bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overstorey tree species regulate colonization by native and exotic plants: a source of positive relationships between understorey diversity and invasibility
Authors: Knight Kathleen S. , Oleksyn Jacek , Jagodzinski Andrzej M. , Reich Peter B. , Kasprowicz Marek
Published: February 2009

The North American woody species, Prunus serotina Ehrh., is an aggressive invader of forest understories in Europe. To better understand the plant invasion process, we assessed understorey plants and Prunus serotina seedlings that have colonized a 35‐year‐old replicated common‐garden experiment of 14 tree species in south‐western Poland. The density and size of established (> 1 year old) P. serotina seedlings varied among overstorey species and were related to variation in light availability and attributes of the understorey layer. In a multiple regression analysis, the density of established P. serotina seedlings was positively correlated with light availability and understorey species richness and negatively correlated with understorey species cover. These results suggest that woody invader success is adversely affected by overstorey shading and understorey competition for resources. Simultaneously, however, invader success may generally be positively associated with understorey species richness because both native and invasive plant colonization respond similarly to environmental conditions, including those influenced by overstorey tree species. Identification of characteristics of forests that increase their susceptibility to invasion may allow managers to target efforts to detect invasives and to restore forests to states that may be less invasible.
Marine biogeographical disjunction in temperate Australia: historical landbridge, contemporary currents, or both?
Authors: Waters Jonathan M.
Published: February 2009

Marine biogeographers have long recognized broad east–west differentiation of marine communities across southern Australia, but few studies have explicitly assessed the site of disjunction or the factors potentially underlying this biodiversity. A recent, detailed phylogeographical and distributional study of the dispersive gastropod genus Nerita revealed an abrupt shift in species abundance across mainland Australia, apparently correlated with the site of an historical vicariant barrier: the Bassian Isthmus. In the current study I provide an independent assessment of this vicariant hypothesis by morphologically analysing over 3000 intertidal Nerita specimens from eight coastal sites around Tasmania. Consistent with the Bassian Isthmus hypothesis, the study reveals a dramatic east–west disjunction across north‐east Tasmania. A survey of marine biogeographical literature reveals several additional examples supporting the east–west species turnover detected in Nerita. I discuss the role of contemporary oceanographic factors in preserving the biogeographical signature of marine vicariance, even in highly dispersive taxa. Based on recent marine connectivity data, the east–west disjunction in Nerita taxa can be interpreted as an historic vicariant pattern perpetuated by contemporary oceanographic conditions. The results of this study emphasize the potential importance of considering relative abundance data – rather than just species range data – in marine biogeographical analyses. As the observed disjunction is likely to have broad implications for Australia's marine biodiversity, it is imperative that conservation biologists incorporate such data in the design of marine protected areas.
Serum creatinine and bilirubin predict renal failure and mortality in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: a retrospective study
Authors: Terg Rubén , Gadano Adrian , Cartier Mariano , Casciato Paola , Lucero Romina , Muñoz Alberto , Romero Gustavo , Levi Diana , Terg Gonzalo , Miguez Carlos , Abecasis Raquel
Published: February 2009

Background: Patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) are at a high risk for renal failure and death despite successful treatment of infection. Intravenous (IV) albumin administration combined with antibiotic treatment has been shown to significantly decrease these risks. Clinical evidence is lacking on which patients are appropriate candidates for albumin treatment.

Aim: To retrospectively analyse the usefulness of serum creatinine and bilirubin levels in predicting renal failure and mortality of patients hospitalized for SBP.

Methods: Between March 1995 and September 1998, 127 cirrhotic patients with SBP who had not received plasma expansion were evaluated. Eighty‐one patients (64%) were classified as having a high risk for renal failure and mortality (serum bilirubin >4 mg/dl or serum creatinine >1 mg/dl) and 46 (36%) as having a low risk.

Results: At admission, 36.3% of all patients presented renal failure. Mortality during their hospitalization was 23% among those with a high risk and 6.5% among those with a low risk (P=0.01). Renal failure occurred in 23% of the high‐risk patients, compared with 2.6% of the low‐risk patients (P=0.006). The presence of hyponatraemia was significantly associated with higher mortality and renal failure in the high‐risk group.

Conclusions: Our retrospective review of patients with SBP suggests that serum bilirubin levels >4 mg and serum creatinine levels >1 mg/dl at the time of diagnosis represent significant risk factors for the clinical outcomes of patients with SBP. Patients without these risk factors may have a very low likelihood of death or renal failure.
CHUKCHIA PEDICELLATA GEN. ET SP. NOV. AND C. ENDOPHYTICA NOV. COMB., ARCTIC ENDEMIC BROWN ALGAE (PHAEOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Wilce Robert T. , Pedersen P. M. , Sekida S.
Published: February 2009

Study of the north Alaskan brown algal epiphyte Chukchia pedicellata sp. nov. suggests an apparently close relationship to Phaeostroma. Phaeostroma endophyticum S. Lund from east Greenland, Bylot Island, Nunavut, Canada, shows generic identity with Chukchia and specific differences from C. pedicellata. Comparison of C. pedicellata and P. pustulosum Kuck. (the type species of Phaeostroma) shows morphological, cytological, reproductive, and distributional differences. We recognize novelty of C. pedicellata and necessity to broaden the species description of P. endophyticum, which becomes Chukchia endophytica. C. endophytica is distinguished by its dimorphic vegetative habit, its large plurilocular sporangia, and the putative ability of the sporangia to digest host tissue to accommodate development within the host. Absence of pyrenoids and novel plurilocular sporangia in both species suggests that they are not members of the Ectocarpales, sensu lato.
Forecasting Models of Emergency Department Crowding
Authors: Schweigler Lisa M. , Desmond Jeffrey S. , McCarthy Melissa L. , Bukowski Kyle J. , Ionides Edward L. , Younger John G.
Published: February 2009

Objectives:  The authors investigated whether models using time series methods can generate accurate short‐term forecasts of emergency department (ED) bed occupancy, using traditional historical averages models as comparison.

