bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactions of O‐aryl S‐aryl dithiocarbonates with secondary alicyclic amines in aqueous ethanol. Kinetics and mechanism
Authors: Castro Enrique A. , Gazitúa Marcela , Santos José G.
Published: September 2010

The reactions of O‐(4‐methylphenyl) S‐(4‐nitrophenyl), O‐(4‐chlorophenyl) (4‐nitrophenyl), O‐(4‐chlorophenyl) S‐phenyl, and O‐(4‐methylphenyl) S‐phenyl dithiocarbonates (1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively) with a series of secondary alicyclic (SA) amines are subjected to a kinetic investigation in 44 wt% ethanol‐water, at 25.0 °C and an ionic strength of 0.2 M. The reactions are followed spectrophotometrically. Under amine excess, pseudo‐first‐order rate coefficients (kobs) are found. For some of the reactions, plots of kobs vs. free amine concentration at constant pH are linear but others are nonlinear upwards. This kinetic behavior is in accordance with a stepwise mechanism with two tetrahedral intermediates, one zwitterionic (T±) and the other anionic (T−). In some cases, there is a kinetically significant proton transfer from T± to an amine to yield T−. Values of the rate micro constants k1 (amine attack to form T±), k−1 (its back step), k2 (nucleofuge expulsion from T±), and k3 (proton transfer from T± to the amine) are determined for some reactions. The Brønsted plots for k1 are linear with slopes β1 = 0.2–0.4 in accordance with the slope values found when T± formation is the rate‐determining step. The sensitivity of log k1 and log k−1 to the pKa of the amine, leaving and non‐leaving groups are determined by a multiparametric equation. For the reactions of 1–4 with 1‐formylpiperazine and those of 3 and 4 with morpholine the k2 and k3 steps are rate determining. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Review of Paste Explosives (PEX)
Authors: Akhavan Jacqueline , Andrews Matthew R.
Published: September 2010

In the early 1970s PEX were being developed in order to produce energetic compounds with a toothpaste‐like consistency so that the PEX could be moved into position when arming the warhead. In the late 1990s development work was conducted on PEX for the filling of small‐volume microdevices such as microactuators. More recently Cranfield University has just begun research into the development of SPEX. This review outlines the developments in high explosive pastes and concludes with future developments in PEX.
A phase I study of personalized peptide vaccination using 14 kinds of vaccine in combination with low‐dose estramustine in HLA‐A24‐positive patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Noguchi Masanori , Uemura Hirotsugu , Naito Seiji , Akaza Hideyuki , Yamada Akira , Itoh Kyogo
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the safety, tolerability, immune response, and antitumor activity of a combination of personalized peptide vaccination (PPV) and estramustine phosphate (EMP) in patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

METHODS

In a phase I dose‐escalation study, four peptides showing the highest levels of peptide‐specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) to 14 vaccine candidates (ITK‐1) were subcutaneously injected every week in three different dose settings (1, 3, and 5 mg per peptide) for 6 weeks with a low dose of EMP, and the patients were followed by maximum 2 years extension study either weekly or bi‐weekly six times PPV as one course with a low dose of EMP.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were enrolled in the phase I study. No serious treatment‐related adverse events were observed. The most common adverse events were grade 2 skin reactions at the injection sites. The maximum acceptable dose of ITK‐1 was 8.643 mg. There were no treatment‐related systemic adverse events of grade 3 or more, and maximum tolerated dose could not be determined. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses measured by interferon‐γ release assay were boosted in 10 of 15 (67%) patients, and IgG responses were boosted in 7 of 15 (47%) patients. Twelve patients proceeded to the extension study, and the median survival time was 23.8 months during a median follow‐up of 23.8 months.

CONCLUSIONS

PPV treatment for HLA‐A24 positive patients with CRPC could be recommended for further stages of clinical trials because of its safety and the higher frequency of boosting immune responses. Prostate 77:470–479, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Drug safety is a barrier to the discovery and development of new androgen receptor antagonists
Authors: Foster William R. , Car Bruce D. , Shi Hong , Levesque Paul C. , Obermeier Mary T. , Gan Jinping , Arezzo Joseph C. , Powlin Stephanie S. , Dinchuk Joseph E. , Balog Aaron , Salvati Mark E. , Attar Ricardo M. , Gottardis Marco M.
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND

Androgen receptor (AR) antagonists are part of the standard of care for prostate cancer. Despite the almost inevitable development of resistance in prostate tumors to AR antagonists, no new AR antagonists have been approved for over a decade. Treatment failure is due in part to mutations that increase activity of AR in response to lower ligand concentrations as well as to mutations that result in AR response to a broader range of ligands. The failure to discover new AR antagonists has occurred in the face of continued research; to enable progress, a clear understanding of the reasons for failure is required.

METHODS

Non‐clinical drug safety studies and safety pharmacology assays were performed on previously approved AR antagonists (bicalutamide, flutamide, nilutamide), next generation antagonists in clinical testing (MDV3100, BMS‐641988), and a pre‐clinical drug candidate (BMS‐501949). In addition, non‐clinical studies with AR mutant mice, and EEG recordings in rats were performed. Non‐clinical findings are compared to disclosures of clinical trial results.

