bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic changes in child acute respiratory distress syndrome with airway pressure release ventilation: a case series
Authors: Kawaguchi Atsushi , Guerra Gonzalo Garcia , Duff Jonathan P. , Ueta Ikuya , Fukushima Ryosuke
Published: April 2014

Background

Airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) is widely used in adult critical care settings. However, information on the use of APRV in the pediatric population is limited.

Methods

All patients admitted to the medical‐surgical pediatric intensive care unit with a diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) who received APRV for at least 12 h between 2007 and 2009 were reviewed.

Results

Thirteen patients with a variety of etiologies of ARDS were included, with a mean weight of 18.2 ± 15.0 kg, a mean age of 68 ± 57 months and a predicted mortality (based on Pediatric Index of Mortality version 2) of 23.9 ± 13.8%. Patients were placed on APRV for a median of 4 days (range 1–10 days). There was no change in blood gas parameters after 1 h or 12 h of APRV when compared with pre‐APRV. There was no statistical difference in hemodynamic parameters, including mean arterial blood pressure, central venous blood pressure and heart rate, while the patients were on APRV.

Conclusion

APRV could be safely used in pediatric ARDS patients, without significant hemodynamic compromise or side effects.
Successful treatment with L‐asparaginase‐based regimen for primary pulmonary NK/T cell lymphoma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gui Wei , Yang Bin , Shen Quanliang , Bai Min , Wang Jun , Guan Tao , Zhao Jin , Wang Jingrong , Su Liping
Published: April 2014

Objective

To evaluate the treatment of primary pulmonary NK/T cell lymphoma.

Method

A case report and review of the literature. The tissue material was obtained by transbronchial biopsy, and the diagnosis was confirmed by pathology. He received five cycles of chemotherapy with L‐asparaginase‐based regimen.

Result

He remained complete remission for 2 years following the initial diagnosis.

Conclusion

Primary pulmonary NK/T cell lymphoma is an aggressive disease. It is usually associated with poor outcome in the literature. L‐asparaginase based regimen was effective for our newly diagnosed patient.
Second‐hand drinking may increase support for alcohol policies: New results from the 2010 National Alcohol Survey
Authors: Greenfield Thomas K. , Karriker‐Jaffe Katherine J. , Giesbrecht Norman , Kerr William C. , Ye Yu , Bond Jason
Published: April 2014

Introduction and Aims

The harms of second‐hand smoke motivated tobacco control legislation. Documenting the effects of harms from others' drinking might increase popular and political will for enacting alcohol policies. We investigated the individual‐level relationship between having experienced such harms and favouring alcohol policy measures, adjusting for other influences.

Design and Methods

We used the landline sample (n = 6957) of the 2010 National Alcohol Survey, a computer‐assisted telephone interview survey based on a random household sample in the USA. Multivariable regression models adjusted for personal characteristics, including drinking pattern (volume and heavy drinking), were used to investigate the ability of six harms from others' drinking to predict a three‐item measure of favour for stronger alcohol policies.

Results

Adjusting for demographics and drinking pattern, number of harms from others' drinking predicted support for alcohol policies (P < 0.001). In a similar model, family‐ and aggression‐related harms, riding with a drink driver and being concerned about another's drinking all significantly influenced favour for stronger alcohol policy.

Discussion

Although cross‐sectional data cannot prove a causal influence or directionality, the association found is consistent with the hypothesis that experiencing harms from others' drinking (experienced by a majority) makes one more likely to favour alcohol policies. Other things equal, women, racial/ethnic minorities, lower‐income individuals and lighter drinkers tend to be more supportive of alcohol controls and policies.

Conclusions

Studies that estimate the impact of harms from other drinkers on those victimised are important and now beginning. Next we need to learn how such information could affect decision makers and legislators.
Needs‐Driven Versus Market‐Driven Pharmaceutical Innovation: The Consortium for the Development of a New Medicine against Malaria in Brazil
Authors: Kameda Koichi
Published: April 2014

The prevailing model for encouraging innovation based on patents and market‐oriented raises at least two economic and ethical issues: it imposes barriers on individuals and developing countries governments' access to medicines by defining prices that do not match their income, and the unavailability of new or appropriate products to address the health problems of these populations. In the last decade, this scenario has undergone some changes due to the emergence of new actors, the contribution of aid resources, the introduction to the market of new products against neglected diseases, the development of new governmental healthcare policies and research programs, etc. One example of such initiatives is the Fixed‐Dose Artesunate Combination Therapy (FACT) project consortium, which brought together institutions with different natures from both the North and the South, for the development of two antimalarial fixed‐dose combinations recommended by the WHO – artesunate‐amodiaquine (ASAQ) and artesunate‐mefloquine (ASMQ). This paper proposes to describe and analyze the ASMQ consortium, which is the result of a new pharmaceutical development approach, based on a different paradigm – needs‐driven instead of market‐driven –, collaborative, with strategic participation of institutions from the South, funded by alternative resources (public and philanthropic). Thus, it represents an interesting object of study for bioethical debates on intellectual property and innovation, and its analysis is justified in light of the current debate on ways of stimulating needs‐driven pharmaceutical innovation.
Potemkin Portals or the Real Revolution? The State of E‐Government in Egypt
Authors: Dolan Timothy E.
Published: April 2014

