bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ionic liquids in oligosaccharide synthesis: towards mucin-type glycan probes
Authors: Galan M. Carmen , Corfield Anthony P.
Published: September 2010

The present article provides an overview on mucins and their role in biological processes, while aiming to familiarize readers with the current tools available for the synthesis of structurally defined mucin-type glycan probes including the advantages and potential applications of using ionic liquids in the synthesis of this important class of oligosaccharides. Furthermore, we also highlight recent developments in glycoarray technology that can enable high-sensitivity and high-throughput analysis of this important class of protein–carbohydrate interactions.
High-throughput glycoanalytical technology for systems glycobiology
Authors: Liu Li , Telford Jayne E. , Knezevic Ana , Rudd Pauline M.
Published: September 2010

The development of glycoanalytical HPLC-based high-throughput technology has greatly enhanced the study of glycobiology, facilitating the discovery of disease-related solutions and providing an informative view of glycosylation and its relationship with other biological disciplines in a systems biology approach.
UDP-glucose dehydrogenase: structure and function of a potential drug target
Authors: Egger Sigrid , Chaikuad Apirat , Kavanagh Kathryn L. , Oppermann Udo , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: September 2010

Biosynthesis of the glycosaminoglycan precursor UDP-α-D-glucuronic acid occurs through a 2-fold oxidation of UDP-α-D-glucose that is catalysed by UGDH (UDP-α-D-glucose 6-dehydrogenase). Structure–function relationships for UGDH and proposals for the enzymatic reaction mechanism are reviewed in the present paper, and structure-based sequence comparison is used for subclassification of UGDH family members. The eukaryotic group of enzymes (UGDH-II) utilize an extended C-terminal domain for the formation of complex homohexameric assemblies. The comparably simpler oligomerization behaviour of the prokaryotic group of enzymes (UGDH-I), in which dimeric forms prevail, is traced back to the lack of relevant intersubunit contacts and trimmings within the C-terminal region. The active site of UGDH contains a highly conserved cysteine residue, which plays a key role in covalent catalysis. Elevated glycosaminoglycan formation is implicated in a variety of human diseases, including the progression of tumours. The inhibition of synthesis of UDP-α-D-glucuronic acid using UGDH antagonists might therefore be a useful strategy for therapy.
A mathematical framework to determine the temporal sequence of somatic genetic events in cancer
Authors: Attolini Camille Stephan-Otto , Cheng Yu-Kang , Beroukhim Rameen , Getz Gad , Abdel-Wahab Omar , Levine Ross L. , Mellinghoff Ingo K. , Michor Franziska
Published: September 2010

Human cancer is caused by the accumulation of genetic alterations in cells. Of special importance are changes that occur early during malignant transformation because they may result in oncogene addiction and represent promising targets for therapeutic intervention. Here we describe a computational approach, called Retracing the Evolutionary Steps in Cancer (RESIC), to deduce the temporal sequence of genetic events during tumorigenesis from cross-sectional genomic data of tumors at their fully transformed stage. When applied to a dataset of 70 advanced colorectal cancers, our algorithm accurately predicts the sequence of
APC
,
KRAS
, and
TP53
mutations previously defined by analyzing tumors at different stages of colon cancer formation. We further validate the method with glioblastoma and leukemia sample data and then apply it to complex integrated genomics databases, finding that high-level
EGFR
amplification appears to be a late event in primary glioblastomas. RESIC represents the first evolutionary mathematical approach to identify the temporal sequence of mutations driving tumorigenesis and may be useful to guide the validation of candidate genes emerging from cancer genome surveys.
Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Risk Factors for Carriage in Dutch Hospitals
Authors: Kaiser A. M. , Haenen A. J. P. , de Neeling A. J. , Vandenbroucke-Grauls C. M. J. E.
Published: September 2010

To evaluate the actual burden of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and determine risk factors for carriage and infection, we performed a prevalence survey with a nested case-control study among inpatients in Dutch hospitals. The prevalence of carriage was 0.94 cases per 1,000 inpatients, and the prevalence of infection was 0.21 cases per 1,000 inPatients. Professional contact with livestock and a stay in a foreign hospital were associated with carriage.
Structural Model of Agricultural Markets in Developing Countries
Authors: Butler J. S. , Moser Christine
Published: September 2010

Switching regime models, including the Parity Bounds Model, are commonly used for assessing market integration, although they are not well suited to multiple market contexts. We develop an alternative structural model of markets that incorporates explanatory variables and generates the probability that a single market is integrated, therefore making it possible to identify specific factors or regions of a country associated with low integration. Our application to intraprovincial rice markets in Madagascar predicts that 56% of markets are integrated. High crime areas are less likely to be integrated, while the center of the country has a higher level of integration.
Intramural dyssynchrony and response to cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with and without previous right ventricular pacing
Authors: Bank Alan J. , Kaufman Christopher L. , Burns Kevin V. , Parah Joshua S. , Johnson Lauren , Kelly Aaron S. , Shroff Sanjeev G. , Kaiser Daniel R.
Published: September 2010

Aims

Right ventricular (RV) pacing is an iatrogenic cause of heart failure (HF) that has not been well studied. We assessed whether HF patients paced from the right ventricle (RVp) adversely remodel and respond to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in a similar way to HF patients without right ventricular pacing (nRVp).