RESULTS

As a drug class, AR antagonists cause seizure in animals by an off‐target mechanism and are found in vitro to inhibit GABA‐A currents. Clinical trials of candidate next generation AR antagonists identify seizure as a clinical safety risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Non‐clinical drug safety profiles of the AR antagonist drug class create a significant barrier to the identification of next generation AR antagonists. GABA‐A inhibition is a common off‐target activity of approved and next generation AR antagonists potentially explaining some side effects and safety hazards of this class of drugs. Prostate 77:480–488, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human prostate cancer xenografts in lit/lit mice exhibit reduced growth and androgen‐independent progression
Authors: Takahara Kiyoshi , Tearle Howard , Ghaffari Mazyar , Gleave Martin E. , Pollak Michael , Cox Michael E.
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND

The growth hormone/insulin‐like growth factor I (GH/IGF‐I) axis has been linked to prostate cancer (PCa) risk. Although previous studies indicate that human breast cancers and a murine PCa model develop more slowly in murine hosts homozygous for a missense mutation in the GH‐releasing hormone receptor (lit/lit) whose “little” dwarfed phenotype is caused by suppressed GH and IGF‐I production, the role of these two hormones remains controversial.

METHODS

To assess how the GH/IGF‐I axis influences androgen‐responsive, castration‐resistant (CR), and androgen‐independent (AI) growth of human PCa, we compared xenograft growth of the androgen‐responsive human PCa cells, LNCaP, and AI human PCa cells, PC3, in intact and castrate Nod/SCID lit/lit and lit/+ mice, and in vitro growth of these cell lines in lit/lit and lit/+ serum‐containing media supplemented with GH or IGF‐I.

RESULTS

Tumor growth and PSA accumulation rates were suppressed in LNCaP tumor‐bearing lit/lit mice pre‐ and post‐castration. Growth of PC3 xenografts in lit/lit mice was also suppressed. In vitro proliferation of LNCaP and PC3 cells cultured in media containing lit/lit mouse serum was decreased as compared to growth in media containing lit/+ serum. Suppressed growth in lit/lit serum could be restored by the addition of IGF‐I, and to a lesser extent, GH. Differences in growth correlated with differences in steady‐state AKT and ERK1/2 activation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that circulating GH and IGF‐I can promote androgen‐responsive growth, CR progression, and AI expansion of PTEN‐deficient human PCa cell xenografts and indicates that IGF‐I can promote PCa growth in a suppressed GH environment. Prostate 77:525–537, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Down‐regulation of microRNA 106b is involved in p21‐mediated cell cycle arrest in response to radiation in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Li Baoqing , Shi Xu‐Bao , Nori Dattatreyudu , Chao Clifford K.S. , Chen Allen M. , Valicenti Richard , de Vere White Ralph
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND

microRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous short non‐coding RNAs, and play a pivotal role in regulating of a variety of cellular processes, including proliferation and apoptosis, both of which are cellular responses to radiation treatment. The purpose of this study is to identify candidate miRNAs whose levels are altered in response to radiation in prostate cancer cells and to investigate the molecular pathway of such miRNAs in the regulation of radiation‐induced cellular response.

METHODS

Using a miRNA microarray assay, we screened 132 cancerous miRNAs in LNCaP cells in response to radiation treatment. The function of one candidate miRNA was investigated for checkpoint protein expression, cell cycle arrest, cell proliferation, and cell survival in cells transfected with precursor or antisense miRNA.

RESULTS

In response to radiation, multiple miRNAs, including mi‐106b, showed altered expression. Cells transfected with precursor miR‐106b were able to suppress radiation‐induced p21 activation. Functionally, exogenous addition of precursor miR‐106b overrode the G2/M arrest in response to radiation and resulted in a transient diminishment of radiation‐induced growth inhibition.

CONCLUSION

We have shown a novel role of miR‐106b, in the setting of radiation treatment, in regulating the p21‐activated cell cycle arrest. Our finding that miR‐106b is able to override radiation‐induced cell cycle arrest and cell growth inhibition points to a potential therapeutic target in certain prostate cancer cells whose radiation resistance is likely due to consistently elevated level of miR‐106b. Prostate 71:567–574, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐range charge transfer in donor‐peptide bridge‐acceptor model systems—A theoretical study
Authors: Santhanamoorthi N. , Senthilkumar K. , Kolandaivel P.
Published: September 2010

The quantum mechanical calculations were performed to study the effect of geometrical fluctuations of peptide on charge transfer in model oligopeptides linked between donor and acceptor molecules. The charge transfer parameters have been calculated based on the density functional theory method. Results show that the overall charge transfer in peptide mediated donor–acceptor complexes is determined by the conformations and chain length of the intermediate peptide bridge. The analysis of excess charge distribution show that the localization of an excess positive and negative charge are strongly depend on the conformations and chain length of the donor–bridge‐acceptor system. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Alternative control methods for DC–DC converters: An application to a four‐level three‐cell DC–DC converter
Authors: Patino Diego , Bâja Mihai , Riedinger Pierre , Cormerais Hervé , Buisson Jean , Iung Claude
Published: September 2010

