bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting mesh density for adaptive modelling of the global atmosphere
Authors: Weller Hilary
Published: October 2009

The shallow water equations are solved using a mesh of polygons on the sphere, which adapts infrequently to the predicted future solution. Infrequent mesh adaptation reduces the cost of adaptation and load-balancing and will thus allow for more accurate mapping on adaptation.

We simulate the growth of a barotropically unstable jet adapting the mesh every 12 h. Using an adaptation criterion based largely on the gradient of the vorticity leads to a mesh with around 20 per cent of the cells of a uniform mesh that gives equivalent results. This is a similar proportion to previous studies of the same test case with mesh adaptation every 1–20 min.

The prediction of the mesh density involves solving the shallow water equations on a coarse mesh in advance of the locally refined mesh in order to estimate where features requiring higher resolution will grow, decay or move to. The adaptation criterion consists of two parts: that resolved on the coarse mesh, and that which is not resolved and so is passively advected on the coarse mesh. This combination leads to a balance between resolving features controlled by the large-scale dynamics and maintaining fine-scale features.
Anisotropic mesh adaptivity for multi-scale ocean modelling
Authors: Piggott M. D. , Farrell P. E. , Wilson C. R. , Gorman G. J. , Pain C. C.
Published: October 2009

Research into the use of unstructured mesh methods in oceanography has been growing steadily over the past decade. The advantages of this approach for domain representation and non-uniform resolution are clear. However, a number of issues remain, in particular those related to the computational cost of models produced using unstructured mesh methods compared with their structured mesh counterparts. Mesh adaptivity represents an important means to improve the competitiveness of unstructured mesh models, where high resolution is only used when and where necessary. In this paper, an optimization-based approach to mesh adaptivity is described where emphasis is placed on capturing anisotropic solution characteristics. Comparisons are made between the results obtained with uniform isotropic resolution, isotropic adaptive resolution and fully anisotropic adaptive resolution.
A parallel second-order adaptive mesh algorithm for incompressible flow in porous media
Authors: Pau George S. H. , Almgren Ann S. , Bell John B. , Lijewski Michael J.
Published: October 2009

In this paper, we present a second-order accurate adaptive algorithm for solving multi-phase, incompressible flow in porous media. We assume a multi-phase form of Darcy’s law with relative permeabilities given as a function of the phase saturation. The remaining equations express conservation of mass for the fluid constituents. In this setting, the total velocity, defined to be the sum of the phase velocities, is divergence free. The basic integration method is based on a total-velocity splitting approach in which we solve a second-order elliptic pressure equation to obtain a total velocity. This total velocity is then used to recast component conservation equations as nonlinear hyperbolic equations. Our approach to adaptive refinement uses a nested hierarchy of logically rectangular grids with simultaneous refinement of the grids in both space and time. The integration algorithm on the grid hierarchy is a recursive procedure in which coarse grids are advanced in time, fine grids are advanced multiple steps to reach the same time as the coarse grids and the data at different levels are then synchronized. The single-grid algorithm is described briefly, but the emphasis here is on the time-stepping procedure for the adaptive hierarchy. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the algorithm’s accuracy and convergence properties and to illustrate the behaviour of the method.
An all-speed projection and filtering method for gravity-stratified flows
Authors: Gatti-Bono Caroline , Colella Phillip
Published: October 2009

Gravity waves arise in gravitationally stratified compressible flows at low Mach and Froude numbers, and these waves impose a sharp restriction on the time step. This paper presents a filtering strategy for the fully compressible equations based on normal-mode analysis that is used throughout the simulation to compute the fast dynamics and is able to damp only chosen modes. This method is based on an asymptotic analysis and respects the dynamics of gravity waves for thin layers. Finally, the filtering method is tested on a series of examples.
Well-balanced compressible cut-cell simulation of atmospheric flow
Authors: Klein R. , Bates K. R. , Nikiforakis N.
Published: October 2009

Cut-cell meshes present an attractive alternative to terrain-following coordinates for the representation of topography within atmospheric flow simulations, particularly in regions of steep topographic gradients. In this paper, we present an explicit two-dimensional method for the numerical solution on such meshes of atmospheric flow equations including gravitational sources. This method is fully conservative and allows for time steps determined by the regular grid spacing, avoiding potential stability issues due to arbitrarily small boundary cells. We believe that the scheme is unique in that it is developed within a dimensionally split framework, in which each coordinate direction in the flow is solved independently at each time step. Other notable features of the scheme are: (i) its conceptual and practical simplicity, (ii) its flexibility with regard to the one-dimensional flux approximation scheme employed, and (iii) the well-balancing of the gravitational sources allowing for stable simulation of near-hydrostatic flows. The presented method is applied to a selection of test problems including buoyant bubble rise interacting with geometry and lee-wave generation due to topography.
Predictive maintenance techniques
Authors: Lu Bin , Durocher David , Stemper Peter
Published: October 2009

