bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photosynthetic and Respiratory Characteristics of Peanut Cultivars Adapted to Varying Night Temperatures1
Authors: Bell M. J. , Tollenaar M. , Michaels T. E.
Published: April 2010

Relatively mild night temperatures can reduce leaf carbon dioxide exchange rates (CER) and dry matter (DM) accumulation in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). To investigate differences among cultivars in response to long-term exposure to a range of night temperatures, three peanut cultivars (OAC Ruby, Chico, and Early Bunch) with known differences in chilling sensitivity were grown in controlled-environment cabinets at the University of Guelph, Ontario. Effects of long-term exposure to night temperatures from 9 to 20 C were assessed in terms of leaflet and whole plant CER, DM accumulation, and phenological development. Effects of night temperature on rate of phenological development and DM accumulation were consistent with differences in accumulation of degree-days. Cultivars did not differ in daytime leaf CER response to all night temperatures except 9 C, at which CER for OAC Ruby was higher than for Early Bunch or Chico. CER in the 9 C treatment was 92% of the CER at 20 C for OAC Ruby and 80% for Early Bunch and Chico. Continuous exposure to night temperatures of 10C reduced CER sensitivity to low daytime temperature in OAC Ruby, but Early Bunch was unaffected. Specific respiration rates were higher for plants of OAC Ruby than Early Bunch in the 10 C treatment, with indications that these differences were due to increased maintenance requirements. The ability of OAC Ruby to adapt to cool-night conditions may have a significant impact on crop performance in cooler environments.
Simulated Air Flow Rate Effects on Drying Times and Costs for Conventional and Recirculating Peanut Drying Facilities1
Authors: Chai L. , Young J. H.
Published: April 2010

In conventional nonrecirculating peanut drying systems, an air flow rate of 10 m3/min-m3 is recommended. Drying systems utilizing air recirculation need not consider the inefficiency associated with unsaturated air exiting the system, since the extra drying capacity of the air will eventually be utilized. As a result, the air flow rate recommendation for recirculation type drying systems needs to be reexamined. In this study, two computer models were modified to simulate the peanut drying process in a solar-assisted partial air recirculation drying system and a conventional drying system, respectively. The weather data from the 1992 drying season at Lewiston, NC and the parameters of both facilities were used as the input data for the models. Air flow rates of 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, and 22.5 m3/min-m3 were examined. The simulation results showed that the effect of air flow rate on drying times and costs in a solar-assisted partial air recirculation peanut drying facility was significant. When the air flow rate was increased, the seasonal drying capacity, the electrical and fuel consumption, and total or specific drying cost increased as well. On the other hand, drying time for each wagon decreased and total energy consumption remained relatively constant.
Evaluation of Six Landrace Accessions of Arachis hypogaea ssp. hypogaea var. hirsuta Kohler. I. Descriptive and Sensory1
Authors: Pattee H. E. , Williams D. E. , Sanchez-Dominguez S. , Giesbrecht F. G.
Published: April 2010

The “hirsuta” peanut (Arachis hypogaea ssp. hypogaea var. hirsuta Kohler) is severely under-represented in germplasm collections throughout the world. Reports on heritability of the roasted peanut and sweet flavor attributes suggest that it would be important to quantify the levels of these attributes in hirsuta peanut to determine if these landraces could provide a genetically diverse source for the improvement of roasted peanut flavor. Recent collection explorations in Mexico provided an opportunity to obtain six hirsuta landrace accessions which could be used to make such an evaluation. Descriptive sensory analysis of the roasted samples showed no distinct flavor characteristic differences between hirsuta samples and U.S. cultivars. Significantly higher intensities of the roasted peanut attribute were not present in any of the hirsuta samples when compared to the U.S. cultivars. Significantly higher intensities of the sweet attribute were present in some of the hirsuta landraces compared to the U.S. cultivars, and the sweet intensity difference between NC 7 and Florunner controls was significant. This higher intensity of sweetness may account for the preference of the hirsuta peanut by the Mexican locals.
Relationship of Hull Mesocarp Color to Seed Germination and Vigor in Large-Seeded Virginia-Type Peanuts
Authors: Spears J. F. , Sullivan G. A.
Published: April 2010

Classification of peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) based on pod mesocarp color has become a popular means of estimating maturity of runner peanuts. This study was initiated to determine if the hull mesocarp color is related to seed maturity of virginia-type peanuts and to evaluate changes in quality as seed mature. Cultivars NC 7 and NC 9 peanuts were harvested by hand in 1990, 1991, and 1992. Pods were separated according to mesocarp color. Seed moisture content and dry weight within a maturity class varied with cultivar and production year. Germination of NC 7 seed grown in 1990 and 1992 increased as seed approached maturity. Immature NC 9 seed grown in 1991 and 1992 had substantially lower germination than seed from mature pods. There was no increase in germination during maturation of NC 7 seed harvested in 1991 or NC 9 from 1990. Seed leakage during imbibition, measured by electrical conductivity, decreased as seed matured. The lowest leakage levels occurred when seed had reached physiological maturity. Germination following accelerated aging (AA) increased as seed matured. Maximum AA germination of NC 7 occurred when seed had reached 77, 84, and 100% of their final dry weight in 1990, 1991, and 1992, respectively. NC 9 seed achieved maximum germination following AA after the seed amassed at least 90% of their final dry weight.
Ancestral Contributions to Roasted Peanut Attribute1
Authors: Isleib T. G. , Pattee H. E. , Giesbrecht F. G.
Published: April 2010