Methods:  From July 2005 through June 2006, retrospective hourly ED bed occupancy values were collected from three tertiary care hospitals. Three models of ED bed occupancy were developed for each site: 1) hourly historical average, 2) seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), and 3) sinusoidal with an autoregression (AR)‐structured error term. Goodness of fits were compared using log likelihood and Akaike’s Information Criterion (AIC). The accuracies of 4‐ and 12‐hour forecasts were evaluated by comparing model forecasts to actual observed bed occupancy with root mean square (RMS) error. Sensitivity of prediction errors to model training time was evaluated, as well.

Results:  The seasonal ARIMA outperformed the historical average in complexity adjusted goodness of fit (AIC). Both AR‐based models had significantly better forecast accuracy for the 4‐ and the 12‐hour forecasts of ED bed occupancy (analysis of variance [ANOVA] p < 0.01), compared to the historical average. The AR‐based models did not differ significantly from each other in their performance. Model prediction errors did not show appreciable sensitivity to model training times greater than 7 days.

Conclusions:  Both a sinusoidal model with AR‐structured error term and a seasonal ARIMA model were found to robustly forecast ED bed occupancy 4 and 12 hours in advance at three different EDs, without needing data input beyond bed occupancy in the preceding hours.
Vulnerability of hippocampal GABA‐ergic interneurons to kainate‐induced excitotoxic injury during old age
Authors: Shetty Ashok K. , Hattiangady Bharathi , Rao Muddanna S.
Published: February 2009

Hippocampal inhibitory interneurons expressing glutamate decarboxylase‐67 (GAD‐67) considerably decline in number during old age. Studies in young adult animals further suggest that hippocampal GAD‐67+ interneuron population is highly vulnerable to excitotoxic injury. However, the relative susceptibility of residual GAD‐67+ interneurons in the aged hippocampus to excitotoxic injury is unknown. To elucidate this, using both adult and aged F344 rats, we performed stereological counting of GAD‐67+ interneurons in different layers of the dentate gyrus and CA1 & CA3 sub‐fields, at 3 months post‐excitotoxic hippocampal injury inflicted through an intracerebroventricular administration of kainic acid (KA). Substantial reductions of GAD‐67+ interneurons were found in all hippocampal layers and sub‐fields after KA‐induced injury in adult animals. Contrastingly, there was no significant change in GAD‐67+ interneuron population in any of the hippocampal layers and sub‐fields following similar injury in aged animals. Furthermore, the stability of GAD‐67+ interneurons in aged rats after KA was not attributable to milder injury, as the overall extent of KA‐induced hippocampal principal neuron loss was comparable between adult and aged rats. Interestingly, because of the age‐related disparity in vulnerability of interneurons to injury, the surviving GAD‐67+ interneuron population in the injured aged hippocampus remained comparable to that observed in the injured adult hippocampus despite enduring significant reductions in interneuron number with aging. Thus, unlike in the adult hippocampus, an excitotoxic injury to the aged hippocampus does not result in significantly decreased numbers of GAD‐67+ interneurons. Persistence of GAD‐67+ interneuron population in the injured aged hippocampus likely reflects an age‐related change in the response of GAD‐67+ interneurons to excitotoxic hippocampal injury. These results have implications towards understanding mechanisms underlying the evolution of initial precipitating injury into temporal lobe epilepsy in the elderly population.
PKR, a cognitive decline biomarker, can regulate translation via two consecutive molecular targets p53 and Redd1 in lymphocytes of AD patients
Authors: Damjanac Milena , Page Guylène , Ragot Stéphanie , Laborie Guillaume , Gil Roger , Hugon Jacques , Paccalin Marc
Published: February 2009

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the control of translation is dysregulated, precisely, two opposite pathways: double‐stranded RNA‐dependent protein kinase (PKR) is up‐regulated and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is down‐regulated. These biochemical alterations were found at the periphery in lymphocytes of AD patients and were significantly correlated with cognitive and memory test scores. However, the molecular crosslink between these two opposite signalling pathways remains unknown. The tumour suppressor p53 and Redd1 (regulated in development and DNA damage response) could be two downstream targets of active PKR to explain the breakdown of translation in AD patients. In this study, the protein and gene levels of p53 and Redd1 were assayed in lymphocytes of AD patients and in age‐matched controls by Western blotting and RT‐PCR. Furthermore, correlations were analysed with both the level of active PKR and the Mini Mental State Examination score (MMSE). The results show that the gene and protein levels of p53 and Redd1 were significantly increased about 1.5‐fold for both gene and Redd1 protein and 2.3‐fold for active p53 in AD lymphocytes compared to age‐matched controls. Furthermore, statistical correlations between proteins and genes suggest that active PKR could phosphorylate p53 which could induce the transcription of Redd1 gene. No correlations were found between MMSE scores and levels of p53 or Redd1, contrary to active PKR levels. PKR represents a cognitive decline biomarker able to dysregulate translation via two consecutive targets p53 and Redd1 in AD lymphocytes.
Candida in oral leukoplakias A histologic and exfoliative cytologic study
Authors: ROED‐PETERSEN B. , RENSTRUP GRETE , PINDBORG J. J.
Published: February 2009