This paper proposes three synthesis methods for controlling power converters. The three control strategies yield state feedback control laws that are easy to implement. The first method is a stabilization approach, based on energetic principles and the notion of Lyapunov function. The second is an optimal control approach based on the minimum principle. The third is a neural predictive approach which uses model predictive control to track a given optimal stable limit cycle. This method allows a proper control of the waveform. Except for the predictive approach, system stability for the methods is guaranteed by construction. The four‐level three‐cell DC–DC converter is used as a benchmark to test these strategies. Simulation and experimental results show that the methods have a good performance even with load perturbations. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved approach to robust stability analysis and controller synthesis for LPV systems
Authors: Song Lei , Yang Jianying
Published: September 2010

This paper revisits the problem of robust stability analysis and synthesis for linear parameter varying (LPV) systems. By introducing two new slack variables, new conditions for the polyquadratic stability and for the affine quadratic stability of LPV systems are presented in terms of linear matrix inequalities. These results are then applied for robust controller synthesis. Owing to the extra freedom degree introduced by the real slack variable, this proposed approach could lead to less conservative results than that of from the literature, especially for robust controller synthesis. The effectiveness and superiority are demonstrated by the comparison between this proposed approach and the existing results on a well‐known numerical example. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iterative learning control for uncertain systems: Noncausal finite time interval robust control design
Authors: van de Wijdeven J. J. M. , Donkers M. C. F. , Bosgra O. H.
Published: September 2010

In this paper, we present a novel robust Iterative Learning Control (ILC) control strategy that is robust against model uncertainty as given by an additive uncertainty model. The design methodology hinges on ℋ︁∞optimization, but formulated such that the obtained ILC controller is not restricted to be causal, and inherently operates on a finite time interval. Optimization of the robust ILC (R‐ILC) solution is accomplished for the situation where any information about structure in the uncertainty is discarded, and for the situation where the information about the structure in the uncertainty is explicitly taken into account. Subsequently, the convergence and performance properties of resulting R‐ILC controlled system are analyzed. On an experimental set‐up, we show that the presented R‐ILC control strategy can outperform an existing linear‐quadratic norm‐optimal ILC approach and an existing causal R‐ILC approach based on frequency domain ℋ︁∞synthesis. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyelectrolyte Multilayer‐Mediated Gene Delivery for Semaphorin Signaling Pathway Control
Authors: Richard Doriane , Nguyen Isabelle , Affolter Christine , Meyer Florent , Schaaf Pierre , Voegel Jean‐Claude , Bagnard Dominique , Ogier Joelle
Published: September 2010

The capability of multilayered polyelectrolyte films (MPFs) to control the sequential expression of two genes encoding cell receptors involved in a common cell signalling activity is shown, while achieving a fully functional signal transduction. As a functional model system representative of a cell signalling process that proceeds in a top‐down manner, cell collapse induced by semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) was chosen as the target. Polyelectrolyte multilayers were sequentially functionalized with two plasmids encoding Neuropilin–1 (NRP–1) and Plexin‐A1 (Plx‐A1), respectively, acting as co‐receptors for Sema3A. By using hyaluronan and chitosan as structural components for the incorporation of plasmid DNA layers onto precursor films made of poly‐allylamine hydrochloride and poly‐sodium‐4‐styrenesulfonate, the polyelectrolyte system is established; this systems is capable of delivering both plasmids to Cos–1 cells in a manner that permits control over the timing and the respective order in which the two plasmid DNA constructs are expressed. Importantly, it was observed that, following Sema3A stimulation, COS–1 cells co‐expressing Plx‐A1 and NRP–1 display a collapse phenotype, which is determined by the multilayer build‐up scheme, and that the expression products of both transgenes embedded in MPFs are temporally functional over several days while acting their role of co‐receptors for Sema3A.
Process‐product studies on starch acetylation reactions in pressurised carbon dioxide
Authors: Muljana Henky , Picchioni Francesco , Heeres Hero J. , Janssen Leon P. B. M.
Published: September 2010

An in‐depth study on the effect of process conditions (pressure, temperature and type of catalyst) on the acetylation of starch with acetic anhydride in pressurised carbon dioxide is described. A total of 22 experiments were performed and the experimental data were analysed using non‐linear multivariable regression. The highest degree of substitution (DS) value (0.46) was obtained using K2CO3 as the catalyst at 90°C, 15 MPa pressure, and a catalyst to starch ratio of 0.5 mol/mol anhydroglucose units (AGUs). Important product properties of the acetylated starch prepared in CO2 like viscosity in water and relevant thermal properties were determined and compared with typical products prepared in an aqueous system.
Starch characterization of different blue maize varieties
Authors: de la Rosa‐Millán Julián , Agama‐Acevedo Edith , Jimenez‐Aparicio Antonio R. , Bello‐Pérez Luis A.
Published: September 2010

Maize shows a significant genetic diversity, giving origin to a great number of varieties, hybrids, and genotypes. Recently, the pigmented corn varieties have received increased interest because of their anthocyanin contents. Although starch is the major component of the pigmented corn, only a few studies have been conducted on this constituent. The aim of this work was to evaluate the physicochemical properties and structural characteristics of starch isolated from six blue maize varieties grown in Mexico. The apparent amylose content ranged between 23.3 and 33.9%. The blue maize starches had an A‐type X‐ray diffraction pattern with similar crystallinity levels. Different gelatinization temperatures and enthalpy values were recorded, exhibiting different retrogradation tendencies (between 36.9 and 60.1%). The pasting parameters showed that the pasting temperature varied between 74.7 and 84.1°C, the maximum peak viscosity between 83.2 and 111.2 RVU units, and the setback viscosity between 26 and 38 RVU units. Structural differences were observed in the degree of branching, molar mass, and gyration radius. In view of their different physicochemical and structural characteristics, each of the blue maize starch varieties studied could have their own specific applications.
Mediators and dynamics of DNA methylation
Authors: Shoemaker Robert , Wang Wei , Zhang Kun
Published: September 2010

