bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial cracking in a graded coating/substrate system loaded by a frictional sliding flat punch
Authors: Choi Hyung Jip , Paulino Glaucio H.
Published: November 2009

An analysis of a coupled plane elasticity problem of crack/contact mechanics for a coating/substrate system with functionally graded properties is performed, where the rigid flat punch slides over the surface of the coated system that contains a crack. The graded material is treated as a non-homogeneous interlayer between dissimilar, homogeneous phases of the coated medium and the crack is assumed to exist along the interface between the interlayer and the substrate. Based on the Fourier integral transform method and the transfer matrix approach, formulation of the current coupled mixed boundary value problem lends itself to the derivation of a set of three simultaneous Cauchy-type singular integral equations. In the numerical results, the emphasis is placed on the investigation of interactions between the contact stress field and the crack-tip behaviour for various combinations of material, geometric and loading parameters of the coated system. Specifically, effects of interfacial cracking on the distributions of the contact pressure and the in-plane stress component along the coating surface are examined and the mixed-mode stress intensity factors evaluated from the crack-tip stress field with the square-root singularity are provided as a function of punch location. Further addressed is the quantification of the singular character of contact pressure distributions at the trailing and leading edges of the flat punch in terms of the punch-edge stress intensity factors. Implicit in this particular analysis of the coupled crack/contact problem presented henceforth is that the crack closure behaviour under the compressive contact stress field is not taken into account, ignoring the influence of crack-face contact and friction.
Smoking cessation patterns and predictors of quitting smoking among the Japanese general population: a 1‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Hagimoto Akiko , Nakamura Masakazu , Morita Takako , Masui Shizuko , Oshima Akira
Published: November 2009

Aim  To examine the percentage of Japanese adult smokers who make quit attempts and succeed in smoking cessation over a 1‐year period, and to identify predictors of attempts to stop and successful smoking cessation.

Design and setting  This study used Ipsos JSR Company's access panel, whose sampling framework is based on the Basic Resident Register in Japan. We tracked and monitored a selected sample of smokers who were at least 20 years of age through a baseline postal questionnaire survey in 2005 and a follow‐up survey 1 year later.

Participants  The original response rate was 72.1% (1874 of 2600 smokers). There were 1627 current smokers in the baseline survey, and of those, 1358 were followed‐up 1 year later.

Findings  Among the current smokers, 23.0% reported that they had attempted to quit smoking at least once in the past year. Of those who made quit attempts, 25.6% had achieved 1‐week abstinence successfully and 13.5% reported having achieved sustained 6‐month abstinence successfully at the time of the follow‐up survey. The predictors associated with quit attempts were non‐daily smoker, higher motivation to quit and previous attempts to stop smoking. Among smokers who made quit attempts, only 13.5% used nicotine replacement therapy. Higher nicotine dependence was associated with lower probability of success in quitting.

Conclusions  Japanese smokers attempt to quit at a lower rate than smokers in the United Kingdom and United States, but factors that predict attempts (primarily markers of motivation) and success of attempts (primarily dependence) are similar to those found in western samples.
Heroin‐assisted treatment in Switzerland: a case study in policy change
Authors: Uchtenhagen Ambros
Published: November 2009

Background  Switzerland introduced a pragmatic national drug policy when the former conservative abstinence‐orientated politics proved unable to cope with an escalating number of users and related negative consequences for public health and public order. The high visibility of ‘needle parks’ and the size of the acquired immune deficiency disorder (AIDS) epidemic called for a new approach and for national leadership.

Aims  To describe the intentions, the process and the results of setting up the new treatment approach of prescribing heroin to treatment resistant heroin addicts, as an example of drug policy change.

Materials and Methods  A systematic collection of relevant documents is analysed and used as evidence for describing the process of policy change.

Results  Measures to reduce the negative consequences of continued use and to prevent the spread of AIDS were started mainly by private initiatives and soon taken up officially in the ‘four‐pillar’ drug policy (including harm reduction, prevention, treatment and law enforcement). Medical prescription of heroin to chronic, treatment‐resistant heroin addicts was one of the innovations, based on extensive scientific and political preparation. Detailed documentation and evaluation, ample communication of results, adaptations made on the basis of results and extensive public debate helped to consolidate the new policy and heroin‐assisted treatment, in spite of its limitations as an observational cohort study. All necessary steps were taken to proceed from a scientific experiment to a routine procedure.

Discussion  Comparable policy changes have been observed in a few other countries, such as The Netherlands and Germany, based on the Swiss experience, with equally positive results of heroin‐assisted treatment. These experiments were designed as randomised controlled trials, comparing intravenous heroin against oral methadone, thereby demonstrating the specific value of pharmaceutical diamorphine for maintenance treatment in opiate dependence. The positive impact of policy change and the positive outcomes of heroin‐assisted treatment were acknowledged increasingly nationally and internationally, but made it difficult to continue the process of adapting policy to new challenges, due to the low visibility of present drug problems and to changing political priorities.

