bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visco‐Elastic and Flow Properties of Gelatin from the Bone of Freshwater Fish (Cirrhinus mrigala)
Authors: Chandra M. V. , Shamasundar B. A. , Kumar P. Ramesh
Published: May 2013

The average yield of gelatin from the bone of freshwater fish (Cirrhinus mrigala) was 6.13%. The fluorescence spectra revealed maximum emission at 303 nm indicating the exposure of chromophores to bulk solvent. The amino acid profile of gelatin revealed a higher proportion of glycine and imino acids. The bloom strength of gelled gelatin was 159.8 g. The average molecular weight of fish bone gelatin was 281 kDa as determined by gel filtration technique. The dynamic oscillatory test of gelatin solution as a function of time and temperature revealed gelling and melting temperatures of 8.0 °C and 17.0 °C, respectively. The flow behavior of gelatin solution as a function of concentrations and temperatures revealed non‐Newtonian behavior with pseudo‐plastic phenomenon. The Herschel–Bulkley and Casson models were found suitable to study the flow behavior. The emulsion capacity (EC) of gelatin was inversely proportional to its concentration.
Computed tomographic colonography (CTC); colorectal cancer diagnosis with CTC in an Auckland population
Authors: Moore Helen , Dodd Nicholas
Published: May 2013

Aim

To determine the sensitivity of computed tomographic colonography (CTC) in the detection of colorectal cancer in our population and evaluate the reasons why these lesions may be missed on CTC.

Methods

All patients who underwent CTC in the 65‐month period from 1 January 2004 to 1 July 2009 were included in the analysis. Demographic data and CTC findings were recorded, according to the CT Colonography Reporting and Data System. Data were cross‐matched with the National Cancer Registry results for colorectal cancer cases between 1 January 2004 and 1 October 2009, 3 months longer to include any delayed diagnoses.

Results

There were 2026 consecutive CTC patients, comprising 52.6% female, average age of 60 years; range 19–87. Approximately 84% were symptomatic. There were 45 confirmed colorectal cancers among this patient group in the National Cancer Registry during the relevant time period compared with 43 suspected cancers on CTC, giving a miss rate of 2 of 45, or 4.4%.

Conclusion

The sensitivity of 95% for CTC in the detection of colorectal cancer compares favourably with the published national and international data.
pavo: an R package for the analysis, visualization and organization of spectral data
Authors: Maia Rafael , Eliason Chad M. , Bitton Pierre‐Paul , Doucet Stéphanie M. , Shawkey Matthew D.
Published: May 2013

Recent technical and methodological advances have led to a dramatic increase in the use of spectrometry to quantify reflectance properties of biological materials, as well as models to determine how these colours are perceived by animals, providing important insights into ecological and evolutionary aspects of animal visual communication.

Despite this growing interest, a unified cross‐platform framework for analysing and visualizing spectral data has not been available. We introduce pavo, an R package that facilitates the organization, visualization and analysis of spectral data in a cohesive framework. pavo is highly flexible, allowing users to (a) organize and manipulate data from a variety of sources, (b) visualize data using R's state‐of‐the‐art graphics capabilities and (c) analyse data using spectral curve shape properties and visual system modelling for a broad range of taxa.

In this paper, we present a summary of the functions implemented in pavo and how they integrate in a workflow to explore and analyse spectral data. We also present an exact solution for the calculation of colour volume overlap in colourspace, thus expanding previously published methodologies.

As an example of pavo's capabilities, we compare the colour patterns of three African glossy starling species, two of which have diverged very recently. We demonstrate how both colour vision models and direct spectral measurement analysis can be used to describe colour attributes and differences between these species. Different approaches to visual models and several plotting capabilities exemplify the package's versatility and streamlined workflow.

pavo provides a cohesive environment for handling spectral data and addressing complex sensory ecology questions, while integrating with R's modular core for a broader and comprehensive analytical framework, automated management of spectral data and reproducible workflows for colour analysis.
Transfusion in critically ill children: an ongoing dilemma
Authors: SECHER E. L. , STENSBALLE J. , AFSHARI A.
Published: May 2013

Transfusion of blood products is a cornerstone in managing many critically ill children. Major improvements in blood product safety have not diminished the need for caution in transfusion practice. In this review, we aim to discuss the interplay between benefits and potential adverse effects of transfusion in critically ill children by including 65 papers, which were evaluated based on previously agreed selection criteria. Current practice on transfusing critically ill children is mainly founded on the basis of adult studies, common practices with cut‐off values, and expert opinions, rather than evidence‐based medicine. Paediatric patients have explicit physiological challenges and requirements to be addressed. Critically ill children often suffer from anaemia, have substantial iatrogenic blood loss with subsequent transfusions, and are at a higher risk of complications, often due to human errors. Transfusion in children is associated with increased morbidity. A restrictive transfusion strategy is not associated with increased morbidity. Thus, transfusion in paediatrics should be considered a high‐risk treatment and requires individual clinical assessment. Current level of evidence support the notion that in most stable cases, despite high severity of illness (cyanotic children and neonates excluded), a restrictive haemoglobin threshold of 70 g/l (4.3 mmol/l) is no more harmful than to transfuse at a liberal trigger, e.g. haemoglobin 95 g/l (5.9 mmol/l). Thus, balanced against potential benefits and often its necessity, a restrictive approach may be appropriate due to the associated risks of transfusion.
Neonatal folate, homocysteine, vitamin B12 levels and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase variants in childhood asthma and eczema
Authors: van der Valk R. J. P. , Kiefte‐de Jong J. C. , Sonnenschein‐van der Voort A. M. M. , Duijts L. , Hafkamp‐de Groen E. , Moll H. A. , Tiemeier H. , Steegers E. A. P. , Hofman A. , Jaddoe V. W. V. , de Jongste J. C.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To assess the associations of folate, homocysteine and vitamin B12 levels of children at birth and their methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) variants with asthma and eczema in childhood.