Estimates of broad-sense heritability for roasted flavor attribute of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) range from 9 to 24% on a single-plot basis. Response to selection is determined by the narrow-sense heritability, calculated from estimates of additive genetic variance which are not available for this trait. One way to assess the additive component of genetic variation is to determine how much of the total phenotypic variation can be predicted from genetic contributions of ancestors of the individuals measured. From 1986 to 1991, samples of 128 peanut cultivars and breeding lines were obtained from peanut research programs representing the three major production areas in the U.S. Samples were roasted to a nearly common color, ground into paste, and assessed for roasted flavor and fruity attribute by a trained sensory panel. CIELAB L* color was also measured for use as a covariate in statistical analysis to adjust for small differences in color. The sum of squares associated with the 128 genotypes accounted for 11% of the total phenotypic variation. Ancestry of the lines was traced back to 47 progenitors for which no further pedigree information was available. Eight progenitors made ancestral contributions that were linearly dependent on the other 39. Ancestral effects accounted for 53% of the genotypic variation, i.e., 6% of the phenotypic variation. Despite shortcomings of this 6% figure as an estimate of narrow-sense heritability for roasted flavor, no other estimates are extant. The residual (nonadditive) variation among genotypes after accounting for ancestral (additive) effects was highly significant. Multiple regression model-building techniques were used to identify 13 ancestors exerting significant effects on roasted flavor. Jenkins Jumbo, F231 (a cross of Dixie Giant with Small White Spanish 3x-2), and Improved Spanish 2B were the only ancestors among the 13 that were common to 40 or more of the 128 lines tested. Jenkins Jumbo was the single most important ancestor, exerting a negative effect on flavor (b = −1.25±0.19). Its progeny would be expected to have roast flavor scores reduced by |b|/2 = 0.62 units and grandprogeny by |b|/4 = 0.31 units. All but four of the 13 ancestors deemed important had deleterious effects on flavor.
Characterization of Cuticular Lipids from Cultivated and Wild Peanut Species and Their Effect on Feeding by Fall Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)1
Authors: Yang Guang , Espelie Karl E. , Todd James W. , Culbreath Albert K. , Pittman Roy N. , Demski James W.
Published: April 2010

The cuticular lipids from the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces of two peanut cultivars and four wild peanut species were isolated individually and characterized by combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The two Arachis hypogaea peanut cultivars, Florunner and Southern Runner, and three of the wild peanut species A. ipaensis, A. paraguariensis, and A. diogoi had higher proportions of fatty alcohols on the adaxial leaf surface (17–37%) than on the abaxial surface (11–14%) and a higher percentage of n-alkanes on the abaxial surface (23–66%) than on the adaxial surface (15–30%). The wild peanut species A. villosulicarpa had high proportions of n-alkanes on both the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces. Scanning electron microscopy showed that leaf surfaces with high fatty alcohol content had a dense array of wax crystals while those with larger amounts of n-alkanes had an amorphous appearance. Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), larvae were reared on meridic diet containing foliage from each of the peanut entries, diet with foliage from which the cuticular lipids had been extracted, and diet containing cuticular lipid extracts. Fall armyworm growth was enhanced when larvae were fed diet with A. ipaensis foliage from which the surface lipids had been removed.
In Vitro Culture to Eliminate Peanut Stripe Virus from Peanut Seed
Authors: Prasada Rao R. D. V. J. , Pio-Ribeiro G. , Pittman R. , Reddy D. V. R. , Demski J. W.
Published: April 2010

When excised seed axes of peanut seed, which tested serological positive for peanut stripe virus (PStV), were grown in vitro, 37.5% of the developing plants were PStV-negative. When plants were regenerated from shoot-tips (1 cm long) taken from in vitro-grown, virus-infected plants, 29.4% of them were virus-negative. PStV-positive plants obtained from virus-infected seed were grown for 12 wk on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 40 mg/L ribavirin (MSR) resulted in 78.6% which tested negative for PStV. All plants from seed which tested positive for PStV were 100% identified as negative if grown on MSR for 16 wk. Similarly all plants were PStV negative when obtained from 1 cm long infected shoot tips (from plants grown on MS or MSR medium) if subsequently grown for 12 wk on MSR medium.
Evaluation of Chlorimuron as a Growth Regulator for Peanut
Authors: Mitchem Wayne E. , York Alan C. , Batts Roger B.
Published: April 2010