This article discusses the importance of PdM for industrial process applications and investigates a number of emerging technologies that enable this approach, including online energy-efficiency evaluation and continuous condition monitoring. The article gives an overview of existing and future technologies that can be used in these areas. Two methods for bearing fault detection and energy-efficiency estimation are discussed. The article concludes with focus on one pilot installation at Weyerhaeuser's Containerboard Packaging Plant in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, USA, monitoring three critical induction motors: a 75-hrho blower motor, a 50-hrho hydraulic pump motor, and a 200-hp compressor motor. Finally, the field experience gained in this plant is presented as two case studies.
The impact of missing data on real morphological phylogenies: influence of the number and distribution of missing entries
Authors: Prevosti Francisco J. , Chemisquy María A.
Published: October 2009

Here we explore the effect of missing data in phylogenetic analyses using a large number of real morphological matrices. Different percentages and patterns of missing entries were added to each matrix, and their influence was evaluated by comparing the accuracy and error of most parsimonious trees. The relationships between accuracy and error and different parameters (e.g. the number of taxa and characters, homoplasy, support) were also evaluated. Our findings, based on real matrices, agree with the simulation studies, i.e. the negative effect increases with the percentage of missing entries, and decreases with the addition of more characters. This indicates that the main problem is the lack of information, not just the presence of missing data per se. Accuracy varies with different distribution patterns of missing entries; the worst case is when missing data are concentrated in a few taxa, while the best is when the missing entries are restricted to just a few characters. The results expand our knowledge of the missing data problem, corroborate many of the findings previously published using simulations, and could be useful for empirical or theoretical studies.

 © The Willi Hennig Society 2009.
Randomized controlled trial of dexamphetamine maintenance for the treatment of methamphetamine dependence
Authors: Longo Marie , Wickes Wendy , Smout Matthew , Harrison Sonia , Cahill Sharon , White Jason M.
Published: October 2009

Aim  To investigate the safety and efficacy of once‐daily supervised oral administration of sustained‐release dexamphetamine in people dependent on methamphetamine.

Design  Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Participants  Forty‐nine methamphetamine‐dependent drug users from Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia (DASSA) clinics.

Intervention  Participants were assigned randomly to receive up to 110 mg/day sustained‐release dexamphetamine (n = 23) or placebo (n = 26) for a maximum of 12 weeks, with gradual reduction of the study medication over an additional 4 weeks. Medication was taken daily under pharmacist supervision.

Measurements  Primary outcome measures included treatment retention, measures of methamphetamine consumption (self‐report and hair analysis), degree of methamphetamine dependence and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal. Hair samples were analysed for methamphetamine using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry.

Findings  Treatment retention was significantly different between groups, with those who received dexamphetamine remaining in treatment for an average of 86.3 days compared with 48.6 days for those receiving placebo (P = 0.014). There were significant reductions in self‐reported methamphetamine use between baseline and follow‐up within each group (P < 0.0001), with a trend to a greater reduction among the dexamphetamine group (P = 0.086). Based on hair analysis, there was a significant decrease in methamphetamine concentration for both groups (P < 0.0001). At follow‐up, degree of methamphetamine dependence was significantly lower in the dexamphetamine group (P = 0.042). Dexamphetamine maintenance was not associated with serious adverse events.

Conclusions  The results of this preliminary study have demonstrated that a maintenance pharmacotherapy programme of daily sustained‐release amphetamine dispensing under pharmacist supervision is both feasible and safe. The increased retention in the dexamphetamine group, together with the general decreases in methamphetamine use, degree of dependence and withdrawal symptom severity, provide preliminary evidence that this may be an efficacious treatment option for methamphetamine dependence.
A randomized double-blind controlled trial to compare a triclosan-containing emollient with vehicle for the treatment of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Tan W. P. , Suresh S. , Tey H. L. , Chiam L. Y. , Goon A. T.
Published: October 2009

The use of topical antiseptics in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) has previously been explored. However, no triclosan-containing leave-on emollient has been evaluated previously, to our knowledge. The aims of this study were to assess the safety and efficacy of an emollient containing triclosan compared with the emollient alone (vehicle) for the treatment of AD. Eligible patients with mild to moderate AD were randomized to receive either the study cream or vehicle. All patients also received a low-potency corticosteroid cream to use during the treatment phase of the study if necessary. Patients were assessed for severity according to the SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) Index, amount of corticosteroid used, patient assessment of cream, and adverse events (AEs). In total, 60 patients received either the study cream or vehicle, and an intention-to-treat analysis was performed. At day 14, there was a significant decrease in SCORAD from baseline for the study cream compared with vehicle (P < 0.05). At day 27, although there was an improved mean reduction from baseline, this was no longer significant (P > 0.05). Only four patients had mild treatment-related AEs. The mean total amount of topical steroid applied by the patients using the study was significantly lower than that used by controls (P = 0.40). Triclosan-containing leave-on emollient was safe and highly acceptable to patients. However, the overall benefit on day 27 was not significant. Nevertheless, the amount of topical steroid used by patients was significantly less with the study cream than with the vehicle, thus further studies are needed to confirm its steroid-sparing effect.
Salted and fermented fish processes evaluation
Authors: Pombo Cecília Riscado , Mársico Eliane Teixeira , Franco Robson Maia , Guimarães Carlos Frederico Marques , Da Cruz Ana Maria Paschoal , Pardi Henrique Silva
Published: October 2009