Effective and optimized e‐government in Egypt faces daunting challenges that are less technical in nature and more over the issues of institutional resistance and of political will. A review of the state of e‐government in Egypt is presented with analysis focusing on the state of service implementation in 2012. The points of discussion on e‐government covered here include:

E‐subjugation in the guise of e‐government via information control and cyber‐snooping;

Institutional resistance to the transformation of routine functions into automated systems;

Institutional resistance to transparency of government operations;

Analysis of the state of Egyptian ministry websites on six dimensions of e‐government development;

Discussion on implementation of Egypt's e‐government master plan;

Commentary on the revolutionary potential of e‐government augmented by vision, competence, and leadership; and

Caveats that are important to note in moving the vision of e‐governance from concept to practice.
Horizontal Product Differentiation in Auctions and Multilateral Negotiations
Authors: Thomas Charles J. , Wilson Bart J.
Published: April 2014

We experimentally compare first‐price auctions and multilateral negotiations after introducing horizontal product differentiation into a standard procurement setting. Both institutions yield identical surplus for the buyer, a difference from prior findings with homogeneous products that results from differentiation's influence on sellers' pricing behaviour. The data are consistent with this finding being driven by concessions from low‐cost sellers in response to differentiation reducing their likelihood of being the buyer's surplus‐maximizing trading partner. Further analysis shows that introducing product differentiation increases the intensity of price competition among sellers, which contrasts with the conventional wisdom that product differentiation softens competition.
Application of the BioCondition assessment framework to mine vegetation rehabilitation
Authors: Neldner Victor John , Ngugi Michael R.
Published: April 2014

A quantitative ‘scorecard’ is essential to provide both mine regulators and managers with a robust way of assessing what is ‘good’ vegetation rehabilitation and whether it is adequate to satisfy the regulatory and legal requirements of mine closure criteria and community expectations. The BioCondition framework (Eyre et al. 2011a, http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/ecosystems/biodiversity/biocondition.html) was applied as a scorecard to evaluate vegetation rehabilitation using largely locally native species at Meandu coal mine in Southeast Queensland. Benchmarks for vegetation condition attributes were developed from an amalgam of local reference vegetation types. To allow the appropriate, rather than aspirational evaluation of restoration for sites that were < 50 years old, the scoring system was adjusted to exclude the large trees and coarse woody debris attributes. Bearing in mind that assumptions of self‐sustainability will depend on the ‘fit’ of species to the local condition and the ongoing management of the communities, the use of spider web diagrams assists mine managers and regulators to clearly see where future management intervention can increase the BioCondition score.
Owner‐reported coughing and nasal discharge are associated with clinical findings, arterial oxygen tension, mucus score and bronchoprovocation in horses with recurrent airway obstruction in a field setting
Authors: Rettmer H. , Hoffman A. M. , Lanz S. , Oertly M. , Gerber V.
Published: April 2014

Reasons for performing study

In clinical practice, veterinarians often depend on owner‐reported signs to assess the clinical course of horses with recurrent airway obstruction (RAO).

Objectives

To test whether owner‐reported information on frequency of coughing and observation of nasal discharge are associated with clinical, cytological and bronchoprovocation findings in RAO‐affected horses in nonstandardised field conditions.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study comparing healthy and RAO‐affected horses.

Methods

Twenty‐eight healthy and 34 RAO‐affected Swiss Warmblood horses were grouped according to owner‐reported ‘coughing frequency’ and ‘nasal discharge’. Differences between these groups were examined using clinical examination, blood gas analyses, endoscopic mucus scores, cytology of tracheobronchial secretion and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and airway hyperresponsiveness determined by plethysmography with histamine bronchoprovocation.

Results

Frequently coughing horses differed most markedly from healthy control animals. Histamine bronchoprovocation‐derived parameters were significantly different between the healthy control group and all RAO groups. Mucus grades and tracheobronchial secretion and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid neutrophil percentages had particularly high variability, with overlap of findings between groups. Owner satisfaction with the clinical status of the horse was high, even in severely affected horses.

Conclusions

Owner‐reported coughing and nasal discharge are associated with specific clinical and diagnostic findings in RAO‐affected horses in field settings. While airway hyperresponsiveness differentiates best between healthy horses and asymptomatic RAO‐affected horses, the absence of coughing and nasal discharge does not rule out significant neutrophilic airway inflammation. Owner satisfaction with the clinical status of the horse was uninformative.
Thermal habitat quality of aquatic organisms near power plant discharges: potential exacerbating effects of climate warming
Authors: Coulter D. P. , Sepúlveda M. S. , Troy C. D. , Höök T. O.
Published: April 2014