Conclusion  A major change in drug policy was effectively realised under typical conditions of a federalist country with a longstanding tradition of democratic consensus building. Facilitating factors were the size and visibility of the heroin problem, the rise of the Aids epidemic, and a pragmatic attitude of tolerating private initiatives opening the way to official policy change.
Outcome of long‐term heroin‐assisted treatment offered to chronic, treatment‐resistant heroin addicts in the Netherlands
Authors: Blanken Peter , Hendriks Vincent M. , Van Ree Jan M. , Van Den Brink Wim
Published: November 2009

Aims  To describe 4‐year treatment retention and treatment response among chronic, treatment‐resistant heroin‐dependent patients offered long‐term heroin‐assisted treatment (HAT) in the Netherlands.

Design  Observational cohort study.

Setting and intervention  Out‐patient treatment in specialized heroin treatment centres in six cities in the Netherlands, with methadone plus injectable or inhalable heroin offered 7 days per week, three times per day. Prescription of methadone plus heroin was supplemented with individually tailored psychosocial and medical support.

Participants  Heroin‐dependent patients who had responded positively to HAT in two randomized controlled trials and were eligible for long‐term heroin‐assisted treatment (n = 149).

Measurements  Primary outcome measures were treatment retention after 4 years and treatment response on a dichotomous, multi‐domain response index, comprising physical, mental and social health and illicit substance use.

Findings  Four‐year retention was 55.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): 47.6–63.8%].

Treatment  Response was significantly better for patients continuing 4 years of HAT compared to patients who discontinued treatment: 90.4% versus 21.2% [difference 69.2%; odds ratio (OR) = 48.4, 95% CI: 17.6–159.1]. Continued HAT treatment was also associated with an increasing proportion of patients without health problems and who had stopped illicit drug and excessive alcohol use: from 12% after the first year to 25% after 4 years of HAT.

Conclusions  Long‐term HAT is an effective treatment for chronic heroin addicts who have failed to benefit from methadone maintenance treatment. Four years of HAT is associated with stable physical, mental and social health and with absence of illicit heroin use and substantial reductions in cocaine use. HAT should be continued as long as there is no compelling reason to stop treatment.
Evidence of a complex association between dose, pattern and timing of prenatal alcohol exposure and child behaviour problems
Authors: O'Leary Colleen M. , Nassar Natasha , Zubrick Stephen R. , Kurinczuk Jennifer J. , Stanley Fiona , Bower Carol
Published: November 2009

Background  There is a lack of evidence regarding the effect of dose, pattern and timing of prenatal alcohol exposure and behaviour problems in children aged 2 years and older.

Methods  A 10% random sample of women delivering a live infant in Western Australia (1995–96) were invited to participate in an 8‐year longitudinal survey (78% response rate n = 2224); 85% were followed‐up at 2 years, 73% at 5 years and 61% at 8 years. Alcohol consumption was classified by combining the overall dose, dose per occasion and frequency to reflect realistic drinking patterns. Longitudinal analysis was conducted using generalized estimating equations (GEE) to investigate the association between child behaviour as measured by the Child Behaviour Checklist at 2, 5 and 8 years of age and prenatal alcohol exposure collected 3 months postpartum for each trimester separately, adjusting for a wide range of confounding factors.

Results  Low levels of prenatal alcohol were not associated with child behaviour problems. There were increased odds of internalizing behaviour problems following heavy alcohol exposure in the first trimester; anxiety/depression [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.82; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07–7.43] and somatic complaints (aOR 2.74; 95% CI 1.47–5.12) and moderate levels of alcohol exposure increased the odds of anxiety/depression (aOR 2.24; 95% CI 1.16–4.34).

Conclusions  Prenatal alcohol exposure at moderate and higher levels increased the odds of child behaviour problems with the dose, pattern and timing of exposure affecting the type of behaviour problems expressed. Larger studies with more power are needed to confirm these findings.
Cord blood and bone marrow transplantation in inherited metabolic diseases: scientific basis, current status and future directions
Authors: Prasad Vinod K. , Kurtzberg Joanne
Published: November 2009

Progressive degeneration of the central nervous system leading to the loss of neuromotor, neurophysiological and cognitive abilities is the fundamental clinical problem in patients with many inherited metabolic diseases (IMD). Worldwide experience shows that morbidity, quality of life, and survival in these patients can be improved by allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), particularly when performed early in the course of the disease. At present, while available for some conditions, exogenous enzyme replacement therapy is unable to correct cognitive and central nervous system disease because of its inability to cross the blood‐brain barrier. In contrast, HSCT allows donor‐derived, enzyme‐producing cells to migrate to the brain and other organs providing a permanent enzyme replacement therapy. HSCT may also mediate non‐hematopoietic cell regeneration or repair. Traditionally, bone marrow has been the graft source for IMD patients. However, in the last 5 years many studies utilizing unrelated donor umbilical cord blood (UCB) as a graft source have demonstrated that UCB provides rapid and increased access to transplantation with favourable outcomes. This review describes preclinical studies and past and present clinical treatment approaches and discusses current controversies and future directions of this promising field.
Health‐related quality of life following haematopoietic cell transplantation: patient education, evaluation and intervention
Authors: Pidala Joseph , Anasetti Claudio , Jim Heather
Published: November 2009