Fish curing by salting and fermentation is the result of the action of certain enzymes over fresh fish. This study aimed to evaluate and compare three technological processing methods (A, B, C). Coliforms, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., coagulase‐positive Staphylococcus, Salmonella spp., total volatile base (TVB), pH, water activity (Wa), sodium chloride and biogenic amines were evaluated. A significant difference in histamine production (P < 0.05) was observed. Escherichia spp., Klebsiella spp, Proteus spp., Shigella spp., Citrobacter spp. and Pseudomonas spp. were isolated. Sodium chloride content varied between 15.65 and 18.87% and no significant difference was observed (P > 0.05). Wa and pH showed significant differences (P < 0.05), with values between 0.71 and 0.75, and 5.54 and 5.93. TVB values varied between 15.1 and 62.1 mg N 100 g−1, showing significant differences (P < 0.05) as well. Worrying levels of histamine were found. Processing method A was found to be the most appropriate for the production of this kind of fish.
Antioxidant and toxicity tests of roasted noni (Morinda citrifolia) leaf infusion
Authors: West Brett J. , Deng Shixin , Palu Afa K.
Published: October 2009

The antioxidant properties and toxicity profile of roasted noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) leaf infusion were evaluated. The 2,2‐diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity was greater than green tea infusion (81.6 ± 0.9% vs. 57.5 ± 1.8%, P < 0.001). The mean quercetin and kaempferol contents of roasted noni leaf infusion, as prepared by the consumer, were 0.24 ± 0.01 and 0.14 ± 0.01 μg mL−1, respectively. Tannic acid content was 10 ± 1 μg mL−1. The infusion was non‐mutagenic in the reverse mutation test in Salmonella typhimurium and did not induce primary DNA damage in E. coli PQ37. Further, no significant primary DNA damage was induced by 5,15‐dimethylmorindol, which was the only detectable anthraquinone in noni leaves. The infusion was not cytotoxic in the 24 h brine shrimp toxicity test (LC50 > 1 mg mL−1), nor was there any evidence of acute oral toxicity from the freeze–dried infusion in Sprague–Dawley rats (LD50 > 2000 mg kg−1 b.w.).
Comparison of quality and shelf life of buffalo meat patties stored at refrigeration temperature
Authors: Kandeepan Gurunathan , Anjaneyulu Anne Seet Ram , Kondaiah Napa , Mendiratta Sanjod Kumar , Suresh Ramanathan
Published: October 2009

Scientific investigation on the quality changes of processed meat products will boost and sustain the meat production and utilization in buffalo abundant countries. A programme was undertaken to compare the quality of buffalo meat patties made from intensively reared young male, semi extensively reared spent male and female groups and stored at refrigeration temperature (4 ± 1 °C). Buffalo meat patties were evaluated for shelf life attributes by analysing the changes in physicochemical, microbiological and sensory attributes. The overall acceptability of patties was better in spent buffalo group than young male group. Increasing storage time resulted in significantly higher pH, TBARS, total aerobic mesophils, coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and psychrophilic counts but decreased appearance, flavour, juiciness, tenderness, connective tissue residue and overall acceptability scores of buffalo meat patties. The patties were well acceptable within 20 days in young male group and 25 days in spent buffalo group respectively during refrigerator storage.
Effect of cooking, in vitro digestion and Caco‐2 cells absorption on the radical scavenging activities of edible mushrooms
Authors: Soler‐Rivas Cristina , Ramírez‐Anguiano Ana Cristina , Reglero Guillermo , Santoyo Susana
Published: October 2009

Agaricus bisporus, Lentinula edodes and Boletus edulis fruiting bodies were submitted to domestic cooking treatments, in vitro digestion and absorption tests to investigate whether their antioxidant compounds were bioaccesible and bioavailable. Water‐soluble antioxidants were more resistant to boiling, frying, grilling and microwaving than methanol‐soluble antioxidants. The precise influence of the cooking methodologies was specie‐dependent with aqueous cooking being the most drastic treatment. Cooking affected the 2,2′‐Azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl scavenging activities more than digestion because after intestinal digestion, the antioxidant capacities were higher than grilled mushrooms, probably because other antioxidants were generated or liberated during this step. Caco‐2 monolayers absorbed 47.6% of the antioxidant activity of the applied digested extracts from A. bisporus (33.4% in B. edulis) and transformed the applied compounds into other antioxidants, since the bioavailable fraction of L. edodes showed higher antioxidant activity than the applied fraction. Phenolic compounds, not proteins or digestion products from polysaccharides, seemed to be related to the absorbed antioxidant activities.
Changes in volatile compounds and sensory quality during toasting of Spanish almonds
Authors: Vázquez‐Araújo Laura , Verdú Alexis , Navarro Patricia , Martínez‐Sánchez Francisco , Carbonell‐Barrachina Ángel A.
Published: October 2009

