bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining the relative roles of species replacement and species richness differences in generating beta‐diversity patterns
Authors: Carvalho José C. , Cardoso Pedro , Gomes Pedro
Published: June 2011

Aim  To determine the relative contribution of species replacement and species richness differences to the emergence of beta‐diversity patterns.

Innovation  A novel method that disentangles all compositional differences (βcc, overall beta diversity) in its two components, species replacement (β‐3) and species richness differences (βrich) is proposed. The performance of the method was studied with ternary plots, which allow visualization of the influence of the relative proportions of shared and unique species of two sites over each metric. The method was also tested in different hypothetical gradients and with real datasets. The novel method was compared with a previous proposal based on the partitioning of overall compositional differences (βsor) in replacement (βsim) and nestedness (βnes). The linear response of βcc contrasts with the curvilinear response of βsor to linear gradients of dissimilarity. When two sites did not share any species, βsim was always 1 and β‐3 only reached 1 when the number of exclusive species of both sites was equal. β‐3 remained constant along gradients of richness differences with constant replacement, while βsim decreased. βrich had a linear response to a linear gradient of richness differences with constant species replacement, whereas βnes exhibited a hump‐shaped response. Moreover, βsim > βnes when clearly almost all species of one site were lost, whereas β‐3 < βrich in the same circumstances.

Main conclusions  The behaviour of the partition of βcc into β‐3 and βrich is consistent with the variation of replacement and richness differences. The partitioning of βsor into βsim and βnes overestimates the replacement component and underestimates richness differences. The novel methodology allows the discrimination of different causes of beta‐diversity patterns along latitudinal, biogeographic or ecological gradients, by estimating correctly the relative contributions of replacement and richness differences.
The scutellar vascular bundle–specific promoter of the wheat HD‐Zip IV transcription factor shows similar spatial and temporal activity in transgenic wheat, barley and rice
Authors: Kovalchuk Nataliya , Wu Wei , Eini Omid , Bazanova Natalia , Pallotta Margaret , Shirley Neil , Singh Rohan , Ismagul Ainur , Eliby Serik , Johnson Alexander , Langridge Peter , Lopato Sergiy
Published: June 2011

An HD‐Zip IV gene from wheat, TaGL9, was isolated using a Y1H screen of a cDNA library prepared from developing wheat grain. TaGL9 has an amino acid sequence distinct from other reported members of the HD‐Zip IV family. The 3′ untranslated region of TaGL9 was used as a probe to isolate a genomic clone of the TaGL9 homologue from a BAC library prepared from Triticum durum L. cv. Langdon. The full‐length gene containing a 3‐kb‐long promoter region was designated TdGL9H1. Spatial and temporal activity of TdGL9H1 was examined using promoter‐GUS fusion constructs in transgenic wheat, barley and rice plants. Whole‐mount and histochemical GUS staining patterns revealed grain‐specific expression of TdGL9H1. GUS expression was initially observed between 3 and 8 days after pollination (DAP) in embryos at the globular stage and adjacent to the embryo fraction of the endosperm. Expression was strongest in the outer cell layer of the embryo. In developed wheat and barley embryos, strong activity of the promoter was only detected in the main vascular bundle of the scutellum, which is known to be responsible for the uptake of nutrients from the endosperm during germination and the endosperm‐dependent phase of seedling development. Furthermore, this pattern of GUS staining was observed in dry seeds several weeks after harvesting but quickly disappeared during imbibition. The promoter of this gene could be a useful tool for engineering of early seedling vigour and protecting the endosperm to embryo axis pathway from pathogens during grain desiccation and storage.
China’s Foreign Trade: Perspectives From the Past 150 Years
Authors: Keller Wolfgang , Li Ben , Shiue Carol H.
Published: June 2011

This paper studies the trade of China in the past 150 years, starting from the first opening of China after the Opium War. The main purpose of the paper is to identify what is (and was) China’s ‘normal’ level of foreign trade, and how these levels changed under different trade regimes, from 1840 to the present. We present new evidence on China’s foreign trade during the treaty port era (1842–1948), drawn from disaggregated trade data collected by the Chinese Maritime Customs Service, that yields important findings for current research. First, although the volume of foreign trade remained limited initially, there was a notable expansion in the diversity of products, with many new goods being imported into China. Second, the regional diffusion of foreign goods through China was greatly facilitated by the expansions of the port system. Third, the importance of Hong Kong as an intermediary in China’s trade has undergone long‐term fluctuations suggestive of learning effects. China’s recent wave of liberalization has led by the early 1990s to a trade level comparable to the high of the 1920s. While much of China’s recent growth in world trade is in line with her income growth, there is no doubt that China’s trade openness today, comparable by some measures to Denmark’s, is a stunning reversal relative to the pre‐1978 and also the pre‐1840 period. The paper emphasises the roles that history and institutional change have played in this.
The ‘Real’ Impact of GATT/WTO – a Generalised Approach
Authors: Herz Bernhard , Wagner Marco
Published: June 2011