Chlorimuron was evaluated as a growth regulator on peanut. Treatments included chlorimuron at a total of 8.8 g ai/ha applied once at 60,75, or 90 d after emergence (DAE) or in equal portions applied twice at 60 and 75, 60 and 90, or 75 and 90 DAE or three times at 60, 75, and 90 DAE. Daminozide at 950 g ai/ha applied 75 DAE was included as a comparison. In a year with excessive vine growth, daminozide and all chlorimuron treatments except 8.8 g/ha applied 90 DAE reduced cotyledonary lateral branch and main stem length at harvest 9 to 20 and 12 to 24%, respectively, due to suppression of internode length. Sequential applications of chlorimuron generally suppressed growth more than single applications. No improvement in row visibility at harvest was noted. In a dry year with limited vegetative growth, neither chlorimuron nor daminozide affected cotyledonary lateral branch or main stem length at harvest. Chlorimuron at 2.9 g/ha applied 60, 75, and 90 DAE reduced yield 18% at one of four locations; no other treatment affected yield. Chlorimuron at 8.8 g/ha applied 60 DAE or 4.4 g/ha applied 60 and 75 DAE reduced the percentage of fancy pods and extra large kernels at one or more locations. No treatment affected the percentage of total sound mature kernels. Results suggest chlorimuron has little to no potential for use as a growth regulator.
The novel influenza a (H1N1) infection in infants and children
Authors: Nordin Musa Mohd.
Published: April 2010

During the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, often described as the most devastating epidemic in recorded history, 1 in 5 person was infected and an estimated 50 million lives were lost. The disease was so widespread and pervasive that even the children had a tune which they skipped rope to: I had a little bird, its name was Enza, I opened the window and In-Flu-Enza. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v8i4.4705 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(4); October 2009 pp84-90
Role of antibiotics in periodontal therapy
Authors: Manas D , Srinivas SR , Jithendra KD
Published: April 2010

Loeshe in 1976 propounded the ‘Specific Plaque Hypothesis' and efforts have been done since, to formulate a periodontal treatment regimen based on targeting of specific microorganisms. Antibiotics have gained importance as an arsenal in the treatment of periodontitis. This review takes a concise view on the role of antibiotics in periodontics. This review puts importance of antibiotics in a nutshell as a quick reference for the general practitioners in treating periodontal diseases. The selection and indication for the use of antibiotics is given with a note on resistance Key words: Periodontitis; antibiotics. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v8i4.4706 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(4); October 2009 pp91-101
Feeding pattern of children under two years in some selected villages
Authors: Kamruzzaman MK , Kamrun N , Hamudur R , Salam MA , Mortoza ASM , Jannatul F
Published: April 2010

Objective: The present study was aimed to find out the feeding pattern of children less than two years of age in rural areas. Methodology: The study area consisting of three villages of Muradnagar Upazila under the district of Comilla. Families having children under-two years of age were included in the study. A total number of 54 families finally entered in the study. Respondents were interviewed using structured questionnaire regarding initiation of breast feeding of the new born, their breast feeding pattern and weaning of the children. Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents were recorded. Data were presented as number and percentage. Results: Out of the 54 respondents 52 (96.3%) were mothers and 2 (3.7%) fathers. Of the total 50 (92.6%) respondents was housewife. Among 54 respondents 36 (66.7%) were in the age group of 18 to 25 years. Thirteen (24.1%) respondents were illiterate and among the rest 27 (50%) had primary level and 2 (3.7%) had bachelor level of education. Twenty six (48.1%) respondents said newborns were given breast milk first and rest 28 (51.9%) mentioned about giving of honey, cow's milk and sweet water made of sugar or sugar product. Twelve (22.2%) mothers started breast feeding within 15 minutes after birth, 28 (51.9%) after 1 hour or more. Twenty one 21 (38.9%) had given exclusive breast feeding to the children for six months and 33 (61.1%) given additional stuff during that time. Thirty (55.6%) mothers started weaning before reaching 6 months of age, 13 (24.0%) between 6 months to 12 months and 1 (1.9%) started after 12 months. Commonly used weaning foods were rice, shuzi, khichuri, cow's milk, infant formula, fish, egg, meat, honey, vegetables and fruits especially banana. Conclusion: The data suggest wide range of variability still exists in allowing colostrums to the newborn, breast feeding itself and also weaning practice. Key Words: Feeding pattern; weaning; children. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v8i4.4709 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(4); October 2009 pp110-117
Therapeutic Laser for Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Suhaimi MJ , Zahra JAT
Published: April 2010

Positive results in the treatment of low back pain with LLLT include decreased pain and improved function . LLLT has been in use and studied since the 1960s. To date, the research is still debating the effectiveness of LLLT to treat various pathological conditions A few concerns arise when examining the literature on LLLT. Many studies do not publish all their treatment parameters, which makes it difficult for the findings to be translated into clinical practice. The site of application, application method and technique, and the dosage are poorly documented. Thus, few studies meet the systemic review inclusion criteria; this limits attempts to complete meta-analyses on LLLT effectiveness. To date, very few studies have investigated the optimal wavelength, power, frequency and treatment time to obtain a therapeutic effect. Having said this, there is some evidence to suggest that LLLT decreases swelling, reduces pain and improves function. Overall the literature and research on low level laser therapy are insufficient to make conclusions on the effectiveness of laser therapy. Currently the practice of using LLLT is ahead of the evidence to support the use of the technology. This is common for most modalities used in physiotherapy and eventually the research catches up to clinical usage. Some studies may convince the therapist to use LLLT for conditions involving inflammation and for providing pain relief. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v8i4.4709 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(4); October 2009 pp118-128
Bimaxillary proclination with spacing: Treatment for Esthetic Improvement
Authors: Alam MK
Published: April 2010