Toasting is one of the most important unit operations in turrón manufacture. The main objective was to study changes in volatile compounds and sensory odour and aroma during almond toasting. Two almond cultivars were studied ‘Comuna’ and ‘Marcona’. CIEL*a*b* colour, instrumental aroma and sensory odour and flavour were evaluated in toasted almonds (200 °C: the most popular temperature for almond toasting in convection ovens) at five times from 12 to 23 min. The main pyrazines found were: 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine, 2‐ethyl‐3‐methylpyrazine, 2‐methylpyrazine and 2,4‐dimethyl‐3‐ethylpyrazine. Pyrazines, furans and pyrroles concentrations in ‘Comuna’ almonds were higher than in ‘Marcona’ samples at the end of toasting; however, sensory analysis showed that 23 min were too long for ‘Comuna’ almonds (burnt notes) and shorter toasting time must be applied. Based on both instrumental and sensory colour and aroma data, the recommended toasting time at 200 °C in convection ovens for ‘Comuna’ and ‘Marcona’ almonds should be 20 min.
Combined effects of thymol, carvacrol and grapefruit seed extract on lipid oxidation and colour stability of poultry meat preparations
Authors: Lucera Annalisa , Mastromatteo Marianna , Sinigaglia Milena , Corbo Maria Rosaria
Published: October 2009

The combined effects of thymol, carvacrol and grapefruit seed extract (GFSE) on lipid oxidation and colour stability of poultry meat preparations packaged in air or modified atmospheres (MAP: 5% O2; 30% CO2; 65% N2) were investigated using a simplex centroid mixture design. Lipid oxidation was evaluated through measurement of secondary oxidation products (malonaldehyde, MDA) and general appearance with visual assessment and instrumental measurement of colour. Thymol and carvacrol, as individual antioxidants, retarded the oxidation process by maintaining MDA values below 2 mg kg−1 meat. The effect of GFSE was less than thymol and carvacrol. Redness (a*) decreased in all treatments during storage but this reduction was more evident in the control and in samples containing GFSE than in thymol and carvacrol. Although colour acceptability decreased with time, all meat preparations packaged in air maintained desirable appearance better than samples in MAP. Also, off‐odours developed faster in the samples packaged in MAP than in aerobically packaged samples.
Changes in viscosity and pectolytic enzymes of tomato and strawberry juices processed by high‐intensity pulsed electric fields
Authors: Aguiló‐Aguayo Ingrid , Soliva‐Fortuny Robert , Martín‐Belloso Olga
Published: October 2009

The effects pulse frequency (50–250 Hz), pulse width (1.0–7.0 μs) and polarity (monopolar or bipolar) of high‐intensity pulsed electric field treatments (35 kV cm−1 and 1000 μs) on viscosity and the pectin methylesterase (PME) and polygalacturonase (PG) activities were evaluated using a response surface methodology. Second‐order expressions were accurate enough to fit experimental results. Tomato juice apparent viscosity increased within the range of the assayed conditions, achieving the highest values at 250 Hz and 7.0 μs in bipolar mode. At the same conditions the lowest residual PME (RAPME = 10%) and PG (RAPG = 45%) activities were observed in the juice. Apparent viscosity of strawberry juices slightly rose when frequencies higher than 100 Hz and 1‐μs monopolar pulses were applied to the juice. Treatments causing the greatest increase in strawberry juice apparent viscosity also led to the lowest RAPME (10%) and RAPG (75%) values. In contrast, viscosity loss was promoted under the rest of assayed HIPEF conditions despite the low RAPME values (<20%) achieved. Moreover, RAPG did not decrease below 75% throughout the range of studied conditions.
Changes in volatile compounds of pickled mustard tuber (Brassica junceavar. tsatsai) during the pickling process
Authors: Liu Ming‐Chun , Li Zheng‐Guo , Deng Wei , Wang Guo‐Ming , Yang Ying‐Wu
Published: October 2009

This study was carried out to determine the changes of volatile compounds composition during pickled mustard tuber production. The samples were collected at different pickling stages from the traditional industry production way in Chongqing, China. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry were performed after simultaneous distillation and extraction. The results showed that ITC (isothiocyanates) possessed the highest relative percentage area (RPA) 78.87%, followed by sulphide compounds with RPA of 14.48%. Main volatile compounds that determined were allyl ITC, dimethyl trisulphide, (2‐isothiocyanatoethyl)‐benzene, n‐Hexadecanoic acid and linolenic acid ethyl ester, which were responsible for the hot and pungent flavour of pickled mustard tuber. The sulphides, acids, aldehydes, alcohols, phenols, esters, nitriles and heterocyclic compounds increase with pickling time but ITC increase at the first and second pickling stage, then start to decrease in the last pickling stage. It was also demonstrated that more than 60‐day pickling time was necessary for the formation of the typical aroma notes.
Influence of pre‐cure freezing of Iberian hams on lipolytic changes and lipid oxidation
Authors: Pérez‐Palacios Trinidad , Ruiz Jorge , Grau Raúl , Flores Mónica , Antequera Teresa
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this work was to study the influence of pre‐cure freezing of Iberian hams on lipolysis and lipid oxidation during the ripening of the product. At the green stage, the levels of fatty acids (FA) in the free fatty acids fraction were higher in pre‐cure frozen (F) than in refrigerated (R) hams, whereas in the polar lipid fraction, FA and dimethyl acetals (DMA) values were higher in R than in F Iberian hams. These results point out the existence of lipolysis phenomena during the freezing storage. At the end of post‐salting and at the final stage, both R and F hams showed similar FA and DMA profiles. The effect of pre‐cure freezing of hams influenced lipolysis evolution throughout the processing. The development of lipid oxidation was similar in R and F hams, but Thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBAR) values were significantly higher in F hams at the initial stage and at the end of post‐salting and drying steps. Despite all these differences, at final stage the FA and DMA composition as well as TBAR levels were quite similar in R and F hams.
Improvement of functional properties of acid‐precipitated soy protein by the attachment of dextran through Maillard reaction
Authors: Qi Jun‐Ru , Yang Xiao‐Quan , Liao Jin‐Song
Published: October 2009