Methods and results

Echocardiograms were performed before and ~5 months after CRT in 31 RVp and 49 nRVp HF patients. Longitudinal intraventricular dyssynchrony using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) was calculated as the standard deviation of time to peak systolic displacement by tissue tracking (SD‐TT) of 12 segments. Longitudinal dyssynchrony within a wall (intramural dyssynchrony) was assessed by two methods: quantifying the number of segments with initial abnormal apical displacement (IMD score) and using a cross‐correlation synchrony index (CCSI). Despite similar ejection fractions (EFs) of 28% prior to CRT, left ventricular end‐diastolic volume was significantly smaller (143 ± 54 vs. 183 ± 62, P = 0.004) in RVp. The standard deviation of time to peak systolic displacement by tissue tracking (83.4 ± 34.9 vs. 67.9 ± 26.6, P = 0.03) and IMD score (3.1 ± 1.8 vs. 1.3 ± 1.7, P < 0.001) were greater in RVp. Cardiac resynchronization therapy significantly improved EF and volumes in both groups. Ejection fraction increased more in RVp (12.8 ± 9.2% vs. 7.4 ± 7.6%, P = 0.007). Intraventricular dyssynchrony and both measures of intramural septal dyssynchrony improved to a greater extent post‐CRT in RVp.

Conclusion

Right ventricular pacing patients differ from nRVp HF patients in that they have smaller ventricles and greater intraventricular and intramural septal dyssynchrony. Right ventricular pacing HF patients respond better to CRT with greater improvements in EF, and intraventricular and intramural septal dyssynchrony.
Association of the Pattern of Use of Perioperative β-Blockade and Postoperative Mortality
Authors: Wallace Arthur W. , Au Selwyn , Cason Brian A.
Published: September 2010

Background

The 1996 atenolol study provided evidence that perioperative β-adrenergic receptor blockade (β-blockade) reduced postsurgical mortality. In 1998, the indications for perioperative β-blockade were codified as the Perioperative Cardiac Risk Reduction protocol and implemented at the San Francisco Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Francisco, California. The present study analyzed the association of the pattern of use of perioperative β-blockade with perioperative mortality since introduction of the Perioperative Cardiac Risk Reduction protocol.

Methods

Epidemiologic analysis of the operations undertaken since 1996 at the San Francisco Veterans Administration Medical Center was performed. The pattern of use of perioperative β-blockade was divided into four groups: None, Addition, Withdrawal, and Continuous. Logistic regression, survival analysis, and propensity analysis were performed.

Results

A total of 38,779 operations were performed between 1996 and 2008. In patients meeting Perioperative Cardiac Risk Reduction indications for perioperative β-blockade, Addition is associated with a reduction in 30-day (odds ratio [OR], 0.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.33 to 0.83; P = 0.006) and 1-yr mortality (OR, 0.64; 95%, CI 0.51 to 0.79; P < 0.0001). Continuous is associated with a reduction in 30-day (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.47 to 0.98; P = 0.04) and 1-yr mortality (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.67 to 1.0; P = 0.05). Withdrawal is associated with an increase in 30-day (OR 3.93, 95% CI, 2.57 to 6.01; P less than 0.0001) and 1-yr mortality (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.49 to 2.58; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Perioperative β-blockade administered according to the Perioperative Cardiac Risk Reduction protocol is associated with a reduction in 30-day and 1-yr mortality. Perioperative withdrawal of β-blockers is associated with increased mortality.
Reduction in invasive pneumococcal disease following implementation of the conjugate vaccine in the Oxfordshire region, England
Authors: Foster Dona , Walker A. Sarah , Paul John , Griffiths David , Knox Kyle , Peto Timothy E. , Crook Derrick W. ,   on behalf of the Oxford Invasive Pneumococcal Surveillance Group
Published: September 2010

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to seven capsular types has been highly effective in the US since its introduction in 2000. The same vaccine was adopted by the UK in 2006. Ongoing surveillance since 1995 of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in Oxfordshire, UK, allowed assessment of the impact of vaccine intervention. The vaccine significantly reduced IPD among the target group, children under 2 years of age; incidence rate ratio (IRR)=0.62 (95 % CI 0.43–0.90) (P=0.008) comparing the 3 years pre- and post-implementation with a residual incidence of 22.4/100 000 children. The reduction was even greater when comparing 11 years pre- with the 3 years post-implementation of vaccine; IRR=0.53 (0.39–0.70) (P<0.0001). There was a marked direct effect of the vaccine evidenced by substantial reductions in the seven serotypes contained in the vaccine. There was also a clear reduction in IPD for those serotypes contained in the vaccine among those older than 2 years when comparing both the 3 and 11 year pre-PCV7 time periods, with IRR=0.57 (0.47–0.69) (P<0.0001) and IRR=0.50 (0.43–0.58) (P<0.0001), respectively, indicating a strong herd effect. There was a significant, though moderate, rise in the serotypes not contained in the vaccine, with clear evidence for replacement in some serotypes.
Examination of faecal Bifidobacterium populations in breast- and formula-fed infants during the first 18 months of life
Authors: Roger Laure C. , Costabile Adele , Holland Diane T. , Hoyles Lesley , McCartney Anne L.
Published: September 2010