This paper concerns orthodontic treatment of a 20 years old Bangladeshi female with bimaxillary proclination, localized spacing in the maxillary and mandibular arch and rotations in the central incisors of the mandibular arch. Orthodontic treatment carried out with preadjusted MBT type (018 slot) fixed brackets with alignment and retroclination of the maxillary and mandibular incisors to accomplish the treatment for esthetic improvement. The esthetics and occlusion were maintained after retention. Key words: Bimaxillary proclination; spacing; rotation; labial flaring. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v8i4.4710 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(4); October 2009 pp129-134
Parametric Bayesian Estimation of Differential Entropy and Relative Entropy
Authors: Gupta Maya , Srivastava Santosh
Published: April 2010

Given iid samples drawn from a distribution with known parametric form, we propose the minimization of expected Bregman divergence to form Bayesian estimates of differential entropy and relative entropy, and derive such estimators for the uniform, Gaussian, Wishart, and inverse Wishart distributions. Additionally, formulas are given for a log gamma Bregman divergence and the differential entropy and relative entropy for the Wishart and inverse Wishart. The results, as always with Bayesian estimates, depend on the accuracy of the prior parameters, but example simulations show that the performance can be substantially improved compared to maximum likelihood or state-of-the-art nonparametric estimators.
Chromatin Fiber Dynamics under Tension and Torsion
Authors: Lavelle Christophe , Victor Jean-Marc , Zlatanova Jordanka
Published: April 2010

Genetic and epigenetic information in eukaryotic cells is carried on chromosomes, basically consisting of large compact supercoiled chromatin fibers. Micromanipulations have recently led to great advances in the knowledge of the complex mechanisms underlying the regulation of DNA transaction events by nucleosome and chromatin structural changes. Indeed, magnetic and optical tweezers have allowed opportunities to handle single nucleosomal particles or nucleosomal arrays and measure their response to forces and torques, mimicking the molecular constraints imposed in vivo by various molecular motors acting on the DNA. These challenging technical approaches provide us with deeper understanding of the way chromatin dynamically packages our genome and participates in the regulation of cellular metabolism.
3-Hydroxy-4-{[(4-fluorophenyl)imino]methyl}phenyl Octadecanoate
Authors: Ha Sie-Tiong , Ng Mei-Yoke , Koh Teck-Ming , Lee Teck-Leong
Published: April 2010

A new Schiff base ester, 3-hydroxy-4-{[(4-fluorophenyl)imino]methyl}phenyl octadecanoate, was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
3-Hydroxy-4-{[(4-chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}phenyl Octadecanoate
Authors: Ha Sie-Tiong , Ng Mei-Yoke , Koh Teck-Ming , Lee Teck-Leong
Published: April 2010

A new Schiff base ester, 3-hydroxy-4-{[(4-chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}phenyl octadecanoate, was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
A Review of the Properties and CVD Synthesis of Coiled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Fejes Dóra , Hernádi Klára
Published: April 2010

The CVD route for carbon nanotube production has become a popular method to make large amounts of multiwall carbon nanotubes. The structure, morphology and size of carbon materials depend critically on the catalyst preparation and deposition conditions. According to current knowledge, CVD method is the only process which can produce carbon nanocoils. These nanocoils are perfect candidates for nanotechnology applications. One might indeed hope that these coils would have the extraordinary stiffness displayed by straight nanotubes. Based on theoretical studies, regular coiled nanotubes exhibit exceptional mechanical, electrical, and magnetic properties due to the combination of their peculiar helical morphology and the fascinating properties of nanotubes. In spite of its technological interest, relatively low attention has been paid to this special field. In this paper we attempt to summarize results obtained until now.
An Expeditious Synthesis of N-substituted Pyrroles via Microwave-Induced Iodine-Catalyzed Reactions under Solventless Conditions
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Debasish , Mukherjee Sanghamitra , Banik Bimal K.
Published: April 2010

An expeditious synthesis of N-substituted pyrroles has been developed by reacting 2,5-dimethoxy tetrahydrofuran and several amines using a microwave-induced molecular iodine-catalyzed reaction under solventless conditions.
A New Sulfated α-Ionone Glycoside from Sonchus erzincanicus Matthews
Authors: Ozgen Ufuk , Sevindik Handan , Kazaz Cavit , Yigit Demet , Kandemir Ali , Secen Hasan , Calis Ihsan
Published: April 2010

Sonchus erzincanicus (Asteraceae) is an endemic species in Turkey, where six Sonchus species grow. In this study, a phytochemical study was performed on the aerial parts of the plant. The study describes the isolation and structure elucidation of five flavonoids and two a-ionone glycosides from S. erzincanicus. The compounds were isolated using several and repeated chromatographic techniques from ethyl acetate and aqueous phases that were partitioned from a methanol extract obtained from the plant. 5,7,3',4'-Tetrahydroxy-3-methoxyflavone (1) and quercetin 3-O-β-D-glucoside (2) were isolated from the ethyl acetate phase, while corchoionoside C 6’-O-sulfate (3), corchoionoside C (4), luteolin 7-O-glucuronide (5) and luteolin 7-O-β-D-glucoside (6), apigenin 7-O-glucuronide (7) were isolated from the aqueous phase. Corchoionoside C 6’-O-sulfate (3), isolated for the first time from a natural source, was a new compound. The structures of the compounds were elucidated by means of 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, 2D-NMR (COSY, HMQC, HMBC) and ESI-MS.
Studies on the Rapid Expansion of Sugarcane for Ethanol Production in São Paulo State (Brazil) Using Landsat Data
Authors: Rudorff Bernardo Friedrich Theodor , Aguiar Daniel Alves , Silva Wagner Fernando , Sugawara Luciana Miura , Adami Marcos , Moreira Mauricio Alves
Published: April 2010