As an inherited epigenetic marker occurring mainly on cytosines at CpG dinucleotides, DNA methylation occurs across many higher eukaryotic organisms. Looking at methylation patterns genome‐wide classifies cell types uniquely and in several cases discriminates between healthy and cancerous cell types. DNA methylation can occur allele‐specifically, which allows the cellular regulatory machinery to recognize each allele separately. Although only a small number of allele specifically methylated (ASM) regions are known, genome‐wide experiments show that ASM is prevalent throughout the human genome. These DNA methylation patterns can be modified via DNA demethylation, which is important for induced pluripotent stem reprogramming and primordial germ cells. Recent evidence shows that the protein activation‐induced cytidine deaminase plays a critical role in these demethylation events. Many transcription factors mediate DNA methylation patterns. Some transcription factors bind specifically to methylated or unmethylated sequences and other transcription factors protect genomic regions (e.g., promoter regions) from nearby DNA methylation encroachment. Possibly acting as another epigenetic regulatory layer, methylated cytosines are also converted to 5‐hydroxyethylcyotines, which is a new modification type whose biological significance has yet been defined. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2011 3 281–298 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.124

This article is categorized under:

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Genetic/Genomic Methods

Biological Mechanisms > Regulatory Biology
Wolverines and declining snowpack: response to comments
Authors: Brodie Jedediah F. , Post Eric
Published: September 2010

The critiques by DeVink et al. (2010) and McKelvey et al. (2010) are flawed for several reasons. We show here that, contrary to what DeVink et al. claim, the influence of annual pelt price on wolverine harvest returns is essentially negligible. DeVink et al. also suggest that our results show the influence of snowpack on trapper success, rather than on actual wolverine population dynamics. This is unlikely, since most of the snowpack terms in our models are at 1‐ or 2‐year time lags, whereas the impact of snow conditions on trapper success can only manifest in the current year. Both DeVink et al. and McKelvey et al. claim that wolverine populations across Canada are actually increasing, but provide no quantitative data to support this claim. Both sets of authors present alternative explanations for the declines in harvest returns, but none of those explanations are mutually exclusive with our own, and none can explain the significance of time‐lagged snowpack on annual harvest returns. McKelvey et al.'s claim that our results represent a spurious correlation, as well as other points that they raise, suggests either a superficial understanding or deliberate misrepresentation of our methods and can simply reflect their underlying philosophical biases.
Current Status of Breast Ultrasound
Authors: Kornecki Anat
Published: September 2010

Ultrasound (US) has a significant role in diagnostic breast imaging. It is most commonly used as an adjunctive test in characterizing lesions detected by other imaging modalities or by clinical examination. US is recognized as the modality of choice in the evaluation of women who are symptomatic and younger than 30 years of age, pregnant, or lactating. Combined mammography and US appear to have a role in screening high-risk populations. The use of standard Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System US lexicon is helpful in guiding the differentiation between benign and malignant sonographic signs. Biopsy is warranted when benign features are absent or for any feature consistent with malignancy, despite other benign findings. Whole breast and axillary US are useful in assessing tumour extension, multifocality, and the status of axillary lymph nodes. US is the modality of choice for guiding interventional breast procedures. The role of US as a guidance tool for nonoperative breast treatment is being investigated.
Ultrasound, Computed Tomography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Ovarian Vein Thrombosis in Obstetrical and Nonobstetrical Patients
Authors: Virmani Vivek , Kaza Ravi , Sadaf Arifa , Fasih Najla , Fraser-Hill Margaret
Published: September 2010

Ovarian vein thrombosis is an uncommon clinical entity, most familiar to radiologists as a source of postpartum sepsis, which, if unrecognized and left untreated, has the potential for septic shock, pulmonary thromboembolism, and death. Ovarian vein thrombosis also occurs with other common inflammatory and malignant conditions in the nonobstetrical patient. This article reviews the pathophysiology, predisposing conditions, clinical findings, imaging features on ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging of acute and chronic ovarian vein thrombosis and its appropriate clinical management.
Posttranscriptional control of mitochondrial biogenesis: Spatio‐temporal regulation of the protein import process
Authors: Devaux Frédéric , Lelandais Gaëlle , Garcia Mathilde , Goussard Sébastien , Jacq Claude
Published: September 2010

This review focuses on the posttranscriptional processes which govern mitochondrial biogenesis, with a special emphasis on the asymmetric localization–translation of nuclear‐encoded mRNAs as an important regulatory step of the protein import process. We review how spatio‐temporal mRNA regulons help to elicit timely, versatile, and coordinated intracellular processes to assemble mitochondrial structures. Our current knowledge on the mitochondrial import of respiratory chain assembly factors and the role of the ribonucleic acid (RNA) binding protein Puf3 are presented. A connection with the target of rapamycine signalling pathway may explain how respiratory chain assembly senses environmental conditions via the protein import machinery.
Ammonia permeability of the soybean nodulin 26 channel
Authors: Hwang Jin Ha , Ellingson Sally R. , Roberts Daniel M.
Published: September 2010

