bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinematic evidence for superfast locomotory muscle in two species of teneriffiid mites
Authors: Wu Grace C. , Wright Jonathan C. , Whitaker Dwight L. , Ahn A. N.
Published: July 2010

Locomotory muscles typically operate over a narrow range of contraction frequencies, characterized by the predominant fiber types and functional roles. The highest documented frequencies in the synchronous sound-producing muscles of insects (550 Hz) and toadfish (200 Hz) far exceed the contraction frequencies observed in weight-bearing locomotory muscles, which have maximum documented frequencies below 15–30 Hz. Laws of scaling, however, predict that smaller arthropods may employ stride frequencies exceeding this range. In this study we measured running speed and stride frequency in two undescribed species of teneriffiid mites from the coastal sage scrub of southern California. Relative speeds of both species [129–133 body lengths (BL)s–1] are among the fastest documented for any animal. Measured stride frequencies for both species far exceed those documented for any weight-bearing locomotory muscle, with measured values for one species ranging from 93 Hz at 25°C to 111 Hz at 45°C. Stride frequencies either closely approximate or, for one species, exceed predicted values based on an interspecific scaling of frequency and animal mass. Consequently, while the ultra-high frequencies of these muscles must depend on appropriately scaled kinetics of the calcium transient and contraction–relaxation cycle, these do not appear to limit the operating frequencies during running. The predicted low muscle forces operating at these very high frequencies evidently suffice for locomotion, probably because of the larger relative muscle force generated by smaller animals.
Immediate spectral flexibility in singing chiffchaffs during experimental exposure to highway noise
Authors: Verzijden M. N. , Ripmeester E. A. P. , Ohms V. R. , Snelderwaard P. , Slabbekoorn H.
Published: July 2010

Sound plays an important role in the life of many animals, including many bird species. Typically, male birds sing to defend a territory and to attract mates. Ambient noise may negatively affect the signal efficiency of their songs, which may be critical to reproductive success. Consequently, anthropogenic noise may be detrimental to individual birds and to populations in cities and along highways. Several bird species that are still common in urban areas have been shown to sing at higher frequency at locations where there is more low-frequency traffic noise. Here we show that chiffchaffs along noisy highways also sing with a higher minimum frequency than chiffchaffs nearby at a quiet riverside. Furthermore, through experimental exposure to highway noise we show that these birds are capable of making such adjustments over a very short time scale. The first 10 songs sung during the noise exposure revealed an immediate shift to higher frequencies, with a return to pre-exposure levels in recordings without noise the following day. In a transmission re-recording experiment we tested the impact of a potential measurement artifact by recording playback of the same songs repeatedly under different controlled noise conditions. We found an upward shift in the minimum frequency measurement associated with more noisy recordings of the same song, but this artifact was not of a scale that it could explain the noise-dependent spectral shifts in chiffchaffs.
Thermobiology, energetics and activity patterns of the Eastern tube-nosed bat (Nyctimene robinsoni) in the Australian tropics: effect of temperature and lunar cycle
Authors: Riek Alexander , Körtner Gerhard , Geiser Fritz
Published: July 2010

Currently, there are no data on the thermal biology of free-ranging pteropodid bats (Chiroptera). Therefore, our aim was to investigate physiological and behavioural strategies employed by the fruit bat Nyctimene robinsoni (body mass ∼50 g) in winter in tropical Northern Queensland in relation to ambient temperature (Ta) and the lunar cycle. Daily body temperature (Tb) fluctuations in free-ranging bats were measured via radio-telemetry and metabolic rate was measured in captivity via open-flow respirometry (Ta, 15–30°C). Free-ranging bats showed a significant 24 h circadian cycle in Tb, with the lowest Tb at the end of the rest phase just after sunset and the highest Tb at the end of the activity phase just before sunrise. Average daily core Tb ranged from 34.7±0.6 to 37.3±0.8°C (mean ± s.d.) over an average daily Ta range of 17.1±1.1 to 23.5±1.8°C. Tb never fell below 30°C but Tb was significantly reduced during the full moon period compared with that during the new moon period. Tb was correlated with Ta during the second half of the rest phase (P<0.001) but not during the active phase. Resting metabolic rate of bats was significantly affected by Ta (P<0.001, R2=0.856). Our results show that tube-nosed bats exhibit reduced Tb on moonlit nights when they reduce foraging activity, but during our study torpor was not expressed. The energy constraints experienced here by tube-nosed bats with relatively moderate Ta fluctuations, short commuting distances between roosting and feeding locations, and high availability of food were probably not substantial enough to require use of torpor.
Writing through design, an active practice
Authors: Preston Julieanna , Thomassen Aukje
Published: July 2010

Stemming from a collaborative research project designing, writing, this article outlines preliminary findings to the various ways that design practices and design processes contextualize and explicate an intellectual proposition, i.e. how design contributes to advancing knowledge. The
overall aim of the research investigation is to disseminate current understanding and best practice on the relationships between designing and writing and their mutual interest in speculation, expression and research. While most discussions around this topic adopt one of two (often polarized)
distinct positions the written text as sole authority and a design object's capacity to be read as a cultural artefact our investigation looks at various media of design articulation directly linked to design as a system of inquiry including but not limited to diaries, diagrams and choreographic
notation and comics. These media expose a potential to write through design and expand design research as non-linear, theoretical and yet practical tools.
Just another piece of paper: creative research and writing
Authors: Bill Amanda
Published: July 2010