Water temperature strongly affects aquatic ectotherms, as even slight temperature changes can have dramatic effects on physiological rates. Water bodies receiving industrial thermal discharges can undergo dramatic spatial and temporal changes in water temperature. To quantify effects on aquatic ectotherms, thermal habitat quality (bioenergetic growth rate potential; GRP) for zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas), rusty crayfish, Orconectes rusticus (Girard), walleye, Sander vitreus (Mitchill) and smallmouth bass, Micropterus dolomieu (Lacepède) was estimated near two power plant thermal discharges on the Ohio River, USA, from 2010 to 2012 using bioenergetics models. These results were then compared with GRP under increased base temperatures representing climate warming. Growth rate potential for all species was low near the discharges during summer and highest in winter, with increasing prey consumption minimising the negative effects of increased temperatures. In their immediate vicinity, thermal discharges had a more adverse effect on GRP than plausible climate warming but primarily affected GRP over a small spatial area, particularly within 400 m downstream from the power plants. Examining thermal habitat suitability will become increasingly important as rising energy demand and climate change collectively affect aquatic organisms and their habitats.
The large‐scale stocking of young anadromous whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) and corresponding catches of returning spawners in the River Tornionjoki, northern Baltic Sea
Authors: Jokikokko E. , Huhmarniemi A.
Published: April 2014

Stocking and fishing effort are two important potentially conflicting factors in fish stock management that require appropriate assessment to ensure a sustainable fishery. In the River Tornionjoki, which discharges into the northern Baltic Sea, a summer‐ascending whitefish, Coregonus lavaretus L., stock has long been a target by traditional dipnet fishing. Enhancement stocking of young whitefish started in the River Tornionjoki in the 1970s after a collapse in catches, with millions of age‐0 whitefish stocked annually in the river, but after about three decades, the stocking rates were considerably reduced. As a result, dipnet catches of whitefish in the Kukkolankoski Rapids rose simultaneously, peaking in the 1980s and 1990s, and then subsequently decreased. There was a significant positive correlation between stocking intensity and catch, both in weight and in numbers, revealing a strong relationship between whitefish releases and dipnet catch. Changes in gillnet fishing effort in the sea affected dipnet catches in weight as well as in mean size of captured whitefish. When the combined effect of stocking and gillnet effort was evaluated, only stocking significantly affected dipnet catches.
Effectiveness of fishing gears to assess fish assemblage size structure in small lake ecosystems
Authors: Clement T. A. , Pangle K. , Uzarski D. G. , Murry B. A.
Published: April 2014

Measurement of fish body‐size distributions is increasingly used as a management tool to assess fishery status. However, the effects of gear selection on observed fish size structure has not received sufficient attention. Four different gear types (experimental gill nets, fine mesh bag seine, and two different sized mesh trap nets), which are commonly employed in the study area for fisheries surveys, were used to fish in five small (< 200 ha) lakes to evaluate differential catch in terms of species composition and assemblage size distributions. Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests revealed that, out of the five lakes and six comparisons, the four gear types captured fish of statistically similar size distributions in only one instance. Non‐metric multi‐dimensional scaling followed by a multi‐response permutation procedure revealed that the species composition of fish captured by these gears also differs. These results support the notion that multiple gear types should be used to assess body‐size distributions as well as fish assemblage composition.
Electrofishing efficiency in low conductivity neotropical streams: towards a non‐destructive fish sampling method
Authors: Allard L. , Grenouillet G. , Khazraie K. , Tudesque L. , Vigouroux R. , Brosse S.
Published: April 2014

Rotenone sampling is the most efficient method for assessing the fish assemblage structure and species abundance of low conductivityAmazonian streams. It does, however, cause fish mortality and disturb aquatic ecosystem. The aim of this study was to search for a non‐destructive alternative. The efficiency of electrofishing was compared against complete removal using rotenone. This procedure was repeated in 12 streams dispersed throughoutFrenchGuiana to test for environmental and biological effects such as water conductivity, stream depth, fish family membership and body size. This study revealed that the efficiency of electrofishing was influenced by stream conductivity and stream depth, but not by fish family or body size. The electrofishing method might constitute an efficient alternative to using rotenone in smaller streams (below 25‐cm depth and above 43 μS cm−1), whereas in deeper and/or slightly conductive streams, rotenone still remains the only method able to provide a quick and comprehensive picture of the fish assemblage.
Interannual variation in reproductive phenology in a riverine fish assemblage: implications for predicting the effects of climate change and altered flow regimes
Authors: Krabbenhoft Trevor J. , Platania Steven P. , Turner Thomas F.
Published: April 2014

Freshwater fish commonly exhibit differences in reproductive seasonality within assemblages. However, the extent of variation in reproductive timing among years is less well understood, particularly in relation to environmental variation. Phenological shifts in response to environmental variation, including climate change, can differ among species and thereby change temporal resource partitioning (e.g. in the use of nursery habitat, dietary items, etc.) and potentially the strength of biotic interactions such as competition.

To assess interannual variation in reproductive phenology and temporal resource partitioning in an arid‐land river, we collected a data set on young‐of‐year fish in four years within an overall span of 16 years, from 1995 to 2010. Fish species spawned in a consistent order across years; however, the onset of spawning was between 4 and 28 days earlier in 2008–2010 than in 1995. Spawning onset advanced more for later‐spawning species, resulting in reduced temporal partitioning across the assemblage.

Based on these observations, we developed four alternate models of assemblage‐level responses to alteration of flow regime based on the magnitude of phenological shifts and corresponding temporal partitioning among species. Phenological data are consistent with only one of these models.