Rose’s result in 2004 that GATT/WTO has no significant impact on bilateral trade triggered off a series of empirical studies. Each of those studies augments Rose’s paper in one specific methodological aspect with the general finding that GATT/WTO significantly fosters members’ trade, although the estimated impact varies between 2 per cent and 195 per cent of trade creation. We combine the methodological contributions of previous studies to overcome these isolated approaches, to account for possible interactions and to develop a more general view on the impact of GATT/WTO. In particular, we find that GATT/WTO promotes members’ trade by around 86 per cent.
Airborne contact dermatitis to tetrazepam in geriatric nurses – a report of 10 cases
Authors: Landeck L. , Skudlik C. , John S.M.
Published: June 2011

Background  Tetrazepam, a benzodiazepine, is a frequently used muscle relaxant. The most common adverse reactions are neurological and gastrointestinal. Cutaneous reactions to tetrazepam are rare and occur predominantly after systemic administration.

Objective  To present 10 health care professionals who developed airborne contact dermatitis to tetrazepam due to occupational exposure to tetrazepam dusts.

Materials and methods  We report a series of 10 cases observed in our department between January 2006 and March 2011 where tetrazepam was identified to cause allergic airborne contact dermatitis. Affected individuals were employed as (geriatric) nursing staff, exposed to tetrazepam on a regular occupational basis when crushing tablets for their patients. Upon investigation, patients were patch tested with commercial and customized allergens. This included tetrazepam and in five cases diazepam. Tetrazepam revealed strong positive reactions in all patients. Additional diazepam sensitization was observed in three subjects. Following local treatment and occupational preventive action, patients recovered from their skin symptoms.

Conclusions  Allergic contact sensitization to tetrazepam and cross‐sensitization to diazepam seems to be underestimated and not appropriately diagnosed in patch test clinics, as it is so far insufficiently patch tested. They should be considered when allergic contact dermatitis is suspected, particularly in professionally exposed staff, and tested as supplemental allergens.
Sun behaviour patterns and perception of illness among melanoma patients
Authors: Živković M.V. , Dediol I. , Ljubičić I. , Šitum M.
Published: June 2011

Background  Melanoma is one of the most aggressive skin tumours for which the major risk factor is ultraviolet radiation. Sun protection is extremely important, especially for melanoma patients who, once diagnosed with melanoma, have 500 times greater chance of developing another melanoma than the general population.

Objective  In this study, we examined the perception of melanoma and attitudes towards sun protection among melanoma patients and compared their results with the patients suffering from other dermatological disorders.

Methods  In total, 240 participants were included in the study: 120 patients suffering from melanoma and 120 participants in the control group. The Sun Behaviour Patterns Questionnaire and the Brief Illness Perceptions Questionnaire were used in this study to assess sun behaviours and perception of melanoma.

Results  Melanoma patients have negative attitude towards sunbathing: 57% avoid sunbathing and 27% spend time in the sun only during swimming, otherwise seeking shade, whereas participants in the control group have more positive attitude towards sunbathing. Results indicate very short time of using sunscreen protection during the year and very small number of people using adequate SPF value, in both melanoma and control group.

Conclusion  Participants in control group perceive melanoma as a more serious illness than patients who think that melanoma has mild symptoms, is easy to cure and control, has moderate consequences and lasts relatively long. Both melanoma patients and participants in the control group show relatively good sun behaviour patterns and slightly negative attitudes towards sun protection.
The effect of culture on consumer choice: the need for conformity vs. the need for uniqueness
Authors: Liang Beichen , He Yanbin
Published: June 2011

This paper investigates whether East Asians are more likely than Westerners to purchase a brand presented as a best‐seller given that East Asians tend to have a higher need for conformity and Westerners tend to have a higher need for uniqueness. Results show that East Asians are more likely than their Western counterparts to purchase such brands when the perceived risk is low. However, when the perceived risk is high, both East Asians and Westerners tend to prefer a brand presented as a best‐seller. Results also show that, in a three‐option set in which the C option is dominated by the B option but not by the A, both East Asians and Westerners are more likely to select option C when it is presented as a best‐seller than when it is not. Managerial implications and the study's limitations are also discussed.
A Political Economic History of the Liberian State, Forced Labour and Armed Mobilization
Authors: MUNIVE JAIRO
Published: June 2011

The main argument in this article is that in order to understand the mobilization of youth during the Liberian civil war, it is imperative to investigate how manpower has been mobilized historically. The issue of soldiering can be understood partly as a result of the political history of the Liberian state; in particular, its territorialization. This paper explores how labour has been mobilized historically and details what determined labour‐force participation before the outbreak of the civil war. During the twentieth century, labour in Liberia was organized to service the functions of a resource‐extraction economy, a prominent place being given to the main resource‐based export industry, namely rubber, and the role of international companies. The administrative practices of the state in recruiting labour to these industries are central to mobilization. Efforts to demobilize and reintegrate combatants should take account of these historical legacies.
Environmentalism and Social Protest: The Contemporary Anti‐mining Mobilization in the Province of San Marcos and the Condebamba Valley, Peru
Authors: TAYLOR LEWIS
Published: June 2011

