bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Logging Systems and Bat Diversity in the Neotropics
Authors: CLARKE F. M. , PIO D. V. , RACEY P. A.
Published: October 2009

Abstract:  Evaluating logging systems to determine which are most compatible with the maintenance of biodiversity is of prime importance if tropical forests are to be managed in a sustainable way. Bats are model taxa for this purpose. Two different logging systems are used in the natural forest of the Victoria‐Mayaro Forest Reserve in Trinidad: open range and periodic block. Open range is a continuous harvesting system and, in common with most methods used to log tropical forests worldwide, has few harvest controls other than girth limits for selected species. Periodic block is a polycyclic system, with felling based on ecological criteria assumed to be compatible with the maintenance of biodiversity. To compare the effects of periodic block and open‐range systems on biodiversity, we determined bat species richness and abundance in each system and in primary forest. We caught bats in mist nets set at ground level and in the canopy and in harp traps. In total 1959 individuals representing 38 species were captured. Species richness was similar among primary forest and logged forest habitats, although bat diversity was lower in logged forest. The distributions of bat species abundance did not differ significantly between logged forest and primary forest. We found, however, that both logging systems lead to a decrease in gleaning animalivores and an increase in frugivores. The increase in frugivores was likely the result of an increase in the abundance of bat‐dispersed pioneer fruiting plants in logged forest. Bats of periodic‐block‐managed forest were more similar to those of primary forest than those of forest logged using the open‐range system, indicating that the periodic‐block system is more compatible with the maintenance of bat diversity. Our results support the suggestion that the measured use of tropical forests can largely be compatible with biodiversity conservation.
Enhancing Avifauna in Commercial Plantations
Authors: NÁJERA ANDREA , SIMONETTI JAVIER A.
Published: October 2009

Abstract: The occurrence of fauna in commercial plantations is often associated with structural complexity. Through a meta‐analysis, we tested whether the structural complexity of plantations could enhance bird species assemblages and whether bird assemblages respond differently depending on taxonomic affiliation, body size, and diet. Our analyses included 167 case studies in 31 countries in which bird assemblages in forests and plantations were compared and 42 case studies in 14 countries in which bird assemblages in plantations of different structural complexity were compared. Species richness, but not abundance, was higher in forests than in plantations. Both species richness and abundance were significantly higher in complex than in structurally simple plantations. Taxonomic representation and body size did not differ between forest and plantations, except that there were fewer insectivorous birds in plantations than in forests. In the comparison of simple versus complex plantations, abundance of all taxonomic and dietary groups was higher in complex plantations. Body size did not affect bird species richness or abundance. Independent of the type of plantation, bird richness and abundance were greater in structurally complex plantations. Enhancing the structural complexity of plantations may mitigate their impact and offer habitat for some native species.
Priority Wetland Invertebrates as Conservation Surrogates
Authors: ORMEROD S. J. , DURANCE ISABELLE , TERRIER AURELIE , SWANSON ALISA M.
Published: October 2009

Abstract:  Invertebrates are important functionally in most ecosystems, but seldom appraised as surrogate indicators of biological diversity. Priority species might be good candidates; thus, here we evaluated whether three freshwater invertebrates listed in the U.K. Biodiversity Action Plan indicated the richness, composition, and conservation importance of associated wetland organisms as defined respectively by their alpha diversity, beta diversity, and threat status. Sites occupied by each of the gastropods Segmentina nitida, Anisus vorticulus, and Valvata macrostoma had greater species richness of gastropods and greater conservation importance than other sites. Each also characterized species assemblages associated with significant variations between locations in alpha or beta diversity among other mollusks and aquatic macrophytes. Because of their distinct resource requirements, conserving the three priority species extended the range of wetland types under management for nature conservation by 18% and the associated gastropod niche‐space by around 33%. Although nonpriority species indicated variations in richness, composition, and conservation importance among other organisms as effectively as priority species, none characterized such a wide range of high‐quality wetland types. We conclude that priority invertebrates are no more effective than nonpriority species as indicators of alpha and beta diversity or conservation importance among associated organisms. Nevertheless, conserving priority species can extend the array of distinct environments that are protected for their specialized biodiversity and environmental quality. We suggest that this is a key role for priority species and conservation surrogates more generally, and, on our evidence, can best be delivered through multiple species with contrasting habitat requirements.
Health‐related quality of life in hospital inpatients with pressure ulceration: Assessment using generic health‐related quality of life measures
Authors: Essex Holly N. , Clark Michael , Sims Joyce , Warriner Ann , Cullum Nicky
Published: October 2009

