bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Space charge modeling in electron-beam irradiated polyethylene: Fitting model and experiments
Authors: Le Roy S. , Baudoin F. , Griseri V. , Laurent C. , Teyssèdre G.
Published: July 2012

A numerical model for describing charge accumulation in electron-beam irradiated low density polyethylene has been put forward recently. It encompasses the generation of positive and negative charges due to impinging electrons and their transport in the insulation. However, the model was not optimized to fit all the data available regarding space charge dynamics obtained using up-to-date pulsed electro-acoustic techniques. In the present approach, model outputs are compared with experimental space charge distribution obtained during irradiation and post-irradiation, the irradiated samples being in short circuit conditions or with the irradiated surface at a floating potential. A unique set of parameters have been used for all the simulations, and it encompasses the transport parameters already optimized for charge transport in polyethylene under an external electric field. The model evolution in itself consists in describing the recombination between positive and negative charges according to the Langevin formula, which is physically more accurate than the previous description and has the advantage of reducing the number of adjustable parameters of the model. This also provides a better description of the experimental behavior underlining the importance of recombination processes in irradiated materials.
Electronic structure and thermoelectric properties of nanostructured EuTi1−xNbxO3−δ (x = 0.00; 0.02)
Authors: Sagarna L. , Shkabko A. , Populoh S. , Karvonen L. , Weidenkaff A.
Published: July 2012

The thermoelectric properties of polycrystalline nanostructured EuTiO3−δ samples are improved by a substitution of 2% Nb for Ti. The figure of merit (ZT) was measured to reach ZT(EuTi0.98Nb0.02O3−δ) ≈ 0.4 at T = 1040 K while ZT(EuTiO3−δ) ≈ 0.3 at the same temperature. X-ray photoelectron spectra reveal that the in-gap states at the Fermi level are more pronounced for the Nb-substituted samples, resulting in an improved power factor. The valence band peak below the Fermi level is sharply shaped, therefore fulfilling the condition for a large Seebeck coefficient. The specific porosity of the samples reduces the lattice thermal conductivity with a minor effect on the electron transport.
Hybrid graphene/organic semiconductor field-effect transistors
Authors: Ha Tae-Jun , Akinwande Deji , Dodabalapur Ananth
Published: July 2012

In this letter, we report on the improvement of the electronic properties of graphene by capping with π-conjugated organic semiconductor molecules. The off-state current is reduced while the on-state current and mobility are either unaffected or increased. The semiconductors employed included α-sexithiophene and hexadecafluorocopperphthallocyanine. Removal of the organic semiconductor layer results in a return to the original electronic properties. This suggests that weak electronic interactions with organic semiconductors can be a promising approach to favorably alter the transport properties of graphene.
Finite element analysis of scaling of silicon micro-thermoelectric generators to nanowire dimensions
Authors: Williams N. E. , Silva H. , Gokirmak A.
Published: July 2012

We report 2-D planar and rotational symmetric finite element simulations analyzing scaling effects on the performance of single crystal silicon thermoelectric generators, down to micro- and nano-wire leg dimensions and with realistic 170 μm tall metal contacts. A drift diffusion model with thermoelectric terms and temperature dependent material parameters is used to accurately model device performance. Efficiency and power density were extracted for a range of widths (W = 0.1 to 5000 μm), heights (H = 0.5 to 1000 μm), and temperature differences (T = 50 to 1350 K). The efficiency of the micro thermoelectric generators increases as the aspect ratio (height/width) increases. For the narrowest widths, the efficiency saturates at aspect ratios ∼100–1000 suggesting that nanowires, which are expected to have lower thermal conductivities than the bulk values used here, are viable candidates for future thermoelectric devices.
A Developmental Difference in Shape Processing and Word-Shape Associations between 4 and 6.5 Year Olds
Authors: Ons Bart , Wagemans Johan
Published: July 2012

In distinguishing individual shapes (defined by their contours), older children (6.5 years of age on average) performed better than younger children (4 years of age on average), and, although the task did not involve any categorization or generalization, the error pattern was qualitatively affected by shape differences that are generally common distinctions between objects belonging to different categories. The influence of these shape differences was also observed for unfamiliar shapes, demonstrating that the influence of categorization experience was not modulated by the retrieval of shape features from known categories but rather related to a different perception of shape by age. The results suggest a direct influence of categorization experience on more abstract shape processing. When children were distinguishing shapes, new words were paired with the target shapes, and in 2 additional tasks, the acquired name–shape associations were tested. The younger age group was able to remember more words correctly.
Labour Rights and Property Rights: Implications for (and Beyond) Redundancy Payments and Pensions?
Authors: NOVITZ TONIA
Published: July 2012