Abstract— Oral leukoplakias and clinically normal mucosa of 226 patients were examined by smear or biopsy or both. From the biopsies eleven consecutive sections were evaluated, the first section being stained with hematoxylin‐eosin and the following ten with PAS. Clinically normal mucosa did not show Candida, whereas Candida was present in 31 % of the biopsied leukoplakias. Eight of the 30 Candida‐invaded biopsies did not contain the hyphae in all ten PAS‐stained sections. Had only one section been evaluated per biopsy, the risk of arriving at a false negative diagnosis was estimated to be 13 %. 40% of leukoplakia biopsies invaded by Candida showed atypia and 67 % of all atypias were associated with Candida. No relationship between intensity of Candida invasion and presence of atypia could be demonstrated.
Prognosis of permanent teeth involved in jaw fractures A clinical and radiographic follow‐up study
Authors: ROED‐PETERSEN B. , ANDREASEN J. O.
Published: February 2009

Abstract— The paper deals with the prognosis of teeth positioned in fracture lines. The clinical and radiographic findings are based on 68 patients with 84 fractures involving 110 permanent teeth. The observation period varies from 1 to 7 years. By means of a multivariate analysis it has been found that pulp necrosis was present in 25% of the involved teeth and was significantly related to the course of the fracture line in regard to the apical area and the time interval from injury to permanent fixation. Loss of marginal bone support was registered in 12 % of the involved teeth and found significantly related to tooth location and to dislocation of fragments after reduction. Pulp obliteration was recorded in only 5 % of the involved teeth. Root resorption was not found at follow‐up.
Computeranalysis of electromyographic data in clinical studies of oral function
Authors: MØLLER E.
Published: February 2009

Abstract— An analysis by computer of electromyographic data is developed as part of a standard procedure for the study of oral function. The complete examination, a series, consists of two (or more) identical parts recorded with the electrodes in different positions. Computer‐analysis includes: (1) statistical comparison of the parts contributing to a series, (2) calculation of the mean, standard deviation, and standard error of each parameter from a whole series, (3) comparison with normal material, and (4) graphic presentation of the coordination in time and intensity during chewing and swallowing.
Glycosaminoglycan‐like components in oral calculus, parotid saliva, and dental plaque
Authors: PAUNIO KEIJO U. , PAUNIO ILKKA K.
Published: February 2009

Abstract— A comparative investigation was performed on glycosaminoglycan‐like fractions obtained from calculus, parotid saliva, and dental plaque. The calculus (sub‐gingival and supragingival) was obtained from extracted teeth. Human parotid saliva was collected with an acrylic cup and the dental plaque was gathered from different individuals. The samples were hydrolyzed with papain and the glycosaminoglycan‐like compounds were precipitated with the conventional methods. The analyses were made from the material precipitated with cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC). The results showed that the CPC‐precipitate of the plaque material contained less uronic acids, sulphate. hexoses. sialic acid, and proteins than did calculus and saliva. The results revealed further that the CPC‐precipitate derived from calculus contained phosphate and some calcium. Both saliva and plaque were devoid of these components. The plaque sample lacked the fractions existing in pherograms of both calculus preparation and preparation of parotid saliva (alcian'blue positive). A part of the fractions in the pherograms of calculus and saliva could be stained with lissamine green.
Bone‐healing after topical application of Apernyl®
Authors: NORDENRAM AKE , BANG GISLE
Published: February 2009

Abstract— Attention is called to the good results obtained on applying Apernyl® cones containing acetylsalicylic acid in cases of postoperative pain after tooth extraction. In an experimental investigation in 14 guinea pigs the authors studied healing of jaw bone cavities filled with Apernyl. No difference in the histology of the wound or in the course of wound healing was noticed between the experimental and control cavities. No complications were observed.
Characterization of 1H NMR detectable mobile lipids in cells from human adenocarcinomas
Authors: Luciani Anna Maria , Grande Sveva , Palma Alessandra , Rosi Antonella , Giovannini Claudio , Sapora Orazio , Viti Vincenza , Guidoni Laura
Published: February 2009

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies are often carried out to provide metabolic information on tumour cell metabolism, aiming for increased knowledge for use in anti‐cancer treatments. Accordingly, the presence of intense lipid signals in tumour cells has been the subject of many studies aiming to obtain further insight on the reaction of cancer cells to external agents that eventually cause cell death. The present study explored the relationship between changes in neutral lipid signals during cell growth and after irradiation with gamma rays to provide arrest in cell cycle and cell death. Two cell lines from human tumours were used that were differently prone to apoptosis following irradiation. A sub‐G1 peak was present only in the radiosensitive HeLa cells. Different patterns of neutral lipids changes were observed in spectra from intact cells, either during unperturbed cell growth in culture or after radiation‐induced growth arrest. The intensities of triglyceride signals in the spectra from extracted total lipids changed concurrently. The increase in lipid peak intensities did not correlate with the apoptotic fate. Modelling to fit the experimental data revealed a dynamic equilibrium between the production and depletion of neutral lipids. This is observed for the first time in cells that are different from adipocytes.
Novel diadenosine polyphosphate analogs with oxymethylene bridges replacing oxygen in the polyphosphate chain
Authors: Guranowski Andrzej , Starzyńska Elżbieta , Pietrowska‐Borek Małgorzata , Rejman Dominik , Blackburn George M
Published: February 2009

Dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpnN′s; where N and N′ are nucleosides and n = 3–6 phosphate residues) are naturally occurring compounds that may act as signaling molecules. One of the most successful approaches to understand their biological functions has been through the use of NpnN′ analogs. Here, we present the results of studies using novel diadenosine polyphosphate analogs, with an oxymethylene group replacing one or two bridging oxygen(s) in the polyphosphate chain. These have been tested as potential substrates and/or inhibitors of the symmetrically acting Ap4A hydrolase [bis(5′‐nucleosyl)‐tetraphosphatase (symmetrical); EC 3.6.1.41] from E. coli and of two asymmetrically acting Ap4A hydrolases [bis(5′‐nucleosyl)‐tetraphosphatase (asymmetrical); EC 3.6.1.17] from humans and narrow‐leaved lupin. The six chemically synthesized analogs were: ApCH2OpOCH2pA (1), ApOCH2pCH2OpA (2), ApOpCH2OpOpA (3), ApCH2OpOpOCH2pA (4), ApOCH2pOpCH2OpA (5) and ApOpOCH2pCH2OpOpA (6). The eukaryotic asymmetrical Ap4A hydrolases degrade two compounds, 3 and 5, as anticipated in their design. Analog 3 was cleaved to AMP (pA) and β,γ‐methyleneoxy‐ATP (pOCH2pOpA), whereas hydrolysis of analog 5 gave two molecules of α,β‐oxymethylene ADP (pCH2OpA). The relative rates of hydrolysis of these analogs were estimated. Some of the novel nucleotides were moderately good inhibitors of the asymmetrical hydrolases, having Ki values within the range of the Km for Ap4A. By contrast, none of the six analogs were good substrates or inhibitors of the bacterial symmetrical Ap4A hydrolase.
GETTING CREDIT FOR PROACTIVE BEHAVIOR:SUPERVISOR REACTIONS DEPEND ON WHAT YOU VALUE AND HOW YOU FEEL
Authors: GRANT ADAM M. , PARKER SHARON , COLLINS CATHERINE
Published: February 2009

Although proactive behavior is important in organizations, it is not always appreciated by supervisors. To explain when supervisors reward proactivity with higher overall performance evaluations, we draw on attribution theory. We propose that employees’ values and affect send signals about their underlying intentions, which influence supervisors’ attributions about whether employees deserve credit for proactive behaviors. More specifically, we hypothesize that if employees express strong prosocial values or low negative affect, the proactive behaviors of voice, issue‐selling, taking charge, and anticipatory helping will have stronger relationships with supervisors’ performance evaluations. We test these hypotheses with samples of 103 managers and their direct supervisors (Study 1) and 55 firefighters and their platoon supervisors (Study 2). The hypotheses were supported in both studies, suggesting that proactive behaviors are more likely to contribute to higher supervisor performance evaluations when employees express strong prosocial values or low negative affect.
‘Ladies are often very good scaffoldings’: Women and Politics in the Age of Anne
Authors: CHALUS ELAINE
Published: February 2009

The age of Anne saw unprecedented politicisation of society, the expansion of patronage and the election of ten parliaments between 1695 and 1715. If, as has been argued for the second half of the 18th century, such factors facilitated women's political participation, then the prerequisites for women's political involvement, at least at the level of the political elite, existed in the age of Anne. Yet we still know surprisingly little about the shape and extent of women's political participation beyond the dynamics of the Augustan court. This article encourages historians of women and politics to return to the age of Anne and consider women's political participation writ large. Was this period, which has often been seen as a political watershed, also a watershed for women's political involvement? Through an examination of Elizabeth Coke's involvement in the Derbyshire election of 1710, where she served as her brother's political agent, this article calls historians' attention to the activities of one group of politically‐active Augustan women – those who served as intermediaries and agents. It argues that politics could be one aspect of a broader familial agency, one which saw women step in and out of family, household, estate and political management, as necessary. Nor, it argues, should these women be seen as mere Swiftian ‘scaffoldings’– as means to an end for politically‐ambitious men. As agents and intermediaries, women as well as men played recognized political roles, in similar ways, in campaigns across the country; their involvement requires closer examination.
Assessment of Cross‐Linking in Combined Cross‐Linked Soy Protein Isolate Gels by Microbial Transglutaminase and Maillard Reaction
Authors: Gan C.‐Y. , Cheng L.‐H. , Easa A.M.
Published: February 2009