The objective of this study was to determine the impact of pressure ulceration on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and to undertake a pilot study for a future larger study. The study comprised two parts. First, data from a large UK prospective cohort study were analyzed and the HRQoL of 218 people with pressure ulcers was compared with that of 2,289 people without ulcers using the Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) questionnaire. After adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities, patients with pressure ulceration had significantly lower scores for both the physical (coefficient=−3.12,p<0.001) and mental (coefficient=−1.50,p=0.04) component summary scores of the SF‐36. Second, a small pilot study was conducted to explore use of other tools. HRQoL was assessed in six patients with and 16 patients without pressure ulcers using the SF‐36, the EQ‐5D and a pain visual analog scale. SF‐36 scores indicated that patients with pressure ulcers had significantly poorer physical functioning (d=22.3,p=0.001), role limitations due to physical problems (d=12.9,p=0.02), and vitality (d=20.6,p=0.04) than those without. EQ‐5D scores were also poorer for patients with pressure ulceration, for both the visual analog scale (d=19.2,p=0.02) and the index (d=0.29,p=0.08). Patients with pressure ulceration had more perceived pain than those without; however, this difference was of borderline significance (d=−23.9,p=0.06). Pressure ulceration therefore has an impact on HRQoL that is measurable and persists after adjusting for potential confounding.
Polymorphism in developmental timing: intraspecific heterochrony in a Lake Victoria cichlid
Authors: De Jong Ilse M. L. , Colbert Matthew W. , Witte Frans , Richardson Michael K.
Published: October 2009

SUMMARY
Biologists measure developmental time by dividing development into arbitrary time blocks called “stages.” This is a reasonable approach, provided that developmental timing is precisely controlled within a species. However, the degree of this precision is unknown. This is unfortunate because precision in developmental timing at the population level is a central issue to the whole research program of heterochrony. To examine this issue, we apply Ontogenetic Sequence Analysis to 261 embryos of the Lake Victoria cichlid Haplochromis piceatus. The result of our analysis can be mapped as a complex web of 26,880 equally parsimonious developmental sequences. This topology reflects timing polymorphism (intraspecific heterochrony) among embryos of this species. Because of this timing polymorphism, it is not possible to define discrete “stages” in this cichlid (although there is sufficient sequence signal to assess the maturity of embryos). More generally, we show that sequence polymorphism creates uncertainty about how a given embryo will develop implying that the mechanisms controlling developmental timing in embryos lack precision. For this reason, it is imperative to consider patterns of embryonic variability when measuring developmental time.
Differential regulations of wing and ovarian development and heterochronic changes of embryogenesis between morphs in wing polyphenism of the vetch aphid
Authors: Ishikawa Asano , Miura Toru
Published: October 2009

SUMMARYIn wing polyphenisms that produced alternative wing morphs depending on environmental conditions, the developmental regulations to balance between flight and reproductive abilities should be important. Many species of aphids exhibit wing polyphenisms, and the development of wing and flight muscles is thought to incur costs of reproductive ability. To evaluate the relationship between flight and reproduction, the fecundity and the wing‐ and ovarian development in the parthenogenetic generations were compared between winged and wingless aphids in the vetch aphidMegoura crassicauda. Although no differences in offspring number and size were detected, the onset of larviposition after imaginal molt was delayed in winged adults. The comparison of growth in flight apparatus revealed that, after the second‐instar nymphs, the flight‐apparatus primordia of presumptive wingless aphids were degenerated while those of winged nymphs rapidly developed. In the ovaries of winged line, the embryo size was smaller and the embryonic stages were delayed from third to fifth instars, although these differences had disappeared by the time of larviposition. It is therefore likely that the delay in larviposition in winged aphids is due to the slower embryonic development. The correlation between embryo size and developmental stage suggests that the embryos of winged aphids are better developed than similarly sized embryos in wingless aphids. These heterochronic shifts would facilitate the rapid onset of larviposition after the dispersal flight. This developmental regulation of embryogenesis in the aphid wing polyphenism is suggested to be an adaptation that compensates the delay of reproduction caused by the wing development.
Morphological integration and developmental progress during fish ontogeny in two contrasting habitats
Authors: Fischer‐Rousseau Laurence , Cloutier Richard , Zelditch Miriam Leah
Published: October 2009

SUMMARYMorphological integration can respond to environmental conditions, a response that may be dynamic through ontogeny. Among fishes, brook charrs (Salvelinus fontinalis) display a trophic polymorphism that makes it a good species for analyzing the ontogeny of morphological integration. To better understand the processes regulating variation and integration, we assess the ontogenetic dynamics of covariances and developmental progress for populations ofS. fontinalisfrom two habitats that differ in water velocity; lake and stream. Geometric morphometrics and developmental progress were evaluated on 751 and 198 specimens, respectively. In both habitats, most ossification events occur before the transition from alevin to juvenile. This threshold defines two distinct periods. During the first period representing free‐embryos and alevins, there are important shape changes and rapid ossification, integration tends to be relatively low and decreasing and the variance of shape drastically decreases. During the juvenile period, the rate of shape change decreases and the onset of ossification is nearly complete, plus integration increases and shape variance stabilizes. While we find two distinct developmental periods, we nonetheless find a notable stability underlying the ontogenetic dynamics of variability as well as gradual change in the structure of covariation within each habitat. Our results imply that the variability of juvenile body shape does not seem to retain signals of variability determined early in ontogeny and warrants caution in using juvenile as guides to the earlier causes of variability. Overall, this study highlights the difficulty of inferring causes of integration from studies of static covariance.
The Aachen Miniaturized Heart‐Lung Machine—First Results in a Small Animal Model
Authors: Schnoering Heike , Arens Jutta , Sachweh Joerg S. , Veerman Melanie , Tolba Rene , Schmitz‐Rode Thomas , Steinseifer Ulrich , Vazquez‐Jimenez Jaime F.
Published: October 2009