Methods

This study was embedded in a population‐based prospective cohort study (n = 2,001). Neonatal cord blood folate, homocysteine and vitamin B12 levels were measured, and MTHFR C677T and A1298C genotyped. Wheezing and physician‐diagnosed eczema were annually obtained by questionnaire until 4 years. At 6 years, we collected information on physician‐diagnosed asthma ever and self‐reported eczema ever, measured fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and interrupter resistance (Rint). Data were analysed with generalized estimating equations or logistic regression: continuous outcomes with linear regression models.

Results

Folate, homocysteine and vitamin B12 levels of children at birth were not associated with wheezing or eczema until 4 years, asthma and eczema ever, or FeNO or Rint at 6 years. In children carrying C677T mutations in MTHFR, higher folate levels were associated with an increased risk of eczema (repeated eczema until 4 years: OR 1.40 (95% CI 1.09–1.80) (SD change) P‐interaction = 0.003, eczema ever at 6 years: OR 1.41 (0.97–2.03) P‐interaction = 0.011). No interactions between MTHFR and child folate and homocysteine levels were observed for wheezing and asthma.

Conclusions

Folate, homocysteine and vitamin B12 levels of children at birth did not affect asthma‐ and eczema‐related outcomes up to the age of 6 years. Further studies are warranted to establish the role of MTHFR variants in these associations.
Benefit Transfer for Environmental Improvements in Coastal Areas: General versus Best‐Fitting Models
Authors: Östberg Katarina , Håkansson Cecilia , Hasselström Linus , Bostedt Göran
Published: May 2013

Recognizing the important policy task of securing the benefits from marine coastal waters subject to time and funding constraints has increased interest in benefit transfer (BT). However, many of the advances in BT recommended by researchers would be too costly to implement. This paper presents two choice experiment (CE) studies on marine areas in Sweden where respondents from local and distant populations were surveyed. BT for attributes relevant to the European Union's Water Framework Directive and the implementation of special consideration zones in marine areas were evaluated by equivalence tests. A comparison of the performance between a “general” BT model including only easily available socio‐economic information and a statistically “best‐fitting” model that requires the collection of more detailed information shows very similar results. Using a general model saves money and time since the information needed can be easily obtained from public databases and it does not lead to any significant reductions in accuracy or reliability. The issue of including socio‐economic information in CE modeling for BT is important, since the model specification will determine the type of information that must be collected at the policy site; however, the results are inconclusive as to whether it improves BT or not.
Including Management Policy Options in Discrete Choice Experiments: A Case Study of the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Rolfe John , Windle Jill
Published: May 2013

Information about the management policy used to achieve environmental protection outcomes is rarely included as variables in choice experiments. In cases where people have very different preferences for the types of input measures used, the utility of environmental protection options may be sensitive to the choice of inputs used to achieve the protection. The discrete choice experiment reported in this paper to value protection measures for the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is interesting in two important ways. First, different management policies to increase protection have been included as labels in the choice experiment to test if the mechanisms to achieve improvements are important to respondents. Second, the level of certainty associated with predicted reef health has been included as an attribute in the choice alternatives, helping to distinguish between outcomes of different management policies. The results show that protection values vary with the policy scope of the improvements being considered. Values are sensitive to whether protection will be generated by improving water quality entering the reef, increasing conservation zones or reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the level of certainty of outcomes.
Transition metal sensing by Toll‐like receptor‐4: next to nickel, cobalt and palladium are potent human dendritic cell stimulators
Authors: Rachmawati Dessy , Bontkes Hetty J. , Verstege Marleen I. , Muris Joris , von Blomberg B. Mary E. , Scheper Rik J. , van Hoogstraten Ingrid M. W.
Published: May 2013

Background Nickel was recently identified as a potent activator of dendritic cells through ligating with human Toll‐like receptor (TLR)‐4.

Objectives Here, we studied an extended panel of transition metals neighbouring nickel in the periodic table of elements, for their capacity to activate human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (MoDCs).

Methods The panel included chromium, cobalt, and palladium, all of which are known to be frequent clinical sensitizers. MoDC activation was monitored by assessment of release of the pro‐inflammatory mediator interleukin (IL)‐8, a major downstream result of TLR ligation.

