bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Physical or psychological?’– a comparative study of causal attribution for chronic fatigue in Brazilian and British primary care patients
Authors: Cho H. J. , Bhugra D. , Wessely S.
Published: May 2008

Objective:  Causal attribution influences symptom experience, help‐seeking behaviour and prognosis in chronic fatigue syndrome. We compared causal attribution of patients with unexplained chronic fatigue (UCF) in Brazil and Britain.

Method:  Primary care attenders in São Paulo (n = 3914) and London (n = 2459) were screened for the presence of UCF. Those with UCF (São Paulo n = 452; London n = 178) were assessed for causal attribution (physical vs. psychosocial), perceived chronicity (i.e. reported duration of fatigue) and disability.

Results:  British UCF patients were more likely to attribute their fatigue to physical causes (adjusted odds ratio 1.70, P = 0.037) and perceived their fatigue to be more chronic (adjusted beta 0.15, P = 0.002). There was no significant difference in current disability (adjusted beta −0.01, P = 0.81).

Conclusion:  Despite similar disability levels, UCF patients in different cultural settings presented different attributions and perceptions about their illness. Sociocultural factors may have an important role in shaping illness attribution and perception around chronic fatigue.
Twins discordant for schizophrenia: psychopathology of the non‐schizophrenic co‐twins
Authors: Argyropoulos S. V. , Landau S. , Kalidindi S. , Toulopoulou T. , Castle D. J. , Murray R. M. , Picchioni M. M.
Published: May 2008

Objective:  Patients with schizophrenia are more likely to suffer from mood and anxiety disorders compared with the general population. We explored the aetiology of this comorbidity using a twin study design.

Method:  We applied an additive genetic + unique environment (AE) random effects model in the analysis of 35 non‐schizophrenic co‐twins from pairs discordant for schizophrenia, and 131 control twins.

Results:  Non‐schizophrenic co‐twins had significantly increased rates of depression (P = 0.006) and anxiety disorders (P = 0.021) compared with the control twins.

Conclusion:  Our results provide evidence for a familial association between schizophrenia and anxiety and depression. This could reflect common aetiological factors contributing to each of the disorders. Future studies should attempt to investigate the relative genetic and environmental contribution to the shared risk factors for schizophrenia, mood and anxiety disorders.
Deciphering the Golgi Apparatus: From Imaging to Genes
Authors: Boulaflous Aurelia , Faso Carmen , Brandizzi Federica
Published: May 2008

The Golgi apparatus is a vital organelle in eukaryotic cells. It grabs and processes secretory materials synthesized by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) before sorting them to their destination. The Golgi also receives materials from vacuoles/lysosomes and the plasma membrane for further recycling to other compartments within the cell (1) (Figure 1). Given the vital role of the Golgi in a cell, it is important to understand how this organelle attains and maintains its structural and functional integrity during the intense processes of membrane traffic. Despite an equally central role of the Golgi in membrane traffic in eukaryotes, the organization of this organelle has some unique features in each cell system. Therefore, the wealth of information available on the structure and activity of the Golgi in one system is not always directly transferable to others. However, certain morphological and functional aspects are common among cell systems. Therefore, studying the factors that regulate organelle biogenesis and organization of the Golgi apparatus is important in basic cell biology of eukaryotes and may also contribute to a better understanding of how different cell systems have evolved. In this study, we report on the identification of Golgi mutants in plant cells. We have developed a screen that is a promising strategy not only for the identification of genes responsible for the morphological and functional integrity of the plant Golgi but could also provide fundamental information on other multicellular systems for which the power of forward genetics cannot be exploited as easily as in Arabidopsis.

The Golgi occupies a central role in membrane traffic. A) Schematic representation of trafficking pathways in a plant cell (reviewed in 1). (a) Anterograde and retrograde protein transport from the ER to the cis Golgi and back. Proteins leaving the Golgi may have different destinations: some will be directed to the lytic (b) or protein storage vacuole (PSV, c), others will reach the plasma membrane (PM, d). The Golgi also receives retrograde flow of proteins from the PM (d). The Golgi appears to be also involved in a transport route to the chloroplast (28) (e). B) Confocal microscopy image of a tobacco leaf epidermal cell expressing the known ER/Golgi marker, ERD2–GFP (3), and an ER membrane marker, yellow fluorescent protein–Vap (unpublished data). A Golgi stack and an ER tubule are labeled with an arrowhead and an arrow, respectively. Scale bar = 5 μm.

image
PCSK9 is phosphorylated by a Golgi casein kinase‐like kinase ex vivo and circulates as a phosphoprotein in humans
Authors: Dewpura Thilina , Raymond Angela , Hamelin Josée , Seidah Nabil G. , Mbikay Majambu , Chrétien Michel , Mayne Janice
Published: May 2008