ABSTRACT:  Soy protein isolate (SPI) gels were produced using single cross‐linking agents (SCLA) of microbial transglutaminase (MTG) via incubation for 5 or 24 h (SCLA‐MTG). When powdered SCLA‐MTG gels were heated for 2 h with ribose (R2) (2 g/100 mL), dark brown gels were formed, and these were designated as combined cross‐linking agent (CCLA) gels: MTG5(R2) and MTG24(R2). The results showed that the levels of Maillard‐derived browning and cross‐links of MTG5(R2) and MTG24(R2) gels were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than a control gel produced without MTG (SCLA‐R2) even though the percentage of ribose remaining after heating of these gels was similar, indicating that a similar amount of ribose was consumed during heating. ɛ‐(γ‐glutamyl)lysine bonds formed during incubation of SPI with MTG may have reduced the free amino group of SPI to take part in the Maillard reaction; nevertheless, ribose took part in the Maillard reaction and initiated the Maillard cross‐linkings within the CCLA gels.
Statistical and Kinetic Studies of the Changes in Soybean Quality during Storage as Related to Soymilk and Tofu Making
Authors: Kong F. , Chang Sam K.C.
Published: February 2009

ABSTRACT:  The objective of this study was to develop statistical equations and kinetic models to describe the changes of soybean quality during storage. Significant correlations (P < 0.0001) were found among most of quality attributes including color parameters (Hunter L, a, b, and ΔE), solid extractability (as expressed by soymilk solids content), soymilk pH and protein content, tofu yield, hardness, and protein content. Regressed linear equations were developed between color indices (L/L0, ΔE) and soymilk/tofu making properties. Empirical equations were developed to relate soybean color indices (L/L0, ΔE) and storage conditions including variables of initial moisture content (MC), relative humidity (RH), temperature (T), and duration (t). Kinetics of the changes in soybean color and extractability during storage at 70% RH and 22 to 40 °C were investigated. The kinetics was well described by zero‐order kinetics. The Arrhenius equation adequately described the temperature dependence of the reaction rate constants for all parameters, from which the activation energies and rate constant were obtained. The equations developed in this study provided simple methods to monitor soybean quality and predict quality changes of soybeans during storage at various conditions.
A Theoretical Study for Determination of Quality Equivalent Points for Volume Average Quality Evaluation in Conduction Heating Canned Foods
Authors: Georgoudis K. , Stoforos N.G.
Published: February 2009

ABSTRACT:  In the present study, a set of quality equivalent points, that is, points where the retention of a particular quality attribute at the end of a thermal process is equal to the volume average quality retention, was determined for conduction heating products in cylindrical containers. For this, initially, the temperature distribution inside the product during the thermal process was numerically calculated, assuming uniform initial product temperature, constant heating and cooling medium temperatures, and infinite heat transfer coefficient between the cylinder walls and the heating or cooling medium. Next, remaining concentration data at the end of the process were obtained at various points within the container for a heat labile quality factor following 1st‐order degradation kinetics. Thereafter, the volume average remaining concentration for the quality parameter under consideration was calculated and the quality equivalent points were identified. The influence of product, quality factor, and process characteristics on the location of the quality equivalent points, was examined. For every case investigated, the entirety of quality equivalent points was modeled by the use of a single parameter, the empirical j value. For most cases of common practice, a j value between 0.34 and 0.40 was found appropriate for volume average quality retention calculations. Thus, by collecting temperature data during processing at a quality equivalent point, product quality at the end of the process can be assessed.
Influence of Extrusion Processing on Procyanidin Composition and Total Anthocyanin Contents of Blueberry Pomace
Authors: Khanal R.C. , Howard L.R. , Brownmiller C.R. , Prior R.L.
Published: February 2009

ABSTRACT:  Blueberry juice processing by‐products are a rich source of procyanidins, which comprise a group of compounds shown to possess numerous health benefits, including protection against coronary heart disease, type II diabetes, and obesity. Most of the procyanidins present in blueberry pomace, however, are large molecular weight compounds that are poorly absorbed and show weak bioactivity compared to the smaller molecular weight monomers and dimers. The objective of our study was to identify optimal extrusion variables to enhance the contents of monomers and dimers at the expense of large molecular weight procyanidin oligomers and polymers. Extrusion variables temperature (160 and 180 °C) and screw speed (150 and 200 rpm) were tested using mixtures of blueberry pomace with decorticated white sorghum flour at a ratio of 30 : 70 and 45% moisture content. Extrudates were analyzed for procyanidin composition and total anthocyanin content. Extrusion of blueberry pomace increased the monomer, dimer, and trimer contents considerably at both temperature and screw speeds. The highest monomer content, obtained at 180 °C and 150 rpm screw speed, was 84% higher than the nonextruded control. Significantly higher levels of dimer and trimer contents were also obtained under these conditions. Increases in monomer, dimer, and trimer contents apparently were the result of reduced polymer contents, which was approximately 40% lower for samples extruded at 180 °C temperature and 150 rpm screw speed. Extrusion processing reduced total anthocyanin contents by 33% to 42% indicating that additional treatments are needed to retain the pigments. These results demonstrate that extrusion processing can be used to increase procyanidin monomer and dimers in blueberry pomace.
Development of microsatellite and amplicon length polymorphism markers for Camellia japonica L. from tea plant (Camellia sinensis) expressed sequence tags
Authors: UENO SANEYOSHI , TSUMURA YOSHIHIKO
Published: February 2009