Congenital heart surgery most often incorporates extracorporeal circulation. Due to foreign surface contact and the administration of foreign blood in many children, inflammatory response and hemolysis are important matters of debate. This is particularly an issue in premature and low birth‐weight newborns. Taking these considerations into account, the Aachen miniaturized heart‐lung machine (MiniHLM) with a total static priming volume of 102 mL (including tubing) was developed and tested in a small animal model. Fourteen female Chinchilla Bastard rabbits were operated on using two different kinds of circuits. In eight animals, a conventional HLM with Dideco Kids oxygenator and Stöckert roller pump (Sorin group, Milan, Italy) was used, and the Aachen MiniHLM was employed in six animals. Outcome parameters were hemolysis and blood gas analysis including lactate. The rabbits were anesthetized, and a standard median sternotomy was performed. The ascending aorta and the right atrium were cannulated. After initiating cardiopulmonary bypass, the aorta was cross‐clamped, and cardiac arrest was induced by blood cardioplegia. Blood samples for hemolysis and blood gas analysis were drawn before, during, and after cardiopulmonary bypass. After 1 h aortic clamp time, all animals were weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass. Blood gas analysis revealed adequate oxygenation and perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass, irrespective of the employed perfusion system. The use of the Aachen MiniHLM resulted in a statistically significant reduced decrease in fibrinogen during cardiopulmonary bypass. A trend revealing a reduced increase in free hemoglobin during bypass in the MiniHLM group could also be observed. This newly developed Aachen MiniHLM with low priming volume, reduced hemolysis, and excellent gas transfer (O2 and CO2) may reduce circuit‐induced complications during heart surgery in neonates.
Managing change
Authors: Norris Jane Marshall , Dikeman Jennifer , Greene Deborah , Hathaway Elaine
Published: October 2009

BACKGROUND: In the 1980s, the Administrative Section Coordinating Committee (ASCC) published a series of administrative manuals to assist the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) membership in developing processes for administrative activities conducted in a hospital or blood center. These manuals covered topics such as finance, inventory, information systems, and other areas that provide the infrastructure to support operations. In 2004, the ASCC adopted a plan to create a new set of documents addressing the AABB Quality System Essentials (QSEs) from an administrative viewpoint.

In the past 30 years, blood banking has made significant strides in donor and patient safety with the addition of tests for infectious diseases, increased regulations, and the introduction of new technologies, as well as a focus on quality. The demands of managing and documenting all of these important advances and the frequency with which these changes have occurred have challenged our industry.

STUDY DESIGN: While many articles and books are available for managing change in general, this article applies several aspects of the QSEs as a practical foundation for managing change in donor centers, hospital blood banks, and transfusion services.

CONCLUSION: Utilizing this systematic guide to manage change can not only facilitate the change process but help to guard against unforeseen consequences.
Why Reduced‐Form Regression Models of Health Effects Versus Exposures Should Not Replace QRA: Livestock Production and Infant Mortality as an Example
Authors: Cox, Jr. Louis Anthony (Tony)
Published: October 2009

Do pollution emissions from livestock operations increase infant mortality rate (IMR)? A recent regression analysis of changes in IMR against changes in aggregate “animal units” (a weighted sum of cattle, pig, and poultry numbers) over time, for counties throughout the United States, suggested the provocative conclusion that they do: “[A] doubling of production leads to a 7.4% increase in infant mortality.” Yet, we find that regressing IMR changes against changes in specific components of “animal units” (cattle, pigs, and broilers) at the state level reveals statistically significant negative associations between changes in livestock production (especially, cattle production) and changes in IMR. We conclude that statistical associations between livestock variables and IMR variables are very sensitive to modeling choices (e.g., selection of explanatory variables, and use of specific animal types vs. aggregate “animal units). Such associations, whether positive or negative, do not warrant causal interpretation. We suggest that standard methods of quantitative risk assessment (QRA), including emissions release (source) models, fate and transport modeling, exposure assessment, and dose‐response modeling, really are important—and indeed, perhaps, essential—for drawing valid causal inferences about health effects of exposures to guide sound, well‐informed public health risk management policy. Reduced‐form regression models, which skip most or all of these steps, can only quantify statistical associations (which may be due to model specification, variable selection, residual confounding, or other noncausal factors). Sound risk management requires the extra work needed to identify and model valid causal relations.
Analyzing Risk Response Dynamics on the Web: The Case of Hurricane Katrina
Authors: Lee Ka Lok , Meyer Robert J. , Bradlow Eric T.
Published: October 2009