Results The data obtained in the present study show that cobalt and palladium also have potent MoDC‐activating capacities, whereas copper and zinc, but not iron and chromium, have low but distinct MoDC‐activating potential. Involvement of endotoxin contamination in MoDC activation was excluded by Limulus assays and consistent stimulation in the presence of polymyxin B. The critical role of TLR4 in nickel‐induced, cobalt‐induced and palladium‐induced activation was confirmed by essentially similar stimulatory patterns obtained in an HEK293 TLR4/MD2 transfectant cell line.

Conclusions Given the adjuvant role of costimulatory danger signals, the development of contact allergies to the stimulatory metals may be facilitated by signals from direct TLR4 ligation, whereas other metal sensitizers, such as chromium, may rather depend on microbial or tissue‐derived cofactors to induce clinical sensitization.
New UK nickel‐plated steel coins constitute an increased allergy and eczema risk
Authors: Julander Anneli , Midander Klara , Herting Gunilla , Thyssen Jacob P. , White Ian R. , Odnevall Wallinder Inger , Lidén Carola
Published: May 2013

Background

Nickel‐plated steel coins have recently been introduced in the United Kingdom.

Objectives

To compare the performance and allergy risk of the new nickel‐plated coins (five and ten pence) with those of the cupro‐nickel coins being replaced.

Materials and methods

Coin handling studies with assessment of skin exposure and metal release in artificial sweat were performed. Six volunteers participated.

Results

The amount of nickel deposited onto skin during the handling of nickel‐plated coins for 1 hr was 7.5 µg/cm2, four times higher than that from cupro‐nickel coins. The nickel content in the oxidized surface of nickel‐plated coins was higher, explaining the higher skin dose. Initial nickel release rates were 10–27 times higher than 1‐week rates, emphasizing that brief and repeated contact results in significant nickel exposure.

Conclusions

Nickel‐plated coins deposit higher levels of nickel onto skin than cupro‐nickel coins, and hence pose an increased allergy risk. One‐week release in artificial sweat is not suitable for determining the risk of handling items with high nickel release that come into short, repeated contact with the skin. The nickel skin dose is recommended for risk assessment. UK citizens are now, because of this change in coinage, unnecessarily exposed to higher levels of nickel on the skin. This is of public health concern.
Character comparison of abdomen‐derived and eyelid‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Kim S.‐H. , Bang S. H. , Park S. A. , Kang S. Y. , Park K. D. , Oh I. U. , Yoo S. H. , Kim H. , Kim C.‐H. , Baek S. Y.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

While most human adipose tissues, such as those located in the abdomen, hip and thigh, are of mesodermal origin, adipose tissues located in the face are of ectodermal origin. The present study has compared stem cell‐related features of abdomen‐derived adult stem cells (A‐ASCs) with those of eyelid‐derived adult stem cells (E‐ASCs).

Materials and methods

Adipose tissue‐derived cells were maintained in DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS. Before passage 6, cells were analysed using FACS, immunocytochemistry and quantitative real time PCR (qRT‐PCR). To examine multi‐differentiational potential, early passage ASCs were cultivated in each of a commercial Stempro® Differentiation kit.

Results

Unlike fibroblast‐like morphology of A‐ASCs, E‐ASCs had bipolar morphology. Both types of cell exhibited similar surface antigens, and neuronal cell‐related genes and proteins. However, there were differences in mRNA expression levels of CD90 and CD146; neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) and nuclear receptor‐related protein 1 (Nurr1) were different between the two cell types. There was no difference in multi‐differentiational potential between 3 E‐ASCs lines, however, E‐ASCs had higher expression levels of chondrocyte‐related genes compared to A‐ASCs. These cells underwent senescence and maintained normal karyotypes.

Conclusions

Although isolated from similar adipose tissues, both types of cells displayed many contrasting characteristics. Understanding defining phenotypes of such cells is useful for making suitable choices in differing clinical indications.
Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound induced enhanced adipogenesis of adipose‐derived stem cells
Authors: Fu N. , Yang X. , Ba K. , Fu Y. , Wei X. , Yue Y. , Li G. , Yao Y. , Chen J. , Cai X. , Liang C. , Ge Y. , Lin Y.
Published: May 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on differentiation of adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs), in vitro.

Materials and methods

Murine ASCs were treated with LIPUS for either three or five days, immediately after adipogenic induction, or delayed for 2 days. Expression of adipogenic genes PPAR‐γ1, and APN, was examined by real‐time PCR. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining was performed to test for PPAR‐γ at the protein level.

Results

Our data revealed that specific patterns of LIPUS up‐regulated levels of both PPAR‐γ1 and APN mRNA, and PPAR‐γ protein.

Conclusions

In culture medium containing adipogenic reagents, LIPUS enhanced ASC adipogenesis.
Late effects of childhood cancer treatment: severe hypertriglyceridaemia, central obesity, non alcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetes as complications of childhood total body irradiation
Authors: Rajendran R. , Abu E. , Fadl A. , Byrne C. D.
Published: May 2013

Background

Childhood cancer survivors may develop a number of endocrine complications linked to organ failure, such as hypogonadism, diabetes and growth hormone deficiency. However, increasing evidence now suggests that total body irradiation treatment, specifically, is linked with future risk of insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis and dyslipidaemia, possibly because total body irradiation affects adipocyte differentiation and impairs subcutaneous adipose tissue depot expansion during times of positive energy balance.