The functional acid‐precipitated soy protein (SAPP)–dextran conjugate was prepared by dry‐heated storage at 60 °C under 79% relative humidity (RH) for 5 days through Maillard reaction between the ε‐amino of lysine in soy proteins and the reducing‐end carbonyl residue in the dextran. The covalent attachment of dextran to SAPP was confirmed by SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gel filtration chromatography. Functional properties of soy protein depend on the structural and aggregation characteristics of their major components (storage globulins 7S and 11S). The conjugate seemed to be predominantly formed by 7S, and the acidic subunits of 11S in soy protein. The emulsifying properties of the SAPP–dextran conjugate were about four times higher than those of SAPP. The solubility of the protein was not enhanced as a result of preheating, but rather it was not decreased when the conjugated protein was heated at 90 °C for 20 min due to the presence of the polysaccharide. The excellent emulsifying properties of SAPP–dextran conjugate were maintained even at pH 3.0 and were further improved at pH 10.0. The object of Maillard reaction is to guarantee the suitable reaction degree, and the resulting soluble conjugate can have excellent emulsifying properties.
Phenolic content and antioxidant activity of four date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit varieties grown in Tunisia
Authors: Saafi Emna Behija , El Arem Amira , Issaoui Manel , Hammami Mohamed , Achour Lotfi
Published: October 2009

Fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are consumed throughout the world and are a vital component of the diet in most Arabian countries. This study has been carried out to evaluate the total phenolic content and the antioxidant activity of four date palm fruit varieties grown in Tunisia. All measurements were made at the ‘tamar’ stage‐the final stage of fruit ripeness. The date varieties were found to be rich in total phenolic ranging from 209.42 mg of equivalent gallic acid/100 g fresh weight in Kentichi to 447.73 mg equivalent gallic acid/100 g fresh weight in Allig. The date varieties studied were characterised by a high antioxidant activity ranging from 866.82 for the Deglet Nour to 1148.11 μmol Equivalent Trolox/100 g fresh weight for Khouet Kenta by the ABTS method. In fact, the DPPH method revealed that Allig having the lowest antioxidant activity (0.72) followed by Deglet Nour (1.53), Kentichi (1.68) and Khouet Kenta variety (1.96). This study suggest that Tunisian date palm fruit may serve as a good source of natural antioxidants and could potentially be considered as a functional food ingredient.
Role of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I in chromosomal DNA replication fidelity
Authors: Makiela‐Dzbenska Karolina , Jaszczur Malgorzata , Banach‐Orlowska Magdalena , Jonczyk Piotr , Schaaper Roel M. , Fijalkowska Iwona J.
Published: October 2009

We have investigated the possible role of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase (Pol) I in chromosomal replication fidelity. This was done by substituting the chromosomal polA gene by the polAexo variant containing an inactivated 3′→5′ exonuclease, which serves as a proofreader for this enzyme's misinsertion errors. Using this strain, activities of Pol I during DNA replication might be detectable as increases in the bacterial mutation rate. Using a series of defined lacZ reversion alleles in two orientations on the chromosome as markers for mutagenesis, 1.5‐ to 4‐fold increases in mutant frequencies were observed. In general, these increases were largest for lac orientations favouring events during lagging strand DNA replication. Further analysis of these effects in strains affected in other E. coli DNA replication functions indicated that this polAexo mutator effect is best explained by an effect that is additive compared with other error‐producing events at the replication fork. No evidence was found that Pol I participates in the polymerase switching between Pol II, III and IV at the fork. Instead, our data suggest that the additional errors produced by polAexo are created during the maturation of Okazaki fragments in the lagging strand.
Depressive tendency in children with growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Abe Shinpei , Okumura Akihisa , Mukae Tomoaki , Nakazawa Tomoyuki , Niijima Shin‐ichi , Yamashiro Yuichiro , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: October 2009

Aim:  This study assessed changes in depressive tendency of children with growth hormone deficiency.

Methods:  The 41 children with growth hormone deficiency were assessed using the Depression Self‐Rating Scale for Children. A score of 16 or more indicated a depressive tendency. The first assessment was carried out before growth hormone treatment, and the second one was carried out at 6 months or longer after the beginning of growth hormone treatment.