Using a unique data set that documented the hourly web‐surfing behavior of over 140,000 Internet users in five southeastern states in August 2005, we explore the dynamics of information gathering as Hurricane Katrina developed and then hit South Florida and the Northern Gulf Coast. Using both elementary statistical methods and advanced techniques from functional data analysis,(1) we examine both how storm events (such as the posting of warnings) affected traffic to weather‐related websites, and how this traffic varied across locations and by characteristics of the web user. A general finding is that spatial‐temporal variation in weather‐site web traffic generally tracked the timing and scale of the storm threat experienced by a given area. There was, however, considerable variation in this responsiveness. Residents in Florida counties that had been most directly affected by Hurricane Dennis just a month earlier, for example, displayed more active visitation rates than those who had been less affected. We also find evidence of a gender effect where male users displayed a disproportionately larger rate of visitation to weather sites given the onset of storm warnings than females. The implications of this work for the broader study of behavioral risk response dynamics during hazards are explored.
Public Trust in Government Concerning Tobacco Control in Japan
Authors: Nakayachi Kazuya , Cvetkovich George
Published: October 2009

This study investigated public trust and its determinants concerning the government's control of tobacco in Japan. We focused on the two issues of government policies to ban smoking by minors and increase taxes on tobacco. We conducted a questionnaire survey in which respondents were asked to assess their trust in the government, the government's fairness and competency, and their value similarity with the government. One thousand three hundred and ninety‐four respondents agreed to participate in the survey out of 2,600 randomly sampled adults over 20 years old from all over Japan. The results of multiple regression analysis confirmed that value similarity is the strongest predictor of public trust in the government. On the affirmatively supported issue of prohibiting smoking among minors, the results further indicated that assessment of competency is a stronger predictor than assessment of fairness. In contrast, assessment of fairness is a stronger predictor than assessment of competency for the still divided issue of increasing tobacco tax. Respondents who had low concern and had not formed clear opinions on the issues showed a weak link between assessment of value similarity and trust. Based on these findings, we considered the implications for the government's implementation of tobacco controls.
Preparation of Transparent Glass Sponges via Replica Method using High‐Purity Silica
Authors: Bucharsky Ethel Claudia , Schell Karl Günter , Oberacker Reiner , Hoffmann Michael J.
Published: October 2009

A polymer sponge replication technique was used to prepare open‐celled transparent glass sponges. Stabilized high concentration aqueous slurries from SiO2 nanopowders were used to infiltrate polyurethane polymers with cell sizes of 20 ppi (pores per inch), which served as templates. The optimal conditions for obtaining transparent glass sponges are discussed, such as temperature for both, burning out the polymer and the subsequent sintering of the remaining SiO2 structure. X‐ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and light microscopy were used to characterize the resulting sponge structure.
Biomimetic Preparation and Characterization of Bioactive Coatings on Alumina and Zirconia Ceramics
Authors: Pribošič Irena , Klopčič Sabina Beranič , Kosmač Tomaž
Published: October 2009

For the preparation of bioactive coatings on alumina and zirconia ceramic surfaces a fast biomimetic method using a supersaturated solution containing Na+, Ca2+, Cl−, HCO3−, and PO43− ions was used. The coatings were analysed with the use of an X‐ray diffraction spectrometer and a transmission electron microscope equipped with an energy‐dispersive spectroscopy detector. After the precipitation both coatings were composed of poorly crystallized, nanosized, plate‐like particles with the octacalcium phosphate (OCP) crystal structure. The adhesion of the coatings was improved by a heat treatment at 1050°C for 1 h. During this heat treatment the calcium phosphate layer, deposited from a supersaturated solution onto the surface of the substrates, was sintered to form a dense coating. At the same time the OCP crystal structure was transformed into that of hydroxyl apatite, the coating's crystallinity was increased, and the particles grew isotropically up to 300 nm in size. The bioactivity of the coated ceramic was confirmed before and after the heat treatment using a simple simulated body fluid test.
Serially heterotransplanted human prostate tumours as an experimental model
Authors: Lopez‐Barcons Lluis‐A.
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Serially heterotransplanted human tumours in immunosuppressed mice: similarity to the tumour of origin

Conclusions

Preclinical research on prostate cancer (PC) therapies uses several models to represent the human disease accurately. A common model uses patient prostate tumour biopsies to develop a cell line by serially passaging and subsequent implantation, in immunodeficient mice. An alternative model is direct implantation of patient prostate tumour biopsies into immunodeficient mice, followed by serial passage in vivo. The purpose of this review is to compile data from the more than 30 years of human PC serial heterotransplantation research. Serially heterotransplanted tumours are characterized by evaluating the histopathology of the resulting heterotransplants, including cellular differentiation, karyotype, marker expression, hormone sensitivity, cellular proliferation, metastatic potential and stromal and vascular components. These data are compared with the initial patient tumour specimen and, depending on available information, the patient’s clinical outcome was compared with the heterotransplanted tumour. The heterotansplant model is a more accurate preclinical model than older generation serially passaged or genetic models to investigate current and newly developed androgen‐deprivation agents, antitumour compounds, anti‐angiogenic drugs and positron emission tomography radiotracers, as well as new therapeutic regimens for the treatment of PC.
Potent skin sensitizers in oxidative hair dye products on the Swedish market
Authors: Yazar Kerem , Boman Anders , Lidén Carola
Published: October 2009

Background: In recent years, the alarming increase in contact allergy to hair dyes has drawn much attention. It has been shown that many of the currently allowed hair dye substances are potent skin sensitizers.