Simple sequence repeats and amplicon length polymorphism markers for Camellia japonica were developed, based on Camellia sinensis sequences in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database. In total, 2495 gene sequences were used to design 216 primer pairs. To identify amplicon length polymorphism markers, 61 gene loci in 16 Camellia individuals were re‐sequenced. In total, 10 markers (three expressed sequence tags–simple sequence repeats and seven amplicon length polymorphisms) yielded polymerase chain reaction products with clear polymorphic patterns and were used for genotyping 22 C. japonica individuals from a population. Numbers of alleles and expected heterozygosity ranged from two to 13 and from 0.28 to 0.90, respectively.
Mitf dosage as a primary determinant of melanocyte survival after ultraviolet irradiation
Authors: Hornyak Thomas J. , Jiang Shunlin , Guzmán Esther A. , Scissors Beth N. , Tuchinda Chinisada , He Hongbin , Neville James D. , Strickland Faith M.
Published: February 2009

Microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (Mitf) is essential for melanocyte development and function and regulates anti‐apoptotic Bcl2 expression. We hypothesized that cellular deficiency of Mitf can influence melanocyte survival in response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Primary melanocyte cultures were prepared from neonatal wild‐type mice and congenic animals heterozygous for Mitf mutations Mitf mi‐vga9/+ and MitfMi‐wh/+ and exposed to UV irradiation. Wild‐type melanocytes were more resistant to UV‐induced apoptosis than melanocytes partially deficient in Mitf activity, as determined by relative levels of intracellular melanin and relative activation of Mitf target genes Tyr, Tyrp1, Dct, and Cdk2. Comparative experiments with wild‐type cells and congenic albino melanocytes demonstrated that these differences are not due to differences in melanin content, implicating Mitf as a primary determinant of UV‐dependent melanocyte survival. Mitf activity correlated directly with resistance to UV‐induced apoptosis in melanocytes. Mitf was important not only for regulating the expression of anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 following UV irradiation, but also the expression of the pro‐apoptotic BH3‐only Bad protein and activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Hence, Mitf is a multifaceted regulator of UV‐induced apoptosis in melanocytes.
SHOULD DIALYSATE CALCIUM CONCENTRATION BE STANDARDISED OR INDIVIDUALISED?
Authors: Lindley Elizabeth J.
Published: February 2009

The 2003 K/DOQI bone metabolism guidelines recommend a standard dialysate calcium concentration of 1.25 mmol/l. Studies of calcium balance that take ultrafiltration, as well as changes in ionised calcium, into account show that patients lose calcium when treated with this dialysate Ca. Compensation for negative calcium balance will usually be required in patients with normal or high bone turnover, but may be impossible if the recommendations to restrict intake of calcium, and hold vitamin D therapy if serum phosphate is high, are followed. A literature review suggests that conversion to 1.25 mmol/l dialysate Ca is beneficial in selected, but not all, patients. Conversion to higher dialysate Ca levels has been shown to improve control of calcium, phosphate and PTH, again in selected patients. Given the important role that dialysate calcium concentration plays in the management of renal bone disease, it should be prescribed on an individual basis like other medications.
PHOSPHATE MANAGEMENT—A DIETITIAN'S PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Kariyawasam Deepa
Published: February 2009

Hyperphosphataemia is a complication of renal failure which can lead to vascular calcification and hyperparathyroidism. Many factors influence phosphate levels, e.g. adherence to a low phosphate diet, adequate dialysis, hyperparathyroidism and concordance with phosphate binders. This article looks at the issues to consider and provides a dietitian's perspective on phosphate management.
USE OF HIGH‐DOSE GADOLINIUM AS CONTRAST MEDIA TO AVOID RADIOCONTRAST MEDIA‐INDUCED NEPHROPATHY
Authors: Ruangkanchanasetr Prajej , Rojanamethin Suchada , Ruamthanthong Anuchit , Chaiprasert Amnart , Supaporn Thanom
Published: February 2009

Patients at risk for radiocontrast media‐induced nephropathy (RCIN) with suspected peripheral vascular disease were evaluated with high‐dose (0.4 mmol/kg) gadolinium‐based (Gd) contrast angiography (AG). The patients who were considered susceptible to RCIN were defined by having one or more of the following: (1) pre‐existing serum creatinine (SCr) >124 μmol/l, (2) diabetes mellitus and (3) age >60 years. An increase in SCr ≥ 44 μmol/l or ≥ 25% of baseline was considered significant. Ten patients underwent peripheral AG using a high dose of Gd without any adverse reaction. The mean age was 67.8 years. Nine (90%) patients were diabetic. The quality of these images was satisfactory for diagnosis in eight out of 10 patients. None of these patients had significant change in SCr. The mean SCr (±SD) before, at 48 hours and at 72 hours after AG were 182 ± 97, 177 ± 99 and 177 ± 98 μmol/l, respectively. Based on this limited study, Gd is a promising agent for peripheral angiographic study. In patients at risk for RCIN, the high dose of Gd appears to be safe without obvious nephrotoxicity.
VALUING BLUE FLAG STATUS AND ESTUARINE WATER QUALITY IN MARGATE, SOUTH AFRICA1
Authors: Nahman Anton , Rigby Dan
Published: February 2009