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is a secreted glycoprotein that regulates the degradation of the low‐density lipoprotein receptor. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in its gene associate with both hypercholesterolemia and hypocholesterolemia, and studies have shown a significant reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease for ‘loss‐of‐function’ PCSK9 carriers. Previously, we reported that proPCSK9 undergoes autocatalytic processing of its prodomain in the endoplasmic reticulum and that its inhibitory prosegment remains associated with it following secretion. Herein, we used a combination of mass spectrometry and radiolabeling to report that PCSK9 is phosphorylated at two sites: Ser47 in its propeptide and Ser688 in its C‐terminal domain. Site‐directed mutagenesis suggested that a Golgi casein kinase‐like kinase is responsible for PCSK9 phosphorylation, based on the consensus site, SXE/S(p). PCSK9 phosphorylation was cell‐type specific and occurs physiologically because human plasma PCSK9 is phosphorylated. Interestingly, we show that the naturally occurring ‘loss‐of‐function’ variant PCSK9(R46L) exhibits significantly decreased propeptide phosphorylation in the Huh7 liver cell line by 34% (P < 0.0001). PCSK9(R46L) and the engineered, unphosphorylated variant PCSK9(E49A) are cleaved following Ser47, suggesting that phosphorylation protects the propeptide against proteolysis. Phosphorylation may therefore play an important regulatory role in PCSK9 function. These findings will be important for the future design of PCSK9 inhibitors.
Study of Cation Ordering in Ba(Yb1/2Ta1/2)O3 by X‐Ray Diffraction and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Rout Dibyaranjan , Santosh Babu Gunda , Subramanian Venkatachalam , Sivasubramanian Venkatasubramanian
Published: May 2008

The complex perovskite Ba(Yb1/2Ta1/2)O3 has been prepared by the two‐stage solid‐state reaction method. Rietveld' refinement analysis indicates cubic perovskite phase with space group . The 1:1 cation ordering at the B‐site is revealed by the presence of (111) superlattice reflection in the X‐ray diffraction pattern and further evidenced by the presence of A1g and F2g vibrational modes in the Raman spectra. The dielectric constant is measured to be 29.1, the product of quality factor and resonant frequency (Q×f) is found to be 32,000 GHz and the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) is 135 (ppm/°C) in the temperature range 30–70°C.
Synthesis of Zirconium Titanate‐Based Materials by Colloidal Filtration and Reaction Sintering
Authors: López‐López Emilio , Baudín Carmen , Moreno Rodrigo
Published: May 2008

Zirconium titanate exhibits crystallographic anisotropy in thermal expansion, which makes it a suitable candidate for low thermal expansion materials. In this work, zirconium titanate has been synthesized by reaction sintering the green bodies, which have been obtained by colloidal filtration of concentrated suspensions of yttria‐tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (Y–TZP) and titania. Powders were mixed in a 50/50 mol% ratio (ZT50) to obtain pure zirconium titanate. Rheological characterization of the suspensions has allowed the establishment of optimum green processing conditions. Sintering has been performed at 1400°C for 2 h, and the obtained materials have been characterized by X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray microanalysis. The ZT50 material has Zr5Ti7O24 as the major phase, although Y2 ((Zr0.3Ti0.7)2O7) and unreacted Y–TZP can still be detected.
Porous Si/SiC Composite Based on Nonwoven Cellulosic Fabrics: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Kenawy Sayed , Awaad Mohamed , Naga Salma , Windsheimer Hans , Greil Peter
Published: May 2008

The microstructure and properties of porous Si/silicon carbide (SiC) composites manufactured from nonwoven cellulosic fabrics have been investigated. A fibrillar reaction product with a microstructure reproducing the initial preform morphology consisting of β‐SiC and unreacted Si was obtained. Improvement of strength is expected to be achieved by increase of SiC content and reduction of porosity.
Low‐Temperature Synthesis and Growth of Bulk Ba2Ti9O20Ceramics on Conducting Substrates for Applications in Integrated Dielectric Resonator Devices
Authors: Bijumon Pazhoor V. , Antar Yahia M. M. , Freundorfer Alois P. , Sayer Michael
Published: May 2008

This paper describes the synthesis of Ba2Ti9O20ceramics at extremely low temperatures (∼150°C) and the subsequent growth of bulk resonators on silicon substrates by hydrothermal processing of their sol–gel composites. X‐ray diffraction analysis shows excellent crystallinity, while scanning electron microscopy evidenced densification and development of bridging structures at the grain boundaries and interfaces. Transmission electron micrographs further confirmed the development of sol–gel‐derived crystalline interfaces between sol–gel‐derived material and powder particles. The dielectric properties of a resonator measured in the 5–6 GHz microwave frequency range were ɛr=38 andQu×f=12,000 at 5.6 GHz and τf=+6 ppm/°C. The density, dielectric properties, and mechanical strength at the bulk ceramic–thin film interface are enhanced by a hydrothermally induced dissolution–crystallization process, which leads to interparticle bridges. The novel low‐temperature ceramic process has high potential for the growth of ceramic resonators on integrated circuits and is demonstrated by the fabrication of an integrated dielectric resonator antenna for system‐on‐chip applications.
Synthesis, Structure Analysis, and Microwave Dielectric Properties of LnTiSbxTa1−xO6 (Ln=Ce, Pr, and Nd) Ceramics
Authors: Padma Kumar Hariharan , Joseph Shyla , Solomon Sam , Varma Manoj Raama , Thomas Jijimon Kumpukkatu
Published: May 2008