Labour lawyers are familiar with the notion that employers’ property rights operate as a significant constraint on the lawful activities of workers. Less attention is paid to workers’ property rights. This article begins by examining connections between labour and property, initially recognised by political theorists in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, considering how their policy prescriptions can be translated into a contemporary context. In the twenty-first century, workers’ entitlements to peaceful enjoyment of their possessions have been claimed in reliance on Article 1 of Protocol No 1 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Case law regarding the ‘legitimate expectations’ of workers has the potential to affect UK industrial relations, by limiting the changes that can be made to workers’ agreed contractual terms, redundancy payments and pensions, even if that potential has yet to be fully realised. It is uncertain whether this emergent jurisprudence will protect the interests of new entrants to the labour market or even those who have already retired. It may, therefore, be helpful to revert to earlier arguments, based on a view of labour rights as property rights, to make more far-reaching claims for fairer treatment of all workers, whether past, future or present.
Communication: Breaking bad news
Authors: Watson Max , Lucas Caroline , Hoy Andrew , Wells Jo
Published: July 2012

After an introduction to breaking bad news, chapter 2 covers barriers to effective communication, specific communication issues, handling difficult questions, collusion, dealing with anger, exploration of feelings such as anxiety, patients who do not want to talk, handling denial, unrealistic expectation, and working with ethnic diversity patients.
Neurological problems in advanced cancer
Authors: Watson Max , Lucas Caroline , Hoy Andrew , Wells Jo
Published: July 2012

This chapter focuses on local nerve damage before looking at anticonvulsants.
Palliative care in non-malignant neurological disease
Authors: Watson Max , Lucas Caroline , Hoy Andrew , Wells Jo
Published: July 2012

This chapter focuses on the symptom management of multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy (MSA), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), motor neuron disease, neurological complications of AIDS, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), and useful contacts.
Hospital liaison palliative care
Authors: Watson Max , Lucas Caroline , Hoy Andrew , Wells Jo
Published: July 2012

This chapter covers the need for hospital liaison palliative care services, challenges in an acute hospital setting, aims and evaluation of the hospital specialist palliative care team, things to think about when considering a referral, urgent discharge of a dying patient who wants to die at home, dying in the intensive care unit (ICU), and using the Liverpool Care Pathway (LCP) in the hospital setting.
Commercially Produced Rice and Maize Starches Contain Nonhost Proteins, as Shown by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Koziol Adam G. , Marquez Benazir K. , Huebsch Matthew P. , Smith Jeffrey C. , Altosaar Illimar
Published: July 2012

To evaluate the presence of contaminating nonhost proteins in commercially prepared rice and maize starch samples, we initiated a direct sequencing mass spectrometric proteomics survey. We discovered nonhost proteins from a variety of species, including Phytophthora cinnamomi, Homarus americanus, and Ovis aries. Our documentation of H. americanus proteins in these starch samples may have food safety implications with regard to shellfish allergies. We hypothesize that these proteins were introduced to the starch samples via process wash water used in the milling and deproteination steps in the commercial preparation of the starches analyzed. The introduction of nonhost proteins during commercial processing of starch samples that are used routinely in analytical studies indicates that these studies are using impure materials. Therefore, further study and documentation of the starch samples is required to ensure that all components of the samples are properly catalogued.
Manipulation of Plant Cells by Cyst and Root-Knot Nematode Effectors
Authors: Hewezi Tarek , Baum Thomas J.
Published: July 2012

A key feature of sedentary plant-parasitic nematodes is the release of effector proteins from their esophageal gland cells through their stylets into host roots. These proteinaceous stylet secretions have been shown to be crucial for successful parasitism by mediating the transition of normal root cells into specialized feeding sites and by negating plant defenses. Recent technical advances of purifying mRNA from esophageal gland cells of plant-parasitic nematodes coupled with emerging sequencing technologies is steadily expanding our knowledge of nematode effector repertoires. Host targets and biological activities of a number of nematode effectors are continuously being reported and, by now, a first picture of the complexity of sedentary nematode parasitism at the molecular level is starting to take shape. In this review, we highlight effector mechanisms that recently have been uncovered by studying the host–pathogen interaction. These mechanisms range from mediating susceptibility of host plants to the actual triggering of defense responses. In particular, we portray and discuss the mechanisms by which nematode effectors modify plant cell walls, negate host defense responses, alter auxin and polyamine signaling, mimic plant molecules, regulate stress signaling, and activate hypersensitive responses. Continuous molecular characterization of newly discovered nematode effectors will be needed to determine how these effectors orchestrate host signaling pathways and biological processes leading to successful parasitism.
Conventional PCR Detection and Real-Time PCR Quantification of Reniform Nematodes
Authors: Sayler Ronald J. , Walker Courtney , Goggin Fiona , Agudelo Paula , Kirkpatrick Terrence
Published: July 2012

Reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) is a relatively recent introduction into the continental United States that can cause major yield losses on a variety of important crops including cotton and soybeans. DNA sequences from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of this nematode were used to design primers for conventional and real-time PCR, as well as a TaqMan probe. These primers amplified DNA of reniform nematode isolates from a wide geographic range but did not detect genetically related species or other pathogenic nematodes found in production fields including Meloidogyne incognita and Heterodera glycines. Both SYBR green and TaqMan assays reliably quantified as little as 100 fg of reniform nematode DNA, and could be used to quantify as few as five reniform nematodes. An inexpensive and rapid DNA extraction protocol for high throughput diagnostic assays is described.
Abscission checkpoint control: stuck in the middle with Aurora B
Authors: Carmena Mar
Published: July 2012

At the end of cell division, the cytoplasmic bridge joining the daughter cells is severed through a process that involves scission of the plasma membrane. The presence of chromatin bridges ‘stuck’ in the division plane is sensed by the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) component Aurora B kinase, triggering a checkpoint that delays abscission until the chromatin bridges have been resolved. Recent work has started to shed some light on the molecular mechanism by which the CPC controls the timing of abscission.
Neocortical dendritic complexity is controlled during development by NOMA-GAP-dependent inhibition of Cdc42 and activation of cofilin
Authors: Rosário Marta , Schuster Steffen , Jüttner René , Parthasarathy Srinivas , Tarabykin Victor , Birchmeier Walter
Published: July 2012

Neocortical neurons have highly branched dendritic trees that are essential for their function. Indeed, defects in dendritic arborization are associated with human neurodevelopmental disorders. The molecular mechanisms regulating dendritic arbor complexity, however, are still poorly understood. Here, we uncover the molecular basis for the regulation of dendritic branching during cortical development. We show that during development, dendritic branching requires post-mitotic suppression of the RhoGTPase Cdc42. By generating genetically modified mice, we demonstrate that this is catalyzed in vivo by the novel Cdc42-GAP NOMA-GAP. Loss of NOMA-GAP leads to decreased neocortical volume, associated specifically with profound oversimplification of cortical dendritic arborization and hyperactivation of Cdc42. Remarkably, dendritic complexity and cortical thickness can be partially restored by genetic reduction of post-mitotic Cdc42 levels. Furthermore, we identify the actin regulator cofilin as a key regulator of dendritic complexity in vivo. Cofilin activation during late cortical development depends on NOMA-GAP expression and subsequent inhibition of Cdc42. Strikingly, in utero expression of active cofilin is sufficient to restore postnatal dendritic complexity in NOMA-GAP-deficient animals. Our findings define a novel cell-intrinsic mechanism to regulate dendritic branching and thus neuronal complexity in the cerebral cortex.
Kappa deleting element as an alternative molecular target for minimal residual disease assessment by real‐time quantitative PCR in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Puig Noemí , Sarasquete María E. , Alcoceba Miguel , Balanzategui Ana , Chillón María C. , Sebastián Elena , Díaz Marcos G. , San Miguel Jesús F. , García‐Sanz Ramón
Published: July 2012

Background and Objectives

Minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment by PCR in multiple myeloma (MM) has several shortcomings, including the lack of a suitable target. Kappa deleting element (KDE) rearrangements occur in virtually all Ig‐lambda B‐cell malignancies and in 1/3 of Ig‐kappa are not affected by somatic hypermutation and, as in ALL, could be used as PCR targets.

Methods

We have first investigated the incidence, gene segment usage, and CDR3 composition of IGK‐KDE rearrangements in 96 untreated myeloma patients. Second, we tested 16 KDE gene rearrangements as molecular targets for MRD assessment by RQ‐PCR using a germline reverse primer and a germline Taqman probe in combination with allele‐specific oligonucleotides (ASO) as forward primers.

Results

Monoclonal KDE rearrangements were amplified in 45% (43/96) of cases, monoallelic in 2/3 of them (29 cases), and biallellic in the remaining 14 cases. Overall, 88% of cases were successfully sequenced, KDE being equally frequently rearranged with VK and with intron‐Recombination signal sequence (RSS). Median numbers of inserted and deleted nucleotides in the junctional region were one and five, respectively.

Conclusions

Using KDE rearrangements as additional PCR target for MRD assessment in MM improves the applicability of these studies in 9% of cases overall and in 20% of lambda cases. Its use in the latter subset could represent a significant advance.
Diverse migration strategy between freshwater and seawater habitats in the freshwater eel genus Anguilla
Authors: Arai T. , Chino N.
Published: July 2012