Practitioners in the fields of art and design often complain of the injustice of having to write a book about their practice in order to satisfy academic definitions of research. What is the point, the argument goes, of producing just another piece of paper? The suggestion that creative
work might be converted to research by a suitable accompanying text is justly resisted. This article approaches the theory/practice binary the other way round. It outlines a research project that attempts to convert the text of a conventional academic Ph.D. thesis into a creative research
output. The intention is to expose the boundaries that are constructed when creativity is counted as knowledge, and by doing this to put the notion of creativity into play.
Low Viscosity Pore Fluid to Manufacture Transparent Soil
Authors: Zhao Honghua , Ge Louis , Luna Ronaldo
Published: July 2010

Transparent soil has been investigated for its potential as a substitute research media for natural soil. The mechanism for manufacturing the transparent soil is through adding an appropriate pore fluid to silica gel particles with the same refractive index. Two types of high viscosity pore fluids were identified by Iskander in 1994. However, because of the high viscosity of these two pore fluids, air was easily entrapped, which made the manufacture of a large mass of transparent soil difficult. In addition, the identified pore fluids caused serious membrane deterioration during triaxial laboratory testing. This research presented herein is an experimental investigation on low viscosity pore fluids to manufacture transparent soil, including the fluid/particle interaction in the stimulant matrix. Two low viscosity pore fluids were identified with minimum interaction with latex membranes.
Photoelectrochemical Investigation of Radiation-Enhanced Shadow Corrosion Phenomenon
Authors: Kim Young-Jin , Rebak Raul , Lin Yang-Pi , Lutz Daniel , Crawford Douglas , Kucuk Aylin , Cheng Bo
Published: July 2010

The photoelectrochemical investigation was performed by measuring the photoelectrochemical behavior of various alloys such as Zircaloy 2, 304 stainless steel (SS) and Alloy X-750 in 0.01M Na2SO4 at 25°C or in high purity water at 300°C under intense ultraviolet (UV) illumination. UV was selected because its photon energy (∼5 eV) is similar to the energy gap of the electron-hole pairs in zirconium oxide. The data show that the photoexcitation of ZrO2 caused the corrosion potential to shift in the anodic direction and produced anodic photocurrents under the oxidizing water chemistry condition when Zircaloy 2 electrode was galvanically coupled with dissimilar electrodes, such as Alloy X-750, 304 SS, or Pt, causing accelerated corrosion of Zircaloy. It is thus postulated that the photoelectrochemical enhancement of surface reaction kinetics at the ZrO2 surface may be responsible for the radiation-enhanced corrosion on Zircaloy (i.e., shadow corrosion). In addition, it is revealed that no significant change in galvanic current between Zircaloy 2 and other dissimilar electrodes was measured in high temperature water containing only hydrogen that resulted in similar ECPs. These data thus clearly provide an explanation for why the radiation-enhanced corrosion of Zircaloy only occurs in BWRs but not PWRs. Based on galvanic corrosion, impedance, and transmission electron microscopy analysis, it is proposed that the defect structure of equiaxed grain layers may be responsible for the photoelectrochemical response of ZrO2 in high temperature water. The mechanism of shadow corrosion is still highly debated but it appears to be similar to a process of galvanic corrosion in connection with sufficiently conducting Zr oxide structure. The galvanic corrosion data suggests that a Zr coating on the fuel assembly spacer (Alloy X-750 or 304 SS) may mitigate the shadow corrosion in BWRs.
The effect of monosaccharide sugars and pyruvate on the differentiation and metabolism of sheep granulosa cells in vitro
Authors: Campbell B K , Onions V , Kendall N R , Guo L , Scaramuzzi R J
Published: July 2010

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of three monosaccharides or pyruvate on the ability of gonadotrophins to induce cellular proliferation and differentiation of cultured sheep granulosa cells. Lactate production and levels of mRNA expression for the glucose transporters SLC2A1, SLC2A4, SLC2A5 and SLC2A8 were also determined. No energy source in the culture media reduced cell number (50%) and oestradiol (E2) production. Dose and type of monosaccharide had a highly significant (P<0.001) effect on FSH-induced differentiation of the granulosa cells, and there was a highly significant interaction (P<0.001). Glucose supported higher levels of E2production than fructose, which was in turn higher than galactose (P<0.001). In contrast, pyruvate at low doses supported similar levels of E2production as glucose, but higher doses were markedly inhibitory to E2production (P<0.001). Cells responded positively to insulin (P<0.001) in the presence of all three monosaccharides. Glucose and the high doses of fructose resulted in the accumulation of lactate (P<0.001), but pyruvate, galactose and the low dose of fructose resulted in low lactate production. SLC2A5 expression was not detected and SLC2A8 expression was not affected, but SLC2A1 and SLC2A4 expression was depressed (P<0.05) by culture in the presence of fructose and glucose. These data show that glucose, metabolised under anoxic conditions to lactate, is the preferred energy substrate to support the gonadotrophin-induced differentiation of ovine granulosa cellsin vitro, and that fructose and pyruvate, but not galactose, are alternative energy substrates despite marked differences in the way these substrates are metabolised.
Effects of long-term progesterone on developmental and functional aspects of porcine uterine epithelia and vasculature: progesterone alone does not support development of uterine glands comparable to that of pregnancy
Authors: Bailey Daniel W , Dunlap Kathrin A , Frank James W , Erikson David W , White Bryan G , Bazer Fuller W , Burghardt Robert C , Johnson Greg A
Published: July 2010