Health‐related quality of life (QOL) is a vital concern in the pre‐treatment consent process and post‐treatment care of recipients of haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). We propose that comprehensive care of such patients requires an integration of knowledge of the impact of HCT on QOL, assessment of QOL, as well as resources available for intervention. This knowledge may significantly improve patient care when incorporated into daily clinical practice in the transplant setting. As a framework for this approach, this article reviews the literature on QOL after allogeneic and autologous HCT for adults with haematological malignancies. We then discuss evidence in support of the beneficial impact of clinical QOL assessment, and finally evaluate behavioural interventions that show promise to maintain or improve QOL after HCT.
oleed, a medaka Polycomb group gene, regulates ciliogenesis and left–right patterning
Authors: Arai Daisuke , Hatano Atsushi , Higashinakagawa Toru
Published: November 2009

Left‐right (LR) patterning is an essential part of the animal body plan. Primary cilia are known to play a pivotal role in this process. In humans, genetic disorders of ciliogenesis cause serious congenital diseases. A comprehensive mechanism that regulates ciliogenesis has not been proposed so far. Here, we show that EED, a core member of the Polycomb group (PcG) genes and a presumed player in many epigenetic processes, is required for ciliogenesis and subsequent LR patterning in the medaka fish, Oryzias latipes. Moderate knockdown of oleed, a medaka homolog of EED, preferentially caused situs inversus. In the affected embryo, the cilia in Kupffer’s vesicle showed various defects in their structure, position and motility. Furthermore, we demonstrated that oleed maintains the expression of Noto, which, in mice, regulates ciliogenesis and LR patterning. This study provides the first evidence for the involvement of epigenetic plasticity in LR patterning through ciliogenesis.
The ceramide‐1‐phosphate analogue PCERA‐1 modulates tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐10 production in macrophages via the cAMP–PKA–CREB pathway in a GTP‐dependent manner
Authors: Avni Dorit , Philosoph Amir , Meijler Michael M. , Zor Tsaffrir
Published: November 2009

The synthetic phospho‐ceramide analogue‐1 (PCERA‐1) down‐regulates production of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and up‐regulates production of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) ‐stimulated macrophages. We have previously reported that PCERA‐1 increases cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. The objective of this study was to delineate the signalling pathway leading from PCERA‐1 via cAMP to modulation of TNF‐α and IL‐10 production. We show here that PCERA‐1 elevates intra‐cellular cAMP level in a guanosine triphosphate‐dependent manner in RAW264.7 macrophages. The cell‐permeable dibutyryl cAMP was able to mimic the effects of PCERA‐1 on cytokine production, whereas 8‐chloro‐phenylthio‐methyladenosine‐cAMP, which specifically activates the exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC) but not protein kinase A (PKA), failed to mimic PCERA‐1 activities. Consistently, the PKA inhibitor H89 efficiently blocked PCERA‐1‐driven cytokine modulation as well as PCERA‐1‐stimulated phosphorylation of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) on Ser‐133. Finally, PCERA‐1 activated cAMP‐responsive transcription of a luciferase reporter, in synergism with the phosphodiesterase (PDE)‐4 inhibitor rolipram. Our results suggest that PCERA‐1 activates a Gs protein‐coupled receptor, leading to elevation of cAMP, which acts via the PKA–CREB pathway to promote TNF‐α suppression and IL‐10 induction in LPS‐stimulated macrophages. Identification of the PCERA‐1 receptor is expected to set up a new target for development of novel anti‐inflammatory drugs.
Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor expression induction on neonatal CD8+ T cells in vitro and following congenital infection with Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Hermann Emmanuel , Berthe Aurélie , Truyens Carine , Alonso‐Vega Cristina , Parrado Rudy , Torrico Faustino , Carlier Yves , Braud Véronique M.
Published: November 2009

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I‐specific inhibitory natural killer receptors (iNKRs) are expressed by subsets of T cells but the mechanisms inducing their expression are poorly understood, particularly for killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs). The iNKRs are virtually absent from the surface of cord blood T cells but we found that KIR expression could be induced upon interleukin‐2 stimulation in vitro. In addition, KIR expression was enhanced after treatment with 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine, suggesting a role for DNA methylation. In vivo induction of KIR expression on cord blood T cells was also observed during a human congenital infection with Trypanosoma cruzi which triggers activation of fetal CD8+ T cells. These KIR+ T cells had an effector and effector/memory phenotype suggesting that KIR expression was consecutive to the antigenic stimulation; however, KIR was not preferentially found on parasite‐specific CD8+ T cells secreting interferon‐γ upon in vitro restimulation with live T. cruzi. These findings show that KIR expression is likely regulated by epigenetic mechanisms that occur during the maturation process of cord blood T cells. Our data provide a molecular basis for the appearance of KIRs on T cells with age and they have implications for T‐cell homeostasis and the regulation of T‐cell‐mediated immune responses.
Effects of glycation of the model food allergen ovalbumin on antigen uptake and presentation by human dendritic cells
Authors: Hilmenyuk Tamara , Bellinghausen Iris , Heydenreich Bärbel , Ilchmann Anne , Toda Masako , Grabbe Stephan , Saloga Joachim
Published: November 2009

Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) of food proteins resulting from the Maillard reaction after cooking or heating may have particular importance in food allergy. The underlying immunological mechanisms are only poorly understood. The aim of the study was to examine the effects of AGE derived from the model food allergen ovalbumin (AGE‐OVA) on dendritic cells (DCs), their immunostimulatory capacity and the T‐cell response compared with regular OVA. For this purpose, human immature DCs were exposed to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐labelled AGE‐OVA and FITC‐labelled regular OVA and uptake was analysed by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, autologous CD4+ T‐cell proliferation and cytokine production induced by mature DCs loaded with AGE‐OVA were compared with those induced by mature DCs loaded with OVA. Finally, expression of the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) and activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor (NF)‐κB by AGE were investigated. Internalization of FITC‐AGE‐OVA by immature DCs was significantly increased compared with FITC‐OVA. Blocking the mannose receptor, macropinocytosis or the scavenger receptor strongly reduced uptake of both FITC‐OVA and FITC‐AGE‐OVA. In a comparison of CD4+ T cells co‐cultured with AGE‐OVA‐loaded mature DCs versus those co‐cultured with OVA‐loaded mature DCs, AGE‐OVA DCs were found to produce more interleukin (IL)‐6 and to induce a stronger T helper type 2 (Th2) and a weaker Th1 cytokine response, while there was no difference in proliferation of CD4+ T cells. The expression of RAGE was higher on immature DCs compared with mature DCs. AGE‐OVA‐exposed immature DCs showed a stronger expression of RAGE and activation of the transcription factor NF‐κB compared with OVA‐loaded immature DCs. Our data indicate that AGE‐OVA may be more immunogenic/allergenic than regular OVA.
Effects of lipophillic pigments on colour of the green tea infusion
Authors: Lu Jian‐liang , Pan Shun‐shun , Zheng Xin‐qiang , Dong Jun‐jie , Borthakur Devajit , Liang Yue‐rong
Published: November 2009

Studies about effect of pigments on colour of green tea infusion will help for quality evaluation and adopting suitable measure for prevention from non‐enzyme browning. HPLC results showed that concentrations of chlorophylls and pheophytin a in green tea infusions were higher than their thresholds, and that lutein and β‐carotene were near or above the thresholds. Significant correlation between pigments concentration and colour difference index in green tea infusion was also found. Therefore, lipophillic pigments did affect the colour of green tea infusion markedly, and the ratio of chlorophylls to pheophytins could be used as an indicator of infusion colour and quality of green tea.
Changes in microbial community during Chinese traditional soybean paste fermentation
Authors: Zhao Jianxin , Dai Xiaojun , Liu Xiaoming , Chen Haiqin , Tang Jian , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei
Published: November 2009

Chinese soybean pastes have been widely used as condiments for hundreds of years in Asian countries. However, little research has been conducted on the microbiol population in the fermentation process. The present study investigated the changes in microbiol community during the 12 weeks fermentation of natural Chinese soybean pastes with polymerase chain reaction–denaturing gradient gcl electrophoresis. Bacillus megaterium, Lactobacillus plantarum, L. fermentum, B. amyloliquefaciens, and two uncultured bacteria were predominant strains during fermentation. DGGE analysis also identified the presence of Candida humilis, Kluyveromyces lactis, Zygosaccharomyces rouxii, and Williopsis saturnus. In the industrial production of Chinese fermented soybean paste, starter cultures only contained Z. rouxii and L. plantarum. However, our results showed that more microbes are involved in the natural fermentation of Chinese soybean paste.
An investigation of spawning effect on rancidity development of lipid and fatty acid profile in wild common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fillet during storage
Authors: Yeganeh Sakineh , Shabanpour Bahareh , Hosseiny Hedayat , Imanpour Mohammad Reza , Shabany Ali
Published: November 2009

This study is aimed to investigate the effect of gonadal stages on hydrolytic and oxidative rancidity development. Thus, wild common carp was caught at two different gonadal stages (pre‐ and post‐spawned fish) and was studied during frozen storage (−18 °C; up to 6 months). Lipid damage was measured by lipolysis development [free fatty acid (FFA) formation], rancidity development [conjugated dienes (CD), secondary oxidation compounds and fluorescent compounds] analyses. Pre‐spawned samples showed a higher (P < 0.05) FFA, Thiobarbituric Acid Index and fluorescence ratio (FR) than its post‐spawned counterparts. FR, heme iron (in post‐spawned samples) and CD measurements (in two samples) did not show a clear trend as a result of the frozen storage. In pre‐ and post‐spawned samples, monounsaturated FA percent increased and polyunsaturated FA percent decreased but saturated FA percent slightly decreased in pre‐spawned fillets despite post‐spawned samples during frozen storage.
Effect of convective solar drying on colour, total phenols and radical scavenging activity of olive leaves (Olea europaea L.)
Authors: Bahloul Neila , Boudhrioua Nourhène , Kouhila Mohammed , Kechaou Nabil
Published: November 2009