Soybean nodulin 26 (nod26), a member of the aquaporin superfamily, is the major protein component of the symbiosome membrane that encloses nitrogen‐fixing bacteroids in root nodules. Previous work has demonstrated that nod26 facilitates the transport of water and glycerol, although a potential additional role as a channel for fixed ammonia efflux has been hypothesized. In the present study it is shown that recombinant nod26 reconstituted into proteoliposomes facilitates NH3 transport in an Hg2+‐sensitive manner with a reduced activation energy, hallmarks of protein‐facilitated transport characteristic of aquaporins. Comparison of the predicted single‐channel transport rates of nod26 suggests a 4.9‐fold preference for ammonia compared to water.
Dose–response effect of a whey protein preload on within-day energy intake in lean subjects
Authors: Astbury Nerys M. , Stevenson Emma J. , Morris Penelope , Taylor Moira A. , Macdonald Ian A.
Published: September 2010

The effect of consuming different amounts of whey protein on appetite and energy intake was investigated in two separate studies using randomised, crossover designs. Healthy-weight men and women (range: BMI 19·0–25·0 kg/m2, age 19·4–40·4 years) consumed one of four 400 ml liquid preloads, followed by an ad libitum test meal 90 min later. In study 1, preloads were 1675 kJ with 12·5, 25 or 50 % of energy from protein, and in study 2, preloads were 1047 kJ with 10, 20 or 40 % energy from protein. Flavoured water was used as the control in both the studies. Appetite ratings were collected immediately before 30, 60 and 90 min after consuming the preloads; and immediately, 30 and 60 min after consuming the test meal. In study 1, energy intake following the control preload (4136 (sem 337) kJ) was significantly higher than each of the 12·5 % (3520 (sem 296) kJ), 25 % (3384 (sem 265) kJ) and 50 % (2853 (sem 244) kJ) protein preloads (P < 0·05). Intake after the 12·5 % preload was significantly higher than following 25 and 50 % preloads (P < 0·05). In study 2, energy intake following the control preload (4801 (sem 325) kJ) was higher than following the 10 % (4205 (sem 310) kJ), 20 % (3988 (sem 250) kJ) and 40 % (3801 (sem 245) kJ) protein preloads (P < 0·05). There were no differences in subjective appetite ratings between preloads in either study. These findings indicate a dose–response effect of protein content of the preload on energy intake at a subsequent meal.
Alfalfa (Medicago sativaL.) shoot saponins: identification and bio-activity by the assessment of aphid feeding
Authors: Mazahery-Laghab H. , Yazdi-Samadi B. , Bagheri M. , Bagheri A. R.
Published: September 2010

Biochemical components in alfalfa (Medicago sativaL.), such as saponins, can act as protecting factors against bio-stresses. Saponins are also antifeedants and show oral toxicity towards higher and lower animals. Changes in saponins, such as variation in the carbon skeleton, or hydrolysis of saponin glycosides and other conjugates, may change their biological effects. The aims of this research were to study saponin variation in different growth stages of alfalfa and to investigate the biological role of saponins in the spotted alfalfa aphid,Therioaphis maculata. Saponins from alfalfa shoots in different growth stages were extracted, chemically purified and analysed by TLC. Specific saponins such as soyasaponin1 from root and shoot and two bisdesmosides of medicagenic acid, one from shoot and another from root tissues, were identified using reference compounds allowing changes in saponin composition during plant development in different shoot tissues of alfalfa to be assessed. The response of the alfalfa aphid to feeding on alfalfa in different growth stages was studied. No significant difference in the survival of aphids, from neonate to adult, was observed, but due to the antibiotic effects of saponins, two differences were found in the onset of nymph production and cumulative nymph production. The results show that the saponin composition in alfalfa changes with plant development and this, in turn, can often negatively affect the development of specific insect pests such as the spotted alfalfa aphid, suggesting a possible biological role of alfalfa saponins.
Weight loss during tuberculosis treatment is an important risk factor for drug-induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Warmelink Ina , ten Hacken Nick H. , van der Werf Tjip S. , van Altena Richard
Published: September 2010

The objective of this study was to determine the association between weight loss and drug-induced hepatotoxicity (DIH). A retrospective observational study of 192 active tuberculosis (TB) patients consecutively admitted in a tertiary referral TB centre in the Netherlands was conducted. The outcome measure for DIH was defined as hepatotoxicity necessitating interruption of anti-TB drugs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis on interruption of anti-TB drugs was performed, with age, sex, nutritional status, TB disease severity, drug resistance, comorbidity including baseline liver function tests, anti-TB drug regimen, co-medication and addictions as independent risk factors. Anti-TB drugs were interrupted in thirty-one patients (16·1 %). The most important risk factor was weight loss of 2 kg or more within 4 weeks during TB treatment (OR 211, 95 % CI 36·0, 1232). Other independent risk factors were infection with hepatitis C (OR 19·6, 95 % CI 2·4, 164), age over 60 years (OR 18·5, 95 % CI 2·3, 151) and multi-drug-resistant TB (OR 8·2, 95 % CI 1·3, 53·6). This study shows that weight loss during TB treatment was the most important risk factor for DIH necessitating interruption of anti-TB drugs. Causes of weight loss during TB treatment and the association between weight change and hepatotoxicity need further investigation.
Sources of sodium in Australian children's diets and the effect of the application of sodium targets to food products to reduce sodium intake
Authors: Grimes Carley A. , Campbell Karen J. , Riddell Lynn J. , Nowson Caryl A.
Published: September 2010