LnTiSbxTa1−xO6 ceramics were prepared by the conventional solid‐state ceramic route for x=0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2. The structures of the materials were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction techniques. The cell parameters and the theoretical densities of the samples were calculated using least square methods. The materials are sintered to >94% of theoretical density at 1480°C. The microwave dielectric properties were measured using the cavity resonator method. The surface morphology of the sintered samples was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. All the materials have good microwave dielectric properties and are suitable for dielectric resonator applications.
High‐Density Single‐Phase Yttrium–Gadolinum–Iron Garnets by Spray Drying
Authors: Nanni Francesca , Lamastra Francesca Romana , Bianco Alessandra , Leonardi Federica , Gusmano Gualtiero
Published: May 2008

Yttrium–iron garnet (YIG)‐based ceramics are largely used in microwave devices, sensors, lasers, phosphorescent sources, and magneto–optical applications. In this research, high‐density, single‐phase Gd(0.4)‐YIG were obtained by spray drying starting from nonstoichiometric, iron‐rich, metal nitrate solutions. Aqueous metal nitrate solutions, containing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), were prepared and sprayed to obtain precursor powders. In some cases either sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid were added to the initial solution. On the basis of differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetry analysis, as‐sprayed powders were calcined between 600°C and 1200°C and then characterized by induced coupled plasma spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction. According to thermal dilatometry results, powders calcined at 1200°C were sintered in air up to 1470°C. The microstructure of sintered ceramics was made up of fine grains, being an average size of about 10 μm. It was found that addition of an inorganic acid to the precursor solution is essential to obtain high‐density (98%) sintered materials. Ferromagnetic resonance linewidth (ΔH−3 dB) measurements on sintered materials were also performed.
Characterization of Crystalline Bedrock Contaminated by Dense Nonaqueous Liquid
Authors: Cho H. Jean , Fiacco R. Joseph , Daly Matthew
Published: May 2008

A systematic hydrogeologic site characterization has been completed in a fractured rock flow system, with the objective of identifying contaminant migration and fate pathways from a historical release of 1,1,1‐trichloroethane (TCA). The study integrated hydrogeologic analysis techniques such as borehole geophysical logging, pumping test analysis, and hydrochemical facies analysis to study the impact of a dense nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) in a sparsely fractured crystalline bedrock. The assessment methodology can be divided into two parts: (1) characterization of the source area, where DNAPL is acting as a residual source of TCA, and (2) characterization of the downgradient plume. Reduction in DNAPL mass in the source area has resulted in significant and sustained reductions in downgradient concentrations, suggesting that remediation of fractured crystalline bedrock contaminated with DNAPL is possible and not “technically infeasible.”
Effect of Well Disinfection on Arsenic in Ground Water
Authors: Gotkowitz Madeline , Ellickson Kristie , Clary Alois , Bowman George , Standridge Jon , Sonzogni William
Published: May 2008

Domestic water wells are routinely subjected to in situ chemical disinfection treatments to control nuisance or pathogenic bacteria. Most treatments are chlorine based and presumably cause strongly oxidizing conditions in the wellbore. Water resource managers in Wisconsin were concerned that such treatments might facilitate release of arsenic from sulfide minerals disseminated within a confined sandstone aquifer. To test this hypothesis, a well was subjected to four disinfection treatments over 9 months time. The first treatment consisted of routine pumping of the well without chemical disinfection; three subsequent treatments included chlorine disinfection and pumping. Pretreatment arsenic concentrations in well water ranged from 7.4 to 18 μg/L. Elevated arsenic concentrations up to 57 μg/L in the chemical treatment solutions purged from the well are attributed to the disintegration or dissolution of biofilms or scale. Following each of the four treatments, arsenic concentrations decreased to less than 10 μg/L during a period of pumping. Arsenic concentrations generally returned to pretreatment levels under stagnant, nonpumping conditions imposed following each treatment. Populations of iron‐oxidizing, heterotrophic, and sulfate‐reducing bacteria decreased following chemical treatments but were never fully eradicated from the well. Strongly oxidizing conditions were induced by the chlorine‐based disinfections, but the treatments did not result in sustained increases in well water arsenic. Results suggest that disruption of biofilm and mineral deposits in the well and the water distribution system in tandem with chlorine disinfection can improve water quality in this setting.
An In Situ Device to Measure Oxygen in the Vadose Zone and in Ground Water: Laboratory Testing and Field Evaluation
Authors: Patterson Bradley M , Davis Greg B.
Published: May 2008

Oxygen probes developed to measure in situ oxygen concentrations in gaseous and aqueous environments were evaluated in laboratory tests and during long‐term field evaluation trials at contaminated sites. The oxygen probes were shown to have a linear calibration and to be accurate compared to conventional dissolved oxygen electrodes and gas chromatography, both of which require labor‐intensive sample collection and processing. The probes, once calibrated, required no maintenance or recalibration for up to a period of 7 years in low‐oxygen environments, demonstrating long‐term stability. Times to achieve 90% of the stabilized concentration (t90) after a step change in aqueous oxygen concentration were 100–120 min in laboratory experiments and up to 180 min in field experiments, which is adequate for monitoring subsurface changes. Field application data demonstrated that the oxygen probes could monitor oxygen concentrations in hydrocarbon‐contaminated ground water to a depth of 20 m below the water table or in pyritic vadose zones over extended periods. During bioremediation field trials, oxygen monitoring enabled estimation of oxygen utilization rates by microorganisms and hydrocarbon biodegradation rates. Also, probes were able to monitor the development of ground water desaturation during air sparging trials, enabling the automated assessment of the distribution of injected air.
Ground Water Contamination in Kuwait Resulting from the 1991 Gulf War: A Preliminary Assessment
Authors: Mukhopadhyay A. , Al‐Awadi E. , Quinn M. , Akber A. , Al‐Senafy M. , Rashid T.
Published: May 2008