The freshwater eels of the genus Anguilla, which are catadromous, migrate between freshwater growth habitats and offshore spawning areas. A number of recent studies, however, found examples of the temperate species Anguilla anguilla, Anguilla rostrata, Anguilla japonica, Anguilla australis and Anguilla dieffenbachii that have never migrated into fresh water, spending their entire life history in the ocean. Furthermore, those studies found an intermediate type between marine and freshwater residents, which appear to frequently move between different environments during their growth phase. The discovery of marine and brackish‐water residents Anguilla spp. suggests that they do not all have to be catadromous, and it calls into question the generalized classification of diadromous fishes. There has been little available information, however, concerning migration in tropical Anguilla spp. Anguilla marmorata, shows three fluctuation patterns: (1) continuous residence in fresh water, (2) continuous residence in brackish water and (3) residence in fresh water after recruitment, while returning to brackish water. Such migratory patterns were found in other tropical species, Anguilla bicolor bicolor and Anguilla bicolor pacifica. In A. b. bicolor collected in a coastal lagoon of Indonesia, two further patterns of habitat use were found: (1) constantly living in either brackish water or sea water with no freshwater life and (2) habitat shift from fresh water to brackish water or sea water. The wide range of environmental habitat use indicates that migratory behaviour of tropical Anguilla spp. is facultative among fresh, brackish and marine waters during their growth phases after recruitment to the coastal areas. Further, the migratory behaviours of tropical Anguilla spp. appear to differ in each habitat in response to inter and intra‐specific competition. The results suggest that tropical Anguilla spp. have a flexible pattern of migration, with an ability to adapt to various habitats and salinities. The ability of anguillids to reside in environments of various salinities would be a common feature between tropical and temperate species without a latitudinal cline. Thus, the migration of Anguilla spp. into fresh water is clearly not an obligatory behaviour. This evidence of geographical variability among Anguilla spp. suggests that habitat use is determined by environmental conditions in each site.
Double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study of safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of TAK‐683, an investigational metastin analogue in healthy men
Authors: Scott Graham , Ahmad Irfan , Howard Katy , MacLean David , Oliva Cristina , Warrington Steve , Wilbraham Darren , Worthington Paul
Published: July 2012

Aims

Two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies were performed to characterize the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the investigational metastin analogue, TAK‐683, in healthy men.

Methods

We first investigated a single subcutaneous (s.c.) dose of TAK‐683 (0.01–2.0 mg) in 60 subjects (TAK‐683, n = 42; placebo, n = 18). We then assessed a single s.c. bolus of 0.03–1.0 mg TAK‐683 on day 1, followed by a 0.01–2.0 mg day−1 continuous infusion on days 2–13, to simulate a depot formulation, in 30 subjects (TAK‐683, n = 25; placebo, n = 5) for 14 days.

Results

TAK‐683 was well tolerated up to a dose of 2.0 mg day−1 by continuous s.c. infusion for 14 days. Adverse events were similar between TAK‐683 and placebo subjects at all dose levels. TAK‐683 plasma concentrations generally increased in proportion to dose with single and continuous dosing, with steady‐state concentrations achieved by day 2 of continuous dosing. TAK‐683 at 2.0 mg day−1 suppressed testosterone below castration level (<50 ng dl−1) in four of five subjects by day 7 of continuous dosing. Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone concentrations were suppressed with TAK‐683 continuous dosing compared with placebo by up to 70 and 43%, respectively, but this was not consistently dose‐dependent.

Conclusions

In healthy men, s.c. administration of TAK‐683 was well tolerated at all dose levels. The PK profile of TAK‐683 was favourable, and TAK‐683 suppressed testosterone profoundly during continuous dosing. Further investigation of metastin analogues is warranted for the treatment of castration‐resistant prostate cancer.
Effects of sheep and horse manure and pine bark amendments on metal distribution and chemical properties of contaminated mine soils
Authors: Pérez‐Esteban J. , Escolástico C. , Masaguer A. , Moliner A.
Published: July 2012

Mine soils usually contain large levels of heavy metals and poor fertility conditions which limit their reclamation and the application of phyto‐remediation technologies. Two organic waste materials (pine bark compost and sheep and horse manure compost), with different pHs and varying degrees of humification and nutrient contents, were applied as amendments to assess their effects on copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) bioavailability and on fertility conditions of mine soils. Soil samples collected from two abandoned mining areas near Madrid (Spain) were mixed with 0, 30 and 60 t ha−1 of the organic amendments. The concentrations of metals among the different mineral and organic fractions of soil were determined by several extraction procedures to study the metal distribution in the solid phase of the soil affected by the organic amendments. The results showed that the manure amendment increased the soil pH and the cation exchange capacity and enhanced the nutrient levels of these soils. The pine bark amendment decreased the soil pH and did not significantly change the nutrient status of soil. Soil pH, organic matter content and its degree of humification, which were altered by the amendments, were the main factors affecting Cu fractionation. Zn fractionation was mainly affected by soil pH. The addition of manure not only improved soil fertility, but also decreased metal bioavailability resulting in a reduction of metal toxicity. Conversely, pine bark amendment increased metal bioavailability. The use of sheep and horse manure could be a cost‐effective practice for the restoration of contaminated mine soils.
The influence of metabolic rate on the contribution of stable‐hydrogen and oxygen isotopes in drinking water to quail blood plasma and feathers
Authors: Storm‐Suke Andrea , Wassenaar Leonard I. , Nol Erica , Norris D. Ryan
Published: July 2012

The stable‐hydrogen and oxygen isotopic composition of animal tissues are important tools for estimating the geographic origin of migrating animals.