Objectives: To study the prevalence of hair dye substances, categorized as potent skin sensitizer, in oxidative hair dye products on the Swedish market.

Materials and Methods: Ingredient labels of 122 oxidative hair dye products from 20 brands were examined. All ingredients were recorded, and the prevalence of hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers was assessed.

Results: According to ingredient labelling, 120 out of 122 examined oxidative hair dye products contained hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers. More than 80% of the products contained at least four such substances; 37 hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers were identified, and 10 of these were more prevalent than p‐phenylenediamine.

Conclusions: Hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers are very common in oxidative hair dye products. A substantial number of potent skin sensitizers are more frequently used than p‐phenylenediamine, while only a few are commercially available as patch test substances.
Genetic disruptions of Drosophila Pavlovian learning leave extinction learning intact
Authors: Qin H. , Dubnau J.
Published: October 2009

Individuals who experience traumatic events may develop persistent posttraumatic stress disorder. Patients with this disorder are commonly treated with exposure therapy, which has had limited long‐term success. In experimental neurobiology, fear extinction is a model for exposure therapy. In this behavioral paradigm, animals are repeatedly exposed in a safe environment to the fearful stimulus, which leads to greatly reduced fear. Studying animal models of extinction already has lead to better therapeutic strategies and development of new candidate drugs. Lack of a powerful genetic model of extinction, however, has limited progress in identifying underlying molecular and genetic factors. In this study, we established a robust behavioral paradigm to study the short‐term effect (acquisition) of extinction in Drosophila melanogaster. We focused on the extinction of olfactory aversive 1‐day memory with a task that has been the main workhorse for genetics of memory in flies. Using this paradigm, we show that extinction can inhibit each of two genetically distinct forms of consolidated memory. We then used a series of single‐gene mutants with known impact on associative learning to examine the effects on extinction. We find that extinction is intact in each of these mutants, suggesting that extinction learning relies on different molecular mechanisms than does Pavlovian learning.
Morgellons in dermatology
Authors: Harth Wolfgang , Hermes Barbara , Freudenmann Roland W.
Published: October 2009

Delusional parasitosis (DP) is the most frequent delusional disorder in dermatology. In DP there is a fixed belief of a usually skin‐related invasion or infestation by a number of alleged infectious species (usually parasites and bacteria), whose identity has varied over the decades. Since 2002 worldwide an increasing number of patients have complained of unverifiable fibers and filaments in or on the skin, associated with numerous nonspecific complaints (arthralgias, altered cognitive function and extreme fatigue). This entity has been named “Morgellons disease” by the patients themselves, although medical evidence for its existence is lacking. As an example, we discuss a 55‐year‐old woman who complained of Morgellons disease and was treated as if she had DP. Currently the delusional assumption of infestation with Morgellons should be considered as a new type of DP with some kind of inanimate material. We therefore recommend in case of DP including Morgellons the use of the broader term “delusional infestation”.
Allergy prevention
Authors: Muche‐Borowski Cathleen , Kopp Matthias , Reese Imke , Sitter Helmut , Werfel Thomas , Schäfer Torsten
Published: October 2009

The further increase of allergies in industrialized countries demands evidence‐based measures of primary prevention. The recommendations as published in the guideline of 2004 were updated and consented on the basis of a systematic literature search. Evidence from the period February 2003–May 2008 was searched in the electronic databases Cochrane and MEDLINE as well as in reference lists of recent reviews and by contacting experts. The retrieved citations were screened for relevance first by title and abstract and in a second step as full paper. Levels of evidence were assigned to each included study and the methodological quality of the studies was assessed as high or low. Finally the revised recommendations were formally consented (nominal group process) by representatives of relevant societies and organizations including a self‐help group.

Of originally 4556 hits, 217 studies (4 Cochrane Reviews, 14 meta‐analyses, 19 randomized controlled trials, 135 cohort and 45 case‐control studies) were included and critically appraised. Grossly unchanged remained the recommendations on avoiding environmental tobacco smoke, breast‐feeding over 4 months (alternatively hypoallergenic formulas for children at risk), avoiding a mold‐promoting indoor climate, vaccination according to current recommendations, and avoidance of furry pets (especially cats) in children at risk. The recommendation on reducing the house dust mite allergen exposure as a measure of primary prevention was omitted and the impact of a delayed introduction of supplementary food was reduced. New recommendations were adopted concerning fish consumption (during pregnancy / breast‐feeding and as supplementary food in the first year), avoidance of overweight, and reducing the exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollutants.