Bifidobacteria in the infant faecal microbiota have been the focus of much interest, especially during the exclusive milk-feeding period and in relation to the fortification of infant formulae to better mimic breast milk. However, longitudinal studies examining the diversity and dynamics of theBifidobacteriumpopulation of infants are lacking, particularly in relation to the effects of weaning. Using a polyphasic strategy, theBifidobacteriumpopulations of breast- and formula-fed infants were examined during the first 18 months of life.Bifidobacterium-specific denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis demonstrated that breast-fed infants harboured greater diversity than formula-fed infants and the diversity of the infants'Bifidobacteriumpopulations increased with weaning. Twenty-seven distinctive banding profiles were observed from ∼1100 infant isolates using ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis, 14 biotypes of which were confirmed to be members of the genusBifidobacterium. Two profiles (H,Bifidobacterium longumsubsp.infantis; and I,Bifidobacterium bifidum) were common culturable biotypes, seen in 9/10 infants, while profile E (Bifidobacterium breve) was common among breast-fed infants. Overall, inter- and intra-individual differences were observed in theBifidobacteriumpopulations of infants between 1 and 18 months of age, although weaning was associated with increased diversity of the infantBifidobacteriumpopulations. Breast-fed infants generally harboured a more complexBifidobacteriummicrobiota than formula-fed infants.
Multiple layers of control govern expression of the Escherichia
coli
ibpAB heat-shock operon
Authors: Gaubig Lena C. , Waldminghaus Torsten , Narberhaus Franz
Published: September 2010

The Escherichia coli ibpAB operon encodes two small heat-shock proteins, the inclusion-body-binding proteins IbpA and IbpB. Here, we report that expression of ibpAB is a complex process involving at least four different layers of control, namely transcriptional control, RNA processing, translation control and protein stability. As a typical member of the heat-shock regulon, transcription of the ibpAB operon is controlled by the alternative sigma factor σ
32 (RpoH). Heat-induced transcription of the bicistronic operon is followed by RNase E-mediated processing events, resulting in monocistronic ibpA and ibpB transcripts and short 3′-terminal ibpB fragments. Translation of ibpA is controlled by an RNA thermometer in its 5′ untranslated region, forming a secondary structure that blocks entry of the ribosome at low temperatures. A similar structure upstream of ibpB is functional in vitro but not in vivo, suggesting downregulation of ibpB expression in the presence of IbpA. The recently reported degradation of IbpA and IbpB by the Lon protease and differential regulation of IbpA and IbpB levels in E. coli are discussed.
Site-specific methylation in Bacillus subtilis chemotaxis: effect of covalent modifications to the chemotaxis receptor McpB
Authors: Glekas George D. , Cates Joseph R. , Cohen Theodore M. , Rao Christopher V. , Ordal George W.
Published: September 2010

TheBacillus subtilischemotaxis pathway employs a receptor methylation system that functions differently from the one in the canonicalEscherichia colipathway. Previously, we hypothesized thatB. subtilisemploys a site-specific methylation system for adaptation where methyl groups are added and removed at different sites. This study investigated how covalent modifications to the adaptation region of the chemotaxis receptor McpB altered its apparent affinity for its cognate ligand, asparagine, and also its ability to activate the CheA kinase. This receptor has three closely spaced adaptation sites located at residues Gln371, Glu630 and Glu637. We found that amidation, a putative methylation mimic, of site 371 increased the receptor's apparent affinity for asparagine and its ability to activate the CheA kinase. Conversely, amidation of sites 630 and 637 reduced the receptor's ability to activate the kinase but did not affect the apparent affinity for asparagine, suggesting that activity and sensitivity are independently controlled inB. subtilis. We also examined how electrostatic interactions may underlie this behaviour, using homology models. These findings further our understanding of the site-specific methylation system inB. subtilisby demonstrating how the modification of specific sites can have varying effects on receptor function.
The Perspectives of Young Men and Their Teenage Partners on Maternity and Health Services During Pregnancy and Early Parenthood
Authors: Ross Nicola J. , Church Stephanie , Hill Malcolm , Seaman Pete , Roberts Tom
Published: September 2010

This study discusses young couples’ interactions with maternity and health services paying particular attention to men’s perspectives. Findings are based on research conducted in Scotland with men (aged 16–25) and their teenage partners (aged 16–19). Most young men were very involved in their child’s life and provided support and care to their partner during pregnancy and in early parenthood. Men often felt excluded or judged when accessing services, although positive experiences were reported too. The study discusses ways in which maternity and health services can be better attuned to meet the needs of young couples and be inclusive of men.
Use of noninvasive ventilation on internal wards for elderly patients with limitations to respiratory care: a cohort study
Authors: Corral‐Gudino Luis , Jorge‐Sánchez Ramón José , García‐Aparicio Judit , Herrero‐Herrero José Ignacio , López‐Bernús Amparo , Borao‐Cengotita‐Bengoa María , Martín‐González José Ignacio , Moreiro‐Barroso María Teresa
Published: September 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 41 (1): 59–69

Background  The use of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) outside the intensive wards has been evaluated in patients with no limitation on life‐sustaining support. Our aim was to evaluate its usefulness in general wards for patients with NPPV as the ceiling of ventilator care when admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) has been withheld.