Estimating the origin of animals using H and O isotopes requires knowledge of how closely and consistently tissues reflect precipitation isotopes at the location in which the tissues were grown.

One hypothesis to explain variation in isotope discrimination values in tissues from individuals residing at the same location is metabolic rate. Variation in metabolic rate between individuals could alter the relative proportions of drinking water and food atoms that are integrated into a tissue. Individuals with high metabolic rates ingest greater amounts of water compared with those with lower metabolic rates in order to balance metabolic water losses. Increased water consumption may increase the rate of hydrogen and oxygen atom turnover within the blood plasma, thereby limiting the extent to which tissue precursors isotopically exchange with their surroundings.

A first test of this hypothesis was carried out by experimentally elevating the metabolic rate of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) over a 64‐day period. We spiked drinking water with 99·9% 2H2O and 10% 18O to trace the incorporation of drinking water to feather tissue while holding the isotopic value of the food constant.

We observed a 15% increase in metabolic rate was associated with a 6% decrease in the relative contribution of drinking water hydrogen to feather keratin between treatments. In contrast, no differences in the relative contribution of drinking water oxygen to plasma or feathers were detected because of the small isotopic separation (e.g., only 9‰) between initial and final drinking water δ18O values. Results suggest a difference in metabolic rates between individuals residing in the same geographic location have the potential to partially obscure the relationship between precipitation and feather δ2H values.
Enhanced isoprene emission capacity and altered light responsiveness in aspen grown under elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration
Authors: Sun Zhihong , Niinemets Ülo , Hüve Katja , Noe Steffen M. , Rasulov Bahtijor , Copolovici Lucian , Vislap Vivian
Published: July 2012

Controversial evidence of CO2‐responsiveness of isoprene emission has been reported in the literature with the response ranging from inhibition to enhancement, but the reasons for such differences are not understood. We studied isoprene emission characteristics of hybrid aspen (Populus tremula x P. tremuloides) grown under ambient (380 μmol mol−1) and elevated (780 μmol mol−1) [CO2] to test the hypothesis that growth [CO2] effects on isoprene emission are driven by modifications in substrate pool size, reflecting altered light use efficiency for isoprene synthesis. A novel in vivo method for estimation of the pool size of the immediate isoprene precursor, dimethylallyldiphosphate (DMADP) and the activity of isoprene synthase was used. Growth at elevated [CO2] resulted in greater leaf thickness, more advanced development of mesophyll and moderately increased photosynthetic capacity due to morphological “upregulation”, but isoprene emission rate under growth light and temperature was not significantly different among ambient‐ and elevated‐[CO2]‐grown plants independent of whether measured at 380 μmol mol−1 or 780 μmol mol−1 CO2. However, DMADP pool size was significantly less in elevated‐[CO2]‐grown plants, but this was compensated by increased isoprene synthase activity. Analysis of CO2 and light response curves of isoprene emission demonstrated that the [CO2] for maximum isoprene emission was shifted to lower [CO2] in elevated‐[CO2]‐grown plants. The light‐saturated isoprene emission rate (Imax,Q) was greater, but the quantum efficiency at given Imax,Q was less in elevated‐[CO2]‐grown plants, especially at higher CO2 measurement concentration, reflecting stronger DMADP limitation at lower light and higher [CO2]. These results collectively demonstrate important shifts in light and CO2‐responsiveness of isoprene emission in elevated‐[CO2]‐acclimated plants that need consideration in modeling isoprene emissions in future climates.
Epistasis and immunity: the role of genetic interactions in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Rose Anna M. , Bell Lucy C. K.
Published: July 2012

Autoimmune disorders are a complex and varied group of diseases that are caused by breakdown of self‐tolerance. The aetiology of autoimmunity is multi‐factorial, with both environmental triggers and genetically determined risk factors. In recent years, it has been increasingly recognized that genetic risk factors do not act in isolation, but rather the combination of individual additive effects, gene–gene interactions and gene–environment interactions determine overall risk of autoimmunity. The importance of gene–gene interactions, or epistasis, has been recently brought into focus, with research demonstrating that many autoimmune diseases, including rheumatic arthritis, autoimmune glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis, are influenced by epistatic interactions. This review sets out to examine the basic mechanisms of epistasis, how epistasis influences the immune system and the role of epistasis in two major autoimmune conditions, systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis.
Changes on colour parameters caused by high‐pressure processing of apple juice made from six different varieties
Authors: Falguera Víctor , Gatius Ferran , Ibarz Albert , Barbosa‐Cánovas Gustavo V.
Published: July 2012