A large number of oil wells in Kuwait were damaged and ignited by the retreating Iraqi troops during the 1991 Gulf War. The resulting spillage of huge volumes of crude oil on the surface gave rise to oil lakes and crude oil–impregnated soil. Moreover, products of crude oil combustion had spread over a large tract of the ground surface, causing widespread contamination of soil. Hydrocarbon contamination of ground water by the infiltrating runoff water carrying the contaminants from the surface soil to the water table and/or through direct contact with the crude oil leaking through the damaged casing in the subsurface was feared. This preliminary study was carried out to investigate the extent and nature of this possible contamination of ground water. The results indicate that the shallow fresh water lenses present under the Umm Al‐Aish water field and in the southeastern parts of the Raudhatain water field in North Kuwait were affected by hydrocarbon pollution. Standard methods like the determination of the contents of the total petroleum hydrocarbon by the Fourier transform infrared method and 16 polyaromatic hydrocarbons using the gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry method did not work well, possibly due to the environmental degradation of the crude oil over time. The fluorescence methods and the total organic carbon and total organic matter gave better indications of the intensity and the extent of ground water pollution. The brackish water fields of South and Central Kuwait were, however, free of any indications of hydrocarbon contamination.
Zero‐Order Kinetics Model for the Christensen‐Larsen Method for Fugitive Fuel Age Estimates
Authors: Galperin Yakov , Kaplan Isaac R.
Published: May 2008

Estimating time of a middle distillate fuel release in soil can be performed under certain restricting environmental conditions using the Christensen‐Larsen method (CLM). This method is based on the linear correlation between the time since a diesel fuel release and the corresponding value of n‐heptadecane to pristane ratio (n‐C17/Pr) but requires knowledge of the initial ratio value. The empirical nature of this method does not, however, allow accounting for variance in the initial fuel value used by CLM. Based on the zero‐order approximation of the Monod model, we have deduced a generalized equation that can be used for estimating release ages of middle distillate fuels with different initial values. When combined with other site‐specific factors, this equation provides a useful tool for the time of release estimates.
Demonstration of Enhanced Bioremediation in a TCE Source Area at Launch Complex 34, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Authors: Hood E.D. , Major D.W. , Quinn J.W. , Yoon W.‐S. , Gavaskar A. , Edwards E.A.
Published: May 2008

The ability of bioremediation to treat a source area containing trichloroethene (TCE) present as dense nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) was assessed through a laboratory study and a pilot test at Launch Complex 34, Cape Canaveral Air Force Center. The results of microcosm testing indicate that the indigenous microbial community was capable of dechlorinating TCE to ethene if amended with electron donor; however, bioaugmentation with a dechlorinating culture (KB‐1; SiREM, Guelph, Ontario, Canada) significantly increased the rate of ethene formation. In microcosms, the activity of the dechlorinating organisms in KB‐1 was not inhibited at initial TCE concentrations as high as 2 mM. The initially high TCE concentration in ground water (1.2 mM or 155 mg/L) did not inhibit reductive dechlorination, and at the end of the study, the average concentration of ethene (2.4 mM or 67 mg/L) was in stoichiometric excess of this initial TCE concentration. The production of ethene in stoichiometric excess in comparison to the initial TCE concentration indicates that the bioremediation treatment enhanced the removal of TCE mass (either sorbed to soil or present as DNAPL). Detailed soil sampling indicated that the bioremediation treatment removed greater than 98.5% of the initial TCE mass. Confirmatory ground water samples collected 22 months after the bioremediation treatment indicated that chloroethene concentrations had continued to decline in the absence of further electron donor addition. The results of this study confirm that dechlorination to ethene can proceed at the high TCE concentrations often encountered in source areas and that bioremediation was capable of removing significant TCE mass from the test plot, suggesting that enhanced bioremediation is a potentially viable remediation technology for TCE source areas. Dehalococcoides abundance increased by 2 orders of magnitude following biostimulation and bioaugmentation.
DOES SENDING FARMERS BACK TO SCHOOL HAVE AN IMPACT? REVISITING THE ISSUE
Authors: YAMAZAKI Satoshi , RESOSUDARMO Budy P.
Published: May 2008

The Farmer Field School (FFS) is an intensive training program providing farmers with science‐based knowledge and practices, including integrated pest management. Recently there has been intensive debate as to whether or not this kind of training has any significant impact. Most case studies argue that the impact, in terms of a farmer's ability to reduce the use of pesticides while increasing yields, is significant. However, panel data studies using household panel data sets for Indonesia have not been able to confirm that this is the case. The present paper uses panel data available from previous panel data studies and applies a new model specification to reevaluate whether or not the FFS induces better performances among farmers enrolled in the program and also among their neighbors, who are expected to receive some spillover knowledge from the FFS alumna.
Virtual Screening of Cathepsin K Inhibitors Using Docking and Pharmacophore Models
Authors: Ravikumar Muttineni , Pavan S. , Bairy Santhosh , Pramod A. B. , Sumakanth M. , Kishore Madala , Sumithra Tirunagaram
Published: May 2008