The revision of this guideline on a profound evidence basis led to (1) a confirmation of existing recommendations, (2) substantial revisions, and (3) new recommendations. Thereby it is possible to give evidence‐based and up‐to‐date recommendations on primary prevention of allergies.
Sudden infant death syndrome during low incidence in Sweden 1997–2005
Authors: Möllborg P , Alm B
Published: October 2009

Background:  Following the change from prone to supine in preferred sleeping position, the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in Sweden fell from 1.1 per 1000 live births in 1992 to 0.41 in 1995. After a further small decline, we have been experiencing a plateau at around 0.25 since 2000.

Aim:  To identify the changes that have occurred in the epidemiology of SIDS since the end of the Nordic Epidemiological SIDS Study in 1995.

Methods:  Data from the Medical Birth Register of Sweden, covering the years 1995–2005, were used. Sleeping position is not included in the register.

Results:  The incidence of SIDS has remained low in Sweden. Independent risk factors were smoking during early pregnancy, parents not living together, low maternal age, high parity and short gestational age. The odds ratio for smoking has continued to increase and the median age of death has continued to decrease since the previous study. We found no signs of seasonality in the current material.

Conclusions:  Age at death continued to decrease. The high incidence during weekends persisted. Seasonality was not significant. There was no evidence of a changing effect from risk factors in the studied period.
The preterm piglet – a model in the study of oesophageal development in preterm neonates
Authors: Rasch S , Sangild PT , Gregersen H , Schmidt M , Omari T , Lau C
Published: October 2009

Aim:  Preterm infants have difficulty in attaining independent oral feeding. This can ensue from inadequate sucking, swallowing and/or respiration. In impeding bolus transport, immature oesophageal motility may also be a cause. As studies on the development of oesophageal motility are invasive in preterm infants, the preterm piglet was investigated as a potential research model.

Methods:  Oesophageal motility (EM) of term (n = 6) and preterm (n = 15) piglets were monitored by manometry for 10 min immediately following bottle feeding on days 1–2 and 3–4 of life.

Results:  Piglets’ oral feeding performance and EM were similar to those of their human counterparts. Term piglets readily completed their feeding, whereas their preterm counterparts did not. They also presented with greater peristaltic activity and propagating velocity. Peristaltic activity remained unchanged over time in preterm piglets, but an increase in synchronous and decrease in incomplete motor activity were noted. Preterm piglets that developed symptoms analogous to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) demonstrated uncharacteristic oesophageal activity.

Conclusion:  Immature EM may cause oral feeding difficulties. NEC‐like symptoms may adversely affect EM. The piglet is a valid research model for studying human infant oral feeding and oesophageal development.
Characterization of the restriction enzyme‐like endonuclease encoded by the Entamoeba histolytica non‐long terminal repeat retrotransposon EhLINE1
Authors: Yadav Vijay Pal , Mandal Prabhat Kumar , Rao Desirazu N , Bhattacharya Sudha
Published: October 2009

The genome of the human pathogen Entamoeba histolytica, a primitive protist, contains non‐long terminal repeat retrotransposable elements called EhLINEs. These encode reverse transcriptase and endonuclease required for retrotransposition. The endonuclease shows sequence similarity with bacterial restriction endonucleases. Here we report the salient enzymatic features of one such endonuclease. The kinetics of an EhLINE1‐encoded endonuclease catalyzed reaction, determined under steady‐state and single‐turnover conditions, revealed a significant burst phase followed by a slower steady‐state phase, indicating that release of product could be the slower step in this reaction. For circular supercoiled DNA the Km was 2.6 × 10−8 m and the kcat was 1.6 × 10−2 sec−1. For linear E. histolytica DNA substrate the Km and kcat values were 1.3 × 10−8 m and 2.2 × 10−4 sec−1 respectively. Single‐turnover reaction kinetics suggested a noncooperative mode of hydrolysis. The enzyme behaved as a monomer. While Mg2+ was required for activity, 60% activity was seen with Mn2+ and none with other divalent metal ions. Substitution of PDX12‐14D (a metal‐binding motif) with PAX12‐14D caused local conformational change in the protein tertiary structure, which could contribute to reduced enzyme activity in the mutated protein. The protein underwent conformational change upon the addition of DNA, which is consistent with the known behavior of restriction endonucleases. The similarities with bacterial restriction endonucleases suggest that the EhLINE1‐encoded endonuclease was possibly acquired from bacteria through horizontal gene transfer. The loss of strict sequence specificity for nicking may have been subsequently selected to facilitate spread of the retrotransposon to intergenic regions of the E. histolytica genome.
Effects of Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐1 on Rotenone‐Induced Apoptosis in Human Lymphocyte Cells
Authors: Avila‐Gomez Isabel Cristina , Velez‐Pardo Carlos , Jimenez‐Del‐Rio Marlene
Published: October 2009