In pigs, endometrial functions are regulated primarily by progesterone and placental factors including estrogen. Progesterone levels are high throughout pregnancy to stimulate and maintain secretion of histotroph from uterine epithelia necessary for growth, implantation, placentation, and development of the conceptus (embryo and its extra-embryonic membranes). This study determined effects of long-term progesterone on development and histoarchitecture of endometrial luminal epithelium (LE), glandular epithelium (GE), and vasculature in pigs. Pigs were ovariectomized during diestrus (day 12), and then received daily injections of either corn oil or progesterone for 28 days. Prolonged progesterone treatment resulted in increased weight and length of the uterine horns, and thickness of the endometrium and myometrium. Hyperplasia and hypertrophy of GE were not evident, but LE cell height increased, suggesting elevated secretory activity. Although GE development was deficient, progesterone supported increased endometrial angiogenesis comparable to that of pregnancy. Progesterone also supported alterations to the apical and basolateral domains of LE and GE. Dolichos biflorus agglutinin lectin binding and αvintegrin were downregulated at the apical surfaces of LE and GE. Claudin-4, α2β1integrin, and vimentin were increased at basolateral surfaces, whereas occludins-1 and -2, claudin-3, and E-cadherin were unaffected by progesterone treatment indicating structurally competent trans-epithelial adhesion and tight junctional complexes. Collectively, the results suggest that progesterone affects LE, GE, and vascular development and histoarchitecture, but in the absence of ovarian or placental factors, it does not support development of GE comparable to pregnancy. Furthermore, LE and vascular development are highly responsive to the effects of progesterone.
Measuring Perceived Mutuality in Women With Eating Disorders: The Development of the Connection-Disconnection Scale
Authors: Tantillo Mary , Sanftner Jennifer L.
Published: July 2010

This article describes the development and psychometric testing of the Connection-Disconnection Scale (CDS), the only self-report measure designed to assess perceived mutuality experienced in close relationships by women with eating disorders. Item development was informed by relational-cultural theory and focus groups with patients and recovered individuals. Content and construct validity, test–retest reliability, and internal consistency were examined in samples of female outpatient (n = 131) and partial hospitalization (n = 85) patients. Factor analysis with promax rotation for each version of the CDS in outpatients resulted in a single-factor model explaining 77.53% of the variance for CDS-Mother, 71.86% for CDS-Father, 77.79% for CDS-Partner, and 67.67% for CDS-Friend. Cronbach’s alphas ranged from .97 to .99 for both samples. Overall, the CDS demonstrated good discriminant and convergent validity with moderate to strong correlations between CDS parent forms and the Parental Attachment Questionnaire, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the Social Support Questionnaire. Regression equations revealed that scores on CDS parent forms were inversely related to several subscale scores on the Eating Disorders Inventory—2. The CDS is a reliable and valid measure of perceived mutuality that can enrich relational understanding of the etiology and treatment of eating disorders in women.
Influence of Maternal Health Literacy on Child Participation in Social Welfare Programs: The Philadelphia Experience
Authors: Pati Susmita , Mohamad Zeinab , Cnaan Avital , Kavanagh Jane , Shea Judy A.
Published: July 2010

We examined the influence of maternal health literacy on child participation in social welfare programs. In this cohort, 20% of the mothers had inadequate or marginal health literacy. Initially, more than 50% of the families participated in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the Food Stamp Program, and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, whereas fewer than 15% received child care subsidies or public housing. In multivariate regression, TANF participation was more than twice as common among children whose mothers had adequate health literacy compared with children whose mothers had inadequate health literacy.
School-Based Screening for Suicide Risk: Balancing Costs and Benefits
Authors: Scott Michelle , Wilcox Holly , Huo Yanling , Turner J. Blake , Fisher Prudence , Shaffer David
Published: July 2010

Objectives. We examined the effects of a scoring algorithm change on the burden and sensitivity of a screen for adolescent suicide risk.

Methods. The Columbia Suicide Screen was used to screen 641 high school students for high suicide risk (recent ideation or lifetime attempt and depression, or anxiety, or substance use), determined by subsequent blind assessment with the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children. We compared the accuracy of different screen algorithms in identifying high-risk cases.

Results. A screen algorithm comprising recent ideation or lifetime attempt or depression, anxiety, or substance-use problems set at moderate-severity level classed 35% of students as positive and identified 96% of high-risk students. Increasing the algorithm's threshold reduced the proportion identified to 24% and identified 92% of high-risk cases. Asking only about recent suicidal ideation or lifetime suicide attempt identified 17% of the students and 89% of high-risk cases. The proportion of nonsuicidal diagnosis–bearing students found with the 3 algorithms was 62%, 34%, and 12%, respectively.

Conclusions. The Columbia Suicide Screen threshold can be altered to reduce the screen-positive population, saving costs and time while identifying almost all students at high risk for suicide.
Television Food Advertising to Children: A Global Perspective
Authors: Kelly Bridget , Halford Jason C.G. , Boyland Emma J. , Chapman Kathy , Bautista-Castaño Inmaculada , Berg Christina , Caroli Margherita , Cook Brian , Coutinho Janine G. , Effertz Tobias , Grammatikaki Evangelia , Keller Kathleen , Leung Raymond , Manios Yannis , Monteiro Renata , Pedley Claire , Prell Hillevi , Raine Kim , Recine Elisabetta , Serra-Majem Lluis , Singh Sonia , Summerbell Carolyn
Published: July 2010

Objectives. We compared television food advertising to children in several countries.