Results:  The Depression Self‐Rating Scale for Children improved significantly from 9.7 ± 6.1 points before treatment to 6.9 ± 4.6 points after treatment (P= 0.0013). A depressive tendency was observed in six patients (15%) before growth hormone treatment, and in two patients (5%) after treatment. No significant relationship was observed between the decrease in the score and the length of the treatment. A significant improvement was observed for 6 of the 18 items in the Depression Self‐Rating Scale for Children.

Conclusion:  A depressive tendency was relatively common in children with growth hormone deficiency, and the Depression Self‐Rating Scale for Children was decreased after growth hormone treatment. These results suggest that growth hormone treatment may have positive effects on the psychosocial aspects in children with growth hormone deficiency.
Familial Mediterranean fever gene mutations in the inner northern region of Turkey and genotype–phenotype correlation in children
Authors: Yilmaz Resul , Ozer Samet , Ozyurt Huseyin , Erkorkmaz Unal , Sahin Semsettin
Published: October 2009

Aim:  Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of fever, polyserositis and rash. The aim of this study was to determine the most common mutations and clinical features, and their relationships.

Methods:  The medical records of 78 patients were evaluated retrospectively. All of the patients had been diagnosed with FMF according to Tel Hashomer criteria between January 2005 and May 2008 in general paediatric clinics of the School of Medicine at Gaziosmanpasa University. Twelve mutations were detected in the 78 patients by polymerase chain reaction–enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The patients were classified into three groups according to allele status.

Results:  The most prominent clinical symptoms were abdominal pain (95%), fever (90%), arthritis (33%) and pleuritis (31%). Seventeen different genotypes were identified. The mutations were homozygous in 25 (32%) patients, compound heterozygous in 28 (36%) patients and heterozygous in 22 (28%) patients. No mutation was detected in three (4%) patients. The most frequent mutations were M694V (55%), M680I (16%), E148Q (10%) and P369S (4%). The mean symptom severity score was highest in the homozygous group, and high levels of C‐reactive protein were also detected in this group.

Conclusions:  In addition to clinical criteria, molecular studies for detecting disease‐causing mutations are needed to establish the diagnosis of FMF. FMF patients who were homozygous for MEFV gene mutations had a higher symptom severity score and higher incidence of appendectomy. The broad spectrum of mutations may reflect intercultural interactions of ethnic groups in Anatolia. Nation‐wide studies may help to determine the relationships among demographic, clinical and genetic features of FMF.
Influenza‐related hospitalisations in children
Authors: Kwong Karen L , Lung David , Wong Sik Nin , Que Tak Lun , Kwong Ngai Shan
Published: October 2009

Aim:  To describe the disease burden, clinical pattern and outcome of influenza‐related hospitalisations in children.

Methods:  This is a retrospective study carried out in a regional hospital in Hong Kong. Children hospitalised with established diagnosis of influenza infection from January to June of 2005 were studied. Length of hospitalisation, demographic characteristics, symptoms, clinical diagnosis and complications of influenza infection were analysed.

Results:  Influenza A infection accounted for 93.5% of these hospitalisations. Children less than 5 years of age comprised 70% of admission. Highest rate of admission occurred in May and April. One fourth of emergency admission during the study period and over 70% in the peak season was a result of influenza‐related illness. Underlying medical disease was observed in 14.6% of children. Mean duration of hospitalisation was 3.0 days. Fever was the commonest presenting symptoms. Fever lasting for 7 days or more was observed in one‐fifth of patients. Respiratory tract diseases (upper and lower) were the most frequent non‐neurological diagnosis. Febrile convulsion was the complication observed in 27.6% of admission. One patient died as a result of acute necrotising encephalopathy.

Conclusion:  Influenza contributed to heavy health‐care burden. Mortality was rare but did occur. Hospitalisations occurred in both healthy children and those with underlying chronic illness. Young children played an important role in such hospitalisations. Means to prevent influenza‐associated morbidity and mortality especially among young children are needed.
Socio‐cultural perceptions of sudden infant death syndrome among migrant Indian mothers
Authors: Aslam Henna , Kemp Lynn , Harris Elizabeth , Gilbert Emilee
Published: October 2009

Aim:  To explore socio‐cultural influences on migrant mother decisions and beliefs regarding co‐sleeping as a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Methods:  Semi‐structured interviews with five Indian‐born women in a socio‐economically disadvantaged suburb in the south‐west of Sydney were conducted between September and December 2007. Transcripts were analysed using principles of discourse analysis.

Results:  Discourse analysis revealed that SIDS‐related decisions and beliefs about co‐sleeping as a risk factor for SIDS are constructed amid competing discourses of motherhood and child health. Mothers are either actively or unconsciously deciding how they negotiate or resist dominant Western discourses of motherhood and child health to make ‘the best’ health‐related decisions for their children. Participants resisted acknowledging child sleep practices recommended by health practitioners, particularly recommendations to put to sleep the baby in its own cot. This resistance was expressed by constructing messages as ‘inapplicable’ and ‘inappropriate’. Co‐sleeping was constructed as a highly valued practice for its physical and social benefits to the child, mother and family by facilitating child security, breastfeeding, bonding and family connectedness.

