.
Genetic and environmental melanoma models in fish
Authors: Patton E. Elizabeth , Mitchell David L. , Nairn Rodney S.
Published: March 2010

Experimental animal models are extremely valuable for the study of human diseases, especially those with underlying genetic components. The exploitation of various animal models, from fruitflies to mice, has led to major advances in our understanding of the etiologies of many diseases, including cancer. Cutaneous malignant melanoma is a form of cancer for which both environmental insult (i.e., UV) and hereditary predisposition are major causative factors. Fish melanoma models have been used in studies of both spontaneous and induced melanoma formation. Genetic hybrids between platyfish and swordtails, different species of the genus Xiphophorus, have been studied since the 1920s to identify genetic determinants of pigmentation and melanoma formation. Recently, transgenesis has been used to develop zebrafish and medaka models for melanoma research. This review will provide a historical perspective on the use of fish models in melanoma research, and an updated summary of current and prospective studies using these unique experimental systems.
La Vision du Président du Conseil
Authors: Cliver E. Blaine
Published: March 2010

Il y a cinquante‐trois ans, il fut proposé de créer un centre intergouvernemental pour l’étude et l’amélioration des méthodes de conservation et de restauration du patrimoine culturel mondial. En 1959, cet accord s’est concrétiséà travers le Centre international d’études pour la conservation et la restauration des biens culturels, une organisation intergouvernementale dont le siège est à Rome. Aujourd’hui intitulée l’ICCROM, elle a grandi pour devenir le premier centre international pour la conservation, la formation et l’information du patrimoine culturel. Au cours des cinq dernières décennies, l’ICCROM s’est étendue et, ce faisant, a évolué vers l’institution que nous connaissons à présent. Pendant cette évolution, l’ICCROM a continué de maintenir ses critères, tout en changeant afin de répondre aux besoins nouveaux d’une communauté mondiale diverse. Des cours sont désormais délivrés en plusieurs endroits du monde, certains étant spécialement concentrés dans des régions spécifiques. L’ICCROM doit s’adapter aux besoins changeants et aux défis, en particulier financiers, si elle veut rester riche de significations pour la communauté du patrimoine aujourd’hui.
L’ICCROM et l’Italie
Authors: Varoli‐Piazza Rosalia
Published: March 2010

L’Italie participe aux discussions internationales sur la conservation et la restauration du patrimoine culturel. Mais le point de départ est l’histoire de l’art – dans son sens le plus large, de l’architecture à l’archéologie et aux arts dits « mineurs ». Le critique d’art / historien, qui identifie le contexte dans lequel l’objet culturel est apparu et préservé, est au fondement du concept de restauration des temps modernes, reposant sur l’idée de respect, et ce même de ce qui ne nous est pas familier. Dans ce domaine, l’ICCROM et l’ICR trouvent un terrain d’entente pour un point de contact et de collaboration.
La Science, la technologie et l’ICCROM
Authors: Torraca Giorgio
Published: March 2010

Selon les statuts du Centre international d’études pour la conservation et la restauration des biens culturels, approuvés par la Conférence générale de l’UNESCO, le rôle scientifique du Centre était de « coordonner, stimuler ou d’instituer la recherche dans [la conservation et la restauration des biens culturels] par le moyen en particulier, de commissions d’experts, de réunions internationales, de publications et d’échanges entre spécialistes ». Sous l’impulsion de ses premiers directeurs, le personnel technique du Centre a eu tendance, en réalité, à développer davantage les actions directes que la coordination, indépendamment des limitations de budget qui pouvaient être surmontées grâce au soutien de l’UNESCO et de plusieurs corps du gouvernement italien (les instituts centraux et les bureaux des directeurs locaux). Certains des programmes de formation, des missions techniques et de sauvetage, et des activités de recherche qui ont étéélaborés sur une période d’environ vingt‐cinq ans (entre 1960 et 1985) sont brièvement illustrés.
La Contribution de l’ICCROM à l’éthique du patrimoine
Authors: Vinson Isabelle
Published: March 2010

À l’occasion de la commémoration par l’UNESCO de la fondation de l’ICCROM, l’article traite de l’effet des pratiques de la conservation sur la construction du cadre éthique de protection du patrimoine culturel au niveau international. À partir de l’étude des conditions de création de l’ICCROM, il rappelle notamment le rôle des pays non européens dans la création du programme international de préservation du patrimoine. Il souligne également l’importance pour l’avenir d’une analyse conjointe des instruments normatifs et déontologiques et des dispositifs pratiques de protection du patrimoine.
La Bibliothèque de l’ICCROM : cinquante ans au service des chercheurs
Authors: Uginet Marie‐Christine
Published: March 2010

Créée en 1959, la Bibliothèque de l’ICCROM est devenue au cours des années une des meilleures bibliothèques du monde dans le domaine de la conservation des biens culturels mobiliers et immobiliers. L’article décrit le développement des collections documentaires et des outils de recherche mis à la disposition des chercheurs.
Computational Analyses of Multilevel Discourse Comprehension
Authors: Graesser Arthur C. , McNamara Danielle S.
Published: March 2010