In this study, olive leaves, which are known for their therapeutic and antioxidant properties, were used to assess the effect of solar drying conditions (temperature and flow rate) on the drying time and quality parameters of olive leaves. Samples were dried at three drying temperatures (40, 50 and 60 °C) and at two drying air flow rates (1.62 and 3.3 m3 min−1) in a convective laboratory solar dryer. From the experimental results, it was noted that the drying time required to reduce the moisture content to 0.10 kg kg−1 d.b. depends mainly on the drying temperature. The quality attributes of the dehydrated olive leaf samples were investigated in term of colour, total phenols and radical scavenging activity. The effect of solar drying on L*, a* b* parameters was significant (P < 0.05) for all the studied olive leaves. Besides, the total phenols of olive leaves were significantly (P < 0.05) influenced by drying air conditions and tended to decrease with increased drying time. The DPPH radical scavenging activity was higher in fresh [EC50 39.40 (ZR)‐39.95 (CH)] than in dried leaves. However, the radical scavenging activity was also high in leaves dried at 60 °C, 3.3 m3 min−1 [EC50 54.21 (ZR)–68.79 (CL)].
Diversity examination based on physical, technological and chemical traits in a locally grown landrace of faba bean (Vicia faba L. var. major)
Authors: Avola Giovanni , Gresta Fabio , Abbate Valerio
Published: November 2009

Fifteen accessions of a locally adapted Sicilian population (‘Larga di Leonforte’) of faba bean were evaluated for their physical and technological properties and chemical composition. Results showed a high seed weight (1000 seed weight around 2500 × g) along with a great seed size with wide variability among accessions. When all data were combined, the seeds initial water uptake was 0.21 g min−1. Differences between accessions were found in hydration capacity (ranging between 133% and 160%) and retainable firmness after 40 min of cooking (ranging between 18.8 and 13.6 N cm−2). In addition, the average contents of 46.0, 25.2 and 2.6 g 100 g−1 dry weight basis were ascertained for starch, protein and tannin, respectively, with considerable variation among accessions. The result’s interpretation, carried out through a methodological approach based on multivariate analysis, seem to support the view that parameters such as seed dimension, starch, protein and tannin content, can be effectively adopted as elements of comparison among landraces in grain legumes.
Characterisation of honey produced from different fruit plants of northern India
Authors: Nanda Vikas , Singh Bahadur , Kukreja Vijay Kumar , Bawa Amarinder Singh
Published: November 2009

Studies were carried out to determine the affect of different fruit plant sources viz., Litche chinensis (litchi), Citrus sinensis (sweet orange), Ziziphus mauritiana (ber) and Prunus persica (peach) on moisture content, pH, free acidity, reducing sugars and sucrose contents, fructose/glucose ratio, ash and proline content, invertase and diastase activities, hydroxymethylfurfural and mineral (sodium, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc, and copper) contents as well as on rheological properties of honey. The source of honey had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on moisture content, free acidity, reducing sugar, fructose/glucose ratio, hydroxymethylfurfural content, invertase and diastase activities, sucrose content, proline content, ash content, pH and mineral content. The honey from various sources exhibited Newtonian behaviour and the activation energy ranged from 63.63 to 81.48 kJ mol−1. Pattern recognition methods such as principal component analysis andlinear discriminate analysis were performed to classify honey on the basis of physico‐chemical properties and mineral content. The variables proline, potassium and free acidity exhibited higher discrimination power.
Functional and structural properties and in vitro digestibility of acylated hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) protein isolates
Authors: Yin Shou‐Wei , Tang Chuan‐He , Wen Qi‐Biao , Yang Xiao‐Quan
Published: November 2009

The effects of succinylation and acetylation on some functional, structural properties and in vitro trypsin digestibility of hemp protein isolate (HPI) were investigated. The extent of acylation gradually increased from 0 to 60–70%, with the anhydride‐to‐protein ratio increasing from 0 to 1.0 g g−1. Size exclusion chromatography showed that succinylation led to formation of more soluble protein aggregate than acetylation, especially at anhydride levels higher than 0.1 g g−1. Succinylation led to gradual increase in protein solubility (PS) from 30 to 85–90%, while in the acetylation case, the PS was improved only at low anhydride levels, increasing from 30 to about 50% with anhydride‐to‐protein ratio increasing from 0 to 0.2 g g−1. At neutral pH, the emulsifying activity indexes (EAI) of HPI was 22.1 m2 g−1, and the EAI linearly and significantly increased with the extent of acylation. The EAIs of succinylated and acetylated HPI (1.0 g g−1) were 119.0 and 54.4 m2 g−1, respectively. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and intrinsic fluorescence spectrum analyses indicated gradual structural unfolding of proteins, or exposure of hydrophobic clusters to the solvent, especially at higher anhydride levels. Additionally, the in vitro trypsin digestibility was significantly improved by the succinylation. The results indicated that the chemical acylation treatment (especially succinylation) could be applied to modify some selected functional properties of hemp proteins, especially PS and emulsifying ability.
Distance software: design and analysis of distance sampling surveys for estimating population size
Authors: Thomas Len , Buckland Stephen T. , Rexstad Eric A. , Laake Jeff L. , Strindberg Samantha , Hedley Sharon L. , Bishop Jon R.B. , Marques Tiago A. , Burnham Kenneth P.
Published: November 2009

1. Distance sampling is a widely used technique for estimating the size or density of biological populations. Many distance sampling designs and most analyses use the software Distance.

2. We briefly review distance sampling and its assumptions, outline the history, structure and capabilities of Distance, and provide hints on its use.

3. Good survey design is a crucial prerequisite for obtaining reliable results. Distance has a survey design engine, with a built‐in geographic information system, that allows properties of different proposed designs to be examined via simulation, and survey plans to be generated.