During recent years, a rapid expansion in large‐scale mining activity has generated a host of protests in Peru, as rural populations have attempted to defend their livelihood and environment. This article examines the genesis and trajectory of one such mobilization that emerged in the province of San Marcos and neighbouring Condebamba Valley, located in the northern Andean department of Cajamarca. The social movement's internal organization, strategy, tactics and repertoires of struggle are analyzed. Practices inherited from the rondas campesinas (nightwatch patrols) are seen to have exercised an important influence in shaping its modus operandi, which contrasts in key respects with the behaviour of other anti‐mining protests in Peru, such as Majaz. The article concludes with an assessment of how shifting power relations within the state might influence the chances of successful collective action in the countryside.
Phylogenetic isolation increases plant success despite increasing susceptibility to generalist herbivores
Authors: Parker John D. , Burkepile Deron E. , Lajeunesse Marc J. , Lind Eric M.
Published: June 2011

Aim Theory suggests that introduced species that are phylogenetically distant from their recipient communities should be more successful than closely related introduced species because they can exploit open niches and escape enemies in their new range, i.e. Darwin’s Naturalization Hypothesis. Alternatively, it has also been hypothesized that closely related invaders might be more successful than novel invaders because they are pre‐adapted to conditions in their new range; a paradox coined Darwin’s Naturalization Conundrum. To date, these hypotheses have been tested primarily at the regional scale, not within local plant communities where introduced species colonize, compete and encounter herbivores.

Location Global.

Methods and Results We used community phylogenetics to analyse data from 49 published experiments to examine the importance of phylogenetic relatedness and generalist herbivory on native and exotic plant success at the community level. Plants that were categorized as ‘invasive’ were indeed less related to the recipient community than ‘non‐pest’ exotic plants. Distantly related exotic plants were also more abundant than closely related species. Phylogenetic relatedness predicted herbivore impact, but in a way that was opposite to predictions, as herbivores had stronger, not lesser, impacts on distantly related plants. Importantly, these same patterns generally held for native plants, as distantly related native plants were more abundant and more susceptible to herbivores than closely related species, ultimately resulting in herbivores suppressing community‐level phylogenetic diversity.

Main conclusions Distantly related plants were more locally successful despite experiencing stronger control by generalist herbivores, a finding that was robust across native and exotic species. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence that phylogenetic matching influences the local success of both native and exotic species and that herbivores can influence community phylodiversity. Phylogenetic relatedness explained a relatively small portion of the variance in the data even after taking herbivory into account, however, suggesting that phylogenetic matching works in combination with other factors to influence community assembly.
Genetic polymorphisms and microRNAs: new direction in molecular epidemiology of solid cancer
Authors: Slaby Ondrej , Bienertova‐Vasku Julie , Svoboda Marek , Vyzula Rostislav
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Classification of miRNA‐related SNPs

MiRNA‐related SNPs and solid cancer

Conclusions and future directions

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs, which regulate gene expression. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may occur in miRNA biogenesis pathway genes, primary miRNA, pre‐miRNA or a mature miRNA sequence. Such polymorphisms may be functional with respect to biogenesis and actions of mature miRNA. Specific SNPs were identified in predicted miRNA target sites within 3′ untranslated regions of mRNAs. These SNPs have a potential to affect the efficiency of miRNA binding to the target sites or can create or disrupt binding sites. Resulting gene dysregulation may involve changes in phenotype and may eventually prove critical for the susceptibility to cancer and its onset as well as for estimates of prognosis and therapy response. In this review, we provide a comprehensive list of potentially functional miRNA‐related SNPs and summarize their importance as candidate cancer biomarkers.
KATP channel agonists preserve connexin43 protein in infarcted rats by a protein kinase C‐dependent pathway
Authors: Lee Tsung‐Ming , Lin Chih‐Chan , Lien Hsiao‐Yin , Chen Chien‐Chang
Published: June 2011

Downward remodelling of gap junctional proteins between myocytes may trigger ventricular arrhythmia after myocardial infarction. We have demonstrated that ATP‐sensitive potassium (KATP) channel agonists attenuated post‐infarction arrhythmias. However, the involved mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine whether KATP channel agonists can attenuate arrhythmias through preserving protein kinase C (PKC)‐ε–dependent connexin43 level after myocardial infarction. Male Wistar rats after ligating coronary artery were randomized to either vehicle, nicorandil, pinacidil, glibenclamide or a combination of nicorandil and glibenclamide or pinacidil and glibenclamide for 4 weeks. To elucidate the role of PKCε in the modulation of connexin43 level, carbachol and myristoylated PKCε V1–2 peptide were also assessed. Myocardial connexin43 level was significantly decreased in vehicle‐treated infarcted rats compared with sham. Attenuated connexin43 level was blunted after administering KATP channel agonists, assessed by immunofluorescent analysis, Western blotting, and real‐time quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR of connexin43. Arrhythmic scores during programmed stimulation in the KATP channel agonists‐treated rats were significantly lower than those treated with vehicle. The beneficial effects of KATP channel agonists were blocked by either glibenclamide or 5‐hydroxydecanoate. Addition of the PKC activator, phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate and the specific PKCε agonist, carbachol, blocked the effects of nicorandil on connexin43 phosphorylation and dye permeability. The specific PKCε antagonist, myristoylated PKCε V1–2 peptide, did not have additional beneficial effects on connexin43 phosphorylation compared with rats treated with nicorandil alone. Chronic use of KATP channel agonists after infarction, resulting in enhanced connexin43 level through a PKCε‐dependent pathway, may attenuate the arrhythmogenic response to programmed electrical stimulation.
The role of Campylobacter jejuni cytolethal distending toxin in gastroenteritis: toxin detection, antibody production, and clinical outcome
Authors: MORTENSEN NINELL P. , SCHIELLERUP PETER , BOISEN NADIA , KLEIN BJARKE M. , LOCHT HENNING , ABUOUN MANAL , NEWELL DIANE , KROGFELT KAREN A.
Published: June 2011