Materials and methods  Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation was used in 44 patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) and limitations to respiratory care– 22 with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations and 22 with acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema (CPE). Survival at hospital discharge, and survival and readmission rate at 12 months were assessed.

Results  Sixty‐three per cent of COPD and 55% of CPE patients survived hospital discharge; and 50% and 37% respectively, were alive after 1 year. The cause of the in‐hospital mortality was related to the admission diagnosis in 88% of cases. Cancer in COPD patients [P = 0·040, odds ratio (OR) = 15, 95% CI = 1·14–198] and the completion of NPPV treatment in both diseases (P = 0·008, OR = 0·03, 95% CI = 0·00–0·39 for COPD and P = 0·010, OR = 0·04, 95% CI = 0·00–0·45 for CPE) were related to in‐hospital mortality.

Fifty‐six per cent of COPD and 33% of CPE patients that survived hospital admission were readmitted.

Conclusions  Our study suggests that the use of NPPV in general wards could be a safe and effective option, as a last choice treatment, in patients with NPPV as the ceiling of ventilator care when admission to ICU has been withheld.
M25 roadworks reveal earliest UK Neanderthal occupation at Dartford
Authors: Wenban‐Smith Francis
Published: September 2010

As anyone travelling on the roads of southeast England between 2006 and 2008 has probably been aware, major improvements have recently been made at the junction of the M25 and A2 motorways, south of the main Dartford crossing of the River Thames (Fig. 1). The roadworks, funded by the UK Highways Agency, with the main contractors Jacobs Babtie and Costain, were accompanied by archaeological investigations carried out by Oxford Archaeology between 2003 and 2006. The archaeological programme had a major Palaeolithic/Pleistocene element under my direction (Fig. 2) that has produced evidence of Neanderthal occupation early in the last glaciation (the Devensian, which lasted from 115 000 to 10 000 bp), during a period when Britain had until now, been thought to have been entirely deserted.

Site location and areas of investigation.

image

The author examines flint artefacts.

image
Trinitite—the atomic rock
Authors: Eby Nelson , Hermes Robert , Charnley Norman , Smoliga John A.
Published: September 2010

On 16 July 1945, the first atomic bomb was detonated at the Alamogordo Bombing range in New Mexico, USA. Swept up into the nuclear cloud was the surrounding desert sand, which melted to form a green glassy material called ‘trinitite’. Contained within the glass are melted bits of the first atomic bomb and the support structures and various radionuclides formed during the detonation. The glass itself is marvelously complex at the tens to hundreds of micrometre scale, and besides glasses of varying composition also contains unmelted quartz grains. Air transport of the melted material led to the formation of spheres and dumbbell shaped glass particles. Similar glasses are formed during all ground level nuclear detonations and contain forensic information that can be used to identify the atomic device.
Geology from rail journeys: the Inverness to Wick Line, Scotland
Authors: Taylor Gordon
Published: September 2010

The Inverness to Wick railway line enables travellers to track the geological history of the far northeast of Scotland, spanning about 1000 million years, and starting in the Neoproterozoic. This history includes the Caledonian Orogeny, the deposition of Old Red Sandstone and Mesozoic sediments, the latter along the faulted margins close to the Great Glen Fault system, and ends with Pleistocene and Holocene deposition and erosion.
Effect of different precooking methods on chemical composition and lipid damage of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) muscle
Authors: Naseri Mahmood , Rezaei Masoud , Moieni Sohrab , Hosseni Hedayat , Eskandari Soheil
Published: September 2010

The influence of three precooking methods (steaming, oven‐baking and microwave‐cooking) on the chemical composition and lipid quality of silver carp fillets was evaluated. The changes in protein, fat and moisture were found to be significant for all the treatments (P ≤ 0.05). The iron content in the samples subjected to steam‐cooking increased; however, the other precooking methods did not change the mineral contents (P ≥ 0.05). The free fatty acid content of the fillets did not change by the different precooking methods, while thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values increased for oven‐ and microwave‐cooked fillets and remained constant in the steam‐cooked samples. Conjugated diene and browning colour formation levels significantly increased in the oven‐baked fillets. Oven‐baking and microwave‐cooking marginally affected the fatty acid composition of the silver carp. On comparing the raw and precooked fillets, steam‐cooking was found to be the best precooking method on retaining nutritional constituents.
Studies on different combined microwave drying of carrot pieces
Authors: Yan Wei‐Qiang , Zhang Min , Huang Lue‐Lue , Tang Juming , Mujumdar Arun S. , Sun Jin‐Cai
Published: September 2010