The colour changes caused by high‐pressure processing at different temperatures of apple juice were investigated. Six apple varieties were used (Braeburn, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and Red Delicious), searching for the influence of the variety from two different approaches: a kinetic study, finding the best model for each one of them, and a multivariate study consisting of a principal component analysis of data. Although it had lower initial values, redness (a*) was more influenced by high pressure than yellowness (b*). The pattern followed by colour changes was found to be definitively dependent on the variety. High‐pressure processing affects in a stronger way the absorbances located near 400 nm (i.e. 400.5 nm in Fuji and 434.0 nm in Braeburn).
Fermented food products made with vegetable materials from tropical and warm countries: microbial and technological considerations
Authors: Demarigny Yann
Published: July 2012

For many centuries, human beings have made fermented food, responding to the need to prolong the shelf life of perishable raw materials. Among the latter, vegetable materials come in diverse forms – roots, cereals, fruits, etc. – and vary from one location to another, especially if we study the products made in tropical and warm parts of the world. Humankind has explored many ways to ferment foods. This has led to the development of a number of different products characterised by original microbial communities, specific nutritional properties and typical sensory features. However, facing tremendous difficulties – sanitary preoccupations, nutritional needs and variability of organoleptic quality – scientists and food makers are now at a crossroads. One strategy would be to deduce which major traits should be optimised from a careful analysis of these products. The addition of selected starters may emerge from this as a good course of action. However, in this article, we consider that the use of traditional approaches – spontaneous fermentation and backslopping – is compatible with the search for higher quality in these products, on condition, though, that certain hygienic rules are respected and sufficient knowledge of microorganisms and raw materials is acquired.
Impact of cough and urinary incontinence on quality of life in women and men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Hrisanfow Elisabet , Hägglund Doris
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of cough and urinary incontinence on quality of life in women and men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary health care.

Background.  Existing information on the impact of cough and urinary incontinence on quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is scant.

Design.  A questionnaire survey.

Method.  The study included 391 women and 337 men, aged 50–75 years, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A self‐administered questionnaire consisted of CCQ and SF‐12 questionnaires. A response rate of 66% was obtained. Most patients had been diagnosed with moderate (Stage II) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Results.  Women and men with urinary incontinence showed a significantly higher presence of symptomatic cough and phlegm production than did women and men without incontinence. Women with incontinence had a significantly higher burden of CCQ symptoms, functional and mental state than did women without incontinence. Concerning quality‐of‐life scores, women with incontinence had lower physical state scores (37·6 ± 10·4 vs. 41·4 ± 9·9; p < 0·001) and mental state scores (44·3 ± 10·2 vs. 47·1 ± 10·5; p < 0·007) than did women without incontinence. Men with incontinence had a significantly higher burden of CCQ symptoms and mental state than did men without incontinence. When examining the quality‐of‐life scores, men with incontinence had lower mental state scores than did men without incontinence (46·0 ± 9·7 vs. 49·8 ± 9·7; p < 0·001).

Conclusion.  The present results indicate that cough and urinary incontinence lead to poor quality of life in women and men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Relevance to clinical practice.  In the context of primary health care, appropriate questions concerning urinary incontinence and quality of life should be included in care plans for women and men living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Reliability of the Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory (CPLNI) for use in Portugal
Authors: Galdeano Luzia E , Furuya Rejane K , Rodrigues Manuel A , Dantas Rosana AS , Rossi Lídia A
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To perform the semantic validation and to evaluate the reliability and the presence of ceiling and floor effects of the Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory in Portuguese patients with coronary artery disease.

Background.  Information should be selected based on what patients know and need to learn, which means that the teaching process should be based on each person’s needs. The Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory is aimed at identifying the cardiac patients’ individual learning needs.

Design.  Methodological research design.

Methods.  Two hundred patients hospitalised at the coronary intensive care unit or at the cardiothoracic surgery unit of a public hospital in Lisbon answered the adapted version of the Cardiac Patients Learning Needs Inventory. Internal consistency was estimated based on Cronbach’s alpha. Scores above 0·50 were considered acceptable. Stability was measured through test–retest and calculated using student’s t test. Significance was set at 0·05.

Results.  Patients’ mean age was 65 years (SD = 11·8), and most were men (152; 76%). Cronbach’s alpha for the total scale was high in the first and second measurement (0·91), and for seven domains, it was acceptable in the first and second measurement (range from 0·50–0·89). No statistically significant difference was found between mean scores on the first and second measurement. Lower diversity was observed in the answers, most of which ranged between important and very important (ceiling‐effect).

Conclusion.  The adapted version for use in Portugal maintained the conceptual, semantic and idiomatic equivalences of the original version and showed adequate reliability.