This study’s overarching aim is to establish the areal extent and characteristics of the rapid sugarcane expansion and land use change in São Paulo state (Brazil) as a result of an increase in the demand for ethanol, using Landsat type remotely sensed data. In 2003 flex fuel automobiles started to enter the Brazilian consumer market causing a dramatic expansion of sugarcane areas from 2.57 million ha in 2003 to 4.45 million ha in 2008. Almost all the land use change, for the sugarcane expansion of crop year 2008/09, occurred on pasture and annual crop land, being equally distributed on each. It was also observed that during the 2008 harvest season, the burned sugarcane area was reduced to 50% of the total harvested area in response to a protocol that aims to cease sugarcane straw burning practice by 2014 for mechanized areas. This study indicates that remote sensing images have efficiently evaluated important characteristics of the sugarcane cultivation dynamic providing quantitative results that are relevant to the debate of sustainable ethanol production from sugarcane in Brazil.
Monitoring Automotive Particulate Matter Emissions with LiDAR: A Review
Authors: Mazzoleni Claudio , Kuhns Hampden D. , Moosmüller Hans
Published: April 2010

Automotive particulate matter (PM) causes deleterious effects on health and visibility. Physical and chemical properties of PM also influence climate change. Roadside remote sensing of automotive emissions is a valuable option for assessing the contribution of individual vehicles to the total PM burden. LiDAR represents a unique approach that allows measuring PM emissions from in-use vehicles with high sensitivity. This publication reviews vehicle emission remote sensing measurements using ultraviolet LiDAR and transmissometer systems. The paper discusses the measurement theory and documents examples of how these techniques provide a unique perspective for exhaust emissions of individual and groups of vehicles.
Relaxation Time Estimation from Complex Magnetic Resonance Images
Authors: Baselice Fabio , Ferraioli Giampaolo , Pascazio Vito
Published: April 2010

Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging techniques are used to measure biophysical properties of tissues. As clinical diagnoses are mainly based on the evaluation of contrast in MR images, relaxation times assume a fundamental role providing a major source of contrast. Moreover, they can give useful information in cancer diagnostic. In this paper we present a statistical technique to estimate relaxation times exploiting complex-valued MR images. Working in the complex domain instead of the amplitude one allows us to consider the data bivariate Gaussian distributed, and thus to implement a simple Least Square (LS) estimator on the available complex data. The proposed estimator results to be simple, accurate and unbiased.
Application of Symmetry Methods to Low-Dimensional Heisenberg Magnets
Authors: Bostrem Irene G. , Ovchinnikov Alexander S. , Sinitsyn Valentine E.
Published: April 2010

An account of symmetry is very fruitful in studies of quantum spin systems. In the present paper we demonstrate how to use the spin SU(2) and the point symmetries in optimization of the theoretical condensed matter tools: the exact diagonalization, the renormalization group approach, the cluster perturbation theory. We apply the methods for study of Bose-Einstein condensation in dimerized antiferromagnets, for investigations of magnetization processes and magnetocaloric effect in quantum ferrimagnetic chain.
The Role of Stochastic Models in Interpreting the Origins of Biological Chirality
Authors: Lente Gábor
Published: April 2010

This review summarizes recent stochastic modeling efforts in the theoretical research aimed at interpreting the origins of biological chirality. Stochastic kinetic models, especially those based on the continuous time discrete state approach, have great potential in modeling absolute asymmetric reactions, experimental examples of which have been reported in the past decade. An overview of the relevant mathematical background is given and several examples are presented to show how the significant numerical problems characteristic of the use of stochastic models can be overcome by non-trivial, but elementary algebra. In these stochastic models, a particulate view of matter is used rather than the concentration-based view of traditional chemical kinetics using continuous functions to describe the properties system. This has the advantage of giving adequate description of single-molecule events, which were probably important in the origin of biological chirality. The presented models can interpret and predict the random distribution of enantiomeric excess among repetitive experiments, which is the most striking feature of absolute asymmetric reactions. It is argued that the use of the stochastic kinetic approach should be much more widespread in the relevant literature.
Ultra Structural Characterisation of Tetherin - a Protein Capable of Preventing Viral Release from the Plasma Membrane
Authors: Gupta Ravindra K. , Towers Greg J.
Published: April 2010

Tetherin is an antiviral restriction factor made by mammalian cells to protect them from viral infection. It prevents newly formed virus particles from leaving infected cells. Its antiviral mechanism appears to be remarkably uncomplicated. In 2 studies published in PLoS Pathogens electron microscopy is used to support the hypothesis that the tethers that link HIV-1 virions to tetherin expressing cells contain tetherin and are likely to contain tetherin alone. They also show that the HIV-1 encoded tetherin antagonist that is known to cause tetherin degradation, Vpu, serves to reduce the amount of tetherin in the particles thereby allowing their release.
Hydrologic Restoration in the Urban Environment Using Green Roofs
Authors: Palla Anna , Gnecco Ilaria , Lanza Luca
Published: April 2010