Three different combined microwave (MW) drying methods were compared, namely microwave‐assisted vacuum drying (MWVD), microwave‐assisted freeze drying (MWFD), microwave‐enhanced spouted bed drying (MWSD), in terms of drying rate, drying uniformity, product colour, rehydration ratio, retention of β‐carotene and vitamin C, and energy consumption. The drying rate of MWVD and MWSD were much faster than that of MWFD. The largest drying rate was obtained in MWSD with 3.5 W g−1. In general, the colour of MWSD products was very uniform. Rehydration ratio of MWFD carrot pieces was almost the same as the freeze‐dried (FD) products and better than MWVD and MWSD products. In addition, the highest retention of carotene and vitamin C was observed in MWFD carrot pieces. No significant differences were observed in carotene and vitamin C between MWVD and MWSD products. However, the energy consumption in MWFD was the highest.
Proximate composition and nutritional profile of by‐products from green urchin and Atlantic sea cucumber processing plants
Authors: Mamelona Jean , Saint‐Louis Richard , Pelletier Émilien
Published: September 2010

Proximate composition, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, and mineral and vitamin contents of by‐products from Atlantic sea cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa) and green urchin (Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis) processing plants were investigated. Results showed that sea cucumber viscera, urchin digestive tract (UDT) and non‐commercial grade gonads contained 4.5–14.4% total proteins and 1.9–4.6% lipids (wet weight basis). They were rich in essential amino acids with values of about 36% of total amino acids. Samples were also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (44% of total fatty acids) and showed high content in EPA (∼17% of total fatty acids), but low DHA level (0.2%) was observed. In terms of vitamins content, UDT showed highest retinol and alpha‐tocopherol contents when compared to other marine samples. Results showed that by‐products from echinoderm processing plants contain various nutritious components with levels generally comparable even better than their edible counterparts, and efforts should be invested to valorise these biological wastes in a world context of rarefaction of nutritional marine resources.
The effect of homogenisation on the stability of pineapple pulp
Authors: Silva Vanessa Martins , Sato Ana Carla Kawazoe , Barbosa Geraldo , Dacanal Gustavo , Ciro‐Velásquez Héctor José , Cunha Rosiane Lopes
Published: September 2010

Pineapple pulp was homogenised at different pressures, and its stability investigated by way of flow curves, particle size distribution, morphology, cloudiness and sedimentation. The particle size of the homogenised pulp ranged from 400 to 100 μm for homogenisation pressures of between 0 and 700 bar. The pineapple pulp showed shear thinning behaviour with increasing flow index (n) after processing at higher pressures. In addition, the pulps with smaller particles showed less serum cloudiness, even though the sedimentation tests showed the highest stability for pulp homogenised between 200 and 300 bar. Above 400 bar, the pulp showed phase separation and higher sedimentation indexes, similar to that observed for the untreated samples, which was attributed to the formation of aggregates because of interparticle attraction.
Potential of chitosan coating in delaying the postharvest anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Penz.) of Eksotika II papaya
Authors: Ali Asgar , Muhammad Mahmud Tengku Muda , Sijam Kamaruzaman , Siddiqui Yasmeen
Published: September 2010

The in vitro and in vivo fungicidal activity of chitosan was studied against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, the causal agent of anthracnose in papaya fruits. Chitosan at 1.5% and 2.0% concentrations showed a fungistatic effect with 90–100% inhibition (significant at P ≤ 0.05) of the fungal mycelial growth. Changes in the conidial morphology were also observed with the higher chitosan concentrations after 7‐ h incubation. In vivo studies showed that 1.5% and 2.0% chitosan coatings on papaya not only controlled the fruit decay but also delayed the onset of disease symptoms by 3–4 weeks during 5 weeks storage at 12 ± 1 °C and slowed down the subsequent disease development. However, when leaving the fruits to ripen at ambient temperature (28 ± 2 °C), 2.0% chitosan was less effective than 1.5% in controlling the disease development. Chitosan coatings also delayed the ripening process by maintaining the firmness levels, soluble solids concentration and titratable acidity values during and after storage.
Combination of hot air drying and deep‐fat frying to reduce the oil content in chicken nuggets
Authors: Martínez‐Ávila M. , Vélez‐Ruiz J. F. , Sosa‐Morales M. E.
Published: September 2010

The combination of hot air drying and frying to reduce oil uptake in chicken nuggets was analysed. Two air velocities (2 and 4 m s−1) and two dry bulb temperatures (44 and 61 °C) were employed in the drying process, as a treatment before or after deep‐fat frying at 160 °C for 90 s in fresh soybean oil. The lowest fat content was obtained by frying followed of drying at 61 °C with air velocity of 2 m s−1. When drying was applied before frying, mass transfer (moisture loss) during the drying process was modelled according to Fick’s second law; diffusion coefficients ranged between 1.03 and 3.33 × 10−6 m2 s−1. When drying was applied after frying, a constant rate period was observed during drying process, with velocities between 0.002 and 0.02 kgwater/kgdry solids·min. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) allowed to observe differences in the topography of chicken nuggets obtained from frying or the combination of frying and drying.
Engaging first‐year students through online collaborative assessments
Authors: Kelly D. , Baxter J.S. , Anderson A.
Published: September 2010