Mortensen NP, Schiellerup P, Boisen N, Klein BM, Locht H, AbuOun M, Newell D, Krogfelt KA. The role of Campylobacter jejuni cytolethal distending toxin in gastroenteritis: toxin detection, antibody production and clinical outcome. APMIS 2011.

The role of Campylobacter jejuni cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) on clinical outcome after gastroenteritis was investigated. Clinical data, blood serum samples, and Campylobacter spp. isolated, from each of 30 patients were collected over a period of 6 months. The CDT encoding genes, cdtABC, characterized by PCR, revealed that all but one of the C. jejuni strains had the wild‐type sequence. Sequencing of cdtABC from this strain showed two major deletions. From all of the strains, CDT titers were determined, and toxin neutralizing antibodies were documented using an in vitro assay. Three of the thirty clinical isolates, including the one with the mutant cdtABC coding genes, did not have a detectable CDT activity. Analyzing the relationship between CDT titer, serum neutralization of CDT, and the clinical outcome showed that campylobacteriosis caused by CDT‐negative strains was clinically indistinguishable from that of patients infected with an isolate that produced high levels of CDT. These results suggest that CDT does not solely determine severity of infection and clinical outcome.
Graft morphology correlates with fibroblast activity in cardiac allograft rejection
Authors: LORANT TOMAS , EMANUELSSON CECILIA , QUACH MY , TUFVESON GUNNAR
Published: June 2011

Lorant T, Emanuelsson C, Quach M, Tufveson G. Graft morphology correlates with fibroblast activity in cardiac allograft rejection, APMIS 2011.

Several extracellular matrix substances, such as hyaluronan and fibronectin, may affect graft viability by their involvement in cell adhesion and in migration. These substances are produced locally in the tissue by fibroblasts. The aim of this study was to investigate the activation state of intragraft fibroblasts under various immunosuppressive treatments and to correlate these with morphological parameters. Syngeneic (n = 5) and allogeneic rat (n = 5–6/group) heterotopic heart transplantations were performed. Allogeneically transplanted animals were immunosuppressed with cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil or prednisolone. After 10 days, the transplanted hearts were removed for subsequent isolation of intragraft fibroblasts and for evaluation of graft morphology. The hyaluronan synthesis of graft fibroblasts correlated with the cellular infiltration (p < 0.05) and the interstitial oedema (p < 0.05) of the cardiac grafts. In general, proliferation rate and hyaluronan production were of the same magnitude in fibroblasts from allogeneic hearts under immunosuppression with cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil or prednisolone as in fibroblasts from syngeneic grafts. A pool of fibroblasts isolated from cardiac grafts of non‐immunosuppressed, allogeneically transplanted rats (n = 4) showed considerably higher levels. We concluded that fibroblast activity correlates to the viability of the tissue rather than to the specific drug used for immunosuppression.
Feasibility of cerebral MRI in non‐sedated preterm‐born infants at term‐equivalent age: report of a single centre
Authors: Neubauer V , Griesmaier E , Baumgartner K , Mallouhi A , Keller M , Kiechl‐Kohlendorfer U
Published: June 2011

Aim:  MRI is gaining in importance as an imaging tool for brain development and injury in preterm infants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of performing MRI in non‐sedated preterm‐born infants at term‐equivalent age (TEA).

Methods:  A total of 89 infants born before 32 gestational weeks were recruited. Infants were scanned without sedation. Duration of the entire examination including scan repetition and interruptions was registered.

Results:  Of the 89 infants, 56 (63%) underwent MRI at TEA. Out‐patients required a significantly shorter total MR examination time than did in‐patients (32 ± 12 vs. 54 ± 10 min, p < 0.01). Of the 56 infants, 39 (69.6%) were examined without interruption. Only four (7.2%) of the 56 scans were unusable because of motion artefacts. Mean duration of all scans was 36 ± 14 min. In cases with no interruptions, sessions were completed within 32 ± 12 min; MR sessions with interruption lasted 45 ± 13 min.