Case report

We describe a 20‐year‐old woman who developed pancreatitis with severe hypertriglyceridaemia (serum triglycerides > 300 mmol/l) that required plasmapheresis. She had received total body irradiation prior to her bone marrow transplant at age 6 years for relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. She developed ovarian failure at age 12 years. At age 15 years she was noted to have hyperglycaemia, increased blood pressure, hepatic steatosis and mild hypertriglyceridaemia. She presented with severe hypertriglyceridaemia and eruptive xanthoma, and developed pancreatitis 12 h after admission. She was treated with plasmapheresis and intravenous insulin and made an excellent recovery. We implicate and discuss total body irradiation as the major contributing factor to her severe hypertriglyceridaemia, compounded by worsening glycaemic control, oestrogen deficiency and a changing adult lifestyle.

Conclusion

Children who have received total body irradiation are at risk of diabetes and an exaggerated form of the metabolic syndrome with hypertriglyceridaemia, which can be life‐threatening. We suggest that survivors of total body irradiation treatment require careful lifelong monitoring of their metabolic status.
Breastfeeding in women with diabetes: lower rates despite greater rewards. A population‐based study
Authors: Finkelstein S. A. , Keely E. , Feig D. S. , Tu X. , Yasseen A. S. , Walker M.
Published: May 2013

Aims

To explore intention to breastfeed and breastfeeding rates in hospital and on discharge across women with pre‐gestational or gestational diabetes mellitus, or no diabetes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted using data from four Ontario hospitals. Women who delivered a viable infant between 1 April 2008 and 31 March 2010 were included in the study. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios were calculated for each outcome measure and were used to compare the breastfeeding rates among women with and without diabetes.

Results

After controlling for potential confounders, women with insulin‐treated diabetes were less likely to intend to breastfeed, when compared with women without diabetes (adjusted odds ratio 0.49, 95% CI 0.27–0.89). In hospital, women with insulin‐treated diabetes were least likely to breastfeed (odds ratio 0.42, 95% CI 0.26–0.67), followed by women with non‐insulin‐treated diabetes (odds ratio 0.50, 95% CI 0.26–0.96) and women with gestational diabetes (odds ratio 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87) when compared with women without diabetes. On discharge, women with insulin‐treated diabetes were least likely to breastfeed (odds ratio 0.38, 95% CI 0.24–0.60), followed by women with gestational diabetes (odds ratio 0.75, 95% CI 0.66–0.85); rates of breastfeeding among women with non‐insulin‐treated diabetes were comparable on discharge with those of women without diabetes. Women seeking care from an antenatal provider other than a physician were 2–3 times more likely to breastfeed in hospital and on discharge.

Conclusions

Women with insulin‐treated diabetes had the poorest outcomes with respect to breastfeeding rates. Gestational and non‐insulin‐treated diabetes were associated with lower rates of breastfeeding in hospital, while gestational diabetes was additionally associated with lower breastfeeding rates on discharge.
Estimating spatial distribution of Atlantic salmon escapement using redd counts despite changes over time in counting procedure: application to the Allier River population
Authors: Dauphin Guillaume J.R. , Brugel Catherine , Hoffmann‐Legrand Marion , Prévost Etienne
Published: May 2013

In salmonid species, such as Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.), the most frequent type of data set available related to adult escapements are redd counts. When collected over a broad spatio‐temporal domain, redd counts data are of great interest for tracking the variation through time of the spatial distribution of the potential spawners. This is important for management purposes when the habitat quality is variable across river sections of a catchment or when the spatial distribution can vary depending on management actions or on environmental factors. However, long‐term data sets are prone to changes in data collection methodology. In this article, we present a new hierarchical Bayesian modelling approach that allows both (i) to account for a change in the data collection procedure and (ii) to analyse the variation through time of the potential spawners’ spatial distribution. The value of the proposed approach is demonstrated by its application to the Atlantic salmon redd counts data collected in Allier (France) catchment from 1977 to 2011. The Allier can be divided into three main sections according to management and habitat considerations, and an important change occurred in the redd data collection in 1997: counts by foot or by boat were replaced by counts from a helicopter. A significant effect of this change on methodology is detected: less redds counted when using the helicopter counts. However, its explicit consideration in the modelling makes little difference with regard to the estimates of potential spawner abundance and their associated uncertainty.
Psychosis prediction and clinical utility in familial high‐risk studies: selective review, synthesis, and implications for early detection and intervention
Authors: Shah Jai L. , Tandon Neeraj , Keshavan Matcheri S.
Published: May 2013

Aim

Accurate prediction of which high‐risk individuals will go on to develop psychosis would assist early intervention and prevention paradigms. We sought to review investigations of prospective psychosis prediction based on markers and variables examined in longitudinal familial high‐risk (FHR) studies.