Loss of natural soil and vegetation within the urban environment can significantly affect the hydrologic cycle by increasing storm water runoff rates and volumes. In order to mitigate these modifications in urban areas engineered systems are developed, such as green roofs, to mimic and replace functions (evapo-transpiration, infiltration, percolation) which have been altered due to the impact of human development. Green roofs, also known as vegetated roof covers, eco-roofs or nature roofs, are composite complex layered structures with specific environmental benefits. They are increasingly being used as a source control measure for urban storm water management. Indeed, they are able to re-establish the natural water cycle processes and to operate hydrologic control over storm water runoff with a derived peak flow attenuation, runoff volume reduction and increase of the time of concentration. Furthermore green roofs exhibit the capacity to reduce storm water pollution; they generally act as a storage device, consequently pollutants are accumulated in the substrate layer and released when intensive rainwater washes them out. In order to investigate the hydrologic response of a green roof, the University of Genova recently developed a joint laboratory and full-scale monitoring programme by installing a “controlled” laboratory test-bed with known rainfall input and a companion green roof experimental site (40 cm depth) in the town of Genoa. In the paper, data collected during the monitoring programme are presented and compared with literature data.
Elastase Activity inAspergillus fumigatusCan Arise by Random, Spontaneous Mutations
Authors: Álvarez-Pérez Sergio , Blanco Jose L. , López-Rodas Victoria , Flores-Moya Antonio , Costas Eduardo , García Marta E.
Published: April 2010

Aspergillus fumigatusFresenius has the capacity to degrade elastin (the principal protein of the lungs) and it is considered that elastase activity (EA) is among the most important pathogenicity factors of this mold. In particular, there is a strong correlation between EA inA. fumigatusand invasive aspergillosis. However, EA is not universal in this mold, and it is unknown whether the capacity to degrade elastin is the consequence of physiological mechanisms and/or genetic changes (putative adaptive mutations) induced after the exposure to this substrate or, on the contrary, it is due to random spontaneous mutations that occur under nonselective conditions. In order to discriminate between these possibilities, a Luria-Delbrück fluctuation analysis was carried out on an elastase-negative (EA−)A. fumigatusstrain, using as selective factor a culture medium containing elastin as the sole source of nitrogen. Here we show that theEA−→EA+transformation inA. fumigatusappears by rare, random mutations before the exposure of the strain to selective conditions. This work represents the first experimental evidence of pathogenicity factor acquisition in mycelial fungi by preselective mutation.
Some Pathological Features of Lungs from Domestic and Wild Ruminants with Single and Mixed Protostrongylid Infections
Authors: Panayotova-Pencheva Mariana Stancheva , Alexandrov Marin Tsvyatkov
Published: April 2010

Lungs of 40 ruminants from Bulgaria with natural small lungworm (Nematoda: Protostrongylidae) infections were investigated, including 16 goats, 15 sheep, 7 mouflons, and 2 chamois.Muellerius capillaris, M. tenuispiculatus, Cystocaulus ocreatus, Neostrongylus linearis,andProtostrongylus brevispiculuminfections were predominantly associated with nodular lesions, andProtostrongylus rufescens, Protostrongylus hobmaieriandProtostrongylus rupicapraewere associated with extensive lesions located mainly along the length of the large bronchi. The extent of lung abnormalities was most severe in the sheep. Alveolitis, parasite granulomas, damage of the alveolar septa, hyperplasia of the lung associated lymphoid tissue, and sclerosis of the parenchyma were found upon microscope examinations. In the goats compared to the sheep and mouflons, the terminal bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli were more affected than the interstitium. Our research shows that the pathological lesions in the lungs of ruminants infected with protostrongylids depend on both the helminth and the host species. To our knowledge, this work is the first to provide data on the pathomorphological lesions in mouflon lungs infected with protostrongylids.
Interaction between voriconazole and glimepiride
Authors: Shobha JC , Muppidi MR
Published: April 2010

Voriconazole, a triazole antifungal, is gaining popularity in the treatment of invasive fungal infections, mostly in the immuno-compromised patients. Voriconazole, a CYP2C9 inhibitor, has many potential drug interactions. Its interactions are both due to its pharmacokinetic properties and the genetic polymorphism of CYP2C9 enzymes. Here is a case report of one such drug-drug interaction between voriconazole and glimepiride, an oral hypoglycemic agent, which led to prolonged and persistent hypoglycemia for 48 h. It was diagnosed by the temporal association of the occurrence of symptoms with voriconazole intake. The patient stabilized on withdrawal of the responsible drugs. Due to the high incidence of co-prescribing voriconazole with other drugs, caution has to be exercised while prescribing it. Clinicians' awareness, a high index of suspicion and constant monitoring for adverse drug reactions, expected or unexpected drug interactions has to be emphasized, even if the co-prescribed drugs are in normal therapeutic doses.
Atropine-induced rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Akhtar S , Rai MK , Dutta TK , Subrahmanyam DKS , Adithan C
Published: April 2010