Cathepsin K is a lysosomal cysteine protease that is highly and selectively expressed in osteoclasts, the cells which degrade bone during the continuous cycle of bone degradation and formation. Inhibition of cathepsin K represents a potential therapeutic approach for diseases characterized by excessive bone resorption such as osteoporosis. In order to elucidate the essential structural features for cathepsin K, a three‐dimensional pharmacophore hypotheses were built on the basis of a set of known cathepsin K inhibitors selected from the literature using catalyst program. Several methods are used in validation of pharmacophore hypothesis were presented, and the fourth hypothesis (Hypo4) was considered to be the best pharmacophore hypothesis which has a correlation coefficient of 0.944 with training set and has high prediction of activity for a set of 30 test molecules with correlation of 0.909. The model (Hypo4) was then employed as 3D search query to screen the Maybridge database containing 59 000 compounds, to discover novel and highly potent ligands. For analyzing intermolecular interactions between protein and ligand, all the molecules were docked using Glide software. The result showed that the type and spatial location of chemical features encoded in the pharmacophore are in full agreement with the enzyme inhibitor interaction pattern identified from molecular docking.
Impact of Substrate Physical Characteristics on Grow Out of Freshwater Prawn,Macrobrachium rosenbergii, in Ponds and Pond Microcosm Tanks
Authors: Tidwell James , Coyle Shawn
Published: May 2008

Two independent trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of different physical characteristics of substrate materials on growth and survival of freshwater prawn. In Trial 1, juvenile prawns (0.4 ± 0.2 g) were stocked at 123 prawns/m2of tank bottom into twenty‐one 18,000‐L fiberglass tanks managed as pond microcosms. Six substrate materials were chosen to allow comparisons of surface area, mesh size, color, and texture. A control treatment received no added substrate. There were three replicate tanks per treatment. Substrates were positioned vertically at a rate sufficient to increase the bottom surface area by 100%. Prawns were fed a 32% protein sinking diet according to a feed chart. After 110 d, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in survival among treatments, averaging 72.6% overall. Prawns in the control treatment (no substrate) had significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) average weights (9.5 g), lower production (1342 kg/ha), and higher feed conversion ratio (FCR; 2.5) than those in substrate treatments, which were not significantly different (P > 0.05) and averaged 13.4 g, 2404 kg/ha, and 1.3, respectively. For Trial 2, the least expensive substrate material from Trial 1 (lightweight polyethylene bird netting) was compared with the substrate most commonly used in commercial production (heavyweight orange polyethylene safety fencing) under practical pond conditions. Juvenile prawns (0.8 ± 0.3 g) were stocked at 61,600/ha into six 0.04‐ha earthen ponds. Each was randomly assigned one of the two substrate materials, and there were three replications per treatment. After 101 d, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) between treatments in terms of survival (91%), average weight (34 g), total production (2150 kg/ha), or FCR (3.1). In these studies, physical characteristics of the substrate materials had little impact. The lightweight netting represents a 68% cost savings compared to the currently recommended substrate material.
Gene Knockdown: A Powerful Tool for Gene Function Study in Fish
Authors: Boonanuntanasarn Surintorn
Published: May 2008

So far, there are a number of fish genome projects, including experimental and economically important fish that provide available DNA sequence information. However, the function of a gene cannot be deduced only by its DNA sequence. Therefore, a technique with which to investigate the function of the fish gene is needed. Gene knockdown (GKD), or antisense technology, is now being used as a powerful technique to study gene functions in living organisms. GKD effects result from the introduction of an antisense molecule into living cells. The antisense agents bind to target messenger RNA, thus inactivating the target gene expression. The appropriately spatial inhibitory effects on protein production from corresponding gene resulted in the phenotypic change. Therefore, the function of the gene can be understood. To date, there are a number of antisense molecules that can affect efficient GKD in fish. These include antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA, and ribozyme. These antisense molecules cause specific gene inhibitor effects with different mechanisms. The various antisense mechanism types facilitate a number of GKD applications with various approaches in animals. In this review, we demonstrate the characteristics of each antisense molecule, its mechanism, and its application, especially for gene functional analysis in fish.
Effects of Graded Levels of Carbohydrate on Growth and Survival of Largemouth Bass, Micropterus salmoides
Authors: Amoah Akua , Coyle Shawn D. , Webster Carl D. , Durborow Robert M. , Bright Leigh Anne , Tidwell James H.
Published: May 2008