Convergence and overlap in spawning time among species may decrease resource partitioning at a critical life stage and alter assemblage composition in recruitment‐driven systems like arid‐land rivers. Understanding factors driving convergence and overlap in spawning time among species is key to predicting effects of ongoing climate change and alteration of flow regimes on fish assemblages.
Rare bleeding disorders – bleeding assessment tools, laboratory aspects and phenotype and therapy of FXI deficiency
Authors: James P. , Salomon O. , Mikovic D. , Peyvandi F.
Published: April 2014

Rare bleeding disorders (RBDs) are inherited deficiencies of coagulation factors such as fibrinogen, factor (F) II, FV, FVII, combined FV+FVIII, FX, FXI and FXIII. These disorders usually have a low prevalence in the general population and constitute approximately 3–5% of all coagulation disorders. However, in some countries they may have the same prevalence as haemophilia B due to the practice of consanguineous marriage. The clinical picture of RBDs is highly variable and can vary markedly from mild to severe, making both diagnosis and optimal treatment quite challenging. This review focuses on: (i) the efforts to establish a bleeding assessment tool adequate to RBDs, (ii) the optimal management of patients affected with FXI deficiency and (iii) the correlation between clinical severity and laboratory diagnosis when determining the minimum coagulant activity required to prevent bleeding in each RBD.
Changing paradigm of prophylaxis with longer acting factor concentrates
Authors: Carcao M.
Published: April 2014

Beginning in the 1960s the care of persons with haemophilia began to improve dramatically through a series of transformative improvements in care: development of lyophilized factor concentrates, home care programmes, prophylaxis and (due to the tragedy of HIV/hepatitis) the development of virally safer plasma‐derived and recombinant factor concentrates. Prophylaxis, if commenced early and given in sufficient dose/frequency has been shown to allow persons with haemophilia to maintain excellent joints and lead normal lives. Yet the relatively short half‐lives of factor (F) VIII and IX concentrates leads to the need for frequent venous access. This remains a significant burden for patients with haemophilia on prophylaxis causing in many cases reduced patient adherence to prophylaxis and negative longterm outcomes. The last 5 years have witnessed a flourish of new bioengineered longer acting FVIII and IX concentrates manufactured using different technologies (pegylation or fusion to Fc/albumin). These products (especially the longer acting FIX concentrates) are likely to have profound implications on prophylaxis. With these longer acting factor concentrates prophylaxis regimens will almost certainly change. This will involve changes in what trough levels are targeted and how frequently factor is administered. It is hoped that these changes may improve patients' adherence to prophylaxis and their quality of life. These long‐acting factor concentrates will undoubtedly have cost repercussions and will raise important questions regarding how decisions about choosing one longer acting concentrate over another, and whether these products are interchangeable, are made. This article will review what changes may ensue with the advent of these new longer acting factor concentrates.
Enhancing haemophilia care through registries
Authors: Dolan G. , Makris M. , Bolton‐Maggs P. H. B. , Rowell J. A.
Published: April 2014

Clinical registries or databases have an increasing role in the management of inherited bleeding disorders. Initially, research‐based registries provided valuable data and now national databases are increasingly being developed with multiple stakeholders, including persons with haemophilia (PWH) and payers, to enable improvements and efficiencies in care. Registries are extending to international collaborations to collect adverse event data and comparisons of national approaches to the management of haemophilia to improve the availability of product to PWH.
Novel products for haemostasis – current status
Authors: Oldenburg J. , Albert T.
Published: April 2014

Currently, new clotting factor concentrates are becoming available or are in advanced clinical studies that will significantly improve the treatment of patients with Haemophilia A or Haemophilia B. Various technologies are applied to extend half‐life and/or allow for alternative routes of administration, e.g. subcutaneous route. Today, the advances for recombinant factor IX are significantly with half‐life extensions to up to 100 h, allowing substitution intervals of 1–2 weeks. For recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) products the effect so far is only moderate, as the half‐life extension is limited to about 15–18 h by the clearance of FVIII through its binding to von Willebrand factor. However, novel products applying new technologies with significantly extended half‐life are already at the horizont, as a bispecific antibody that mimics FVIII. The pharmacokinetic improvements of the new products will lead to a revision of our current treatment regimens, with regard to intended trough levels, number of tolerated bleeds and likely will drive a greater individualization of regimens. Clearly, the potential of anti drug antibody response for these modified proteins must not be higher than with our current products. Another challenge are the increasingly diverse biochemical characteristics of the new products, that have to be considered when determining potencies and also when monitoring treatment in patients with the various available assays. Despite these challenges, the new products will significantly improve treatment and quality of life for our patients with haemophilia.
Ayurveda – The Science of Healing
Authors: Gokani Trupti
Published: April 2014

Background

Migraine is generally recognized as a complex condition, which is often challenging to treat. Patients are often open to novel approaches to understanding why this pain occurs and how to prevent future attacks.

Methods

Ayurvedic medicine, which is a 5000‐year‐old healing system, offers additional understanding on this disease by categorizing patients into a unique dosha (mind–body) type. Specific herbals, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes have been utilized for thousands of years to create balance in the system to improve chronic conditions.