Abstract:  Human peripheral blood lymphocytes have been useful as a putative model of oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis for Parkinson’s disease. The present work shows that rotenone, a mitochondrial complex I inhibitor, induced time‐ and concentration‐dependent apoptosis in lymphocytes which was mediated by anion superoxide radicals (O2•−)/hydrogen peroxide, depolarization of mitochondria, caspase‐3 activation, concomitantly with the nuclear translocation of transcription factors such as NF‐κB, p53, c‐Jun and nuclei fragmentation. Since insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) interferes with a cell’s apoptotic machinery when subjected to several stressful conditions, it is demonstrated here for the first time that IGF‐1 effectively protects lymphocytes against rotenone through PI‐3K/Akt activation, down‐regulation of p53 and maintenance of mitochondrial membrane potential independently of ROS generation. These data might contribute to understanding the role played by IGF‐1 against oxidative stress stimuli.
Design, Synthesis and Pharmacological Characterization of Endomorphin Analogues with Non‐Cyclic Amino Acid Residues in Position 2
Authors: Perlikowska Renata , Fichna Jakub , Wyrębska Anna , Poels Jeroen , Vanden Broeck Jozef , Toth Geza , Storr Martin , Do Rego Jean‐Claude , Janecka Anna
Published: October 2009

Abstract:  A series of endomorphin‐1 (EM‐1) and endomorphin‐2 (EM‐2) analogues, containing non‐cyclic amino acids (Ala, d‐Ala, β‐Ala, NMeAla, d‐NMeAla or Sar) instead of Pro in position 2 was synthesized, where NMeAla = N‐methylalanine and Sar = N‐methylglycine, sarcosine. The opioid activity profiles of these peptides were determined in μ and δ opioid receptor (MOR and DOR)‐representative binding assays and bioassays in vitro, as well as in the mouse hot‐plate test in vivo. Finally, the degradation rates of all analogues in the presence of either rat brain homogenate or selected proteolytic enzymes were determined. Analogues of EM‐2 were generally more potent than the respective analogues of EM‐1. EM‐2 analogues with d‐Ala or d‐NMeAla were about twofold more potent than the parent peptide and were least prone to degradation by brain homogenate, dipeptydyl peptidase IV and aminopeptidase M. In the in vivo test, [d‐Ala2]EM‐2 and [d‐NMeAla2]EM‐2 showed much higher analgesic potency than EM‐2 which confirmed the usefulness of structural modifications in obtaining new leads for pain‐relief therapeutics.
Neurocognitive and Personality Factors in Homo- and Heterosexual Pedophiles and Controls
Authors: Kruger Tillmann H.C. , Schiffer Boris
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Several neuropsychological studies have suggested an association between pedophilia, neurocognitive disturbances, and specific personality profiles. However, inconsistencies in the findings have not been explained sufficiently, because many studies did not control for possible confounding factors, such as age, education level, or gender orientation.

Aim

Therefore, the present investigation examined neurocognitive performance and personality profiles in pedophiles in dependence of sexual gender preferences and sexual deviance, as well as with regard to age and education level.

Main Outcome Measures

Scores on the different neurocognitive tests, personality questionnaires, and Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-IV (SCID) interviews.

Methods

An extensive neurocognitive test battery (including a reduced version of the German Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, the Wisconsin card-sorting test, d2 Attention-Deficit Test, and the Corsi block-tapping test) as well as two personality questionnaires (Minnessota Multiphasic Personality Inventory [MMPI-2] and the Multiphasic Sex Inventory [MSI]) were used to examine a consecutive sample of 20 psychiatrically assessed (SCID I and II) pedophile inpatients (nine exclusively attracted to females and 11 to males) from two high security forensic hospitals and 28 healthy controls (14 heterosexual, 14 homosexual).

Results

Compared with controls, pedophiles showed neurocognitive impairments and personality specifics in the majority of tests and questionnaires, such as reduced values on the intelligence scale and weaker performances in information processing, together with high scores for psychopathy and paranoia, and signs of sexual obsessiveness and sexual dysfunction. In contrast to previous reports, some of these alterations were at least partly explained by factors other than pedophilia, such as education level or age.

Conclusion

These alterations may be seen to be in line with the hypothesis of a perturbation of neurodevelopment in early life. These results enhance our knowledge about pedophilia-associated impairment in neurocognitive functioning and personality structure insofar as they allow a more detailed description of, and insight into, modulatory factors.
Are Sexual Problems More Common in Men who have had a Vasectomy? A Population-Based Study of Australian Men
Authors: Smith Anthony , Lyons Anthony , Ferris Jason , Richters Juliet , Pitts Marian , Shelley Julia
Published: October 2009

Introduction

It is not known whether sexual problems are currently more prevalent among men who have had a vasectomy compared with those who have not had a vasectomy.

Aim

To investigate whether vasectomized men are more likely to report experiencing a range of sexual problems than nonvasectomized men and to assess their overall sexual and relationship satisfaction.