Methods. We undertook a collaboration among 13 research groups in Australia, Asia, Western Europe, and North and South America. Each group recorded programming for 2 weekdays and 2 weekend days between 6:00 and 22:00, for the 3 channels most watched by children, between October 2007 and March 2008. We classified food advertisements as core (nutrient dense, low in energy), noncore (high in undesirable nutrients or energy, as defined by dietary standards), or miscellaneous. We also categorized thematic content (promotional characters and premiums).

Results. Food advertisements composed 11% to 29% of advertisements. Noncore foods were featured in 53% to 87% of food advertisements, and the rate of noncore food advertising was higher during children's peak viewing times. Most food advertisements containing persuasive marketing were for noncore products.

Conclusions. Across all sampled countries, children were exposed to high volumes of television advertising for unhealthy foods, featuring child-oriented persuasive techniques. Because of the proven connections between food advertising, preferences, and consumption, our findings lend support to calls for regulation of food advertising during children's peak viewing times.
Changes in Tdap and MCV4 Vaccine Coverage Following Enactment of a Statewide Requirement of Tdap Vaccination for Entry Into Sixth Grade
Authors: Olshen Kharbanda Elyse , Stockwell Melissa S. , Colgrove James , Natarajan Karthik , Rickert Vaughn I.
Published: July 2010

Objectives. We evaluated changes in tetanus toxoid, reduced diptheria toxoid, acellular pertussis (Tdap), and tetravalen meningococcal (MCV4) vaccine coverage following enactment of a New York State mandate requiring Tdap before entering sixth grade.

Methods. Using data from a hospital-based immunization registry, we measured Tdap and MCV4 coverage among youths aged 11 to 14 years in New York City at 3 time points: premandate, mandate year 1, and mandate year 2.

Results. Among overlapping cohorts of 4316 (premandate), 4131 (mandate year 1), and 3639 (mandate year 2) youths, Tdap coverage increased steadily over time (29%, 58%, and 83%, respectively). Increases were observed among all ages. Across the same time points, MCV4 coverage also increased (10%, 30%, and 60%, respectively). Most adolescents did not receive MCV4 during the same visit they received Tdap.

Conclusions. A Tdap school-entry mandate was associated with substantial increases in immunization coverage, even in age groups not directly affected by the mandate. At the postmandate time points, MCV4 coverage remained lower than Tdap coverage. Provider education should emphasize the importance of reviewing vaccine records and administering all recommended vaccines at every clinical encounter.
Assessing Targeted Screening and Low Rates of HIV Testing
Authors: Kennedy Leigh A. , Gordin Fred M. , Kan Virginia L.
Published: July 2010

Objectives. We assessed rates of HIV testing based on targeting patients with identified risk factors at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Washington, DC (VAMC-DC), where written informed consent along with pretest and posttest counseling had, until recently, been required by federal law.

Methods. A cumulative retrospective review of the period 2000 through 2007 was conducted to assess the number of patients who were provided medical care at VAMC-DC, tested for HIV, and underwent confirmatory testing. Data on demographic characteristics and risks for HIV acquisition were also collected.

Results. At VAMC-DC, 3.8% to 4.9% (mean = 4.25%) of patients in care without known HIV infection underwent HIV screening annually. On average, HIV was confirmed at a yearly rate of 3.4% among those tested. During the study period, HIV prevalence ranged from 2.1% to 2.5%. Among patients receiving HIV care, 41.5% disclosed no risk factors for HIV acquisition.

Conclusions. Given that the HIV prevalence observed in this study was above 2% and that 41.5% of patients in care did not disclose any acquisition risks, targeted HIV screening has not been sufficient. HIV testing must be broadened and offered as part of routine medical care.
School-Based Health Centers: Cost–Benefit Analysis and Impact on Health Care Disparities
Authors: Guo Jeff J. , Wade Terrance J. , Pan Wei , Keller Kathryn N.
Published: July 2010

Objectives. We evaluated the impact of school-based health centers—which provide essential health care for students by aiming to eliminate many access barriers—on health care access disparities and conducted a cost–benefit analysis.

Methods. We employed a longitudinal quasi-experimental repeated-measures design. Primary data sources included the Ohio Medicaid claims, enrollment file with race/ethnicity, and survey reports from parents. We used hierarchical linear modeling to control unbalanced data because of student attrition. We assessed quarterly total Medicaid reimbursement costs for 5056 students in the SBHC and non-SBHC groups from 1997 to 2003. We calculated net social benefit to compare the cost of the SBHC programs with the value that SBHCs might save or create.

Results. With SBHCs, the gap of lower health care cost for African Americans was closed. The net social benefits of the SBHC program in 4 school districts were estimated as $1 352 087 over 3 years. We estimated that the SBHCs could have saved Medicaid about $35 per student per year.