This study estimates the costs associated with reduced water quality and withdrawal of Blue Flag status in Margate, Kwazulu‐Natal, based on travel costs and contingent behaviour (reported change in visits contingent on a hypothetical scenario). Costs associated with hypothetical loss of Blue Flag status (based on reduced visits) range between R17 and R25 million per annum. Interestingly, Blue Flag status was withdrawn shortly after completion of the survey, owing to reduced water quality. This study therefore provides an estimate of the associated welfare losses, and of the benefits of actions to improve water quality and restore Blue Flag status.
DOES MOTHER'S EDUCATION MATTER IN CHILD'S HEALTH? EVIDENCE FROM SOUTH AFRICA1
Authors: Medrano Patricia , Rodríguez Catherine , Villa Edgar
Published: February 2009

Using the 1993 South Africa Integrated Household Survey, this paper studies the effect that mother's education through the knowledge channel has on children's health using height for age Z‐scores as health measure. Under a two‐stage least square methodology we find that an increase in 4 years on mother's education (approximately 1 standard deviation) will lead to an increase of 0.6 standard deviations on her child's height for age Z‐score. We also find, as the medical literature suggests, support for the hypothesis that mother's education is more important for children older than 24 months of age.
TOWARD BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN THEORY AND EMPIRICAL REALITY
Authors: Saunders Stephen Graham
Published: February 2009

Introductory (i.e. first year) undergraduate learners often perceive economics to be remote from reality and overly theoretical, leading to a lack of motivation and enthusiasm to study economics. A general survey of curriculum practice reveals that lecture materials and the pedagogic approach to teaching introductory economics often do not place the current “mainstream” economic theory into its philosophical context. The result being that the learners are unable to bridge the gap between abstract economic theory and empirical reality. This paper argues that research into effective teaching and learning should focus not only on learner characteristics but also on curriculum content and its philosophical underpinnings, in order to research why students hold these negative perceptions. The paper recommends that introductory undergraduate teaching needs to engage in a critical examination, with the learner, of the philosophical underpinnings of “mainstream” economic theory and to introduce debates about the implications of these into the curriculum. This would create exciting new opportunities for teachers and learners to explore the connections between economic theory and social science in general and should come a long way in changing the negative perceptions of introductory undergraduate economics.
WAGNER'S LAW: AN ECONOMETRIC TEST FOR SOUTH AFRICA, 1960‐2006
Authors: Ziramba Emmanuel
Published: February 2009

The main objective for this paper is to test Wagner's law by analysing the causal relationships between real government expenditure and real income for South Africa for the period 1960‐2006. The paper tests the long‐run relationship between the two variables using the autoregressive distributive lag approach to cointegration suggested by Pesaran et al. We use the Granger non‐causality test procedure developed by Toda and Yamamoto, which uses a vector autoregression model to test for the causal link between the two. Evidence of cointegration is sufficient to establish a long‐run relationship between government expenditure and income. However, support for Wagner's law would require unidirectional causality from income to government expenditure. Therefore, cointegration should be seen as a necessary condition for Wagner's law, but not sufficient. This research does find a long‐run relationship between real per capita government expenditure and real per capita income. Results for the short‐run causality find bidirectional causality. On the basis of empirical results in this paper, one may tentatively conclude that Wagner's law finds no support in South Africa.
Anti‐Endothelial Cell Antibodies in Dogs with Immune‐Mediated Hemolytic Anemia and Other Diseases Associated with High Risk of Thromboembolism
Authors: Wells R. , Guth A. , Lappin M. , Dow S.
Published: February 2009

Background: Dogs with immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and certain inflammatory diseases are at high risk of developing thromboembolic disease. The presence of anti‐endothelial cell autoantibodies (AECA) has been associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism in humans.

Hypothesis: AECA will be detected more often in dogs at risk of thromboembolism than in healthy control animals or dogs with diseases not associated with a higher risk of thromboembolism.

Animals: Ninety‐one sick dogs and 22 healthy control dogs.

Methods: Retrospective case‐controlled study. Serum was screened for the presence of AECA. Dogs were identified for the study based on the risk of thromboembolism as determined by clinical impression and the underlying disease process. Flow cytometry and normal canine endothelial cells were used to screen serum samples from sick and healthy control dogs for the presence of AECA. In addition, serum from dogs with confirmed thromboemboli was also screened for the presence of AECA by immunohistochemistry.

Results: AECA were detected in 2/91 sick dogs, both with infectious diseases, but were not found in healthy dogs. Anti‐endothelial antibodies were not detected in 21 dogs with IMHA and 20 dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome, sepsis, or both.

Conclusions: We conclude that AECA are rarely detectable in dogs considered at high risk of thromboembolism. These findings suggest that AECA may not play an important role in the pathogenesis of thromboembolism in dogs with IMHA and other inflammatory diseases.
Genetic and Environmental Risk Indicators in Canine Non‐Hodgkin's Lymphomas: Breed Associations and Geographic Distribution of 608 Cases Diagnosed throughout France over 1 Year
Authors: Pastor M. , Chalvet‐Monfray K. , Marchal T. , Keck G. , Magnol J.P. , Fournel‐Fleury C. , Ponce F.
Published: February 2009

Background: The etiology of non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) is multifactorial. Environmental and genetic factors are frequently incriminated both in humans and dogs.

Objectives: Our purpose was to study the geographic distribution of canine NHL (CNHL) in France and to evaluate genetic and environmental influences.