A 25 year old woman received daily injection of 0.6 mg atropine for seven days by the intra-venous route. In addition to fever, incomprehensible speech and alteration of sensorium she developed albuminuria, hemoglobinuria and myoglobinuria. A diagnosis of atropine-induced rhabdomyolysis was made on the basis of clinical presentations and investigations. Although, datura poisoning and intoxication with wild mushrooms are known to result in rhabdomyolysis, this can be considered to be the first case of atropine-induced rhabdomyolysis and myoglobinuria.
Descriptive study of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and evaluation of functional outcome predictors
Authors: Panicker JN , Nagaraja D , Kovoor JME , Subbakrishna DK
Published: April 2010

Background:

Outcome following Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is variable and there are only limited studies from India.

Aim:

The study aims to evaluate the predictors of functional outcome in a cohort of patients with ADEM.

Setting:

Tertiary-care teaching hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Patients admitted with the diagnosis of ADEM from 1999 to 2004 have been included. Clinical features and radiological findings were evaluated. Functional outcome at discharge was scored using modified Rankin Scale and patients were followed up regularly.

Statistical Analysis:

Chi-Square test or Fisher's exact test, and Student's t test for comparison of categorical and continuous variables, respectively, and logistic regression for multivariate analysis.

Results:

Sixty-one patients were evaluated (mean age 22±15.9 years, 1-65). Fifty-two patients had preceding febrile illness or vaccination with mean 9.1±12.5 days interval to first neurological symptom. Non-specific febrile illnesses were the commonest trigger. Commonest findings were motor signs (n=41), impaired consciousness (n=33), bladder symptoms (n=21), ataxia (n=15), and seizures (n=14). Between adult (mean age 30.1±13.1 years, 13-65, n=38), and pediatric (mean age 6.2±2.8 years, 1-12, n=23) patients, language disturbances were more common in the latter (P=0.047). MR imaging (n=35) demonstrated lesions mostly in frontoparietal white matter (n=23) and thalamus (n=15). Nine patients expired. Patients with poor functional outcome at discharge more often had impaired consciousness (P=0.038) and seizures (P=0.06). At follow-up (n=25), deficits included motor signs (n=15) and bladder symptoms (n=5).

Conclusions:

ADEM has a wide range of neurological presentations and language disturbances are more common in pediatric patients. The presence of impaired consciousness, and possibly seizures, predict poor functional outcome at hospital discharge.
Appropriateness of gastrointestinal consultations for hospitalized patients in an academic medical center
Authors: Cohen M , Niv Y
Published: April 2010

Background:

Consultation of experts in the internal medicine or surgery subspecialties is needed in the hospitalized population according to decisions of the house staff. Sometimes the referrals are not justified, consuming time and money without a significant change in the patient outcome.

Objectives:

The aim of our retrospective study was to evaluate justification of consecutive referrals of hospitalized patients for gastroenterology consultation.

Materials and Methods:

Request for consultation was deemed not justified when at least one of the following parameters was found: No contribution to case management, discharge before consultation, cancellation at the last minute, and a recommendation for ambulatory management or surgery.

Results:

In August-September 2006, there were 232 requests for gastroenterology consultations. Of them 127 (54.7%) were men. The average age was 64.13±20.33 years. Ninety-four (40.2%) of the cases had been hospitalized because of other reasons than the consultation issue. Consultation was not justified in 60 patients (25.9%). Ambulatory management was a possibility in 151 cases (65.0%). Request for colonoscopy and gastrointestinal background disease were the only significant predictive factors for justification of consultation, P<0.0001 for both.

Conclusions:

In one fourth of the cases, gastroenterology consultation was not justified according to our strict criteria.
Cesarean delivery in preeclampsia and seasonal variation in a tropical rainforest belt
Authors: Okafor UV , Ezegwui HU
Published: April 2010

Background:

The pathogenesis of preeclampsia is poorly understood and recent evidence suggests that the incidence varies depending upon the season.

Aim:

This study was carried out to determine whether there is a seasonal variation in the presentation of preeclamptics undergoing cesarean delivery in a tropical rainforest belt.

Setting:

A university teaching hospital.

Study Design:

Retrospective.

Materials and Methods:

The hospital records of consecutive patients (July 1996-June 2006) with preeclampsia, who underwent cesarean delivery in a tertiary care centre, were reviewed. Data collected included patient demographics, total number of deliveries, number of cesarean deliveries, and number of preeclampsia patients and time of presentation for cesarean section. Approval of the local ethical committee was obtained.