Conclusion:  A well‐trained team is indispensable in obtaining best‐quality images as a prerequisite for good counselling. From our experience, we worked out a guideline to ensure that scans in stable non‐sedated preterm‐born infants at TEA run smoothly and provide high‐quality images.
The unusual radio transient in M82: an SS 433 analogue?
Authors: Joseph T. D. , Maccarone T. J. , Fender R. P.
Published: June 2011

In this Letter we discuss the recently discovered radio transient in the nuclear region of M82. It has been suggested that this source is an X-ray binary, which, given the radio flux density, would require an X-ray luminosity, LX ∼ 6 × 1042 erg s-1 if it were a stellar mass black hole that followed established empirical relations for X-ray binaries. The source is not detected in the analysis of the X-ray archival data. Using a 99 per cent confidence level upper limit we find that LX≤ 1.8 × 1037 and 1.5 × 1037 erg s-1, using power law and disc blackbody models, respectively. The source is thus unlikely to be a traditional microquasar, but could be a system similar to SS 433, a Galactic microquasar with a high ratio of radio to X-ray luminosity.
Flood‐resilient waterfront development in New York City: Bridging flood insurance, building codes, and flood zoning
Authors: Aerts Jeroen C.J.H. , Wouter Botzen W.J.
Published: June 2011

Waterfronts are attractive areas for many—often competing—uses in New York City (NYC) and are seen as multifunctional locations for economic, environmental, and social activities on the interface between land and water. The NYC waterfront plays a crucial role as a first line of flood defense and in managing flood risk and protecting the city from future climate change and sea‐level rise. The city of New York has embarked on a climate adaptation program (PlaNYC) outlining the policies needed to anticipate the impacts of climate change. As part of this policy, the Department of City Planning has recently prepared Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan for the over 500 miles of NYC waterfront (NYC‐DCP, 2011). An integral part of the vision is to improve resilience to climate change and sea‐level rise. This study seeks to provide guidance for advancing the goals of NYC Vision 2020 by assessing how flood insurance, flood zoning, and building code policies can contribute to waterfront development that is more resilient to climate change.
Efficacy of Slightly Acidic Electrolyzed Water in Killing or Reducing Escherichia coli O157:H7 on Iceberg Lettuce and Tomatoes under Simulated Food Service Operation Conditions
Authors: Pangloli Philipus , Hung Yen‐Con
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of slightly acidic electrolyzed (SAEO) water in killing or removing Escherichia coli O157:H7 on iceberg lettuce and tomatoes by washing and chilling treatment simulating protocols used in food service kitchens. Whole lettuce leaves and tomatoes were spot‐inoculated with 100 μL of a mixture of 5 strains of E. coli O157:H7. Washing lettuce with SAEO water for 15 s reduced the pathogen by 1.4 to 1.6 log CFU/leaf, but the treatments did not completely inactivate the pathogen in the wash solution. Increasing the washing time to 30 s increased the reductions to 1.7 to 2.3 log CFU/leaf. Sequential washing in SAEO water for 15 s and then chilling in SAEO water for 15 min also increased the reductions to 2.0 to 2.4 log CFU/leaf, and no cell survived in chilling solution after treatment. Washing tomatoes with SAEO water for 8 s reduced E. coli O157:H7 by 5.4 to 6.3 log CFU/tomato. The reductions were increased to 6.6 to 7.6 log CFU/tomato by increasing the washing time to 15 s. Results suggested that application of SAEO water to wash and chill lettuce and tomatoes in food service kitchens could minimize cross‐contamination and reduce the risk of E. coli O157:H7 present on the produce.

Practical Application:  SAEO water is equally or slightly better than acidic electrolyzed (AEO) water for inactivation of bacteria on lettuce and tomato surfaces. In addition, SAEO water may have the advantages over AEO water on its stability, no chlorine smell, and low corrosiveness. Therefore, SAEO water may have potential for produce wash to enhance food safety.
Extracts of Edible and Medicinal Plants in Inhibition of Growth, Adherence, and Cytotoxin Production of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli
Authors: Castillo Sandra L. , Heredia Norma , Contreras Juan F. , García Santos
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Campylobacter spp. is recognized as one of the most common cause of food‐borne bacterial gastroenteritis in humans. Campylobacter infection causes campylobacteriosis, which can range from asymptomatic to dysentery‐type illnesses with severe complications, such as Guillian‐Barre syndrome. Epidemiological studies have revealed that consumption of poultry products is an important risk factor of this disease. Adherence and cytotoxic activity of the bacteria to host mucosal surfaces have been proposed to be critical steps in pathogenesis. Innovative tools for controlling Campylobacter, such as natural products from plants, represent good alternatives for use in foods or as therapeutic agents. In this study, 28 edible or medicinal plants species were analyzed for their bactericidal effects on the growth of Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli. The extracts of Acacia farnesiana, Artemisia ludoviciana, Opuntia ficus‐indica, and Cynara scolymus were the most effective against these microorganisms at minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of 0.3, 0.5, 0.4, and 2.0 mg/mL, respectively. No effect on growth was detected with lower concentrations of extract (25%, 50%, or 75% of the MBC) added to the media. The effect of each extract (75% of the MBC) on adherence and cytotoxicity of C. jejuni and C. coli was evaluated in Vero cells. Adherence of Campylobacter to Vero cells was significantly affected by all the extracts. Cytotoxic activity of bacterial cultures was inhibited by A. farnesiana and A. ludoviciana. These plant extracts are potential candidates to be studied for controlling Campylobacter contamination in foods and the diseases associated with this microorganism.