Animals: Six hundred and eight cases of CNHL, diagnosed throughout France over 1 year, were collected from 7 Veterinary Histopathologic Laboratories.

Methods: Retrospective study. Breeds affected by lymphomas were compared with the national population and associations between breed and immunophenotype were studied. The distribution of CNHL and canine T‐cell NHL per 100,000 dogs per department was compared with the distribution of waste incinerators, polluted sites, and radioactive waste.

Results: The breeds significantly overrepresented among lymphoma cases were Boxer, Setter, and Cocker Spaniel (P < .001). There was a significant association between Boxer and T‐cell NHL (P < .001), and between German Shepherd and Rottweiler and B‐cell NHL (P < .01). The geographic distribution of CNHL and canine T‐cell NHL indicated significant heterogeneity. Significant association between distributions of CNHL and waste incinerators (ρ= 0.25, P < .05), polluted sites (ρ= 0.36, P < .001), and radioactive waste (ρ= 0.51, P < .001) was found.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Influence of genetics in the development of CNHL was supported by the existence of an association between breed and immunophenotype. Waste incinerators, polluted sites, and radioactive waste could just be considered as risk indicators of CNHL, but not as risk factors. Case‐control studies around critical sites are necessary to confirm the implication of those environmental factors in the development of CNHL.
Unilateral and Bilateral Congenital Sensorineural Deafness in Client‐Owned Pure‐Breed White Cats
Authors: Cvejic D. , Steinberg T.A. , Kent M.S. , Fischer A.
Published: February 2009

Background: Congenital sensorineural deafness has been reported frequently in experimental mixed‐breed white cats but there is a paucity of data on occurrence of deafness in client‐owned pure‐breed white cats.

Objective: To describe hearing status in client‐owned pure‐breed white cats.

Animals: Eighty‐four pure‐breed client‐owned cats with white coat color of 10 registered breeds presented for routine hearing evaluation before breeding (1995–2008).

Methods: Hearing was assessed by click‐evoked brainstem auditory evoked response.

Results: Overall deafness prevalence was 20.2%; 9 cats (10.7%) were bilaterally deaf and 8 cats (9.5%) were unilaterally deaf. There was no association between sex and deafness status (P= .85). Deafness status was associated with iris color (P= .04).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Congenital sensorineural deafness frequently occurs in pure‐breed cats with white coat color. Unilateral sensorineural deafness was as common as bilateral deafness.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Right Ventricular Morphology and Function in Boxer Dogs with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Baumwart R.D. , Meurs K.M. , Raman S.V.
Published: February 2009

Background: Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a myocardial disease characterized by fibrofatty replacement of the right ventricle and ventricular tachyarrhythmias, reported most commonly in the Boxer dog. Although ARVC is characterized as a myocardial disease, the impact of the disease on the function of the right ventricle has not been well studied.

Objective: To noninvasively evaluate the function and anatomy of the right ventricle in Boxer dogs with ARVC.

Animals: Five adult Boxer dogs with ARVC and 5 healthy size‐matched hound dogs.

Methods: Magnetic resonance imaging was performed on an ECG‐gated conventional 1.5‐T scanner using dark blood imaging and cine acquisitions. Images were evaluated by delineation of endocardial right and left ventricular contours in the end‐diastolic and end‐systolic phases of each slice. Right and left end‐systolic and end‐diastolic volumes were generated using Simpson's rule and ejection fraction was calculated. Images were evaluated for right ventricular (RV) aneurysms and wall motion abnormalities. Spin echo images were reviewed for the presence of RV myocardial fatty replacement or scar.

Results: RV ejection fraction was significantly lower in Boxers with ARVC compared with the controls (ARVC 34%± 11 control 53%± 10, P < .01). There was an RV aneurysm in 1 dog with ARVC but not in any of the controls. RV myocardial gross fatty changes were not observed in dogs of either group.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: These findings could be interpreted to suggest that arrhythmias and myocardial dysfunction precede the development of morphological abnormalities in dogs with ARVC.
Role of Lung Surfactant in Respiratory Disease: Current Knowledge in Large Animal Medicine
Authors: Christmann U. , Buechner‐Maxwell V.A. , Witonsky S.G. , Hite R.D.
Published: February 2009

Lung surfactant is produced by type II alveolar cells as a mixture of phospholipids, surfactant proteins, and neutral lipids. Surfactant lowers alveolar surface tension and is crucial for the prevention of alveolar collapse. In addition, surfactant contributes to smaller airway patency and improves mucociliary clearance. Surfactant‐specific proteins are part of the innate immune defense mechanisms of the lung. Lung surfactant alterations have been described in a number of respiratory diseases. Surfactant deficiency (quantitative deficit of surfactant) in premature animals causes neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Surfactant dysfunction (qualitative changes in surfactant) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of acute respiratory distress syndrome and asthma. Analysis of surfactant from amniotic fluid allows assessment of fetal lung maturity (FLM) in the human fetus and exogenous surfactant replacement therapy is part of the standard care in premature human infants. In contrast to human medicine, use and success of FLM testing or surfactant replacement therapy remain limited in veterinary medicine. Lung surfactant has been studied in large animal models of human disease. However, only a few reports exist on lung surfactant alterations in naturally occurring respiratory disease in large animals. This article gives a general review on the role of lung surfactant in respiratory disease followed by an overview of our current knowledge on surfactant in large animal veterinary medicine.