The average reported dietary Na intake of children in Australia is high: 2694 mg/d (9–13 years). No data exist describing food sources of Na in Australian children's diets and potential impact of Na reduction targets for processed foods. The aim of the present study was to determine sources of dietary Na in a nationally representative sample of Australian children aged 2–16 years and to assess the impact of application of the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) Na reduction targets on Na intake. Na intake and use of discretionary salt (note: conversion of salt to Na, 1 g of NaCl (salt) = 390 mg Na) were assessed from 24-h dietary recall in 4487 children participating in the Australian 2007 Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Greatest contributors to Na intake across all ages were cereals and cereal-based products/dishes (43 %), including bread (13 %) and breakfast cereals (4 %). Other moderate sources were meat, poultry products (16 %), including processed meats (8 %) and sausages (3 %); milk products/dishes (11 %) and savoury sauces and condiments (7 %). Between 37 and 42 % reported that the person who prepares their meal adds salt when cooking and between 11 and 39 % added salt at the table. Those over the age of 9 years were more likely to report adding salt at the table (χ2199·5, df 6,P < 0·001). Attainment of the UK FSA Na reduction targets, within the present food supply, would result in a 20 % reduction in daily Na intake in children aged 2–16 years. Incremental reductions of this magnitude over a period of years could significantly reduce the Na intake of this group and further reductions could be achieved by reducing discretionary salt use.
Effect of dietary seaweed extracts and fish oil supplementation in sows on performance, intestinal microflora, intestinal morphology, volatile fatty acid concentrations and immune status of weaned pigs
Authors: Leonard S. G. , Sweeney T. , Bahar B. , Lynch B. P. , O'Doherty J. V.
Published: September 2010

A 2 × 2 factorial experiment (ten sows per treatment) was conducted to investigate the effect of maternal dietary supplementation with a seaweed extract (SWE; 0v.10·0 g/d) and fish oil (FO; 0v.100 g/d) inclusion from day 109 of gestation until weaning (day 26) on pig performance post-weaning (PW) and intestinal morphology, selected microflora and immune status of pigs 9 d PW. The SWE contained laminarin (10 %), fucoidan (8 %) and ash (82 %) and the FO contained 40 % EPA and 25 % DHA. Pigs weaned from SWE-supplemented sows had higher daily gain (P = 0·063) between days 0 and 21 PW and pigs weaned from FO-supplemented sows had higher daily gain (P < 0·05) and gain to feed ratio (P < 0·01) between days 7 and 14 PW. There was an interaction between maternal SWE and FO supplementation on caecalEscherichia colinumbers (P < 0·05) and the villous height to crypt depth ratio in the ileum (P < 0·01) and jejunum (P < 0·05) in pigs 9 d PW. Pigs weaned from SWE-supplemented sows had lower caecalE.coliand a higher villous height to crypt depth ratio in the ileum and jejunum compared with non-SWE-supplemented sows (P < 0·05). There was no effect of SWE onE.colinumbers and villous height to crypt depth ratio with FO inclusion. Maternal FO supplementation induced an increase in colonic mRNA abundance of IL-1α and IL-6 (P < 0·05), while SWE supplementation induced an increase in ileal TNF-α (P < 0·01) and colonic TFF3 mRNA expression (P < 0·05). In conclusion, these results demonstrate that SWE and FO supplementation to the maternal diet influenced the gastrointestinal environment and performance of the weaned pig.
Context and Economic Expectations: When Do Voters Get It Right?
Authors: Duch Raymond M. , Stevenson Randolph T.
Published: September 2010

This article discusses the accuracy and sources of economic assessments in three ways. First, following the rational expectations literature in economics, a large sample of countries over a long time period permits tests of the unbiasedness implication of the rational expectations hypotheses (REH), revealing much variation in the accuracy of expectations and the nature of the biases in expectations. Secondly, a theory of expectation formation encompassing the unbiasedness prediction of the REH and setting out the conditions under which economic expectations should be too optimistic or too pessimistic is elucidated. Zaller’s theory of political attitude formation allows the identification of variables conditioning the accuracy of expectations across contexts, drawing a link between the thinking of political scientists and economists about expectation formation. Finally, the theoretical argument that political context impacts the accuracy of average expectations is tested.
The Development of Dual Loyalties: Immigrants' Integration to Canadian Regional Dynamics
Authors: Bilodeau Antoine , White Stephen , Nevitte Neil
Published: September 2010

Abstract.The transformations in recent patterns of immigration have the potential to reshape the trajectory of Canada's regional political dynamics. Drawing on data from the 1993–2006Canadian Election Studies, this analysis explores how immigrants adjust to the prevailing regional political norms in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia. Do newcomers adopt the political orientations (feelings towards Canada and their province, confidence in provincial and federal governments, perceptions about how the province is treated by the federal government and support for the Liberal party) that resemble those of their native-born provincial counterparts? The results suggest that immigrants, especially newer waves from non-traditional source countries, tend to develop orientations that are more federally oriented than the local populations in their province. This tendency is most pronounced in Quebec where both groups of immigrants from traditional and non-traditional source countries internalize political grievances and norms less efficiently than their counterparts in other provinces.