Excessive carbohydrates (CHO) in diets for largemouth bass (LMB), Micropterus salmoides, are suspected of accumulating glycogen in hepatocytes, which may result in liver dysfunction. This study evaluated the effect of graded levels of dietary CHO on growth, survival, and liver histology of LMB. One hundred feed‐trained advanced fingerling LMB (128.5 ± 21.5 g) were stocked into each of nine 3400‐L polyethylene tanks. Tanks were randomly assigned one of three experimental diets containing different CHO levels (13, 19, or 25% of diet). The extruded diets were approximately isonitrogenous (42% crude protein) and isocaloric (3 kcal/g energy). There were three replicate tanks per dietary treatment. Bass were fed to apparent satiation twice daily for 148 d. Survival was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) for fish fed the 13 and 19% CHO diets (89 and 90%, respectively) compared to those fed the 25% CHO diets (82%). Average harvest weight of fish fed the 13% CHO diet (380 g) was significantly greater (P ≤ 0.05) than for fish fed other diets. Average harvest weight of fish fed the 19% CHO diet (347 g) was significantly greater (P ≤ 0.05) than for fish fed the 25% CHO diet (310 g). Specific growth rates (%/d) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in fish fed the 13 and 19% CHO diets than in fish fed 25% CHO diet. Feed conversion ratios for fish fed the 13 and 19% CHO diets (2.3 and 2.4, respectively) were both significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) than in fish fed the 25% CHO diet (3.6). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in condition factor, protein efficiency ratio, hepatosomatic index, or liver glycogen concentration among fish fed the different experimental diets. Overall, mean blood glucose levels in fish fed the 13 and 19% CHO diets (61.0 and 71.2 mg/dL, respectively) were significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) than in fish fed the 25% CHO diet (87 mg/dL). Histopathological examination of livers from fish fed the three diets was used to score the degree of vacuolization of hepatic tissues (0 = normal, 1 = slight, 2 = mild, 3 = moderate, and 4 = severe). Regression of vacuolization scores on dietary CHO levels was statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05) and indicated a direct positive relationship between liver vacuolization and dietary CHO level (R2 = 0.57). These data indicate that LMB grow faster and use feeds more efficiently when CHO are maintained at <20% of diet. CHO levels >20% negatively impacted liver histology, but a liver tissue analyses did not document glycogen accumulation.
Finfish Mariculture in Inland Australia: A Review of Potential Water Sources, Species, and Production Systems
Authors: Partridge G. J. , Lymbery A. J. , George R. J.
Published: May 2008

Secondary salinization has rendered over 100 million hectares of arable land throughout the world, and over 5 million hectares in Australia, unsuitable for conventional agriculture. The use of this land and associated water for mariculture is an adaptive approach to this environmental problem with many potential economic, social, and environmental benefits. In this article, we review three key technical aspects for the development of a finfish mariculture industry in inland Australia, namely the potential sources of water, the species suitable for culture, and the production systems available to produce them. Based on factors such as their quality, quantity, and proximity to infrastructure, the most appropriate water sources are groundwater obtained from interception schemes and waters from operational or disused mines. Pond‐based culture methods using these water sources have many specific advantages; however, few species can thrive in the wide range of seasonal water temperatures experienced within the temperate regions where secondary salinity is most abundant. Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) would enable production of more species in a greater number of water sources; however, the benefits typically associated with RAS are not as apparent in rural areas. Mulloway, Argyrosomus japonicus, are a temperate species that appear to have many positive attributes for inland mariculture; however, more data are required on their rate of growth across a wider range of temperatures. Seasonal production of barramundi, Lates calcarifer, in ponds has been demonstrated in the temperate climatic zones but may be more appropriate for those salinized water sources located in the warmer parts of the country. Freshwater species, such as silver perch, Bidyanus bidyanus, and Murray cod, Maccullochella peelii peelii, are likely to be suitable for low‐salinity waters. Rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, also have excellent potential provided water temperature can be maintained below the upper lethal limit.
Dietary Lipid Utilization by White Sea Bream (Diplodus sargus) Juveniles
Authors: Sá R. , PousÃo‐Ferreira P. , Oliva‐Teles A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract.— A 8‐wk trial was performed with white sea bream, Diplodus sargus, juveniles (17.3 g initial weight) to evaluate the effect of dietary lipid levels on growth performance and whole‐body composition. Six experimental diets were formulated to be isoproteic (45% protein) and to contain from 9 to 24% dietary lipid levels (dry matter basis). Fish meal and fish oil were used as the main protein and lipid sources, respectively. At the end of the trial, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) among groups in fish performance or in whole‐body composition. From the results of this trial, it is concluded that, within the range of values tested, increasing dietary lipid levels above 9% has no advantage as it does not promote growth or spare protein for growth purposes.
Spontaneous Spawning of Captive Red Snapper, Lutjanus campechanus, and Dietary Lipid Effect on Reproductive Performance
Authors: Papanikos Nikolaos , Phelps Ronald P. , Davis D. Allen , Ferry Amy , Maus David
Published: May 2008