Practical Application:  Innovative tools for controlling Campylobacter, such as natural products from plants, represent good alternatives for use in foods or as therapeutic agents. The extracts of Acacia farnesiana, Artemisia ludoviciana, Opuntia ficus‐indica, and Cynara scolymus were the most effective against these microorganisms. Adherence and cytotoxic activity of the bacteria to host mucosal surfaces which are critical steps in pathogenesis were decreased by these extracts. Our results point to these plants as potential candidates for the control of Campylobacter contamination in foods, the treatment of the diseases associated with this microorganism, and as feed supplements to reduce on‐farm prevalence of Campylobacter.
Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) Proanthocyanidins Inhibit In Vitro Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Protein
Authors: Arimboor Ranjith , Arumughan C.
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Interactions of phenolics with other food constituents and digestive enzymes are likely to have interference with the digestion and bioavailability of food and phenolics. In this study the effect of sea buckthorn proanthocyanidins on in vitro digestion of protein was evaluated. Optimization of the extraction conditions showed that maximum recovery of sea buckthorn proanthocyanidins was obtained with acidified acetone; water mixture (60% to 70%, v/v). Crude proanthocyanidin extracts thus prepared were purified using sephadex gel column chromatography and their average degree of polymerization and the effects on enzymatic hydrolysis of bovine serum albumin as influenced by their protein precipitation capacities were studied. Average degree of polymerization of proanthocyanidins in berry pulp, kernel, seed coat, and leaves was 7.4, 5.6, 8.2, and 10.6, respectively. The EC50 values for the protein precipitation by the PA of berry pulp, kernel seed coat, and leaves were 44.2, 44.1, 65.8, and 39.8 μg, respectively. Relative enzymatic hydrolysis of the protein‐proanthocyanidin complexes was 44.1% to 60.3% for pepsin and 57.5% to 67.7% for trypsin. Interactions of sea buckthorn proanthocyanidins with food proteins and digestive enzymes might alter the protein digestibility and phenolic bioavailabilty.
Characteristics of Formed Atlantic Salmon Jerky
Authors: Oberholtzer Ashlan S. , Dougherty Michael P. , Camire Mary Ellen
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Smoked salmon (Salmo salar L.) processing may generate large amounts of small pieces of trimmed flesh that has little economic value. Opportunities exist to develop new added‐value foods from this by‐product. Brining was compared with dry salting for the production of formed salmon jerky‐style strips that were then smoked. The formulations also contained brown sugar and potato starch. Salted samples had higher salt concentrations and required less force to break using a TA‐XT2 Texture Analyzer. Brined samples contained more fat and were darker, redder and more yellow than the salted samples. Processing concentrated omega‐3 fatty acids compared with raw salmon, and the brined jerky had the highest omega‐3 fatty acid content. A panel of 57 consumers liked the appearance and aroma of both samples equally (approximately 6.7 for appearance and 6.3 for aroma on the 9‐point hedonic scale. Higher acceptability scores for taste, texture, and overall quality were given to the brined product (6.7 to 6.9 against 6.2 to 6.3).

Practical Application:  Salmon trim from smoking facilities can be utilized to produce a jerky that is a good source of omega‐3 fatty acids, simultaneously adding value and reducing the waste stream.
Combination Therapy With an Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitor and a Calcium Channel Blocker
Authors: Egan Brent M.
Published: June 2011

More than 1 medication is required in many hypertensive patients to reach blood pressure (BP) goals, and initial treatment with 2 agents has been recommended for patients whose BP level is >20/10 mm Hg above target. Diuretics reduce BP levels and the incidence of target organ complications and together with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers, which are recommended in patients with comorbid cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, or diabetes, are effective antihypertensive combinations. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are also effective antihypertensive agents, and evidence suggests that a CCB/ACEI combination is well tolerated and also decreases the risk of cardiovascular and renal disease. Some evidence suggests that this combination may improve endothelial function more than either agent alone, and its use could potentially lead to better cardiovascular outcomes than a diuretic/ACEI or diuretic/ARB combination. The ongoing Avoiding Cardiovascular Events Through Combination Therapy in Patients Living With Systolic Hypertension (ACCOMPLISH) trial compares these 2 effective combinations (ie, an ACEI/diuretic and ACEI/CCB) as initial treatment for reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in older high‐risk hypertensive patients. The results of this trial, when reported, should help to clarify the relative benefits of these different therapies.
Determination of Fluoride Ions in Iron Ores by UV–VIS Spectrophotometry after Matrix Removal Using Diphonix® Resin
Authors: Jakóbik‐Kolon Agata , Skwira Monika
Published: June 2011