Conclusions. SBHCs are cost beneficial to both the Medicaid system and society, and may close health care disparity gaps.
Analyzing Causal Effects with Observational Studies for Evidence-based Marketing at IBM
Authors: Manganaris Stefanos , Bhasin Ruchi , Reid Michael , Hermiz Keith B
Published: July 2010

Sound marketing decisions often require understanding the cause-and-effect relationships between treatment and outcomes. Market research traditionally approaches such questions by designing randomized experiments that aim to isolate the effects of the specific treatment from other effects. We review an alternate methodology that is well suited to observational studies, where the analyst cannot control how treatment is applied. The methodology uses propensity scoring and matching to emulate the randomization of treatment. It is well established in other fields, but not widely known among marketers in spite of the fact that non-experimental data is common in marketing studies. We present two applications as case studies to illustrate the value of the methodology and to describe how we addressed some of the practical issues, in sufficient detail for readers to be able to use the methodology in similar studies.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and reduction of traumatic axonal injury in a rodent head injury model
Authors: Mills James D. , Bailes Julian E. , Sedney Cara L. , Hutchins Heather , Sears Barry
Published: July 2010

Object

Traumatic brain injury remains the most common cause of death in persons under 45 years of age in the Western world. Recent evidence from animal studies suggests that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid (O3FA) (particularly eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]) improves functional outcomes following focal neural injury. The purpose of this study is to determine the benefits of O3FA supplementation following diffuse axonal injury in rats.

Methods

Forty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Three groups of 10 rats were subjected to an impact acceleration injury and the remaining group underwent a sham-injury procedure (surgery, but no impact injury). Two of the groups subjected to the injury were supplemented with 10 or 40 mg/kg/day of O3FA; the third injured group served as an unsupplemented control group. The sham-injured rats likewise received no O3FA supplementation. Serum fatty acid levels were determined from the isolated plasma phospholipids prior to the injury and at the end of the 30 days of supplementation. After the animals had been killed, immunohistochemical analysis of brainstem white matter tracts was performed to assess the presence of β-amyloid precursor protein (APP), a marker of axonal injury. Immunohistochemical analyses of axonal injury mechanisms—including analysis for caspase-3, a marker of apoptosis; RMO-14, a marker of neurofilament compaction; and cytochrome c, a marker of mitochondrial injury—were performed.

Results

Dietary supplementation with a fish oil concentrate rich in EPA and DHA for 30 days resulted in significant increases in O3FA serum levels: 11.6% ± 4.9% over initial levels in the 10 mg/kg/day group and 30.7% ± 3.6% in the 40 mg/kg/day group. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significantly (p < 0.05) decreased numbers of APP-positive axons in animals receiving O3FA supplementation: 7.7 ± 14.4 axons per mm2 in the 10 mg/kg/day group and 6.2 ± 11.4 axons per mm2 in the 40 mg/kg/day group, versus 182.2 ± 44.6 axons per mm2 in unsupplemented animals. Sham-injured animals had 4.1 ± 1.3 APP-positive axons per mm2. Similarly, immunohistochemical analysis of caspase-3 expression demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) reduction in animals receiving O3FA supplementation, 18.5 ± 28.3 axons per mm2 in the 10 mg/kg/day group and 13.8 ± 18.9 axons per mm2 in the 40 mg/kg/day group, versus 129.3 ± 49.1 axons per mm2 in unsupplemented animals.

Conclusions

Dietary supplementation with a fish oil concentrate rich in the O3FAs EPA and DHA increases serum levels of these same fatty acids in a dose-response effect. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation significantly reduces the number of APP-positive axons at 30 days postinjury to levels similar to those in uninjured animals. Omega-3 fatty acids are safe, affordable, and readily available worldwide to potentially reduce the burden of traumatic brain injury.
Phenotypic and genotypic diversity among Astragalus species growing in eastern Anatolia region of Turkey
Authors: Agar Guleray , Adiguzel Ahmet , Baris Ozlem , Gulluce Medine , Sahin Fikrettin , Sengul Meryem
Published: July 2010

Fatty acid (FA) and RAPD profiles were used to examine phenotypic and genotypic relationships, respectively among Astragalus atrocarpus, A. campylosema subsp. campylosema, A. fumosus, A. galegiformes, A. lineatus var. jildisianus and A. trichostigma. All the taxa were separated based on the presence and composition of 33 different FAs. A set of nine FAs (14 : 0, 16 : 0, 18 : 0, 18 N alcohol, 17 : 1 iso G, 18: 1 : ω8c, C18 : 1 : ω9t alcohol, 18 : 2 : ω6c, 19 : 1: ω6c) were found in all Astragalus taxa. Six of the ten decamer primers examined were selected to explore the genetic variation among the taxa tested. The RAPD results suggested that A. fumosus, A. lineatus and A. trichostigma are closely related and completely different from the rest of the taxa. Four genetically distinct groups were found among the species. High genetic variations were present among species growing wildly in eastern Anatolia region of Turkey, which may imply differences in their origin. It appears that both RAPD and FA analyses are useful for differentiation of Astragalus species. Keywords: Astragalus spp.; Genotypic; Phenotypic; Diversity; FAMEs; RAPD; Turkey DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i1.5518Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(1): 1-7, 2010 (June)
Breeding and anther derived lines of rice (Oryza sativa L.) for saline coastal areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M Sazzadur , Das Keshob C , Das Dipok K , Biswas Kuntal , Chowdhury M Badrul H , Karim Nulifer H , Salam M Abdus , Seraj Zeba I
Published: July 2010