4. A first step in analysis of distance sampling data is modelling the probability of detection. Distance contains three increasingly sophisticated analysis engines for this: conventional distance sampling, which models detection probability as a function of distance from the transect and assumes all objects at zero distance are detected; multiple‐covariate distance sampling, which allows covariates in addition to distance; and mark–recapture distance sampling, which relaxes the assumption of certain detection at zero distance.

5. All three engines allow estimation of density or abundance, stratified if required, with associated measures of precision calculated either analytically or via the bootstrap.

6. Advanced analysis topics covered include the use of multipliers to allow analysis of indirect surveys (such as dung or nest surveys), the density surface modelling analysis engine for spatial and habitat modelling, and information about accessing the analysis engines directly from other software.

7.Synthesis and applications. Distance sampling is a key method for producing abundance and density estimates in challenging field conditions. The theory underlying the methods continues to expand to cope with realistic estimation situations. In step with theoretical developments, state‐of‐the‐art software that implements these methods is described that makes the methods accessible to practising ecologists.
Cheatgrass facilitates spillover of a seed bank pathogen onto native grass species
Authors: Beckstead Julie , Meyer Susan E. , Connolly Brian M. , Huck Michael B. , Street Laura E.
Published: November 2009

1. Pathogen spillover occurs when disease levels for a given population are driven by transmission from a reservoir species that carries a high pathogen load. Pathogen spillover is widely documented in crop systems, but has been little studied in natural plant communities.

2. The abundant seed production of weedy species may create a scenario where spillover of a generalist seed pathogen onto less abundant seeds of native hosts is possible. The invasive annual weed cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is a potential reservoir species forPyrenophora semeniperda, a multiple‐host fungal seed pathogen that naturally occurs in the semi‐arid western United States.

3. To investigate potential community‐level consequences of spillover by this pathogen in plant communities invaded by cheatgrass, we first used artificial inoculation studies to determine the relative susceptibility of seeds of cheatgrass and five co‐occurring native grasses toP. semeniperda. Secondly, we quantified the pathogen reservoir (density of pathogen‐killed seeds) in the spring seed bank for cheatgrass monoculture, cheatgrass‐invaded native grass, and uninvaded native grass patches. Thirdly, potential pathogen spillover onto co‐occurring native grasses was quantified by planting native grass seeds into field‐collected seed‐zone samples from each vegetation patch type and scoring subsequent seed mortality.

4. All species tested were susceptible to infection byP. semeniperda, but their vulnerability to seed death varied as a function of germination time and degree of susceptibility.

5. Seed bank samples from cheatgrass‐dominated patches contained seed densities over four times higher than samples from uninvaded native grass patches, andP. semeniperda‐killed seeds were also present at much higher densities, indicating that cheatgrass can function as a reservoir forP. semeniperda. Native seeds planted into seed‐zone samples from cheatgrass‐dominated patches were more likely to be killed byP. semeniperdathan those planted into samples from uninvaded native patches. Seed mortality also varied across years, sites and host species.

6. Synthesis. Pathogen spillover onto native seeds is likely to operate within seed banks of semi‐arid communities invaded by cheatgrass, and perhaps other weeds, and may have broad consequences for community structure. Our findings also demonstrate the ecological significance of multiple‐host pathosystems that operate at the seed stage.
Experimental manipulation of soil depth alters species richness and co‐occurrence in restored tallgrass prairie
Authors: Dornbush Mathew E. , Wilsey Brian J.
Published: November 2009

1. In relatively fertile ecosystems, such as the tallgrass prairie, local species diversity is largely controlled by the competitive effects of community dominants. Despite the relative importance of soil resources in shaping competitive outcomes, we have a limited understanding of the ways by which plants partition below‐ground space and resources while competing, and thus, how these interactions feedback to affect local diversity.

2. We experimentally tested whether potential rooting depth affected plant species diversity and composition by seeding 36 tallgrass prairie species into replicated, bare‐ground plots in which soil depth was manipulated to produce shallow‐ (20 cm), medium‐ (42 cm) and deep‐soil treatments all within one soil type. Because root architecture and foraging strategies differ among species, we hypothesized that soil depth alone could affect plant richness, diversity and community composition.

3. After 3 years, richness (S) significantly increased with soil depth (P < 0.0001), but there was no significant change in species diversity (P > 0.1) or composition (multi‐response permutation procedure,P > 0.2). The lack of a depth effect upon diversity resulted from the opposing effect of increasing soil depth enhancing S, but decreasing evenness.

4. Species presence among depth treatments was strongly nested, with species found in shallow soils reflecting a subset of the species found in the medium‐depth treatment, and the species found within the medium‐depth treatment reflecting a subset of those found in the deepest soils.

5. All depth treatments contained the same dominant grasses, thus differences inSresulted from the nested loss of forbs. Conversely, increasing soil depth added sets of new species, but the specific identity of the species present appeared interchangeable among replicates of a given depth.