A modification of the spectrophotometric method for the determination of fluoride ions in iron‐rich materials is proposed. In this method the iron matrix was successfully removed using Diphonix® resin. The studied sample was a ferruginous mineral which contained about 38% of iron. The Euronorm certified reference material (ECRM) 676‐1 (Iron Ore Sinter), as a commercially available material having a similar matrix (39.76% w/w Fe) and fluoride level (0.1% w/w), was used to validate the method. After partial digestion in concentrated hydrochloric acid the samples were diluted and passed through Diphonix® resin. The concentration of fluoride ions was determined by a spectrophotometric method using a Zr:ER complex (λ = 540 nm). The result obtained for the ECRM was in good agreement with the certificate specification and thus proved the method to be applicable for the determination of fluoride ions in iron‐rich materials. Due to the easy digestion step and simple requirements for equipment, this method can be used in most laboratories.
Administration of oral midazolam in surgical dentistry
Authors: Parsa A.
Published: June 2011

Objectives:  Many patients experience fear, anxiety and strain during dento‐alveolar surgeries which aggravate more complex procedures such as fixation of implants, difficult extractions. Many studies have in the past presented and assessed different methods of conscious sedation on patients who suffer from anxiety and fear. Primary aims of this retrospective study were to assess the suitability of using oral midazolam in surgical dentistry on patients with anxiety and to present a guideline on the required dosage of oral midazolam in order to achieve good, subjective conscious sedation. Our hypothesis is that oral midazolam is a safe and efficient conscious sedation method with few complications and side effects that can be administered on patients with anxiety during dento‐alveolar surgeries or those who find long surgical procedures challenging.

Material and methods:  This study is retrospective, and the method was applied to 1549 patients who were sedated with oral midazolam. This study was performed for 14 years (1989–2003), of which the majority were treated for dental implants and surgical extractions. For each patient, the following was documented: gender, age, patient's weight, surgical procedure, total dosage, dosage/kg, time between administration and operation, effect of sedation, and complications and awakening time after the procedure.

Results:  Patients experienced a positive and relaxed surgical session after being sedated with oral midazolam. The sedative effect was good in most of the cases except 152 (9, 8%), where an additional dosage was given. All of those who required an additional dose did achieve a good subjective conscious sedation after one additional dose. The additional dose was calculated as 50% of the original administered dose.

Conclusion:  The sedative effect of oral midazolam was found effective in this study and patients described the course of treatment positive and relaxing. Using midazolam as conscious sedation for dento‐alveolar surgeries on patients with fear and anxiety is a feasible, easily administered and efficient method with low‐rate complications. This study has presented a figure as a guideline for the recommended dose of oral midazolam based on patient's age and weight to achieve a good, subjective conscious sedation. On few occasions, an additional dose has been required if a subjective, good conscious sedation has not been accomplished. The additional dose in this study has been 50% of the original dose. The findings in this study indicate that using oral midazolam is efficacious in inducing conscious sedation in dentistry.
Establishment of a mitochondrial DNA sequence database for the identification of fish species commercially available in South Africa
Authors: CAWTHORN DONNA‐MAREÈ , STEINMAN HARRIS ANDREW , CORLI WITTHUHN R.
Published: June 2011

The limitations intrinsic to morphology‐based identification systems have created an urgent need for reliable genetic methods that enable the unequivocal recognition of fish species, particularly those that are prone to overexploitation and/or market substitution. The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive reference library of DNA sequence data to allow the explicit identification of 53 commercially available fish species in South Africa, most of which were locally caught marine species. Sequences of approximately 655 base pairs were generated for all species from the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene, the region widely adopted for DNA barcoding. Specimens of the genus Thunnus were examined in further detail, employing additional mitochondrial DNA control region sequencing. Cumulative analysis of the sequences from the COI region revealed mean conspecific, congeneric and confamilial Kimura 2‐parameter distances of 0.10%, 4.58% and 15.43%, respectively. The results showed that the vast majority (98%) of fish species examined could be readily differentiated by their COI barcodes, but that supplementary control region sequencing was more useful for the discrimination of three Thunnus species. Additionally, the analysis of COI data raised the prospect that Thyrsites atun (snoek) could constitute a species pair. The present study has established the necessary genetic information to permit the unambiguous identification of 53 commonly marketed fish species in South Africa, the applications of which hold a plethora of benefits relating to ecology research, fisheries management and control of commercial practices.
Kinetic control of oxygen consumption during contractions in self‐perfused skeletal muscle
Authors: Wüst Rob C. I. , Grassi Bruno , Hogan Michael C. , Howlett Richard A. , Gladden L. Bruce , Rossiter Harry B.
Published: June 2011

Non‐technical summary  The ability to sustain exercise is dependent on the ability to match muscular energy supply fuelled by oxygen to the energy demands of the activity (the ‘currency’ of biological energy is termed ATP). Experiments using muscle samples in a test tube suggest that the activation of muscle oxygen consumption is caused by accumulation of ADP (a breakdown product of ATP), which signals the need to increase ATP supply. The mechanism of this signalling process in vivo, however, is not well understood. We investigated the mechanism controlling oxidative ATP supply activation in canine muscle, by simultaneous measurements of oxygen consumption and ADP at the onset of muscle contractions. At the start of contractions muscle oxygen consumption increased more rapidly than predicted from the measured accumulation of ADP. These data suggest that an additional process (or processes) occurs to activate muscle oxidative ATP provision at the onset of exercise in vivo.
A novel δ opioid receptor‐mediated enhancement of GABAA receptor function induced by stress in ventral tegmental area neurons
Authors: Margolis Elyssa B. , Mitchell Jennifer M. , Hjelmstad Gregory O. , Fields Howard L.
Published: June 2011