Résumé.Les transformations récentes des tendances migratoires pourraient avoir un impact sur l'évolution des dynamiques politiques régionales au Canada. Cette enquête s'appuie sur les données de sondage de l'Étude électorale canadiennede 1993 à 2006 et vise à déterminer si les immigrants adoptent les attitudes et les comportements politiques dominants de leur province de résidence (Québec, Ontario, Alberta et Colombie-Britannique). Les immigrants adoptent-ils des attitudes et des comportements politiques (attachement au Canada et à la province de résidence, confiance envers les gouvernements fédéral et provincial, perception du traitement réservé par le gouvernement fédéral à la province de résidence et appui au Parti libéral du Canada) qui ressemblent à ceux des populations locales de leur province? Les résultats de l'enquête suggèrent que les immigrants, surtout ceux d'origines dites non traditionnelles, ont tendance à développer des comportements et des attitudes politiques plus orientés vers le gouvernement fédéral que ceux affichés dans leur province. Cette tendance est particulièrement marquée au Québec où les immigrants, tant d'origines traditionnelles que non traditionnelles, semblent assimiler moins efficacement que les immigrants des autres provinces les griefs et les normes politiques de la population provinciale.
Exiled, Executed, Exalted: Louis Riel, Homo Sacer and the Production of Canadian Sovereignty
Authors: Bruyneel Kevin
Published: September 2010

Abstract. In this article, I argue that Louis Riel is a necessary invention for the production of Canadian sovereignty. The argument builds on the work of Giorgio Agamben. I see Riel as a Canadian version of homo sacer, “who may be killed but not sacrificed,” and thereby serves as the exception that proves the rule of Canadian sovereignty. I carry out this argument in three stages, focusing first on Riel's exile in 1870 after the Red River Rebellion. I then bring Agamben's insights into an examination of the tensions between French and English Canada over Riel's execution in 1885. Finally, I look at the contemporary exaltation of Riel, focusing on the two statues that have occupied the legislative grounds in Winnipeg, which, when considered in tandem, serve as a metaphor for the relationship between liberal and colonial dynamics in Canada political history. The liberal–colonial relationship is key to Riel's ambivalent standing in contemporary Canadian political life.

Résumé. Dans cet article, je tente de démontrer, en m'appuyant sur le travail de Giorgio Agamben, que Louis Riel est une invention qui fut nécessaire à la création de la souveraineté canadienne. Pour moi, Riel est un homo sacer version canadienne, quelqu'un qui peut être éliminé mais non sacrifié et qui, par conséquent, représente l'exception qui confirme la règle de la souveraineté canadienne. Mon argumentaire se développe en trois étapes, mettant d'abord l'emphase sur l'exil de Louis Riel en 1870, à la suite de la rébellion de la Rivière-Rouge. En tenant compte du point de vue d'Agamben, j'analyse ensuite les tensions entre francophones et anglophones exacerbées par l'exécution de Louis Riel en 1885. Enfin, je jette un regard sur la réhabilitation de Riel dans le Canada contemporain en comparant les deux statues qui ont tour à tour orné le Palais législatif à Winnipeg. On ne peut s'empêcher d'y voir une métaphore de la relation entre les dynamiques libérale et coloniale à travers l'histoire de la politique canadienne, cette relation étant un élément clé pour comprendre le statut ambivalent de Riel dans la politique canadienne contemporaine.
CO2 migration in saline aquifers. Part 1. Capillary trapping under slope and groundwater flow
Authors: MACMINN C. W. , SZULCZEWSKI M. L. , JUANES R.
Published: September 2010

Injection of carbon dioxide (CO2) into geological formations is widely regarded as a promising tool for reducing global atmospheric CO2 emissions. To evaluate injection scenarios, estimate reservoir capacity and assess leakage risks, an accurate understanding of the subsurface spreading and migration of the plume of mobile CO2 is essential. Here, we present a complete solution to a theoretical model for the subsurface migration of a plume of CO2 due to natural groundwater flow and aquifer slope, and subject to residual trapping. The results show that the interplay of these effects leads to non-trivial behaviour in terms of trapping efficiency. The analytical nature of the solution offers insight into the physics of CO2 migration, and allows for rapid, basin-specific capacity estimation. We use the solution to explore the parameter space via the storage efficiency, a macroscopic measure of plume migration. In a future study, we shall incorporate CO2 dissolution into the migration model and study the importance of dissolution relative to capillary trapping and the impact of dissolution on the storage efficiency.
Convection–dissipation instability in the horizontal plane Couette flow of a highly viscous fluid
Authors: BARLETTA A. , NIELD D. A.
Published: September 2010

The linear stability of the plane Couette flow against thermoconvective rolls is studied. The case of a flow without a boundary-imposed temperature gradient is investigated. The non-uniform, possibly unstable, basic temperature distribution is caused by the effect of the internal viscous heating. Asymmetric thermal boundary conditions are considered: the bottom boundary is adiabatic, while the top boundary is isothermal. The focus is on a fluid with a large, mathematically infinite, Prandtl number, although the two-dimensional transverse roll instability is discussed also for a finite Prandtl number. The transition to the instability is described through the governing parameter GePe2, where Ge is the Gebhart number and Pe is the Péclet number. The response of the basic Couette flow to arbitrarily oriented oblique rolls is tested, so that a complete set of disturbance modes is taken into account. It is shown that the Couette flow is more unstable to longitudinal rolls than to any other oblique roll mode.
Primary temporal inverted papilloma with premalignant change
Authors: Zhou H , Chen Z , Li H , Xing G
Published: September 2010

Objectives:

To explore the pathology, diagnosis, therapeutic strategies and prognosis of primary temporal inverted papilloma.