Relevance to clinical practices.  Owing to the lack of validated instruments translated into Portuguese, to measure cardiac patients’ learning needs, this study entails important clinical and theoretical implications.
Geographical distribution of salmonid alphavirus subtypes in marine farmed Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., in Scotland and Ireland
Authors: Graham D A , Fringuelli E , Rowley H M , Cockerill D , Cox D I , Turnbull T , Rodger H , Morris D , Mc Loughlin M F
Published: July 2012

Sequence data from salmonid alphavirus (SAV) strains obtained from farmed marine Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L. , over a 20‐year period between 1991 and 2011 was reviewed to examine the geographical distribution of the genetically defined SAV subtypes in twelve regions across Ireland and Scotland. Of 160 different Atlantic salmon SAV strains examined, 62 belonged to subtype 1, 28 to subtype 2, 34 to subtype 4, 35 to subtype 5 and 1 to subtype 6. SAV subtypes 1, 4 and 6 were found in Ireland, while subtypes 1, 2, 4 and 5 were found in Scotland. In the majority of regions, there was a clear clustering of subtypes, with SAV subtype 1 being the dominant subtype in Ireland overall, as well as in Argyll and Bute in Scotland. SAV subtype 2 predominated in the Shetland and Orkney Islands. The emergence in Atlantic salmon of subtype 2 strains typically associated with sleeping disease in rainbow trout in Argyll and Bute, strongly suggesting transmission of infection between these species, was noted for the first time. SAV subtype 4 was the most common subtype found in the southern Western Isles, while SAV subtype 5 predominated in the northern Western Isles and north‐west mainland Scotland. No single strain was dominant on sites in the western Highlands, with a number of sites in this region in particular having more than one subtype detected in different submissions. The significance of these results in relation to aspects of the epidemiology of infection, including transmission, biosecurity and wildlife reservoirs are discussed and knowledge gaps identified.
Appearances can be deceptive: different diversification patterns within a group of Mediterranean earthworms (Oligochaeta, Hormogastridae)
Authors: NOVO MARTA , ALMODÓVAR ANA , FERNÁNDEZ ROSA , TRIGO DOLORES , DÍAZ‐COSÍN DARÍO J. , GIRIBET GONZALO
Published: July 2012

Many recent studies on invertebrates have shown how morphology not always captures the true diversity of taxa, with cryptic speciation often being discussed in this context. Here, we show how diversification patterns can be very different in two clades of closely related earthworms in the genusHormogasterstressing the risk of using nonspecific substitution rate values across taxa. On the one hand, theHormogaster elisaespecies complex, endemic to the central Iberian Peninsula, shows morphological stasis. On the other hand, a clade ofHormogasterfrom the NE Iberian Peninsula shows an enormous morphological variability, with 15 described morphospecies. TheH. elisaecomplex, however, evolves faster genetically, and this could be explained by the harsher environmental conditions to which it is confined—as detected in this study, that is, sandier and slightly poorer soils with lower pH values than those of the other species in the family. These extreme conditions could be at the same time limiting morphological evolution and thus be responsible for the observed morphological stasis in this clade. Contrarily,Hormogasterspecies from the NE Iberian Peninsula, although still inhabiting harsher milieu than other earthworm groups, have had the opportunity to evolve into a greater morphological disparity. An attempt to delimit species within this group following the recently proposed general mixed Yule‐coalescent method showed a higher number of entities than expected under the morphospecies concept, most probably due to the low vagility of these animals, which considerably limits gene flow between distant conspecific populations, but also because of the decoupling between morphological and genetic evolution in theH. elisaecomplex.
Role of Foxp3 Gene in Maternal Susceptibility to Pre‐eclampsia – A Study From South India
Authors: Jahan P. , Sreenivasagari R. , Goudi D. , Komaravalli P. L. , Ishaq M.
Published: July 2012

Pre‐eclampsia (PE) is a multifactorial pregnancy‐specific vascular disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria and affects around 3–8% of pregnancies worldwide. Defective placentation during the early stage of pregnancy most likely in combination with maternal and environmental factors could lead to systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and the manifestation of the clinical symptoms. Inadequate number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) or their functional deficiency is linked with infertility, miscarriage and PE. It is well identified that forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) gene is a master control gene for the development and function of Tregs that play an important role in the maintenance of self‐tolerance and mediate maternal tolerance to the foetus. The main objective of this study was to assess the maternal susceptibility to PE with respect to a deletion mutation in exon‐2 and ‐3279 C > A polymorphism (rs3761548) in the promoter region within the Foxp3 gene in a total of 282 PE patients and 215 normal pregnant women. The results showed that exon‐2 deletion mutation is present in 1.06% of patients and none in the controls, indicating that it was not a common gene polymorphism associated with PE. With respect to rs3761548, the C allele frequency was observed to be higher in patients than in controls (49% versus 27%; OR = 2.81, P < 0.01). In conclusion, our results are suggestive of A allele to be protective against PE and C allele as predisposing in a dose‐dependent manner in our population.
Reproducibility of a semiquantitative method to assess cutaneous cytology
Authors: Budach Svenja C. , Mueller Ralf S.
Published: July 2012

Background – Cutaneous cytology is used in veterinary dermatology to assess bacteria and yeast on the skin surface and in the ears for diagnostic purposes and to monitor treatment success. A number of methods were used in reported studies to quantify micro‐organisms on cytology, but evaluation of the intra‐ and interobserver reliability of the methods is rare.