Non‐technical summary  Drugs of the opiate class produce analgesia and are addicting. These drugs act at molecular targets called opioid receptors and modify the connections between nerve cells. In this paper we show that stress alters the function of one of these receptors, the δ opioid receptor. Opioid receptors typically decrease neural signaling; however, following stress, δ opioid receptor activation increases neural signalling. This enhancement of signalling was observed at inhibitory synapses on midbrain dopamine neurons. These neurons, and the control of their inhibitory inputs by opiates, have been implicated in the addicting power of opiate drugs such as morphine.
Vertical torque responses to vestibular stimulation in standing humans
Authors: Reynolds Raymond F.
Published: June 2011

Non‐technical summary  Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) is a method for activating the human vestibular nerve with electricity. It induces sensations of head movement which cause sway and eye movements, and affect navigation. GVS is used here to demonstrate a novel vestibular reflex. Stimulation of standing subjects caused them to generate torque around a vertical axis, resulting in trunk rotation. Response magnitude and direction were systematically altered by head orientation in a manner consistent with GVS causing a sensation of head roll. This is relevant for balance control because vestibular information is only useful for fall prevention when interpreted in the context of head orientation. These findings therefore provide a method for investigating this neural transformation process. This can be used to diagnose deficiencies in the vestibular control of balance caused by ageing and/or neurological disease.
Recent Advances and Future Challenges in Automated Manufacturing Planning
Authors: Bourne David , Corney Jonathan , Gupta Satyandra K.
Published: June 2011

The effective planning of a product’s manufacture is critical to both its cost and delivery time. Recognition of this importance has motivated over 30 years of research into automated planning systems and generated a large literature covering many different manufacturing technologies. But complete automation has proved difficult in most manufacturing domains. However, as manufacturing hardware has evolved to become more automated and computer aided design software has been developed to support the creation of complex geometries; planning the physical fabrication of a virtual model is still a task that occupies thousands of engineers around the world, every day. We intend for this paper to be useful to newcomers in this field, who are interested in placing the current state-of-the-art in context and identifying open research problems across a range of manufacturing processes. This paper discusses the capabilities, limitations and challenges of automated planning for four manufacturing technologies: machining, sheet metal bending, injection molding, and mechanical assembly. Rather than presenting an exhaustive survey of research in these areas, we focus on identifying the characteristics of the planning task in different domains, current research directions, and open problems in each area. Our key observations are as following. First, the incorporation of AI techniques, geometric modeling, computational geometry, optimization, and physics-based modeling has led to significant advances in the automated planning area. Second, commercial tools are available to aid the manufacturing planning process in most manufacturing domains. Third, manufacturing planning is computationally challenging and still requires significant human input in most manufacturing domains. Fourth, advancement in several emerging areas has the potential to create, in the near future, a step-change in the capabilities of automated planning systems. Finally, we believe that deploying fully automated planning systems can lead to significant productivity benefits.
A Numerical Method for Position Analysis of Compliant Mechanisms With More Degrees of Freedom Than Inputs
Authors: Aten Quentin T. , Zirbel Shannon A. , Jensen Brian D. , Howell Larry L.
Published: June 2011

An underactuated or underconstrained compliant mechanism may have a determined equilibrium position because its energy storage elements cause a position of local minimum potential energy. The minimization of potential energy (MinPE) method is a numerical approach to finding the equilibrium position of compliant mechanisms with more degrees of freedom (DOF) than inputs. Given the pseudorigid-body model of a compliant mechanism, the MinPE method finds the equilibrium position by solving a constrained optimization problem: minimize the potential energy stored in the mechanism, subject to the mechanism’s vector loop equation(s) being equal to zero. The MinPE method agrees with the method of virtual work for position and force determination for underactuated 1-DOF and 2-DOF pseudorigid-body models. Experimental force-deflection data are presented for a fully compliant constant-force mechanism. Because the mechanism’s behavior is not adequately modeled using a 1-DOF pseudorigid-body model, a 13-DOF pseudorigid-body model is developed and solved using the MinPE method. The MinPE solution is shown to agree well with nonlinear finite element analysis and experimental force-displacement data.
Spring-to-Spring Balancing as Energy-Free Adjustment Method in Gravity Equilibrators
Authors: Barents Rogier , Schenk Mark , van Dorsser Wouter D. , Wisse Boudewijn M. , Herder Just L.
Published: June 2011

Generally, adjustment of gravity equilibrators to a new payload requires energy, e.g., to increase the preload of the balancing spring. A novel way of energy-free adjustment of gravity equilibrators is possible by introducing the concept of a storage spring. The storage spring supplies or stores the energy necessary to adjust the balancer spring of the gravity equilibrator. In essence, the storage spring mechanism maintains a constant potential energy within the spring mechanism; energy is exchanged between the storage and the balancer spring when needed. Various conceptual designs using both zero-free-length springs and regular extension springs are proposed. Two models were manufactured demonstrating the practical embodiments and functionality.