Conclusion:  This study illustrates how decisions and behaviour are shaped by socio‐cultural influences embedded in discourses and context. It also shows that in‐depth investigation through a social constructivist lens is particularly useful for investigating influences on knowledge acquisition, interpretation and implementation among migrant groups. A greater appreciation of the social meanings and ideologies attached to behaviours can help to ensure that the correct messages reach the correct populations, and that child health outcomes can be achieved and maintained both for overseas and Australian‐born populations.
Resurgence of Acanthamoeba keratitis in Auckland, New Zealand: a 7‐year review of presentation and outcomes
Authors: Patel Dipika V , Rayner Sandra , McGhee Charles NJ
Published: October 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  To investigate the presentation, clinical characteristics and outcomes of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) in Auckland, New Zealand over a 7‐year period.

Methods:  Retrospective analysis of all cases of AK treated by the tertiary corneal service at Auckland City Hospital/ University of Auckland Department of Ophthalmology (August 2001 to May 2008). Data were collected regarding age, gender, contact lens history, presenting signs and symptoms, diagnosis at first presentation, time to final diagnosis, identifiable risk factors, presenting and final visual acuity, results of microbiological testing, medical treatment, surgical interventions, recurrence of disease and length of follow up. All photographs and in vivo confocal microscopy images were reviewed.

Results:  Twenty‐five eyes of 25 patients were identified with a diagnosis of AK (mean age 40 ± 13 years). Ninety‐six per cent were contact lens wearers. Mean time to diagnosis was 41 ± 49 days (range 0–181 days, median 21 days). Fourteen patients (56%) had been treated with topical corticosteroids prior to the diagnosis. Early diagnosis of AK (<21 days) was associated with significantly better final visual acuity and did not require any surgical intervention compared with those diagnosed at a later stage. Six patients, all in the late diagnosis group, required surgical intervention.

Conclusions:  AK has become significantly more common in New Zealand in the current decade. This study highlights the fundamental importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management in ensuring favourable outcomes. Practitioners should maintain a clinical suspicion of AK, especially as 96% of the subjects in this study were contact lens wearers.
Understanding the mechanism of the water drinking test: the role of fluid challenge volume in patients with medically controlled primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: Kerr Nathan M , Danesh‐Meyer Helen V
Published: October 2009

Abstract

Background:  To determine whether a 500‐mL fluid challenge produces a different intraocular pressure (IOP) response profile compared with a 1000‐mL water drinking test (WDT).

Methods:  Prospective, observer‐masked, cross‐over, observational study. Patients with primary open angle glaucoma were recruited from a private specialist glaucoma practice. One eye of each patient was included. Subjects were randomized to receive either a 500‐mL or 1000‐mL fluid challenge. Baseline IOP was recorded with a Goldmann applanation tonometer and then every 15 min for 1 h. A second WDT with the alternate volume of water was performed after a minimum washout period of 24 h. Primary statistical analysis was performed using a two‐way anova repeated measures of variance with a Bonferroni post‐hoc test.

Results:  Fifteen patients were included in this study. The mean patient age was 67.0 ± 10.2 (SD) years, and 60% of patients were female. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline IOP between the 500‐mL and 1000‐mL WDTs (P = 0.11). Both fluid challenge volumes produced a statistically significant rise in IOP from baseline at 15, 30 and 45 min after water ingestion. However the mean maximum increase in IOP was less in the 500‐mL WDT (3.3 ± 1.8 mmHg [23.9%]) compared with the 1000‐mL WDT (4.9 ± 2.3 mmHg [32.5%]; P = 0.0095).

Conclusion:  The 500‐mL WDT may provide an alternative for patients who are unable to tolerate drinking 1000 mL of water. However, because the maximum IOP obtained is less, a 500‐mL WDT cannot be used to directly estimate peak diurnal pressure.
How has the remnant population of the threatened frogLeiopelma pakeka(Anura: Leiopelmatidae) fared on Maud Island, New Zealand, over the past 25 years?
Authors: BELL BEN D. , PLEDGER SHIRLEY A.
Published: October 2009