Objective – The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra‐ and interobserver reliability of a semiquantitative cytology assessment method frequently used in practice.

Methods – A total of 60 experienced and inexperienced veterinarians and veterinary students were asked to evaluate 10 glass slides and 18 photographs of cutaneous cytology twice. Cocci, rods, yeast, neutrophilic and eosinophilic granulocytes and macrophages were graded from 0 to 4+.

Results – The intra‐observer reproducibility for evaluating the slides in the experienced group was 84.3%; in the inexperienced group it was 82.6%. For the photographs, the intra‐observer reproducibility was 92.1% in both groups. The interobserver reproducibility for evaluating the slides was 81.6 and 81.0% in the experienced and inexperienced group, respectively; corresponding values for the photographs were 91.0 and 90.0%. There was no significant difference between different participants or between the first and second evaluation by each participant for any of the parameters graded.

Conclusion and clinical importance – Based on these results, this semiquantitative method of grading can be recommended for evaluating and monitoring of antimicrobial therapy in daily practice.
Management of children and adolescents with primary immune thrombocytopenia: controversies and solutions
Authors: Kühne T. , Imbach P.
Published: July 2012

The management including diagnostic procedures, prophylaxis, treatment and follow‐up of patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in childhood is controversial due to limited clinical data, difficulties in the estimation of individual bleeding risk and heterogeneity of pathophysiology potentially causing various treatment responses. Advances in the management of children include increased international collaborations, improved quality of diagnosis and treatment, increased clinical data, refinement of consensus statements where clinical evidence is absent, new drugs and last but not least establishment of watch‐and‐wait strategies. The Intercontinental Cooperative ITP Study Group promotes international collaboration since more than 10 years based on a worldwide network and experience in registries. Future considerations include concentration of available resources, strengthening international collaboration, focusing on most important scientific and clinical questions, such as identification of the subgroup of patients that benefits most from prophylactic platelet‐enhancing treatments and investigation of treatment endpoints other than concepts solely based on the platelet count, including bleeding symptoms, health‐related quality of life and economical aspects of treatments.
Influence of Strain and Parity on the Risk of Litter Loss in Laboratory Mice
Authors: Weber EM , Algers B , Würbel H , Hultgren J , Olsson IAS
Published: July 2012

Contents

Pup mortality is a considerable problem in laboratory mouse breeding and the view that parity influence survival of newborn mice is widespread. Some evidence suggests that maternal behaviour is related to offspring mortality in mice. Parental experience is a factor that can improve maternal behaviour and offspring survival in some mammals. However, few papers report a relationship between parity and pup survival in mice. We investigated the influence of strain and parity on loss of entire litters of C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice using data from a breeding colony. In total, 344 C57BL/6 and 146 BALB/c litters were included. We found a considerable mortality rate for both strains: 32% of C57BL/6 litters and 20% for BALB/c litters were lost. There was a significant difference in survival of the first litter between strains, with 3.6 times higher odds of mortality in C57BL/6 mice (p = 0.0028). Parity or previous parental experience of litter loss did, however, not affect litter loss. The scientific literature does not provide a clear picture of perinatal mortality in laboratory mice. Very few studies report perinatal mortality, and only a handful of papers exist where mortality was systematically studied; this area is thus poorly understood. If perinatal mortality in mice is not recognized and investigated, but instead considered normal when breeding mice, a serious welfare problem might be overlooked.
Clinical usefulness of bone markers in prostate cancer with bone metastasis
Authors: Kamiya Naoto , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Endo Takumi , Yano Masashi , Naoi Makito , Nishimi Daisuke , Kawamura Koji , Imamoto Takashi , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: July 2012

Bone metastases occur in approximately 70% of patients with advanced prostate cancer. Skeletal‐related events have been correlated with reduced survival and quality of life of patients with prostate cancer. Biochemical markers of bone metabolism (e.g. bone formation, bone resorption, osteoclastogenesis) might meet an unmet need for useful, non‐invasive and sensitive surrogate information for following patients' skeletal health. Recently, zoledronic acid and denosumab have been proven to have the potential for preventing skeletal‐related events among prostate cancer patients with bone metastasis. An improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying bone metastasis has also led to the recognition of multiple molecular targets and advances in therapy. However, estimating the efficacy of these agents is difficult. A clinical trial for castration‐resistant prostate cancer is currently underway based on the definition of The Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials Working Group, and bone turnover markers are being used as conventional end‐points for the clinical trial. Bone turnover markers are useful surrogate markers reflecting the effect of new therapeutic drugs and prognosis, as well as assessment of bone metastases. In particular, N‐terminal cross‐linked telopeptide of type 1 collagen and bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase are widely used bone metabolism markers, and offer reliable surrogate markers to detect bone metastatic spread and to predict prognosis for prostate cancer patients with bone metastases.