Substantial increases in the size of many undergraduate classes in recent years have limited the ways in which students can engage with their disciplines and become active participants in their learning. This paper presents a methodology which uses a basic WebCT platform to improve the way in which students in large classes learn. The approach, termed the Collaborative Online Assessment approach, provides a structured, scaffolded learning environment for students to engage with their peers in collaborative assessments. Results from a year‐long application of the approach with first‐year psychology students are presented. These show that the approach facilitates active student engagement throughout the academic year, and is associated with improved marks in the final written exam. This improvement in exam performance is significantly greater for students not intending to major in psychology (traditionally poorer performers). The paper discusses the implications of these findings in relation to learning theories and provides a critique for further improvement of the approach.
Plant phenotype influences the effect of ant mutualists on a polymorphic mangrove
Authors: Piovia‐Scott Jonah
Published: September 2010

1. This study examines the effect of ant mutualists on two morphs of the mangrove Conocarpus erectus. ‘Silver’C. erectus plants have a dense layer of leaf hairs, or trichomes, while ‘green’ plants have very few trichomes. Ants are attracted to extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) produced on the foliage of both high‐ and low‐trichome morphs.

2. High‐trichome plants produced fewer and smaller EFNs. Conocarpus erectus plants with fewer and smaller EFNs produced less nectar and attracted fewer ants.

3. Ant exclusion increased herbivory and decreased growth in low‐trichome plants, but had no detectable effect on herbivory and growth in high‐trichome plants.

4. Synthesis. This study demonstrates that intraspecific variation in a direct anti‐herbivore defence influences the magnitude of the beneficial effect of ants on plants. Individuals with low trichome densities benefitted from ant mutualists while individuals with high trichome densities did not. This likely creates stronger selection for the maintenance of EFN production in low‐trichome plants, a conclusion supported by the fact that low‐trichome plants produced more and larger EFNs than high‐trichome plants, and suggests that the two morphs are on divergent evolutionary trajectories with regard to anti‐herbivore defence.
Effect of explosive shallow hydrothermal vents on δ13C and growth performance in the seagrass Posidonia oceanica
Authors: Vizzini Salvatrice , Tomasello Agostino , Maida Germana Di , Pirrotta Maria , Mazzola Antonio , Calvo Sebastiano
Published: September 2010

1. Explosive volcanic submarine activity is expected to affect seagrass communities due to sudden and dramatic changes in the physical and chemical features of sea water and sediments, with possibly large ecosystem effects. However, seagrass response to the harsh environmental conditions that arise due to explosive volcanism is as yet unexplored as it is not easy to predict when and where an eruption will occur. Here, we investigate the uptake of hydrothermal carbon within the seagrass Posidonia oceanica by the analysis of δ13C and growth rates in tissue laid down before and after an exceptional and massive hydrothermal gas release in the Aeolian Islands (Italy, Mediterranean Sea).

2. Hydrothermal submarine activity was recorded by P. oceanica, which showed a large and persistent 13C‐depletion in both scales and rhizomes in the site close to the eruption. Both increased CO2 availability and reduced carbon demand, as a consequence of stressful environmental conditions (e.g. light limitation due to turbidity, high temperature), combined to give much lower δ13C signatures. Our results suggest that the explosive volcanism caused physiological stress in the seagrass, leading to a reduction in productivity, whereas slower, more diffuse release of hydrothermal CO2 is known to enhance seagrass productivity.

3
. Synthesis. We analysed the effect of a sudden and large hydrothermal event on δ13C interannual variations and growth of the seagrass P. oceanica. Our results confirm that shallow submarine hydrothermal vents can be used as natural laboratories for exploring biological responses to acute and often extreme environmental conditions. P. oceanica can record geological events by capturing CO2 derived from vent systems, with implications for habitat management to mitigate against raising CO2 levels and ocean acidification. This leads the way to further studies to evaluate the effects of hydrothermal carbon on shallow ecosystems.
Mitochondrial translation is essential in bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Cristodero Marina , Seebeck Thomas , Schneider André
Published: September 2010

The parasitic protozoa Trypanosoma brucei has a complex life cycle. Oxidative phosphorylation is highly active in the procyclic form but absent from bloodstream cells. The mitochondrial genome encodes several gene products that are required for oxidative phosphorylation, but it completely lacks tRNA genes. For mitochondrial translation to occur, the import of cytosolic tRNAs is therefore essential for procyclic T. brucei. Whether the same is true for the bloodstream form has not been studied so far. Here we show that the steady‐state levels of mitochondrial tRNAs are essentially the same in both life stages. Editing of the imported tRNATrp also occurs in both forms as well as in mitochondria of Trypanosoma evansi, which lacks a genome and a translation system. These results show that mitochondrial tRNA import is a constitutive process that must be mediated by proteins that are expressed in both forms of the life cycle and that are not encoded in the mitochondrial genome. Moreover, bloodstream cells lacking either mitochondria‐specific translation elongation factor Tu or mitochondrial tryptophanyl‐tRNA synthetase are not viable indicating that mitochondrial translation is also essential in this stage. Both of these proteins show trypanosomatid‐specific features and may therefore be excellent novel drug targets.
Variation in potential effector genes distinguishing Australian and non‐Australian isolates of the cotton wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum
Authors: Chakrabarti A. , Rep M. , Wang B. , Ashton A. , Dodds P. , Ellis J.
Published: September 2010