Conclusions

Evaluating migraine patients utilizing the Ayurvedic model allows patients and practitioners a further layer of understanding and offers additional treatment options for the patient.
Overexpression of metabolic markers PKM2 and LDH5 correlates with aggressive clinicopathological features and adverse patient prognosis in tongue cancer
Authors: Yuan Chunping , Li Zhongwu , Wang Yanling , Qi Bin , Zhang Wei , Ye Jinhai , Wu Heming , Jiang Hongbin , Song Liang‐Nian , Yang Jianrong , Cheng Jie
Published: April 2014

Aims

Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) and lactate dehydrogenase 5 (LDH5) are two metabolic and oncogenic markers of cancer. In this study, we sought to investigate their expression patterns and prognostic value in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC).

Methods and results

The expression and subcellular localization of PKM2 and LDH5 in TSCC cell lines were determined by Western blot and immunofluorescence. PKM2 and LDH5 abundance was examined by immunohistochemistry in 63 TSCC tumour specimens; their association with multiple clinicopathological parameters and overall patient survival was assessed. The protein levels of PKM2 and LDH5 were both significantly higher in TSCC cells than in an immortalized oral epithelial cell line. Overexpression of PKM2 associated significantly with cervical node metastasis (P = 0.0373), while elevated LDH5 levels correlated significantly with tumour size (P = 0.0094), pathological grade (P = 0.0052), cervical node metastasis (P = 0.0023) and clinical stage (P = 0.0024). Patients with tumours showing an increase in either PKM2 or LDH5 expression displayed significantly reduced overall survival, while patients with tumours overexpressing both proteins showed the worst prognosis with lowest overall survival. Furthermore, PKM2 and LDH5 were identified as independent prognostic predictors for overall patient survival in TSCC.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that overexpression of PKM2 and LDH5 associates with key clinicopathological features and unfavourable prognosis in TSCC.
Illustrating the interplay between the extracellular matrix and microRNAs
Authors: Piccinini Anna M. , Midwood Kim S.
Published: April 2014

The discovery of cell surface receptors that bind to extracellular matrix (ECM) components marked a new era in biological research. Since then there has been an increasing appreciation of the importance of studying cells in the context of their extracellular environment. Cell behaviour is profoundly affected by the ECM, whose synthesis and turnover must be finely balanced in order to maintain normal function and prevent disease. In the last decade, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of ECM gene expression. As new technologies for the identification and validation of miRNA targets continue to be developed, a growing body of data supporting the role of miRNAs in regulating the ECM biology has arisen from a variety of cell and animal models along with clinical studies. However, more recent findings suggest an intriguing interplay between the ECM and miRNAs: not only can miRNAs control the composition of the ECM, but also the ECM can affect the expression of specific miRNAs. Here we discuss how miRNAs contribute to the synthesis, maintenance and remodelling of the ECM during development and disease. Furthermore, we bring to light evidence that points to a role for the ECM in regulating miRNA expression and function.
Ingredient composition and pasta:water cooking ratio affect cooking properties of nontraditional spaghetti
Authors: de la Peña Elena , Manthey Frank A.
Published: April 2014

An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different pasta:water ratios and nontraditional ingredients on the cooking properties of spaghetti. Spaghetti was made using semolina and semolina containing 20% (w/w) nontraditional (NT) ingredients (corn, flaxseed, lentil, oat, pinto bean and soybean flours). Pasta:water ratios evaluated were 13 g:400 mL, 27 g:400 mL and 48 g:400 mL. Addition of pasta caused a decline in cooking water temperature. The water temperature drop and recovery time to boiling (100 °C) varied with pasta:water ratio and with nontraditional ingredient in the spaghetti. These results were attributed to the calculated specific heat capacity of the ingredients incorporated in the spaghetti. Cooking time was reduced for all NT spaghetti with respect to the control sample and was longest when 48 g of pasta was cooked. Pasta:water ratio affected cooking loss but not cooked weight or cooked firmness. Cooking losses were greater with 13 g:400 mL compared to 48 g:400 mL.
Proximate and fatty acid compositions and sensory acceptability of Hispanic consumers towards rib‐eye steaks from forage‐finished steers
Authors: Torrico Damir D. , Jirangrat Wannita , Scaglia Guillermo , Malekian Fatemeh , Janes Marlene E. , McMillin Kenneth W. , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: April 2014

Proximate and fatty acid compositions and sensory acceptability of rib‐eye steaks (fresh and 6 months frozen‐stored) from three forage‐finished steers [S1 (bermudagrass + ryegrass, etc.); S2 (bermudagrass + ryegrass + berseem, etc.); S3 (bermudagrass+berseem+soybean+brown midrib sorghum, etc.)] and one commercial steak (C), cooked by one‐sided and/or two‐sided grilling, were evaluated. All forage‐finished steaks had lower [omega‐6/omega‐3] ratios than C. Sensory liking was assessed by Hispanic consumers. Raw C steak had higher fat and lower protein contents than others (S1, S2 and S3). Concerning raw steaks, S3 had higher liking scores for overall appearance and fat appearance than others. Two cooking methods did not cause significant differences in sensory liking. Juiciness and overall liking of cooked C and S3 (one‐sided grilling) steaks were not significantly different. Purchase intent (after knowing health benefits of forage‐finished steaks) increased from 62.0–73.8% to 69.8–85.7%. Forage‐finished steaks showed a potentially healthier lipid profile than grain‐finished steaks and had market potential towards Hispanic population.
Effect of ripening stage and infusion with calcium lactate and sucrose on the quality and microstructure of frozen mango
Authors: Siramard Sirirak , Charoenrein Sanguansri
Published: April 2014