6. Synthesis. Our results provide the first field‐based experimental evidence that altering soil depth alters species occurrence and diversity in predictable ways in seeded tallgrass prairie. Our results have important theoretical implications for understanding the processes promoting plant co‐occurrence in grasslands, and generate testable hypotheses concerning the conditions under which root‐niche partitioning is probably important for maintaining local richness in grasslands. Future work is needed to elucidate the generality and mechanistic basis of our results.
Staphylococcus aureus SarA is a regulatory protein responsive to redox and pH that can support bacteriophage lambda integrase‐mediated excision/recombination
Authors: Fujimoto David F. , Higginbotham Robin H. , Sterba Kristen M. , Maleki Soheila J. , Segall Anca M. , Smeltzer Mark S. , Hurlburt Barry K.
Published: November 2009

Staphylococcus aureus produces a wide array of virulence factors and causes a correspondingly diverse array of infections. Production of these virulence factors is under the control of a complex network of global regulatory elements, one of which is sarA. sarA encodes a DNA binding protein that is considered to function as a transcription factor capable of acting as either a repressor or an activator. Using competitive ELISA assays, we demonstrate that SarA is present at approximately 50 000 copies per cell, which is not characteristic of classical transcription factors. We also demonstrate that SarA is present at all stages of growth in vitro and is capable of binding DNA with high affinity but that its binding affinity and pattern of shifted complexes in electrophoretic mobility shift assays is responsive to the redox state. We also show that SarA binds to the bacteriophage lambda (λ) attachment site, attL, producing SarA‐DNA complexes similar to intasomes, which consist of bacteriophage lambda integrase, Escherichia coli integration host factor and attL DNA. In addition, SarA stimulates intramolecular excision recombination in the absence of λ excisionase, a DNA binding accessory protein. Taken together, these data suggest that SarA may function as an architectural accessory protein.
Cutaneous acanthamebiasis infection in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients
Authors: Galarza Carlos , Ramos Willy , Gutierrez Ericson L. , Ronceros Gerardo , Teran Maria , Uribe Martha , Ñavincopa Marcos , Ortega‐Loayza Alex G.
Published: November 2009

Background  Cutaneous acanthamebiasis is a rare infection and few patients have been reported worldwide.

Methods  Observational and descriptive study carried out from March 1996 to February 2006 in patients with diagnosis of cutaneous free‐living amebic infection caused by Acanthamoeba spp. The patients were diagnosed at the Dos de Mayo National Hospital (Lima‐Peru) where skin biopsies, histopathologic studies and cultures were performed. The clinical and epidemiologic characteristics, diagnosis, treatment and evolution were recorded in a survey.

Results  Five patients with cutaneous free‐living amebic infection caused by Acanthamoeba spp. were identified. Skin lesions were ulceronecrotic (four patients), an infiltrative bluish plaque (one patient), and a periorbital tumor (one patient). Three patients were positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), had only cutaneous involvement, and died of opportunistic infections. The two immunocompetent patients developed Acanthamoeba granulomatous encephalitis and meningoencephalitis that progressed to intracranial hypertension and death.

Conclusion  The clinical manifestations of cutaneous free‐living amebic infection caused by Acanthamoeba spp. appear to vary according to the underlying immunologic status.
Expression of p16 protein in acral lentiginous melanoma
Authors: Hsieh Ricardo , Firmiano Aline , Sotto Mirian N.
Published: November 2009

Background  Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a clinicopathologic subtype of cutaneous malignant melanoma. ALM is the most common type of melanoma amongst Asians, Africans, and patients with mixed ancestry. In Brazil, ALM comprises 10% of cutaneous melanoma. ALM develops on palmar, plantar, and subungual skin, and its biology is different from that of other cutaneous melanomas, where sunlight is the major known environmental determinant. Alterations and inactivation of the p16INK4 gene that encodes a specific inhibitor of cyclin‐dependent kinase have been related to melanoma genesis and progression. Few studies, however, have addressed p16 expression in ALM.

Methods  In order to verify and compare p16 protein expression, 32 paraffin‐embedded ALM specimens were subjected to a immunohistochemical technique using a monoclonal anti‐p16 antibody. The tumors were classified according to thickness (up to 1.0 mm and thicker than 1.0 mm) and the presence of ulceration.

Results  Twenty‐five (78%) ALMs displayed positive p16 protein expression: 21 of the 25 (84%) with a thickness of more than 1.0 mm, and four of the seven (57%) with a thickness of 1.0 mm or less. Thirteen of the 17 (76%) nonulcerated lesions and 12 of the 15 (80%) ulcerated lesions displayed positive p16 protein expression.

Conclusion  The data obtained suggest that p16 protein expression per se may not represent a marker of retinoblastoma protein (pRb) pathway disturbance in ALM tumorigenesis.
Leg ulcer caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans ssp. shinshuense infection
Authors: Kondo Makoto , Kurokawa Ichiro , Ito Yoshiyuki , Yamanaka Kei‐ichi , Yamazaki Toshio , Mizutani Hitoshi
Published: November 2009

Background  An 81‐year‐old man presented with a skin ulcer on the left forearm caused by infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans ssp. shinshuense. The patient first noticed the subcutaneous nodule with an undermined ulcer and areola on the left forearm without any episode of trauma.

Methods  The rod‐shaped and acid‐fast bacteria taken from the ulcerative lesion were positive for Ziehl–Neelsen staining. The bacterial colony was cultured on Ogawa slant egg medium at 28 °C.