This study identified genes that distinguish Australian Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum (Fov) isolates from related co‐localized non‐pathogenic F. oxysporum isolates and from non‐Australian Fov isolates. One gene is a homologue of the F. oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici (Fol) effector gene SIX6, encoding a 215‐residue cysteine‐rich secreted protein. The Six6 proteins from Fol and Fov contained eight conserved cysteine residues, five of which occurred in the highly diverged 48‐amino‐acid region where FovSix6 differs from FolSix6 at 32 residues. Two other potential effector genes, PEP1 and PEP2, were identified in a cDNA library of Fov genes expressed during infection of cotton. The presence of FovSIX6 and other differences in DNA fingerprints clearly distinguished Australian Fov isolates from non‐Australian Fov isolates and these differences further support the hypothesis based on earlier phylogenetic analysis that Australian Fov is different from Fov in other cotton‐growing areas. A specific diagnostic for Fov based on FovSIX6 is described.
Past, present and future of myoblast transplantation in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Palmieri Beniamino , Tremblay Jacques P. , Daniele Lodi
Published: September 2010

Palmieri B, Tremblay JP, Lodi D. Past, present and future of myoblast transplantation in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Pediatr Transplantation 2010: 14:813–819. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  DMD is a genetic X‐linked recessive disease that affects approximately one in 3500 male births. Boys with DMD have progressive and predictable muscle destruction because of the absence of Dys, a protein present under the muscle fiber membrane. Dys deficiency induces contraction‐related membrane damages, activation of inflammatory‐necrosis‐fibrosis up to the cardiac‐diaphragmatic failure and death. This review supports the therapeutic role of MT associated with immunosuppression in DMD patients, describing the history and the rationale of such approach. The authors underline the importance to evaluate a protocol of myoblast intradermal multi‐injection to apply in young DMD patients.
Is there evidence of recent hepatitis E virus infection in English and North Welsh blood donors?
Authors: Beale M. A. , Tettmar K. , Szypulska R. , Tedder R. S. , Ijaz S.
Published: September 2010

Background and Objective  The risk of hepatitis E virus (HEV) to blood safety remains unknown in England. Reports of persistent HEV infection with serious disease sequelae indicate that transfusion transmitted HEV is not a trivial disease in immunosuppressed patients.

Materials and Methods  Samples from unselected blood donors and donors with a history of jaundice were tested for HEV antibody and RNA.

Results Overall, 10% of the donor sera were anti‐HEV IgG reactive. Four of the donor samples were anti‐HEV IgM reactive but HEV RNA negative.

Conclusion  There is evidence of probable recent HEV infections in donors with a predicted attack rate of 2·8%.
Molecular diversity of Amansieae (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) from the Hawaiian Islands: a multi‐marker assessment reveals high diversity within Amansia glomerata
Authors: Sherwood Alison R. , Kurihara Akira , Conklin Kimberly Y.
Published: September 2010

Sixty‐one Hawaiian algal specimens corresponding to members of the tribe Amansieae (Amansia and Osmundaria) were compared through DNA sequence analysis. Short DNA barcode‐like sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and universal plastid amplicon (UPA) markers were obtained for as many of the specimens as possible, and a subset of specimens was also used for amplification and sequencing of the nuclear small‐subunit rRNA (SSU) gene for phylogenetic inference in a broader taxonomic context. Statistical parsimony analysis of the COI and UPA markers for A. glomerata produced relationships among the samples that were largely congruent with each other, although the UPA marker was more conserved. The COI marker yielded three lineages, and nucleotide divergences for these three lineages were intermediate to those typically reported for intraspecific and interspecific comparisons, suggesting that they represent either incipient species or a complex of closely related species. The COI and UPA sequences demonstrated little to no divergence for Osmundaria obtusiloba and the taxon referred to as Amansia fimbrifolia. In contrast, specimens identified as A. daemelii were identical in sequence to lineage 3 sequences of A. glomerata, and it is recommended that this taxon no longer be included in species lists for the Hawaiian flora. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on the SSU gene was largely unresolved, indicating that this marker may be of limited utility for this purpose in this group of algae, but a small amount of nucleotide variation was found for samples of A. glomerata.
Primary lung cancer associated with Werner syndrome
Authors: Ohnishi Shunichiro , Fujimoto Masaki , Oide Takashi , Nakatani Yukio , Tsurutani Yuya , Koshizaka Masaya , Mezawa Morito , Ishikawa Takahiro , Takemoto Minoru , Yokote Koutaro
Published: September 2010