The effect of the ripening stage and infusion with calcium lactate and sucrose on the quality and microstructure of frozen mango was investigated. Partially ripe and ripe mangoes cubes were infused in 1% calcium lactate solution or a combination of 1% calcium lactate and 50% sucrose solution for 1 h before freezing at −20 °C and stored for 14 days. After thawing, both the partially ripe and ripe mangoes treated with the combination of calcium lactate and sucrose exhibited the highest firmness value, sensory firmness score and lowest drip loss. Light microscope images also illustrated less damage to the cell wall of mango pretreated with calcium and sucrose. The calcium‐reinforced structure of the fruit and osmotic dehydration with sucrose reduced the freezable water content and consequently limited ice crystal damage. Furthermore, partially ripe mango was more suitable for freezing than ripe mango due to its stronger cell wall structure.
Privacy and confidentiality: perspectives of mental health consumers and carers in pharmacy settings
Authors: Hattingh Hendrika Laetitia , Knox Kathy , Fejzic Jasmina , McConnell Denise , Fowler Jane L , Mey Amary , Kelly Fiona , Wheeler Amanda J
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The study aims to explore within the community pharmacy practice context the views of mental health stakeholders on: (1) current and past experiences of privacy, confidentiality and support; and (2) expectations and needs in relation to privacy and confidentiality.

Methods

In-depth interviews and focus groups were conducted in three states in Australia, namely Queensland, the northern region of New South Wales and Western Australia, between December 2011 and March 2012.

Key findings

There were 98 participants consisting of consumers and carers (n = 74), health professionals (n = 13) and representatives from consumer organisations (n = 11). Participants highlighted a need for improved staff awareness. Consumers indicated a desire to receive information in a way that respects their privacy and confidentiality, in an appropriate space. Areas identified that require improved protection of privacy and confidentiality during pharmacy interactions were the number of staff having access to sensitive information, workflow models causing information exposure and pharmacies' layout not facilitating private discussions. Challenges experienced by carers created feelings of isolation which could impact on care.

Conclusions

This study explored mental health stakeholders' experiences and expectations regarding privacy and confidentiality in the Australian community pharmacy context. A need for better pharmacy staff training about the importance of privacy and confidentiality and strategies to enhance compliance with national pharmacy practice requirements was identified. Findings provided insight into privacy and confidentiality needs and will assist in the development of pharmacy staff training material to better support consumers with sensitive conditions.
Nod2 and Rip2 contribute to innate immune responses in mouse neutrophils
Authors: Jeong Yu‐Jin , Kang Min‐Jung , Lee Sang‐Jin , Kim Chang‐Hwan , Kim Jee‐Cheon , Kim Tae‐Hyoun , Kim Dong‐Jae , Kim Donghyun , Núñez Gabriel , Park Jong‐Hwan
Published: April 2014

Nod‐like receptors are a family of innate immune receptors that link cytosolic sensing of microbial and danger stimuli to the activation of immune responses. Two Nod‐like receptor family members, Nod1 and Nod2, recognize bacterial peptidoglycan and activate immune responses via nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK). The function of Nod1 and Nod2 has been largely studied in macrophages, but the role of these receptors in other innate immune cells remains unclear. In this study, we examined the function of Nod1 and Nod2 in innate immune responses of neutrophils. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with thioglycollate, and then peritoneal neutrophils were isolated 4 hr after injection. Tri‐DAP and muramyl‐dipeptide (MDP) were used as Nod1 and Nod2 agonists, respectively. The level of cytokines [interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)] and chemokines (CXCL1 and CCL2) was increased by MDP, but not Tri‐DAP in wild‐type (WT) neutrophils. Increased production of cytokines and chemokines with MDP was abolished in Nod2‐ and Rip2‐deficient neutrophils. MDP also induced the activation of NF‐κB and MAPK in WT neutrophils, but not in Nod2‐ and Rip2‐deficient cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed that L‐selectin shedding was induced by MDP in WT neutrophils, but not in Nod2‐ and Rip2‐deficient cells. MDP and Toll‐like receptor (TLR) agonists (Pam3CSK4 and lipopolysaccharide) exerted synergistic effects on the production of IL‐6 and CXCL1 in neutrophils. Moreover, Nod2 and TLR4 cooperated to produce IL‐6, TNF‐α, CXCL1 and CCL2 in neutrophils in response to Gram‐negative bacteria. Our findings suggest that the Nod2–Rip2 axis may contribute to the innate immune response of neutrophils against bacterial infection.
Comparative epidemiology of human metapneumovirus‐ and respiratory syncytial virus‐associated hospitalizations in Guatemala
Authors: McCracken John P. , Arvelo Wences , Ortíz José , Reyes Lissette , Gray Jennifer , Estevez Alejandra , Castañeda Oscar , Langley Gayle , Lindblade Kim A.
Published: April 2014

Background

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an important cause of acute respiratory infections (ARI), but little is known about how it compares with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Central America.