Twenty seven anther culture lines (AC-lines) from rice (Oryza sativa L.) were produced from saline tolerant F2 progeny after crosses between salt tolerant IRRI-derived lines and Bangladesh Rice and advanced up to Double Haploid 3 (DH3) generation. Similarly crossed material, which did not respond to anther culture, was also advanced up to F7. The AC-lines were fully characterized for various salinity tolerance parameters at seedling and reduction division stages. The breeding lines were selected for tolerance again at F4 and advanced on site in the coastal area. DH3 plants were also evaluated for agronomic performance in normal soil. The best performing breeding as well as AC-lines in terms of salinity tolerance and agronomic properties were planted in farmers fields in the Boro season, when salinity levels are the highest in the coastal zones of Satkhira. One anther derived line AC-1 and three breeding lines, BR7076, BR7077 and BR7098 produced high yield under stress conditions, whereas AC-1, BR7076 and BR7077 showed moderate reduction in grain yield compared to non-saline conditions. Considering both tolerance and yield performance in the saline area, AC-1 showed more stability compared to the breeding lines. Key words: Anther culture; Breeding; Salinity stress; Coastal rice; Oryza sativa; Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i1.5529Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(1): 71-78, 2010 (June)
Marine algae of St. Martin's Island, Bangladesh. VIII. new records of red algae (Rhodophyceae)
Authors: Islam Shahima , Aziz Abdul , Chowdhury Abdullah Harun
Published: July 2010

Ceramium brevizonatum var. caraibica Peter. et Børg., Dasya corymbifera J. Ag., Dudresnaya hawaiiensis R.K.S. Lee, Chrysymenia agardhii Harv. and Hypnea boergesenii Tanaka are recorded and described for the first time from the St. Martin's Island, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. Key words: Seaweeds; Red algae; Dudresnaya hawaiiensis; St. Martin's Island; Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i1.5531Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(1): 87-96, 2010 (June)
In vitro evaluation of fungicidal responses on the growth of pathogenic Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, antagonistic binucleate Rhizoctonia and Trichoderma harzianum Rifai
Authors: Khandaker Md Maniruzzaman , Bhuiyan Md Khurshed Alam , Khair Abul
Published: July 2010

Two pathogenic isolates of Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn causing stem canker/black scurf disease of potato plants and four antagonist isolates, two of binucleate Rhizoctonia and two of Trichoderma harzianum Rifai were isolated from crop fields and evaluated in vitro for their fungicidal responses against eight fungicides. Vitavax was effective in inhibiting the growth of R. solani and binucleate Rhizoctonia but it did not inhibit the growth of T. harzianum at 100 ppm concentration. Terraclor Super X, Dithane M 45 and Boric acid are the fungicides which at 100 ppm concentration did not inhibit the growth of antagonist isolates of T. harzianum and binucleate Rhizoctonia but inhibited the growth of isolates of R. solani to some extent. The in vitro findings suggest that any one of these three fungicides along with antagonist isolates of binucleate Rhizoctonia and T. harzianum can be used as biocontrol agents to reduce soil borne inocula of R. solani. Key words: Rhizoctonia solani; Binucleate; Trichoderma harzianum; Fungicide DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i1.5534Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(1): 107-110, 2010 (June)
Sensitivity of Aeromonas obtained from poultry sources of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Saidul , Hassan SMR , Shirin Momena , Akond Mohammad Ali
Published: July 2010

About 30% poultry samples harboured Aeromonas spp. Sensitivity tests of 100 selected strains against 12 antibiotics revealed that 20 - 100% were resistant to nine and 18 - 85% were sensitive to eight antibiotics, respectively. All isolates showed multiple resistance to six to nine antibiotics and thus pose a risk for both chicken farms and public health. Key words: Aeromonas; Sensitivity; Resistant; Poultry sources; Bangladesh DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i1.5538Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(1): 123-125, 2010 (June)
Effects of two growth regulators on yield and yield attributes of two varieties of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Ahmed Rifat , Fattah Quazi Abdul , Jahan Nargis
Published: July 2010

Foliar applications of 500 and 1000 ppm KNap and 2 and 4 ppm mixtalol on Kanchan and Akbar varieties of wheat showed that in most cases spikelets per plant, grains per spikelet, weight of 1000 grains and grain yield per plant increased significantly. In Kanchan the highest yield was due to 4 ppm mixtalol and in Akbar it was due to 500 ppm KNap. Key words: KNap; Mixtalol; Yield attributes; Wheat; Foliar application DOI: 10.3329/bjb.v39i1.5539Bangladesh J. Bot. 39(1): 127-129, 2010 (June)
On Measurement of Avoidable and Unavoidable Cost of Alcohol: An Application of Method for Estimating Costs Due To Prior Consumption
Authors: Jarl Johan , Gerdtham Ulf-G. , Ludbrook Anne , Petrie Dennis
Published: July 2010

This study estimates the avoidable and unavoidable costs of alcohol-related, liver cirrhosis inpatient care, controlling for the lag structure and period of decline in disease risk. Lag structures with different lengths are applied to the exposure to risk from alcohol consumption, which allows for differentiation between avoidable and unavoidable cases due to prior consumption. A lag length of 20 (men) and 23 (women) years (expected remaining life years) gives a total cost of 592 million SEK. Given alcohol consumption is reduced to zero, 72% of cost could potentially be avoided. It is important to account for the length and structure of the risk decline following a consumption change as this substantially affects the estimates.
Quantum Cascade Laser Absorption Spectroscopy as a Plasma Diagnostic Tool: An Overview
Authors: Welzel Stefan , Hempel Frank , Hübner Marko , Lang Norbert , Davies Paul B. , Röpcke Jürgen
Published: July 2010