A 52‐year‐old man with Werner Syndrome (WS) was admitted to our hospital for the treatment of skin ulcers on his thighs. Routine chest radiography revealed an abnormal shadow in the left upper lung field. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a poorly demarcated homogeneous mass (diameter, 4 cm) in the S1 + 2 lung area; no pleural effusion was observed. CT‐guided percutaneous needle biopsy revealed the presence of an adenocarcinoma. Other imaging studies did not reveal any lymph‐node involvement or presence of metastatic lesions. The patient was diagnosed with stage IB adenocarcinoma (T2N0M0), and a left upper lobectomy was successfully carried out; postoperative wound healing was steady and uneventful, with no obvious ulcer formation. Primary lung cancers very rarely develop in patients with WS; non‐epithelial tumors are usually observed in such patients. Patients with WS usually develop severe skin problems, such as refractory skin ulcers in the extremities; however, our patient did not develop any skin‐related complications after surgery. As the expected lifespan of patients with WS is increasing, we need to pay attention not only to the rare non‐epithelial malignancy, but also cancer. Further, the expected short lifespan of patients with WS, as well as the possibility of skin‐related problems after surgery, should not be considered while deciding whether to take the option of surgery in the case of malignancy. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2010; 10: 319–323.
Framework for incorporating simulation into urology training
Authors: Arora Sonal , Lamb Benjamin , Undre Shabnam , Kneebone Roger , Darzi Ara , Sevdalis Nick
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Simulation‐based training can provide urology trainees with the opportunity to develop their technical and non‐technical skills in a safe and structured environment. Despite its promised benefits, incorporation of simulation into current curricula remains minimal.

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current status of simulation for both technical and non‐technical skills training as it pertains to urology. It provides a novel framework with contextualised examples of how simulation could be incorporated into a stage‐specific curriculum for trainees through to experienced urologists, thus aiding its integration into current training programmes.

OBJECTIVES

• Changes to working hours, new technologies and increased accountability have rendered the need for alternative training environments for urologists.

• Simulation offers a promising arena for learning to take place in a safe, realistic setting.

• Despite its benefits, the incorporation of simulation into urological training programmes remains minimal.

• The current status and future directions of simulation for training in technical and non‐technical skills are reviewed as they pertain to urology.

• A framework is presented for how simulation‐based training could be incorporated into the entire urological curriculum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

• The literature on simulation in technical and non‐technical skills training is reviewed, with a specific focus upon urology.

RESULTS

• To fully integrate simulation into a training curriculum, its possibilities for addressing all the competencies required by a urologist must be realized.

• At an early stage of training, simulation has been used to develop basic technical skills and cognitive skills, such as decision‐making and communication.

• At an intermediate stage, the studies focus upon more advanced technical skills learnt with virtual reality simulators.

• Non‐technical skills training would include leadership and could be delivered with in situ models.

• At the final stage, experienced trainees can practise technical and non‐technical skills in full crisis simulations situated within a fully‐simulated operating rooms.

CONCLUSIONS

• Simulation can provide training in the technical and non‐technical skills required to be a competent urologist.

• The framework presented may guide how best to incorporate simulation into training curricula.

• Future work should determine whether acquired skills transfer to clinical practice and improve patient care.
Three‐dimensional CT cavernosography: reconsidering venous ligation surgery on the basis of the modern technology
Authors: Kawanishi Yasuo , Izumi Kazuyoshi , Muguruma Hiroshi , Mashima Tomohiro , Komori Masatsugu , Yamanaka Masahito , Yamamoto Akira , Numata Akira , Kishimoto Tomoteru , Kanayama Hiro‐omi
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)  Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Venous ligation surgery has been conducted as a symptomatic treatment, but the effective rate of this surgery was insufficient. We thought that one of the reasons for the low effective rate of this surgery was insufficient for the diagnostic modality. We confirmed that 3D cavernosography was, in comparison with conventional cavernosography, higher in diagnosis precision.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the feasibility of three‐dimensional (3D) CT cavernosography in the diagnosis of corporal veno‐occlusive dysfunction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The subjects were 55 patients who had failed to respond to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. We performed pharmacodynamic infusion cavernosometry and cavernosography, using 60 mg papaverine hydrochloride.

Cavernosography was performed at 90 mmHg intracavernous pressure, using a multi‐slice CT scan system. The 3D images were reconstructed using aquarius net station, ver.2 computer software.

For comparison with conventional cavernosography, maximum intensity projection (MIP) images were used. A flow of 20 mL/min or being more capable of maintaining 90 mmHg of intracavernous pressure indicated veno‐occlusive dysfunction.

RESULTS

Forty‐five of the 55 patients were diagnosed with corporal veno‐occlusive dysfunction. 3D‐CT cavernosography revealed drainage veins in all 45 cases, including cavernous veins, dorsal veins, crural veins and other emissary veins.

Compared with 3D‐CT cavernosography, observing cavernous veins and the proximal part of the deep dorsal veins using MIP imaging was especially difficult because the origins of the penile veins are often behind the pelvic bone or cavernous body.

Of the patients who seemingly had leakage via the deep dorsal vein, 80.6% did not in fact have leakage via this vein, but had other leakages. The image resolution of 3D‐CT cavernosography was significantly higher than that of MIP.

CONCLUSION

3D‐CT cavernosography can provide high‐resolution images of venous drainage from any angle. We conclude that the images obtained by 3D‐CT cavernosography are very helpful for both the diagnosis of corporal veno‐occlusive dysfunction and the anatomical study of the human penile venous system.