Two experiments addressed the spontaneous spawning of red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus, under controlled temperatures and photoperiods and the effect of broodstock diets supplemented with oils rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids. In Experiment 1, broodfish were fed a standard diet (ST1) and one enriched with menhaden oil (ER1) over a 355‐d period. ER1‐influenced egg fatty acid profile, however, did not positively influence egg production. Both diets produced highly viable eggs and larvae but results varied within treatments. In Experiment 2, broodfish were fed either a standard diet (ST2) or one supplemented with oils (ER2) rich in docosahexaenoic and arachidonic acid using a 203‐d cycle. Both treatments produced eggs but fertilization rates ranged 0–10%. There was no clear influence of the diets on egg fatty acid profiles. These results indicate that red snapper can spawn spontaneously in tanks under controlled environmental conditions and produce viable eggs and larvae when fed diets based on squid, shrimp, and fish. The fatty acid composition of the diets was reflected in the eggs to some degree, but the oil enrichments did not further enhance the reproductive performance and egg quality under the conditions of this study.
Population Growth and Production of Apocyclops dengizicus (Copepoda: Cyclopoida) Fed on Different Diets
Authors: Farhadian Omidvar , Yusoff Fatimah Md , Arshad Aziz
Published: May 2008

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of various diets: 4 monoalgal diets: Nannochloropsis oculata (N), Isochrysis galbana (I), Chaetoceros calcitrans (C), and Tetraselmis tetrathele (T); 4 mixed algal diets: N+I+C+T(NICT), N+I+C(NIC), C+T(CT), and I+T(IT); and 2 nonalgal diets: baker’s yeast (BY) and prepared shrimp feed (SF) on population growth and density of Apocyclops dengizicus. The type and density of diet had significant effects on the growth and density of A. dengizicus (P < 0.01). Of tested diets, T and CT were optimum diets due to higher density and growth rate of A. dengizicus compared to other diets. Their high dietary value was related to the higher contents of polyunsaturated fatty acid, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n‐3), eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n‐3), and arachidonic acid (20:4n‐6) compared to A. dengizicus cultured on other diets. The results of the present study illustrated that T. tetrathele was the most suitable food for the culture of A. dengizicus.
Digestibility of Dry Matter, Protein, Lipid, and Organic Matter of Two Fish Meals, Two Poultry By‐product Meals, Soybean Meal, and Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles in Practical Diets for Sunshine Bass, Morone chrysops ×M. saxatilis
Authors: Thompson Kenneth R. , Rawles Steven D. , Metts Linda S. , Smith Re’Gie , Wimsatt Ashley , Gannam Ann L. , Twibell Ronald G. , Johnson Ronald B. , Brady Yolanda J. , Webster Carl D.
Published: May 2008

Limited information is available on digestibility of nutrients in various practical ingredients used in diets for commercially important finfish species, such as hybrid striped bass. This information is especially needed for sunshine bass, Morone chrysops ×M. saxatilis, to improve least‐cost diet formulations and to allow effective substitution of feedstuffs. A study was conducted with large (867 g) sunshine bass to determine the apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) for moisture, protein, lipid, and organic matter (OM) in a variety of ingredients in floating, extrusion‐processed, diets. The practical ingredients tested were menhaden (MEN) fish meal (FM), anchovy (ANCH) FM, pet‐food grade poultry by‐product meal, feed‐grade poultry by‐product meal, dehulled soybean meal (SBM), and distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS). Test diets consisted of a 70:30 mixture of reference diet to test ingredient with chromic oxide (1.0%) as the inert marker. Reference and test diet ingredients were mixed and extruded on a Wenger X85 single‐screw extruder to produce floating pellets. The digestibility trials were conducted in twelve 1200‐L circular tanks. Diets were randomly assigned to tanks of 30 sunshine bass and were fed once daily to satiation. Protein digestibility coefficients were significantly (P < 0.05) different among test ingredients and ranged from 86.42% for MEN to 64.94% for DDGS. Lipid ADCs were significantly different (P < 0.05) among test ingredients and ranged from 92.14% for MEN to 57.11% for SBM. OM ADCs were significantly different (P < 0.05) among test ingredients and ranged from 89.41% for MEN to 16.94% for DDGS. This information will assist in the formulation of more efficient, economical diets for sunshine bass.
Effect of Ultraviolet Irradiation on Sperm of the Left‐eyed Flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: You Feng , Xu Jianhe , Zhu Xiangping , Xu Yongli , Zhang Peijun
Published: May 2008

In this study, at proper dosage of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation (180 sec: 36,000 erg/mm2), sperm chromosomes of left‐eyed flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus, were inactivated, while spermatozoa maintained ability to move and inseminate eggs. Gynogenetic haploids were detected by morphological observation, chromosome counting, and flow cytometer analysis. The ultrastructure of treated sperm was observed under scanning electronic microscope (SEM) and transmission electronic microscope (TEM). The results showed that after being irradiated at lower dosage of irradiation (0–180 sec: 0–36,000 erg/mm2), the surface structure of spermatozoa was not affected by UV irradiation, while the inner structures including membrane system and karyoplasm denseness of treated spermatozoa were little changed. However, obvious changes were observed in their membrane system, mitochondria, and nucleus if the dosage of irradiation increased to 240 sec: 48,000 erg/mm2 or 300 sec: 60,000 erg/mm2. The sperm survival rates did not change at the lower dosages of the UV irradiation (0–180 sec: 0–36,000 erg/mm2) but decreased as the irradiation dosage increased. The motility of treated sperm was lower than that of control group in general but did not change with UV irradiation dosage increasing at the certain range of 0–300 sec: 0–60,000 erg/mm2.
Nuevo examen del sistema de seguridad social de la República de Corea
Authors: Park Yong Soo
Published: May 2008