The recent availability of thermoelectrically cooled pulsed and continuous wave quantum and inter-band cascade lasers in the mid-infrared spectral region has led to significant improvements and new developments in chemical sensing techniques using in-situ laser absorption spectroscopy for plasma diagnostic purposes. The aim of this article is therefore two-fold: (i) to summarize the challenges which arise in the application of quantum cascade lasers in such environments, and, (ii) to provide an overview of recent spectroscopic results (encompassing cavity enhanced methods) obtained in different kinds of plasma used in both research and industry.
Frequency and Phenotype of T Helper 17 Cells in Peripheral Blood and Synovial Fluid of Patients with Reactive Arthritis
Authors: SHEN HUI , GOODALL JANE C. , GASTON J.S. HILL
Published: July 2010

Objective.

To analyze the frequency and phenotype of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and synovial fluid mononuclear cell (SFMC) T helper (Th)17 cells in reactive arthritis (ReA).

Methods.

T cell surface phenotype and cytokine production were measured following stimulation, using 8-color flow cytometry.

Results.

The percentages of interleukin 17 (IL-17)–positive CD4+ T cells were increased in SFMC of patients with ReA compared with PBMC. All IL-17+ cells were CD4+CD45RO+; in SFMC most expressed CCR6, but only 50% expressed CCR4. IL-17+ cells sometimes coexpressed IL-22 and/or interferon-γ, but not IL-10.

Conclusion.

These data support the hypothesis that Th17 cells are involved in ReA pathogenesis.
Complications and Visual Prognosis in Children with Aniridia
Authors: Lee Helena , Meyers Katrina , Lanigan Bernadette , O’Keefe Michael
Published: July 2010

Purpose:

To characterize the ophthalmological findings, assess surgical outcomes, and review visual outcomes in aniridia.

Methods:

A retrospective case review was performed and data were collected, including patient demographics, incidence of aniridia-associated keratopathy, glaucoma, cataract, retinal breaks or detachments, optic nerve hypoplasia, macular hypoplasia, poor vision, and nystagmus. All outcomes from surgery, including penetrating keratoplasty, trabeculectomy, Ahmed valve insertion, and cataract extraction, were recorded.

Results:

Six children (12 eyes) had corneal abnormalities, 4 had optic nerve hypoplasia, 9 had nystagmus, and 2 had retinal detachments. Four patients (7 eyes) required penetrating keratoplasty. Five patients (9 eyes) developed glaucoma and only 1 of the 4 trabeculectomies performed succeeded. Of the 6 Ahmed valve procedures performed, all succeeded in maintaining a satisfactory intraocular pressure but some required needling and 5-fluorouracil. Eight patients developed cataract and 7 required surgery. Visual outcomes were poor despite treatment. Nine patients had Snellen acuity of 6/60 or less and required low visual aids to function.

Conclusion:

Aniridia is a disorder that requires multiple surgeries. It has a poor visual prognosis despite early diagnosis and aggressive management. Newer techniques such as Ahmed valves and Boston keratoprostheses offer hope, but its proliferative nature makes treatment difficult.
Contrast Sensitivity Comparison Between AcrySof ReSTOR and Acri.LISA Aspheric Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Alfonso José F. , Puchades Cristina , Fernández-Vega Luis , Merayo Carmen , Montés-Micó Robert
Published: July 2010

Purpose:

To evaluate distance contrast sensitivity under photopic, mesopic, and mesopic with glare conditions after implantation of the AcrySof ReSTOR (Alcon Laboratories Inc) and Acri.LISA (Carl Zeiss Meditec) intraocular lenses (IOLs).

Methods:

Binocular contrast sensitivity function was measured with the Optec 6500 FACT contrast sensitivity chart at distance and at three lighting conditions (85 cd/m
2
and 3 cd/m
2
with and without glare) in 36 eyes of 18 patients implanted with the AcrySof ReSTOR aspheric SN6AD3 IOL and 40 eyes of 20 patients implanted with the Acri.LISA 366D IOL. Results after implantation were compared between lenses at 1 and 6 months.

Results:

Our results revealed that both IOLs provided good best spectacle-corrected visual acuities at distance and near vision (∼20/20), and no statistically significant differences were noted between models at different time points after surgery. Both IOLs provided contrast sensitivity within the normal range in photopic conditions. Under low lighting conditions, a reduction in contrast sensitivity for both lenses, particularly at higher spatial frequencies, was noted. No significant differences were observed between both IOLs at any lighting condition.