The proposed multilevel framework of discourse comprehension includes the surface code, the textbase, the situation model, the genre and rhetorical structure, and the pragmatic communication level. We describe these five levels when comprehension succeeds and also when there are communication misalignments and comprehension breakdowns. A computer tool has been developed, called Coh‐Metrix, that scales discourse (oral or print) on dozens of measures associated with the first four discourse levels. The measurement of these levels with an automated tool helps researchers track and better understand multilevel discourse comprehension. Two sets of analyses illustrate the utility of Coh‐Metrix in discourse theory and educational practice. First, Coh‐Metrix was used to measure the cohesion of the text base and situation model, as well as potential extraneous variables, in a sample of published studies that manipulated text cohesion. This analysis helped us better understand what was precisely manipulated in these studies and the implications for discourse comprehension mechanisms. Second, Coh‐Metrix analyses are reported for samples of narrative and science texts in order to advance the argument that traditional text difficulty measures are limited because they fail to accommodate most of the levels of the multilevel discourse comprehension framework.
Storm Warnings: Responding to Messages of Danger in Isan
Authors: Lyttleton Chris
Published: March 2010

To understand the influence of HIV/AIDS education campaigns we must consider cultural models that shape shared meaning and at the same time acknowledge that public warning messages are not uniformly internalised. Using data from Northeast Thailand I examine two key pulses from which meaning proliferates in village society, a sense of emotion and a sense of morality. I suggest that the affective and directive aspects of HIV/AIDS discourses shape the individual's internalisation of meaning, they exert the most motivational force and at the same time the most potential for variation in (mis)construed understandings.
Prefigured Features: A view from the New Guinea Highlands
Authors: Strathern Marilyn
Published: March 2010

Stimulated by a conference on Portraiture and the Problematics of Representation, which aimed to address portraiture as a set of cultural practices under the rubric of ‘any body‐representation that stands for an individual’, in this paper I ask some questions raised by materials from Papua New Guinea. I begin with an investigation of the notion of individuation in relation to the heads which are taken in Asmat and Marind‐Anim headhunting. I argue that if anyone's individuality is represented by a captured head it is that of the new owner, not his deceased victim. I then turn to Hagen feather plaques and suggest that they are best understood as assemblages of material resulting from mobilising relations, and hence not as portraits embodying notions of likeness.
To Dance with Time: A Victoria River Aboriginal Study
Authors: Rose Deborah Bird
Published: March 2010

Drawing on research with Aboriginal people in the Victoria River District of Australia, this paper explores time in patterns of motion and pause. Taking Cath Ellis's insight that some Aboriginal musicians posses a faculty of ‘perfect time’, and that the meshing of rhythms and other patterns in music has the effect of altering perceptions and understandings of time, I explore rhythmic patterns in four domains—nomadology, ecology, dance and cosmology. I suggest that the cosmogonic and temporal effects of rhythm in motion are capable of becoming performative events because they link the rhythms of ecological, social and ritual domains. Such events implicate the ephemeral motion and temporality of the world in a continuing flow of becoming, and implicate the continuity of flow in the actions of the ephemeral.
Haka Fracas? The Dialectics of Identity in Discussions of a Contemporary Maori Dance1
Authors: Murray David
Published: March 2010

This paper analyses discussions of the haka (popularly translated as ‘the war dance of the Maori’) in three performative sites in Aotearoa/New Zealand: a national Maori dance competition, touristic ‘cultural experience’ programs in Rotorua, and a secondary school in Wellington. The discussions demonstrate that this dance has come to represent a variety of ‘identifications’ for the speakers. However, while the haka elicits multiple, related and sometimes conflicting identificatory possibilities for Maori‐identified discussants (albeit within a limited range of positions), this is not the case for a group of non‐Maori men reminiscing about their boyhood performances at school sporting events. Through the comparison of discussions of these three performance sites, this paper argues that haka conversations reveal dynamic creativity in discourses of identifications (intra‐indigenous, collective indigenous, and nationalist) of some speakers but not of others.
Temporality of Post‐mortem Divination and Divination of Post‐mortem Temporality1
Authors: Telban Borut
Published: March 2010

When an Ambonwari person dies divination may be used to consult spirits as to the cause of death. Listening to the tapping of a bamboo pole—where the rhythm reflects totemic signals usually beaten on a slit‐drum—a diviner examines the links between people's wrong doings and other past deeds and events. The aim of post‐mortem divination is to reconstitute and rearrange the relationships between village clans, between clans and their land, between clans and their spirits, both of the dead and of the bush. The aim of divination is to place the events, deeds, relationships, historicity and temporality in good order again, to avoid chaotic unpredictability and the possibility of collective misfortune or even destruction. Though to a lesser degree than in initiation rituals, divination, by reordering and realigning social relationships, reconstructs society at its base. As with initiation, the aim of divination is to reconstruct time.