Methods

We performed literature searches in MedLine, PubMed and PsycINFO for articles assessing performance characteristics of predictive clinical tests in FHR studies of psychosis. Studies were included if they reported on one or more predictive variables in subjects at FHR for psychosis. We complemented this search strategy with references drawn from articles, reviews, book chapters and monographs.

Results

Across generations of FHR projects, predictive studies have investigated behavioural, cognitive, psychometric, clinical, neuroimaging and other markers. Recent analyses have incorporated multivariate and multi‐domain approaches to risk ascertainment, with generally modest results.

Conclusions

Although a broad range of risk factors has been identified, no individual marker or combination of markers can at this time enable accurate prospective prediction of emerging psychosis for individuals at FHR. We outline the complex and multi‐level nature of psychotic illness, the myriad of factors influencing its development, and methodological hurdles to accurate and reliable prediction. Prospects and challenges for future generations of FHR studies are discussed in the context of early detection and intervention strategies.
Development of behavioral preferences for the optimal choice following unexpected reward omission is mediated by a reduction of D2‐like receptor tone in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Porter‐Stransky Kirsten A. , Seiler Jillian L. , Day Jeremy J. , Aragona Brandon J.
Published: May 2013

To survive in a dynamic environment, animals must identify changes in resource availability and rapidly apply adaptive strategies to obtain resources that promote survival. We have utilised a behavioral paradigm to assess differences in foraging strategy when resource (reward) availability unexpectedly changes. When reward magnitude was reduced by 50% (receive one reward pellet instead of two), male and female rats developed a preference for the optimal choice by the second session. However, when an expected reward was omitted (receive no reward pellets instead of one), subjects displayed a robust preference for the optimal choice during the very first session. Previous research shows that, when an expected reward is omitted, dopamine neurons phasically decrease their firing rate, which is hypothesised to decrease dopamine release preferentially affecting D2‐like receptors. As robust changes in behavioral preference were specific to reward omission, we tested this hypothesis and the functional role of D1‐ and D2‐like receptors in the nucleus accumbens in mediating the rapid development of a behavioral preference for the rewarded option during reward omission in male rats. Blockade of both receptor types had no effect on this behavior; however, holding D2‐like, but not D1‐like, receptor tone via infusion of dopamine receptor agonists prevented the development of the preference for the rewarded option during reward omission. These results demonstrate that avoiding an outcome that has been tagged with aversive motivational properties is facilitated through decreased dopamine transmission and subsequent functional disruption of D2‐like, but not D1‐like, receptor tone in the nucleus accumbens.
The robustness of a network of ecological networks to habitat loss
Authors: Evans Darren M. , Pocock Michael J. O. , Memmott Jane
Published: May 2013

There have been considerable advances in our understanding of the tolerance of species interaction networks to sequential extinctions of plants and animals. However, communities of species exist in a mosaic of habitats, and the vulnerability of habitats to anthropogenic change varies. Here, we model the cascading effects of habitat loss, driven by plant extinctions, on the robustness of multiple animal groups. Our network is constructed from empirical observations of 11 animal groups in 12 habitats on farmland. We simulated sequential habitat removal scenarios: randomly; according to prior information; and with a genetic algorithm to identify best‐ and worst‐case permutations of habitat loss. We identified two semi‐natural habitats (waste ground and hedgerows together comprising < 5% of the total area of the farm) as disproportionately important to the integrity of the overall network. Our approach provides a new tool for network ecologists and for directing the management and restoration of multiple‐habitat sites.
Trophic complementarity drives the biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationship in food webs
Authors: Poisot Timothée , Mouquet Nicolas , Gravel Dominique
Published: May 2013

The biodiversity–ecosystem functioning (BEF) relationship is central in community ecology. Its drivers in competitive systems (sampling effect and functional complementarity) are intuitive and elegant, but we lack an integrative understanding of these drivers in complex ecosystems. Because networks encompass two key components of the BEF relationship (species richness and biomass flow), they provide a key to identify these drivers, assuming that we have a meaningful measure of functional complementarity. In a network, diversity can be defined by species richness, the number of trophic levels, but perhaps more importantly, the diversity of interactions. In this paper, we define the concept of trophic complementarity (TC), which emerges through exploitative and apparent competition processes, and study its contribution to ecosystem functioning. Using a model of trophic community dynamics, we show that TC predicts various measures of ecosystem functioning, and generate a range of testable predictions. We find that, in addition to the number of species, the structure of their interactions needs to be accounted for to predict ecosystem productivity.
Response diversity to land use occurs but does not consistently stabilise ecosystem services provided by native pollinators
Authors: Cariveau Daniel P. , Williams Neal M. , Benjamin Faye E. , Winfree Rachael
Published: May 2013