Despite widespread global reports of declining amphibian populations, supporting long‐term census data are few, limiting opportunities to study changes in numbers and survival over time. However, in New Zealand, for the past 25 years (1983–2008), we studiedLeiopelma pakeka, a threatened, terrestrial frog that inhabits rocky boulder banks under forest on Maud Island. Using night sampling at least annually on two 12 × 12 m plots, we had 5390 captures of 1000+ individuals, 327 on one plot (grid 1), 751 on the other (grid 2). The mean (±SE) number of frogs found per night was 11.3 (±0.6) on grid 1 and 25.6 (±1.4) on grid 2. We used capture‐recapture models to estimate population size, proportion of animals remaining beneath the surface and survival rate. The mean (±SE) population estimate was 131 (±14.7) frogs on grid 1 and 367 (±38.7) on grid 2. Over 25 years the estimated population increased on grid 1 and fluctuated on grid 2. Some frogs were captured on most sampling visits, others less often, evidently failing to emerge from cover each visit. Using a combination of open and closed population models, we estimated the mean (±SE) proportion remaining underground was 0.63 (±0.12) on grid 1 and 0.53 (±0.07) on grid 2. Our research represents one of the longest‐run population studies of any frog, and we recorded significant longevity, two males reaching 35+ and 37+ years, a female 34+ years. No significant differences occurred between mean annual survival rates of apparent females and males, or between the two sites. The number of toes clipped for individual identification had little influence on the return rate, once the effect of time of first capture was removed.
Classifying the fire‐response traits of plants: How reliable are species‐level classifications?
Authors: VIVIAN LYNDSEY MARIE , DOHERTY MICHAEL DAMIEN , CARY GEOFFREY JOHN
Published: October 2009

Plant species in fire‐prone environments possess specific traits which allow them to survive fire. Species are commonly classified according to whether they survive fire and resprout or whether they are killed by fire and regenerate from seed. However, different populations of the same species have been shown to vary in their responses. Therefore, the classification of a species into a single category based on fire‐response traits may not necessarily be representative of every population under every circumstance. This study examined the extent of within‐species variation in fire‐response traits of woody plants in south‐eastern Australia after the 2003 fires. Species were then classified using two approaches: (i) using data from a field survey of fire‐response traits, taking into account within‐species variation; and (ii) using species' fire responses listed in a pre‐existing fire‐response database compiled from a variety of primary sources. Field data showed that the majority of species in the study area resprouted after fire with around one in 10 species variable in their resprouting response. Almost half of all species varied from site to site according to whether they regenerated from seed, either solely or in addition to resprouting. The numbers of species classified as resprouters and seed regenerators varied according to the classification method used. Differences were also found between the classification method when calculating the mean proportion of resprouters and seed regenerators across sites. The fire‐response traits for some species from the database were found to differ from the observed field responses. This study demonstrated that the application of a fire‐response trait, reported in a trait database, to an entire species, may not adequately represent the actual fire responses of the populations of interest. Rather than considering the fire‐response traits of a species, accurate prediction may be better achieved by considering how different populations of plants will respond to fire.
Relative impacts of cattle grazing and feral animals on an Australian arid zone reptile and small mammal assemblage
Authors: READ JOHN L. , CUNNINGHAM ROSS
Published: October 2009

The effect of different levels of cattle grazing on an arid Australian small terrestrial mammal and lizard assemblage was assessed in a long‐tem series of cross‐fence comparisons. Cross‐fenced sites were closely matched for edaphic and vegetation characteristics and experienced near identical weather patterns, to ensure that cattle grazing pressure was the principal determinant of any differences in fauna assemblages. In addition, the effects of removal of cattle, cats, foxes and rabbits from three of these long‐term monitoring sites were assessed to determine the relative impacts of cattle grazing and feral animals. Small mammal captures, with the exception of Mus musculus, revealed a significant negative response to cattle grazing pressure but this response was of a considerably lower magnitude than the dramatic increase in rodent captures and species richness within the feral animal‐proof Arid Recovery Reserve. Higher kangaroo numbers in ungrazed controls, compared with treatments grazed by cattle, possibly negated the benefits to small mammals of removing cattle grazing. No reptile species responded significantly to the grazing treatments although reptile richness and captures of geckos and skinks were the lowest and agamid captures were the highest at heavily grazed sites. Nephrurus levis was the only reptile species to increase significantly, while captures of some smaller geckoes declined, within the feral‐proof treatment. Feral predation exerted a more significant effect on most small mammal species than the levels of cattle grazing assessed in this study, yet reptile responses to grazing or feral animals were less apparent and were likely primarily driven by changes in vegetation cover or secondary trophic impacts.
Responses of two species of heathland rodents to habitat manipulation: Vegetation density thresholds and the habitat accommodation model
Authors: MONAMY VAUGHAN , FOX BARRY J.
Published: October 2009

The abundance of two native rodent species,Rattus lutreolusandPseudomys gracilicaudatus, has been shown to correlate with vegetation density in coastal wet heath. Fox's habitat accommodation model relates relative abundances of such small mammal species to heathland vegetation regeneration following disturbance. Implicit in the model is recognition that it is successional changes in vegetation, not time per se, that drives the responses of small mammal species along a regeneration axis. Using a brush‐cutter we deliberately removed approximately 85% of vegetation around trapping stations and recorded significant reductions in the abundance of bothP. gracilicaudatus(an earlier‐stage colonizing species) andR. lutreolus(a late seral‐stage species). A significant decrease in the abundance of only the latter had been demonstrated previously when 60–70% of the vegetation had been removed. Following the brush‐cutting both species re‐entered the mammalian secondary succession at different times, firstP. gracilicaudatusfollowed byR. lutreolusafter the vegetation cover thresholds of each species had been reached. The impact of this habitat manipulation experiment was to produce a retrogression of the small mammal succession, experimentally demonstrating causality between changes in vegetation density and subsequent small mammal habitat use.