Resumen  Desde la década de 1990, el sistema de seguridad social de la República de Corea ha experimentado una radical expansión, en gran medida como consecuencia de la crisis financiera de 1997. A pesar de estos cambios, en materia social el gasto público sigue siendo extremadamente bajo —en particular en comparación con todos los demás países de la OCDE— con el resultado de que el sistema global de seguro social y el sector de los servicios respectivos siguen en situación de subdesarrollo. Por consiguiente, la mejor descripción del actual sistema de seguridad social consiste en calificarlo de modelo residual, puesto que la intervención del Estado como proveedor de bienestar no ha dejado de ser sumamente limitada y la familia así como la economía de mercado privada son las que desempeñan el papel central en lo relativo a la oferta de una red de seguridad social. Tales circunstancias se deben ampliamente al legado de la ideología de «crecimiento ante todo» que no ha dejado de ser el enfoque dominante favorecido por la mayoría de los decisores políticos y económicos del país desde el período de régimen autoritario (1961‐1993). También ha desempeñado un papel la adopción de la reestructuración neoliberal al estilo de Europa occidental, implementada después de la crisis financiera de 1997.
Lograr que el trabajo reditúe y que los créditos impositivos funcionen: una evaluación haciendo referencia específicamente al empleo de padres y madres solos al frente del hogar
Authors: Millar Jane
Published: May 2008

Resumen  En este artículo se examinan los orígenes, los objetivos y el diseño de los créditos impositivos en el Reino Unido, y se analiza hasta qué punto esos beneficios representan un nuevo enfoque en la política de seguridad social. Luego la atención se concentra en el papel que estas transferencias desempeñan en materia de sostén a las madres empleadas que están solas al frente del hogar, recurriendo a las experiencias de las familias monoparentales para explorar cómo funcionaron en su caso los créditos impositivos. La exposición pone de relieve las tensiones entre los cambios que se han operado en la familia y el empleo y las reglas que el crédito impositivo establece respecto de la información de las modificaciones que surjan en lo concerniente a circunstancias e ingresos.
Evaluación de las desigualdades entre los sexos en el régimen turco de pensiones
Authors: Elveren Adem Y.
Published: May 2008

Resumen  Desde los años noventa, el régimen de bienestar social en Turquía se ha orientado más hacia el mercado. La introducción del Sistema Individual de Pensiones (SIP), que es un régimen administrado por sector privado de cotizaciones definidas, formó parte de este proceso. Este documento utiliza un modelo estocástico autorregresivo para establecer el efecto total de desventajas específicas, tales como una vida profesional más breve, menos ingresos, una esperanza de vida mayor, crecimiento del salario real, costos administrativos y aversión al riesgo, sobre las prestaciones de jubilación de las mujeres en Turquía. Usando un modelo actuarial, este artículo pretende contribuir a la información mediante la investigación de la brecha que separa a mujeres y hombres en el régimen turco de cotizaciones definidas.
Explicación de la calidad del servicio en una situación de pago demorado de la compensación: el caso de los entes prestadores de seguridad social en Tanzania
Authors: Hussein Kassim
Published: May 2008

Resumen  Este artículo examina cinco dimensiones de la calidad de los servicios (fiabilidad, capacidad de respuesta, seguridad, empatía y tangibilidad) en una situación de pago demorado de la compensación por el sector público en un país en desarrollo. Con el examen de cuatro prestadores oficiales de servicios de seguridad social (PSSS) en Tanzania, el artículo examina la familiaridad que tienen los miembros con los servicios de seguridad social y sus expectativas y percepciones. A través de discusiones de grupos específicos y de un instrumento Servqual adaptado, el estudio constata que la familiaridad es menor entre los miembros de más edad y que los miembros esperan recibir más información sobre las prestaciones, así como que se perciben discrepancias negativas respecto a las prestaciones pecuniarias pero, también, discrepancias positivas respecto a las prestaciones médicas. Los resultados sugieren que los PSSS deben seguir reforzando la familiaridad, ofrecer garantías anticipadas y reiteradas a los miembros y realizar mejoras en la tramitación y adecuación de las prestaciones.
Nuevos y viejos gigantes: promoción de la seguridad social y crecimiento económico en la Región de Asia y el Pacífico
Authors: Walker Robert , Pellissery Sony
Published: May 2008

Resumen  Si bien la región de Asia y el Pacífico está caracterizada por una gran diversidad, la región en su totalidad merece nuestra atención. Estos últimos años han tenido lugar grandes logros en la promoción del crecimiento económico, la construcción de una seguridad social y la reducción de la pobreza, sin embargo, todavía quedan grandes desafíos, nueve de los cuales han sido identificados. Cinco son similares a problemas que se daban en Europa hace 60 años, carencias, miseria, subempleo, mala educación y mala salud. Los otros cuatro: crecimiento desigual, discriminación, corrupción y poblaciones que envejecen, contribuyen a disminuir la eficacia de las políticas dedicadas a solucionar los primeros cinco problemas. En este documento esbozamos una respuesta múltiple que incluye mecanismos para ampliar el empleo en el sector formal, ampliar la cobertura de la seguridad social dentro del sector formal y al sector informal, y establecer y mantener redes de seguridad social para aquellas personas que, de otra manera, quedarían excluidas de la protección social.