More diverse biological communities may provide ecosystem services that are less variable over space or time. However, the mechanisms underlying this relationship are rarely investigated empirically in real‐world ecosystems. Here, we investigate how a potentially important stabilising mechanism, response diversity, the differential response to environmental change among species, stabilises pollination services against land‐use change. We measured crop pollination services provided by native bees across land‐use gradients in three crop systems. We found that bee species responded differentially to increasing agricultural land cover in all three systems, demonstrating that response diversity occurs. Similarly, we found response diversity in pollination services in two of the systems. However, there was no evidence that response diversity, in general, stabilised ecosystem services. Our results suggest that either response diversity is not the primary stabilising mechanism in our system, or that new measures of response diversity are needed that better capture the stabilising effects it provides.
Roles of the ubiquitin peptidase USP18 in multiple sclerosis and the response to interferon‐β treatment
Authors: Malhotra S. , Morcillo‐Suárez C. , Nurtdinov R. , Rio J. , Sarro E. , Moreno M. , Castilló J. , Navarro A. , Montalban X. , Comabella M.
Published: May 2013

Background and purpose

Ubiquitin specific peptidase 18 (USP18) is a deubiquitinating enzyme that functions as a negative regulator of the type I interferon (IFN) signalling pathway and is specifically induced by type I IFNs. In the present study, previous observations by our group were expanded suggesting an implication of USP18 in multiple sclerosis (MS) based on the finding of a deficient expression of the gene in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from MS patients compared with healthy controls.

Methods

Two polymorphisms, rs2542109 (intronic) and rs9618216 (promoter), were genotyped in a cohort of 691 relapse‐onset MS patients and 1028 healthy controls and in 225 MS patients treated with IFNβ and classified into responders and non‐responders after 2 years of treatment according to clinical criteria. Correlations between genotypes and expression levels for USP18 and its target ISG15 were performed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Two USP18 haplotypes were significantly associated with MS, TG and CG. Additional experiments revealed that CG carriers were characterized by lower USP18 gene expression levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and higher clinical disease activity. Finally, AA homozygosis for the intronic polymorphism rs2542109 was associated with the responder phenotype; however, USP18 expression levels induced by IFNβ did not differ amongst MS patients carrying different rs2542109 genotypes.

Conclusions

Altogether, these results point to a role of USP18 in MS pathogenesis and the therapeutic response to IFNβ.
The Protection of Traditional Foods in the EU: Traditional Specialities Guaranteed
Authors: Tosato Andrea
Published: May 2013

Since the dawn of the common market, the European Union has enacted abundant legislation regulating the employment of specific food names. This process has led to the introduction of a regulatory framework for wines and spirits, and four quality schemes for food products: protected denominations of origin (PDO), protected geographical indications (PGI), traditional specialities guaranteed (TSG), and optional quality terms (OQT). This paper focuses on the TSG. It will first determine the collocation of this quality scheme in the EU legal framework; second, it will conduct a legal exegesis of the norms regulating the TSG under the previous Regulation 509/06 and analyse the ways in which they have been interpreted and applied; third, it will suggest reasons for the limited success of this scheme in the past; and fourth, it will explore the recently enacted Regulation 1151/12, seeking to establish whether it addresses the pre‐existing flaws that fettered the TSG.
Democratic Legitimacy in the Bund or ‘Federation of States’: the Cases of Belgium and the EU
Authors: Rummens Stefan , Sottiaux Stefan
Published: May 2013

Carl Schmitt developed the concept of the ‘federation of states’ (Bund) in order to characterise intermediate constitutional systems which are integrated beyond the level of a confederation (Staatenbund) without, however, acquiring the level of integration of an actual federal state (Bundesstaat). In this paper we analyse the constitutional specificity of the ‘federation of states’ and present three normative principles for assessing the democratic legitimacy of the decision‐making procedures within such a federation. We argue that both the European Union and Belgium can be analysed as instances of such a federation of states and show how this characterisation improves our understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of both polities and the constitutional and democratic challenges they are facing.
The Temporal Paradox of Regions in the EU Seeking Independence: Contraction and Fragmentation versus Widening and Deepening?
Authors: Chamon Merijn , Van der Loo Guillaume
Published: May 2013

This article investigates the possibility of regional entities within EU Member States to become EU Member States in their own right following their secession from their mother state. International law does not automatically allow such regions to remain EU Member States since it refers this issue back to the constituent instruments of international organisations and a reading of both the EU Treaties and the ECJ's jurisprudence seems to preclude such a ‘continued membership’. The article then further explores the legal issues which could arise during the accession process of the newly independent state. After suggesting solutions to bridge the gap between its secession and its own EU membership, it is argued that the key challenge for such a region would be to ensure a smooth transition, without the loss of prerogatives under EU law, from being an EU region to an EU Member State proper.
Conceptualizing Pronunciation As Part of Translingual/Transcultural Competence: New Impulses for SLA Research and the L2 Classroom
Authors: Müller Mareike
Published: May 2013