Objectives

In this study, we describe hospitalized cases of HMPV‐ and RSV‐ARI in Guatemala.

Methods

We conducted surveillance at three hospitals (November 2007–December 2012) and tested nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swab specimens for HMPV and RSV using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. We calculated incidence rates, and compared the epidemiology and outcomes of HMPV‐positive versus RSV‐positive and RSV‐HMPV‐negative cases.

Results

We enrolled and tested specimens from 6288 ARI cases; 596 (9%) were HMPV‐positive and 1485 (24%) were RSV‐positive. We observed a seasonal pattern of RSV but not HMPV. The proportion HMPV‐positive was low (3%) and RSV‐positive high (41%) for age <1 month, whereas these proportions were similar (~20%) by age 2 years. The annual incidence of hospitalized HMPV‐ARI was 102/100 000 children aged <5 years [95% confidence interval (CI): 75–178], 2·6/100 000 persons aged 5–17 years (95%CI: 1·2–5·0), and 2·6/100 000 persons aged ≥18 years (95%CI: 1·5–4·9). Among children aged <5 years, HMPV‐positive cases were less severe than HMPV‐RSV‐negative cases after adjustment for confounders [odds ratio (OR) for intensive care = 0·63, 95% CI 0·47–0·84]; OR for death = 0·46, 95% CI 0·23–0·92).

Conclusions

Human metapneumovirus is a substantial contributor to ARI hospitalization in Guatemala, but HMPV hospitalizations are less frequent than RSV and, in young children, less severe than other etiologies. Preventive interventions should take into account the wide variation in incidence by age and unpredictable timing of incidence peaks.
Effect of the endosymbiotic pea crabCalyptraeotheres garthion the metabolic rate and oxidative status of the slipper limpetCrepidula cachimilla
Authors: Ocampo Emiliano H. , Menone Mirta L. , Iturburu Fernando G. , Nuñez Jesús D. , Baeza J. Antonio
Published: April 2014

Parasites may induce metabolic changes and imbalances in the redox status of hosts. This study tested the effect of parasites on the O2consumption rate (O2‐CR) of hosts, and explored the link between O2‐CR and oxidative stress in parasitized hosts. We used the symbiotic pea crabCalyptraeotheres garthiand its slipper limpet hostCrepidula cachimillaas models. The O2‐CR of long‐term (3 months) infested limpets was 2.5 times greater than that of long‐term uninfested limpets. Also, the O2‐CR of limpets stripped of crabs 24 h before measurements was intermediate between that of long‐term infested and uninfested limpets. These results indicate a parasitic relationship betweenC. garthiandCr.cachimilla, and suggest that the effect of the parasite on the metabolic rate of limpets is reversible. Lastly, the activity of two antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GST) as well as lipid peroxidation did not vary between infested and uninfested limpets. Thus, increased O2‐CR is not necessarily coupled with oxidative stress in pea crab‐parasitized slipper limpets.
Vertical Osteoconductive Characteristics of Titanium Implants with Calcium‐Phosphate‐Coated Surfaces – A Pilot Study in Rabbits
Authors: Schiegnitz Eik , Palarie Victor , Nacu Viorel , Al‐Nawas Bilal , Kämmerer Peer Wolfgang
Published: April 2014

Introduction: Osteoconductive characteristics of different implant surface coatings are in the focus of current interest. The aim of the present study was to compare the vertical osteoconductivity at the implant shoulder of supracrestal inserted calcium‐phosphate coated implants (SLA‐CaP) with conventional sand‐blasted/acid‐etched (SLA) implants in a rabbit model.

Materials and Methods: SLA‐CaP and SLA implants were inserted bilaterally in the mandible of four rabbits in a split‐mouth design. The implants were placed 2 mm supracrestal. After 3 weeks, at the left and right implant shoulder, the percentage of linear bone fill (PLF) as well as bone‐implant contact (BIC‐D) were determined.

Results: After 3 weeks, newly formed woven bone could be found at the shoulder of the most of both surface‐treated implants (75%). PLF was significantly higher in SLA‐CaP implants (11.2% vs. 46.5%; n = 8, p = .008). BIC‐D was significantly increased in the SLA‐CaP implants (13.0% vs. 71.4%; n = 8, p < .001) as well.

Conclusion: The results of this study show for the first time that calcium‐phosphate coated surfaces on supracrestal inserted implants have vertical osteoconductive characteristics and increase the bone‐implant contact at the implant shoulder significantly in a rabbit model. In clinical long‐term settings, these implants may contribute to a better vertical bone height.
Testosterone levels in feces predict risk‐sensitive foraging in hummingbirds
Authors: Chávez‐Zichinelli C. A. , Gómez L. , Ortiz‐Pulido R. , Lara C. , Valdéz R. , Romano M. C.
Published: April 2014