Methods

A population-based survey of 3,390 Australian men’s sexual experiences was conducted using computer-assisted telephone interviewing.

Main Outcome Measures

Proportions of vasectomized and nonvasectomized men who: (i) reported a sexual problem for at least 1 month during the last 12 months; and (ii) rated their sexual and relationship satisfaction as either extremely satisfying or not extremely satisfying.

Results

Vasectomy was reported by 25.1% of men, almost 70% of whom were aged 40–59 years. Vasectomized men were more likely to be married, live in regional areas, and speak English at home. Having a vasectomy was not associated with any specific sexual problem, such as lacking interest in sex or taking too long to reach orgasm. Vasectomized men (10.8%) were slightly more likely than nonvasectomized men (8.2%) to report problems maintaining an erection, but this difference disappeared when age and other socio-demographic variations were taken into account. Although vasectomized men (33.7%) were just as likely as nonvasectomized men (33.0%) to be extremely satisfied sexually, they were significantly more likely to be extremely satisfied with their relationship overall (48.3% vs. 42.9%).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that sexual problems are no more prevalent among vasectomized men than they are among nonvasectomized men.
Resource distribution and the trade‐off between seed number and seed weight: a comparison across crop species
Authors: Gambín B.L. , Borrás L.
Published: October 2009

In grain crops, total sink capacity is usually analysed in terms of two components, seed number and individual seed weight. Seed number and potential individual seed weight are established at a similar timing, around the flowering period, and seed weight at maturity is highly correlated with the potential established earlier. It is known that, within a species, available resources during the seed set period are distributed between both yield components, resulting in a trade‐off between seed number and seed weight. Here we tested if this concept could apply for interspecific comparisons, where combinations of numbers and size across species could be related to the total available resources being either allocated to more seed or larger potential individual seed weight during the seed set period. Based on this, species differences in seed weight should be related to resource availability per seed around the period when seed number is determined. Resource availability per seed was estimated as the rate of increase in aboveground biomass per seed around the period of seed set. Data from 15 crop species differing in plant growth, seed number, seed weight and seed composition were analysed from available literature. Because species differed in seed composition, seed weight was analysed following an energy requirement approach. There was an interspecific trade‐off relationship between seed number per unit of land area and seed weight (r = 0.92; F(1, 13) = 32.9; n = 15; P < 0.001). Seed weight of different species was positively correlated (r = 0.90; F(1, 13) = 52.9; n = 15; P < 0.001) with resource availability per seed around the seed set period. This correlation included contrasting species like quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa; ∼100000 seeds m−2, ∼4 mg equivalent‐glucose seed−1) or peanut (Arachis hypogaea; ∼800 seeds m−2, ∼1000 mg equivalent‐glucose seed−1). Seed number and individual seed weight combinations across species were related and could be explained considering resource availability when plants are adjusting their seed number to the growth environment and seeds are establishing their storage capacity. Available resources around the seed set period are proportionally allocated to produce either many small seeds or few larger seeds depending on the particular species.
EFFECTS OF WHEAT STARCH EDIBLE FILMS ON RANCIDITY AND MOISTURE UPTAKE OF PISTACHIO KERNELS AS A NEW PACKAGE
Authors: JAVANMARD MAJID , AHANGARI ROZHIN , TAVAKOLIPOUR HAMID
Published: October 2009

Wheat starch‐based films were formulated by dispersing 4 g starch in distilled water, and plasticized with Gly and PEG in different levels (Gly = 2 and 3 mL/100 mL and PEG = 0.0, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 mL/100 mL). The emulsion films were evaluated for mechanical properties, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR). Pistachio kernels packed in wheat starch‐based films, as well as unpacked ones, were placed in the experimental apparatus. Unpacked pistachio kernels were maintained as controls. Peroxide value (PV) and moisture uptake of control (unpacked) and packed pistachio kernels were evaluated for 56 days during storage in ambient temperature (25C).

Increasing Gly content of films led to slight increase in Elongation (EL). Increasing the PEG ratio further resulted in an increase in EL for all films. No significant difference in WVTR was observed between films made from mixtures of various proportions of Gly with increasing PEG (addition) at all levels of plasticizer.

Maximum moisture uptake was found (6.83 ± 0.08%) in unpacked (control) pistachio kernels, but packaging pistachios in wheat starch films led to minimize moisture uptake. Wheat starch bags reduced the rate of oxidation in pistachio kernels. Incorporation of Gly and PEG in wheat starch films had no significant effect on the PV of packed pistachios.

These results suggest that wheat starch‐based films are a viable alternative packaging process for pistachio kernels and improvement of shelf life.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The main advantages of using edible films are extending food shelf life, improving food quality, preventing lipid oxidation in nuts and reducing synthetic packaging materials. There has been a renewed interest in edible and biodegradable films application in food packaging. These films have the potential to replace conventional packaging in some applications. Edible films and coatings derived from polysaccharides have been under intense investigation in recent years.