This article aims to reconceptualize pronunciation teaching and learning according to the tenets of the 2007 MLA Report and its call for translingual/transcultural competence. The critical discussion of current teaching and research practices shows that the realm of pronunciation has benefitted little from debates on intercultural language learning. In order to link the teaching of pronunciation with learner needs in intercultural encounters, this article develops the concept of pronunciation‐as‐language. The theoretical exploration of this concept is supported by a narrative analysis of study‐abroad learners' accounts, contrasting learners' perceptions of teaching practices with the complex role pronunciation plays in second language‐mediated interactions. The results underline the importance of pedagogical approaches that encourage the critical reflection on and creative use of pronunciation beyond structural elements and native‐speaker norms.
Bilingual Vocabulary Knowledge and Arrival Age Among Japanese Heritage Language Students at Hoshuukoo
Authors: Mori Yoshiko , Calder Toshiko M.
Published: May 2013

This study examines bilingual vocabulary knowledge in relation to arrival age among first language (L1) Japanese students attending hoshuukoo (i.e., supplementary academic schools for Japanese‐speaking children) in the United States. It also examines the relationship between L1 Japanese and English as a second language (L2), as motivated by Cummins's (1979, 1991) notion of linguistic interdependence. One hundred and twenty‐two high school students ages 15–18 from eight hoshuukoo took Japanese and English vocabulary tests designed by Ono (1989). Students who came to the United States by age 9 or younger were three grades behind in L1 Japanese and were either ahead of or at their U.S. grade level in English. In contrast, those who arrived at age 10 or older were just one grade behind in Japanese and were two to five years behind in English. High vocabulary knowledge in one language was associated with low knowledge in the other, and the negative correlation between L1 and L2 became statistically nonsignificant when arrival age was controlled. Consequently, arrival age remains an important factor in accounting for hoshuukoo students' bilingual vocabulary learning, and the notion of linguistic interdependence must be reexamined in factors in addition to vocabulary knowledge.
Major element variation of the Skaergaard pyroxene and its petrologic implications
Authors: Jang Yun‐Deuk , Naslund H. Richard
Published: May 2013

Pyroxenes from the Layered Series (LS), Upper Border Series (UBS), and Marginal Border Series (MBS) of the Skaergaard intrusion were analyzed using electron microprobe and mineral separation techniques to examine geochemical variations. In general, pyroxenes from all three series show similar trends in major elements vs % crystallization: SiO2, MgO, Al2O3, and TiO2 progressively decrease, FeO and MnO progressively increase, and CaO, Fe2O3, and P2O5 do not change systematically with differentiation. Pyroxenes in the LS and MBS follow a trend similar to that reported by Wager and Brown. The estimated crystallization temperatures closely follow the general trends of published temperature estimates. Major element variation in Skaergaard pyroxenes shows smooth variations with increasing differentiation, indicating that there was no volumetrically significant injection of new magma into the chamber after the initial emplacement. These results strongly support the idea that the Skaergaard intrusion represents in situ crystallization under a closed system magma chamber.
The effect of pH and calcium ion on rheological behaviour of β‐lactoglobulin‐basil seed gum mixed gels
Authors: Rafe Ali , Razavi Seyed M. A.
Published: May 2013

Effect of pH (4.5–7.5) and Ca2+ (0.01–0.5 m) on gelation of single and mixed systems of 10% β‐lactoglobulin (BLG) and 1% basil seed gum (BSG) was investigated. The gelling point of BLG and BSG gels was strongly pH‐dependent, and stiffer gels formed at higher pH. The BLG gels were formed upon heating to 90 °C and reinforced on cooling to 20 °C; however, the gelation of BSG occurred at temperatures below 70 °C. By increasing Ca2+ concentration, storage modulus of BLG and BSG gels were increased, although pH had a greater effect than Ca2+. In contrast, mixed systems showed two distinct types of behaviour: BLG gel formation and BSG network, suggesting that phase‐separated gels were formed. In addition, higher strength was obtained for BLG‐BSG mixture at higher Ca2+ concentration.
Are disulphide bonds formed during acid gelation of preheated milk?
Authors: Famelart Marie‐Hélène , Le Ngoc Huyen Tran , Croguennec Thomas , Rousseau Florence
Published: May 2013

The role of thiol/disulphide exchanges during acid gelation of preheated milk was studied with milk samples with or without N‐ethylmaleimide (NEM), a thiol‐blocking agent, and acidified to pH 4 by the addition of glucono‐delta‐lactone at 20 °C. Active or total thiol groups, particle size with light scattering measurements in a dissociating solvent or by SDS‐agarose electrophoresis were determined on acidified milk samples. Diffusing wave spectroscopy and rheology in low strain were applied during acidification of sample, while rheology in large strain was applied on final acid gels. The only effect of the presence of NEM was a reduced firmness of acid gels as measured at large strain and a reduced tendency to form large aggregates at pH<5.5. In conclusions, thiol/disulphide exchanges during acidification of milk played only a minor role in the building of acid gel networks from heated milk.
Optimisation of ultrasound extraction for flavonoids from semen astragali complanati and its identification by HPLC‐DAD‐MS/MS
Authors: Zhang Qing‐An , Fan Xue‐Hui , Li Tao , Zhang Zhi‐Qi , Liu Ying‐Kun , Li Xiao‐Ping
Published: May 2013