Statistical Analysis:

The EPI info software program was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

A total of 6798 deliveries were recorded during the study period resulting in 6485 live births. There were 1579 cesarean deliveries during the period. Of these, 196 patients had toxemia of pregnancy (166 with preeclampsia and 30 with eclampsia). One hundred and forty-one patients (9% of cesarean deliveries) had cesarean delivery during the rainy season and 55 (3.5%) during the dry season (P<0.05). Amongst preeclampsia patients, 115 presented (7%) during the rainy season and 51 (3.2%) during the dry season (P<0.05). In the eclampsia group, 26 (1.65% of cesarean sections) presented during the rainy season and four (0.25%) during the dry season (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

There was a seasonal variation in the cesarean delivery required for preeclampsia/eclampsia patients. This may help in counseling women on when to plan their pregnancy in order to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this apparent seasonal disease.
Pitfalls of subcapsular nephrectomy
Authors: Nayyar R , Singh P , Gupta NP
Published: April 2010

Nephrectomy after pyonephrosis, repeated acute pyelonephritis or chronic pyelonephritis is a challenge for any surgeon, owing to adhesions around the kidney. We encountered an unusual case of post-nephrectomy urinary fistula, as a complication of subcapsular nephrectomy. This occurred as a result of residual renal tissue after nephrectomy, which was subsequently excised using methylene blue as an aid to ensure complete excision. Such a complication has never been reported in existing literature. We reviewed the literature for any such related complications to gather an insight to its occurrence and also present a simple point of technique to avoid such a catastrophe.
Cystic variant of favorable-histology Wilms′ tumor presenting with osteolytic metastasis to the ribs
Authors: Bindhu J , Imtiaz A , Kumar RV , Thejaswini MDRT
Published: April 2010

Cystic neoplasms of the kidney presenting in childhood always present a therapeutic dilemma. Low-risk renal tumors of childhood cover a wide spectrum: cystic nephroma, cystic partially differentiated nephroblastoma and cystic Wilms' tumor. There are difficulties in differentiating these tumors on preoperative imaging. The present case presented such a therapeutic dilemma and was finally diagnosed as a cystic variant of favorable-histology Wilms' tumor with osteolytic metastasis to the ribs. The case is presented in view of its rare presentation and the therapeutic and diagnostic challenges involved.
Successful and unsuccessful psychopaths: A neurobiological model
Authors: Gao Yu , Raine Adrian
Published: April 2010

Despite increasing interest in psychopathy research, surprisingly little is known about the etiology of non‐incarcerated, successful psychopaths. This review provides an analysis of current knowledge on the similarities and differences between successful and unsuccessful psychopaths derived from five population sources: community samples, individuals from employment agencies, college students, industrial psychopaths, and serial killers. An initial neurobiological model of successful and unsuccessful psychopathy is outlined. It is hypothesized that successful psychopaths have intact or enhanced neurobiological functioning that underlies their normal or even superior cognitive functioning, which in turn helps them to achieve their goals using more covert and nonviolent methods. In contrast, in unsuccessful, caught psychopaths, brain structural and functional impairments together with autonomic nervous system dysfunction are hypothesized to underlie cognitive and emotional deficits and more overt violent offending. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Corporate psychopathy: Talking the walk
Authors: Babiak Paul , Neumann Craig S. , Hare Robert D.
Published: April 2010

There is a very large literature on the important role of psychopathy in the criminal justice system. We know much less about corporate psychopathy and its implications, in large part because of the difficulty in obtaining the active cooperation of business organizations. This has left us with only a few small‐sample studies, anecdotes, and speculation. In this study, we had a unique opportunity to examine psychopathy and its correlates in a sample of 203 corporate professionals selected by their companies to participate in management development programs. The correlates included demographic and status variables, as well as in‐house 360° assessments and performance ratings. The prevalence of psychopathic traits—as measured by the Psychopathy Checklist—Revised (PCL‐R) and a Psychopathy Checklist: Screening Version (PCL: SV) “equivalent”—was higher than that found in community samples. The results of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) indicated that the underlying latent structure of psychopathy in our corporate sample was consistent with that model found in community and offender studies. Psychopathy was positively associated with in‐house ratings of charisma/presentation style (creativity, good strategic thinking and communication skills) but negatively associated with ratings of responsibility/performance (being a team player, management skills, and overall accomplishments). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is psychopathy elevated among criminal offenders who are under preventive detention pursuant to Section 66 of the German Penal Code?
Authors: Habermeyer Elmar , Passow Daniel , Vohs Knut
Published: April 2010

In Germany, preventive detention can be imposed if a repeat offender shows a proclivity to commit further significant criminal acts. The courts require expert opinion to provide information about personality traits relevant for this disposition. However, currently, consensus about this topic is lacking. On the basis of a standardized examination, the relevance of Hare's concept of “psychopathy” for expert opinion is discussed in the context of preventive detention. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paraphilias with co‐morbid psychopathy: The clinical and legal significance to sex offender assessments
Authors: Saleh Fabian M. , Malin H. Martin , Grudzinskas Albert J. , Vitacco Michael J.
Published: April 2010

This article briefly discusses the historical development of the constructs of paraphilia and psychopathy. An overview of recent developments in the assessment of these constructs for legal purposes is also provided. The historical, clinical, legal, and ethical obligations of clinicians who work with persons suffering from paraphilias and co‐morbid psychopathy is then reviewed. An emphasis of the current article is integrating recent developments in the construct of psychopathy into a discussion of sex offender risk assessment and treatment. The co‐morbidity of psychopathy and paraphilias as factors in predicting risk of recidivism is reviewed. The need for practitioners to remain cognizant of language requirements in both legal and clinical contexts is addressed. Finally, this article reviews the legal history of sex offender legislation and its evolution into current United States Supreme Court jurisprudence. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.