Results  A clinical diagnosis of Mycobacterium infection was made. For therapy, in addition to oral clarithromycin, topical sulfadiazine silver and hyperthermia were used. One month after starting treatment, topical treatment was changed to U‐pasta (sucrose, povidone‐iodine). Four months after the onset of the disease, bacterial colonies composed of scotochromogens were identified as Mycobacterium marinum by the DNA–DNA hybridization (DDH) method. The growth speed and characteristics of the bacterial colonies were different from those of Mycobacterium marinum.

Conclusions  This pathogenetic bacterium was finally identified as Mycobacterium ulcerans ssp. shinshuense by the polymerase chain reaction method and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Nine months after the onset of the disease, the ulcer was re‐epithelialized with a residual scar.
Treatment of acquired bilateral nevus of Ota‐like macules (Hori's nevus) using 1064‐nm Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser with low fluence
Authors: Cho Sung Bin , Park Soo Jie , Kim Moon Jung , Bu Tae Sung
Published: November 2009

Background  Acquired bilateral nevus of Ota‐like macules (ABNOM), or Hori's nevus, is a common dermal melanocytic hyperpigmentation in Asians.

Aim  To describe the effect of 1064‐nm Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser (QSNY) with low fluence in South Korean patients with ABNOM.

Methods  Fifteen South Korean patients (13 women and two men; mean age, 33.2 years; range, 26–52 years; Fitzpatrick skin type IV), clinically diagnosed with ABNOM, and treated using 1064‐nm QSNY with low fluence, were enrolled in this study. Patients were treated with 1064‐nm QSNY using a MedLite C6™ (HoyaConBio Inc., Fremont, CA, USA) at 1–2‐week intervals. The laser settings were 2.2–2.6 J/cm2 using a 6‐mm spot size, followed by 4–6 J/cm2 using a 4‐mm spot size.

Results  The median number of QSNY treatment sessions was 11 (range, 10–15). Follow‐up results 2 months after the final treatment revealed that seven of the 15 patients (46.7%) demonstrated clinical improvement of 76–100%, and five (33.3%) of 51–75%. Three patients showed moderate clinical improvement between 26% and 50%. Post‐therapy dyschromia, including hypo‐ and hyperpigmentation, was not observed.

Conclusion  We suggest that QSNY with low fluence provides an easy‐to‐perform, low‐downtime, effective treatment algorithm in certain cases of ABNOM in Asian patients.
Virtual Grand Rounds in Dermatology: an 8‐year experience in web‐based teledermatology
Authors: Hu Stephanie W. , Foong Henry B. B. , Elpern David J.
Published: November 2009

Background  Teledermatology utilizes telecommunication technologies for the exchange of dermatologic information across distances. In 2000, we developed the Virtual Grand Rounds in Dermatology (VGRD) as a free, user‐friendly platform for dermatologists to present complex dermatologic cases to the international community for clinical feedback, consultation, and continuing education.

Methods  VGRD was designed using simple graphics to facilitate access in remote and developing geographic regions. Members present their case according to a recommended template and are encouraged to provide clinical and histopathologic photographs. Viewers’ comments are posted on the site within 24–48 h following receipt.

Results  VGRD's low‐cost store‐and‐forward system allows easy accessibility to expertise for colleagues around the world. VGRD currently comprises a community of 344 clinicians across all dermatologic subspecialties, and links users to cases as well as a recent interactive addition for more urgent feedback: VGRD Blog. The Maine Virtual Skin Clinic is another sister site developed as an educational tool for physicians and residents in primary care. VGRD can be found at http://www.vgrd.org.

Conclusions  With its easy‐to‐use platform for teleconsultation services, VGRD has the potential to enhance clinical outcomes and education. In the next few years, we hope to continue to expand VGRD, including launching a comprehensive search engine in VGRD to provide users with a “one‐stop resource.” With the growth of teledermatology, we will combine web consultations with web‐based education into a single resource for dermatologists interested in new possibilities in clinical practice, patient care, and continuing education.
Agreement between histological diagnosis of skin lesions by histopathologists and a dermato‐histopathologist
Authors: Heal Clare F. , Weedon David , Raasch Beverly A. , Hill Brendan T. , Buettner Petra G.
Published: November 2009

Background  Skin cancer is an increasing problem in fair‐skinned populations worldwide. It is important that doctors are able to diagnose skin lesions accurately, and this is supported by accurate histological diagnosis.

Objective  To compare agreement for histological diagnosis between local histopathologists with a dermato‐histopathologist from a stratified random sample of excised skin lesions derived from a set of epidemiological data.

Methods  All excised and histologically confirmed skin cancers in Townsville/Thuringowa, Australia from December 1996 to October 1999 were recorded. A stratified sample of 407 of 8694 skin excisions slides was analyzed.

Results  Positive predictive values (PPVs) for the primary histological diagnosis were above 90% for basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous melanoma, and common naevus. For squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the PPV was 72.6% [95% CI = (65.5, 79.0)].

Discussion  Lack of agreement between histopathologists regarding the diagnosis of SCC and actinic keratosis has been previously recognized in the literature and this is again reflected in our study. The result also illustrates the difficulty involved for doctors in accurately clinically diagnosing lesions for which a consensus is hard to reach histologically.