The optimisation of ultrasound extraction of semen astragali complanati flavonoids was studied by measuring characteristic absorbance at 266 nm as the response and using response surface methodology (four‐variable, three‐level Box–Behnken design, BBD) in this article. The optimal conditions were obtained as 52 °C, 34 min, 26:1 (mL:g) and 100 mesh (0.120–0.150 mm) for extraction temperature, extraction time, solvent‐to‐sample ratio as well as particle size, respectively. Under these conditions, validation experiments were carried out and the experimental value of A266 was 0.9907 ± 0.032 (n = 3), which corresponded to an experimental extraction yield of 7.08%. Compounds in the extracts obtained with the optimum extraction conditions were identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array and mass spectrometry detectors (HPLC–DAD–MS). Among the 14 compounds that were tentatively identified in the extracts according to their ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and related literature reports, four were reported for the first time.
The effect of linseed and psyllium fibre on the gelling properties of unwashed mince from farmed meagre (Argyrosomus regius)
Authors: Cardoso Carlos , Mendes Rogério
Published: May 2013

The gelling properties of farmed meagre (Argyrosomus regius) mince mixed with linseed and/or psyllium fibres (up to 4.0%, w/w) were studied. The effects of chilled storage time (15 days vs. 1 day) and cold gelling (setting at 2 ± 2 °C) were measured. Linseed addition increased ω3 PUFA content and worsened the gel products' texture. Psyllium functional fibre addition had only a negative effect upon breaking force and deformation, not affecting the remaining textural properties and improving water‐holding capacity (WHC) from 61–77 to 70–85%. The incorporation of 4.0% (w/w) psyllium seems to be advisable. Quality of heat‐induced meagre gels was unaffected by chilled storage time. Production of an acceptable cold set gel is feasible provided that enough time is allowed for completion of the setting process. Overall results showed a potential for combining small‐sized meagre (<2 kg) and psyllium fibres to produce high added‐value functional foods.
Enzymatic grafting of gallate ester onto chitosan: evaluation of antioxidant and antibacterial activities
Authors: Itzincab‐Mejía Lidia , López‐Luna Alberto , Gimeno Miquel , Shirai Keiko , Bárzana Eduardo
Published: May 2013

The antioxidant octyl gallate (OG) has been successfully grafted onto chitosan by means of horseradish peroxidase biocatalyst. The maximum gallate incorporation onto chitosan determined by 1H NMR spectroscopy was up to 16 molar%. The resulting materials displayed antioxidant capacities with DPPH radical inhibition percentage up to 23% upon the assay conditions. The grafting of the antioxidant on chitosan enhanced its antimicrobial activity. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) for Escherichia coli was 0.5 g L−1. The native medium molecular weight chitosan alone or grafted with the lowest OG incorporation (ca. 11 molar%) attained 100% inhibition of E. coli, whereas lower inhibition was observed for all other materials 50.7–68.9% corresponding a reduction in the counts from 10.6 to 5.23–3.30 Log CFU mL−1. The inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes was significantly higher (59.8–100%) than that with the Gram negative bacterium reaching the MIC at 0.25 g L−1 with a reduction in the counts from 12.6 Log CFU mL−1 to 5.06–0 Log CFU mL−1.
Reduction in hydroxymethylfurfural content in ‘churros’, a Spanish fried dough, by vacuum frying
Authors: Mir‐Bel Jorge , Oria Rosa , Salvador María L.
Published: May 2013

This work explores the advantages of vacuum frying of ‘churros’, a Spanish dough pastry, compared to standard deep‐fat frying. Oil uptake, texture change, colour development, nonenzymatic browning and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) concentration were analysed at different frying conditions. The results obtained during vacuum frying at 100, 120 and 140 °C and 21 kPa were compared with those obtained at atmospheric pressure at 140 and 180 °C. For the same final water content, the vacuum fried ‘churros’ showed no significant differences in the fat uptake compared to those fried at atmospheric pressure (P > 0.05). However, the vacuum fried dough had a much crunchier texture. The evolution of the CIELab a* coordinate and the browning measurement at 280 nm show that vacuum frying is able to slow down the development of browning tones. Furthermore, products can be obtained with an HMF content <1 mg kg−1 of dry dough.
The effect of high hydrostatic pressure processing on the extraction, retention and stability of anthocyanins and flavonols contents of berry fruits and berry juices
Authors: Altuner Ergin Murat , Tokuşoğlu Özlem
Published: May 2013

Anthocyanins and flavonols are types of phenolic compounds. Previous researches showed that phenolic compounds are relevant to the quality of plant‐derived foods and beverages. Any food‐processing technologies, which can preserve phenolic compounds after processing, should be taken into account for increasing the food quality. High hydrostatic pressure processing (HHPP) is a novel nonthermal process. There are some researches about the effect of HHPP on total phenolic content, total monomeric anthocyanins, kaempferol, myricetin and quercetin contents of berry fruits and berry juices in the literature. These studies showed that HHPP could possibly have a success potential in increasing the extraction, retention and stability of anthocyanins and flavonols contents of berry fruits and berry juices by preserving phenolic compounds after food processing. The aim of this review is to put forward how high hydrostatic pressure processing affects extraction, retention and stability of anthocyanins and flavonols of berry fruits and juices.