Conclusions:

The AcrySof ReSTOR SN6AD3 and Acri.LISA aspheric IOLs provided contrast sensitivity within normal range under photopic conditions and a reduction in contrast sensitivity under mesopic conditions, with no significant differences between the two brands.
A Fusion Protein Encoding the Second Extracellular Domain of CCR5 Arrests Chemokine-Induced Cosignaling and Effectively Suppresses Ongoing Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Sapir Yair , Vitenshtein Alon , Barsheshet Yiftah , Zohar Yaniv , Wildbaum Gizi , Karin Nathan
Published: July 2010

CCR5 is a key CCR that is highly expressed on CD4+ T cells. It binds three different ligands: CCL3 (MIP-α), CCL4 (MIP-β), and CCL5 (RANTES). Recent studies suggested that the interaction between CCR5 and its ligands is essential not only for attracting these CCR5+ T cells but also substantial for transuding cosignals for their activation. The current study explores, for the first time, the in vivo consequences of CCR5 as a costimulatory molecule. First, we show redundancy between CCR5 ligands not only in chemoattractive properties but also in their ability to induced cosignals via CCR5. This has motivated us to generate a soluble receptor-based fusion protein that would selectively bind and neutralize all three CCR5 ligands. We show in this study that a 30-aa–based CCR5–Ig fusion protein encoding the second extracellular domain of receptor selectively binds and neutralizes all three CCR5 ligands and, when administered during ongoing experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, rapidly suppressed the disease while arresting Ag-specific effector T cell functions. Finally, our results clearly show that although CCR5 ligands induced cosignaling for IL-2 production is directed by CCR5, other proinflammatory properties of these ligands, such as TNF-α, IL-17, and IFN-γ production, are CCR5 independent and therefore likely to be mediated by the other receptors for these ligands. These findings imply that implementing a CCR5-Ig–based therapy would be advantageous over blockade of this receptor or of the use of mAbs for targeting a single CCR5 ligand.
The efficiency of a risk reduction program for debris-flow disasters – a case study of the Songhe community in Taiwan
Authors: Chen S. C. , Wu C. Y. , Huang B. T.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. A risk reduction program was developed after debris-flow disaster analysis is conducted using mitigation structures, evacuation measures and community restrained expansion strategy. The risk assessment method delineates hazard zones and analyzes vulnerability and the resilient capacity of an affected area, allowing the prediction of losses of properties and lives, and the corresponding risk. It can also be used to evaluate performance of a risk reduction program. The proposed method was applied to the Songhe community as a case study to assess debris-flow risk and performance of reduction programs consisting of mitigation structures, evacuation measures and a restrained expansion strategy. Total annual risk decreased to $0.01 million from $0.72 million for the No. 1 Torrent and to $0.36 million from $1.22 million for the No. 2 Torrent after mitigation structures were installed, and evacuation measures were implemented based on restrained expansion. Although mitigation structures are costly, they can reduce the size of hazard zones. Delimitating the Designated Soil and Water Conservation Area restrains community expansion and decreases possible losses. Although evacuation measures cannot reduce the size of hazard zones, they effectively increase the resilient capacity of residents. The benefit-cost ratio for mitigation structures exceeds 1.0 for both torrents with an average of 3.87; the benefit-cost ratio for evacuation measures is markedly greater than 1.0. Combining mitigation structures and evacuation measures increases the total benefit with a benefit-cost ratio of 4.38. Analytical results showed that the risk reduction program is cost-effective.
B‐cell activation influences T‐cell polarization and outcome of anti‐CD20 B‐cell depletion in central nervous system autoimmunity
Authors: Weber Martin S. , Prod'homme Thomas , Patarroyo Juan C. , Molnarfi Nicolas , Karnezis Tara , Lehmann‐Horn Klaus , Danilenko Dimitry M. , Eastham‐Anderson Jeffrey , Slavin Anthony J. , Linington Christopher , Bernard Claude C. A. , Martin Flavius , Zamvil Scott S.
Published: July 2010

Objective

Clinical studies indicate that anti‐CD20 B‐cell depletion may be an effective multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy. We investigated mechanisms of anti‐CD20‐mediated immune modulation using 2 paradigms of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE).

Methods

Murine EAE was induced by recombinant myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (rMOG), a model in which B cells are considered to contribute pathogenically, or MOG peptide (p)35‐55, which does not require B cells.

Results

In EAE induced by rMOG, B cells became activated and, when serving as antigen‐presenting cells (APCs), promoted differentiation of proinflammatory MOG‐specific Th1 and Th17 cells. B‐cell depletion prevented or reversed established rMOG‐induced EAE, which was associated with less central nervous system (CNS) inflammation, elimination of meningeal B cells, and reduction of MOG‐specific Th1 and Th17 cells. In contrast, in MOG p35‐55‐induced EAE, B cells did not become activated or efficiently polarize proinflammatory MOG‐specific T cells, similar to naive B cells. In this setting, anti‐CD20 treatment exacerbated EAE, and did not impede development of Th1 or Th17 cells. Irrespective of the EAE model used, B‐cell depletion reduced the frequency of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg), and increased the proinflammatory polarizing capacity of remaining myeloid APCs.

Interpretation

Our study highlights distinct roles for B cells in CNS autoimmunity. Clinical benefit from anti‐CD20 treatment may relate to inhibition of proinflammatory B cell APC function. In certain clinical settings, however, elimination of unactivated B cells, which participate in regulation of T cells and other APC, may be undesirable. Differences in immune responses to MOG protein and peptide may be important considerations when choosing an EAE model for testing novel B cell‐targeting agents for MS. ANN NEUROL 2010
Scientific impact at the topic level: A case study in computational linguistics
Authors: Wu Hao , He Jun , Pei Yijian
Published: July 2010

In this article, we propose to apply the topic model and topic‐level eigenfactor (TEF) algorithm to assess the relative importance of academic entities including articles, authors, journals, and conferences. Scientific impact is measured by the biased PageRank score toward topics created by the latent topic model. The TEF metric considers the impact of an academic entity in multiple granular views as well as in a global view. Experiments on a computational linguistics corpus show that the method is a useful and promising measure to assess scientific impact.