Methods:

We present one of the first reported cases of primary temporal inverted papilloma with premalignant change. The available data are reviewed.

Results:

To the best of our knowledge, only 10 evaluable cases of this tumour have been reported. The recurrence rate is higher for this tumour than for sinonasal inverted papilloma.

Conclusion:

Primary temporal inverted papilloma is extremely rare, and its diagnosis should be made only following clinical exclusion of sinonasal papilloma. Therapy mainly comprises radical resection of the lesion, and long-term post-operative follow up is mandatory.
Chronic suppurative otitis media in Nepal: ethnicity does not determine whether disease is associated with cholesteatoma or not
Authors: Thornton D , Martin T P C , Amin P , Haque S , Wilson S , Smith M C F
Published: September 2010

Objectives:

To determine the frequency of cholesteatoma in a population of patients with chronic suppurative otitis media, and to determine whether this frequency is affected by ethnicity.

Patients:

The study included 6005 patients with chronic suppurative otitis media seen during the course of 30 charitable surgical ‘ear camps’ in Nepal.

Main outcome measures:

Proportion of patients with each subtype of disease, and their ethnicity. A secondary outcome measure was concordance of surname with Nepalese ethnic affiliation.

Results:

A total of 762 patients were grouped as being of Tibeto-Mongolian origin, and 4875 as Indo-Caucasian. The rate of chronic suppurative otitis media with cholesteatoma, expressed as a proportion of the rate of all chronic suppurative otitis media subtypes, was 17.8 per cent in Tibeto-Mongolian patients and 18.6 per cent in Indo-Caucasian patients (p > 0.05). The effect of other risk factors (i.e. age, gender and geographical district) on disease distribution was also non-significant. Analysis of secondary outcome measures indicated that patients' surnames were a reliable predictor of ethnicity in this Nepalese population.

Conclusion:

There is almost complete concordance in proportions of patients with significant genetic, cultural, and even geographical heterogeneity, suggesting that, in Nepal, the aetiology of cholesteatoma owes little to these factors.
Animal leptospirosis in small tropical areas
Authors: DESVARS A. , CARDINALE E. , MICHAULT A.
Published: September 2010

Leptospirosis is the most widespread zoonosis in the world. Humans become infected through contact with the urine of carrier animals, directly or via contaminated environments. This review reports available data on animal leptospirosis in ten tropical islands: Barbados, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Grenada, Trinidad, New Caledonia, Hawaii, French Polynesia, La Réunion and Mayotte. Leptospirosis is endemic in these insular wild and domestic fauna. Each island presents a specific panel of circulating serovars, closely linked with animal and environmental biodiversity, making it epidemiologically different from the mainland. Rats, mongooses and mice are proven major renal carriers of leptospires in these areas but dogs also constitute a significant potential reservoir. In some islands seroprevalence of leptospirosis in animals evolves with time, inducing changes in the epidemiology of the human disease. Consequently more investigations on animal leptospirosis in these ecosystems and use of molecular tools are essential for prevention and control of the human disease.
Is hand, foot and mouth disease associated with meteorological parameters?
Authors: MA E. , LAM T. , WONG C. , CHUANG S. K.
Published: September 2010

We examined the relationship between meteorological parameters and hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) activity. Meteorological data collected from 2000 to 2004 were tested for correlation with HFMD consultation rates calculated through the sentinel surveillance system in Hong Kong. The regression model constructed was used to predict HFMD consultation rates for 2005–2009. After adjusting for the effect of collinearity, mean temperature, diurnal difference in temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed were positively associated with HFMD consultation rates, and explained HFMD consultation rates well with 2 weeks' lag time (R2=0·119,P=0·010). The predicted HFMD consultation rates were also also well matched with the observed rates (Spearman's correlation coefficient=0·276,P=0·000) in 2005–2009. Sensitivity analysis showed that HFMD consultation rates were mostly affected by relative humidity and least affected by wind speed. Our model demonstrated that climate parameters help in predicting HFMD activity, which could assist in explaining the winter peak detected in recent years and in issuing early warning.
Que présuppose l'anaphore dite présuppositionnelle? Sur la coréférenciation des expressions nominales complètes
Authors: SALLES MATHILDE
Published: September 2010

Avec la notion d'anaphore ‘présuppositionnelle’, Milner (1982) présente la question de la coréférenciation des expressions complètes (descriptions définies complètes et noms propres) comme une affaire de connaissances extralinguistiques sur les référents. Pourtant, les exemples dans lesquels l'interprétation coréférentielle parvient à s’établir indépendamment de ce type de connaissances ne sont pas si rares. Le rôle des relations de cohérence est ici primordial, mais il l'est aussi pour l'interprétation des expressions incomplètes. L'originalité de l'anaphore présuppositionnelle est donc ailleurs: dans ses affinités avec une relation de cohérence particulière – la relation d’Elaboration– et l'association entre relations de cohérence et relations paratextuelles.