Risk taking decisions related to the unpredictability of resource availability (risk‐sensitive foraging theory) have typically been explained by behavioral ecology and psychology approaches. However, little attention has been given to the physiological condition of animals as a factor that can influence the direction of foraging preferences. We evaluated the role of steroid hormones testosterone (T) and corticosterone (CORT) on the foraging preferences expressed by white‐eared hummingbirds Hylocharis leucotis in a risk‐sensitivity experiment. We recorded choices made by male individuals to floral arrays with constant and variable rewards (sugar concentration), and associated these with steroid hormone levels quantified at the start of the experiments. We found that males with higher T levels behave as risk‐prone foragers as they perform more visits to flower arrays with variable rewards. Interestingly, CORT levels were similar regardless whether individuals visited both types of array. According to our results, T seems to influence the foraging preferences of male hummingbirds. Individuals with higher levels of this hormone, made more rapid, frequent visits to flowers with variable rewards, and behave consistently as risk‐prone foragers, compared to males with low T levels. These are exciting avenues for future work, particularly considering recent evidence that individuals may exhibit behavioral differences, denoting an apparent personality, which may be associated with phisiological condition influencing how they respond behaviorally to environmental variation.
Impact of miniaturized geolocators on barn swallowHirundo rusticafitness traits
Authors: Scandolara Chiara , Rubolini Diego , Ambrosini Roberto , Caprioli Manuela , Hahn Steffen , Liechti Felix , Romano Andrea , Romano Maria , Sicurella Beatrice , Saino Nicola
Published: April 2014

Miniaturized light‐level geolocators may revolutionise the study of avian migration. However, there are increasing concerns that they might negatively affect fitness. We investigated the impact of two miniaturized geolocator models (SOI‐GDL2.10, deployed in 2010, and SOI‐GDL2.11, deployed in 2011) on fitness traits of the barn swallowHirundo rustica, one of the smallest migratory species to which geolocators have been applied to date. The 2011 model was lighter (by 0.09 g) and had a shorter light stalk compared to the 2010 model. Using data from 640 geolocator and 399 control individuals from three geographical populations, we found that geolocators reduced annual survival probabilities (control birds: 0.19–0.63; geolocator birds: 0.08–0.40, depending on year, sex, and how birds that lost the device were considered), with more markedly negative effects on females equipped with the 2010 model. In addition, among birds equipped with the 2010 model, onset of reproduction in the subsequent year was delayed (by 12 d) and females laid smaller first clutches (by 1.5 eggs, i.e. a 30% reduction) compared to controls. Equipping parents with geolocators while they were attending their brood did not affect nestling body mass or fledging success. A reduction of geolocator weight and drag by shortening the light stalk slightly enhanced the survival of females but not that of males, and mitigated the negative carry‐over effects on subsequent reproduction. Our study shows that geolocators can have a negative impact on survival and reproduction, and that even minor differences in weight and drag can make the difference. We suggest that studies aiming at deploying geolocators or other year‐round tagging devices should be preceded by pilot experiments to test for fitness effects.
Horned larks on the Tibetan Plateau adjust the breeding strategy according to the seasonal changes in the risk of nest predation and food availability
Authors: Du Bo , Liu Chang‐Jing , Yang Meng , Bao Shi‐Jie , Guan Meng‐Meng , Liu Nai‐Fa
Published: April 2014

Songbirds in seasonal environments often adjust their breeding strategy according to spatial or temporal changes in breeding conditions. Here we investigate how horned larks Eremophila alpestris, a multi‐brooded songbird on the Tibetan Plateau, responded to the changing risk of nest predation and food availability across breeding attempts. We showed that both nest concealment and food supply increased with plant growth, and horned larks adjusted their breeding strategies accordingly. First they selected nest‐sites where predator density was low, which enhanced nest survival. Second, clutch size increased with improving breeding conditions. They did not adopt an ‘egg‐size’ strategy as egg size did not change with laying sequence or breeding attempt. Instead, they adopted the ‘brood survival (feeding later‐hatched nestlings more)’ and ‘brood reduction (feeding early‐hatched nestlings more)’ strategies during early and later attempts. Moreover, nestlings’ growth varied with breeding attempt: more energy was invested into the growth of body mass during the first attempt but more energy was expended on the growth of linear structures during later attempts. This difference in energy allocation reflected changing food availability. We suggest that temporal changes of environmental factors are also the important force driving the evolution of avian breeding strategies.
Can Desalination and Clean Energy Combined Help to Alleviate Global Water Scarcity?
Authors: Sood Aditya , Smakhtin Vladimir
Published: April 2014

The major present hindrance in using desalination to help alleviate global water scarcity is the cost of this technology, which, in turn is due to energy cost involved. This study examines historical trends in desalination and breaks up the cost of desalination into energy based and nonenergy based. It then develops the learning curves (relationship between cumulative production and market price) for desalination. Assuming that the photovoltaic (PV) technology will be the dominant form of energy used in the desalination process, the existing PV learning curve and desalination learning curve are combined to explore the viability of large‐scale adoption of desalination in the future. The world has been divided into seven regions and it is assumed that water demand from desalinated water will be met only within the 100‐km coastal belt. It is shown that, in most of the regions, other than sub‐Saharan Africa, Central America, and South Asia (where water tariffs are low), the desalination (without considering energy) becomes viable by 2040. For PV technology, less than 1 million MW per annum growth is required till 2050 to make it affordable. Globally, desalination with renewable energy can become a viable option to replace domestic and industrial water demand in the 100‐km coastal belt by 2050.