bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding allosteric and cooperative interactions in enzymes
Authors: Cornish‐Bowden Athel
Published: August 2013

The paper that introduced biochemists to the idea of allosteric feedback inhibition [Monod J, Changeux J‐P & Jacob F (1963) J Mol Biol 6, 306–329] is now 50 years old, and the two papers on models for enzyme cooperativity that followed it [Monod J, Wyman J & Changeux J‐P (1965) J Mol Biol 12, 88–118; Koshland DE, Némethy G & Filmer D (1966) Biochemistry 5, 365–385] are almost as old. All of these papers continue to be heavily cited today – more in the 21st century than they were in the last two decades of the 20th. This is because they continue to be central for understanding enzyme regulation, and increasingly important in the age of systems biology.
Breakout of a slab as the result of changes in the thermophysical properties of continuously cast steel
Authors: Kavicka F. , Dobrovska J. , Stransky K. , Sekanina B. , Stetina J. , Mauder T. , Masarik M.
Published: August 2013

The so‐called secondary cooling zone is an important part of the continuous casting machine. In this zone, a breakout may occur because of an increase of the local and temperature heterogeneity of steel, resulting from an increase of the stress caused by bending of the slab and by high local concentration of nonmetallic slag inclusions. Changes of the chemical composition of steel during continuous casting are particularly dangerous. In the event that two melts are cast one after another, that is, if the melt of steel with chemical composition A ends and is immediately followed by the steel B, it may automatically stop the continuous casting machine, and an atypical breakout may take place. It has happened during continuous casting of the slab, 250 × 1530 mm in the area of straightening, 20 min after flying change of tundish. In the present paper, by employing the dimensional analysis, eight dimensionless numbers are derived. If the values of these dimensionless numbers for two followed steels significantly differ, the atypical breakout may take place.
Feminist Geopolitics
Authors: Massaro Vanessa A. , Williams Jill
Published: August 2013

This paper traces the development of feminist geopolitics as a distinct analytical, epistemological, and methodological approach in geography. Feminist geopolitics is explained as an analytic approach that connects seemingly disparate people, places, events, and issues to show the connections across various operations of power and productions of inequality and exploitation. In so doing, we demonstrate the ways in which feminist geopolitics challenges the scales of geopolitics and refocuses on the mundane, everyday reproductions of geopolitical power. We further discuss recent work in the field that examines issues of security and insecurity to illustrate what insights can be gained by employing a feminist geopolitical framework.
A disparity of words: racial differences in oncologist–patient communication about clinical trials
Authors: Eggly Susan , Barton Ellen , Winckles Andrew , Penner Louis A. , Albrecht Terrance L.
Published: August 2013

Background

African Americans are consistently underrepresented in cancer clinical trials. Minority under‐enrolment may be, in part, due to differences in the way clinical trials are discussed in oncology visits with African American vs. White patients.

Objective

To investigate differences in oncologist–patient communication during offers to participate in clinical trials in oncology visits with African American and White patients.

Methods

From an archive of video‐recorded oncology visits, we selected all visits with African American patients that included a trial offer (n = 11) and a matched sample of visits with demographically/medically comparable White patients (n = 11). Using mixed qualitative–quantitative methods, we assessed differences by patient race in (i) word count of entire visits and (ii) frequency of mentions and word count of discussions of clinical trials and key elements of consent.

Results

Visits with African American patients, compared to visits with White patients, were shorter overall and included fewer mentions of and less discussion of clinical trials. Also, visits with African Americans included less discussion of the purpose and risks of trials offered, but more discussion of voluntary participation.

Discussion and conclusions

African American patients may make decisions about clinical trial participation based on less discussion with oncologists than do White patients. Possible explanations include a less active communication style of African Americans in medical visits, oncologists' concerns about patient mistrust, and/or oncologist racial bias. Findings suggest oncologists should pay more conscious attention to developing the topic of clinical trials with African American patients, particularly purpose and risks.
Estimating dispersal distributions at multiple scales: within‐colony and among‐colony dispersal rates, distances and directions inEuropeanShagsPhalacrocorax aristotelis
Authors: Barlow Emily J. , Daunt Francis , Wanless Sarah , Reid Jane M.
Published: August 2013

Knowledge of the rate, distance and direction of dispersal within and among breeding areas is required to understand and predict demographic and genetic connectivity and resulting population and evolutionary dynamics. However dispersal rates, and the full distributions of dispersal distances and directions, are rarely comprehensively estimated across all spatial scales relevant to wild populations. We used re‐sightings ofEuropeanShagsPhalacrocorax aristoteliscolour‐ringed as chicks on theIsle ofMay (IoM),UK, to quantify rates, distances and directions of dispersal from natal to subsequent breeding sites both withinIoM(within‐colony dispersal) and across 27 other breeding colonies covering 1045 km of coastline (among‐colony dispersal). Additionally, we used non‐breeding season surveys covering 895 km of coastline to estimate breeding season detection probability and hence potential bias in estimated dispersal parameters. WithinIoM, 99.6% of individuals dispersed between their natal and observed breeding nest‐site. The distribution of within‐colony dispersal distances was right‐skewed; mean distance was shorter than expected given random settlement withinIoM, yet some individuals dispersed long distances within the colony. The distribution of within‐colony dispersal directions was non‐uniform but did not differ from expectation given the spatial arrangement of nest‐sites. However, 10% of all 460 colour‐ringed adults that were located breeding had dispersed to a different colony. The maximum observed dispersal distance (170 km) was much smaller than the maximum distance surveyed (690 km). The distribution of among‐colony dispersal distances was again right‐skewed. Among‐colony dispersal was directional, and differed from random expectation and from the distribution of within‐colony dispersal directions. Non‐breeding season surveys suggested that the probability of detecting a colour‐ringed adult at its breeding location was high in the northeasternUK(98%). Estimated dispersal rates and distributions were therefore robust to incomplete detection. Overall, these data demonstrate skewed and directionally divergent dispersal distributions across small (within‐colony) and large (among‐colony) scales, indicating that dispersal could create genetic and demographic connectivity within the study area.
The swine steroid 21‐hydroxylase gene (CYP21): cloning and mapping within the swine leucocyte antigen complex
Authors: GEFFROTIN C. , CHARDON P. , DE ANDRES‐CARA D. F. , FEIL R. , RENARD C. , VAIMAN M.
Published: August 2013

Summary A swine genomic cosmid library constructed from a genotypically SLA homozygous Large White individual was screened with a murine genomic 21‐hydroxylase probe. A clone which contained a pig 21‐hydroxylase gene was isolated and after subcloning, the 5′ region of the gene was sequenced. The deduced amino acid sequence corresponded almost exactly to the NH2 terminal portion of the steroid 21‐hydroxylase from porcine adrenal microsomes. Comparison of the first 99 amino acid residues of both sequences revealed three substitutions comprising two leucine residues in positions 10 and 13, and one arginine residue in position 55 for our sequence, instead of threonine in position 10 and lysine in position 13 and 55 for the isolated enzyme. A swine homologous probe was derived from the isolated 21‐hydroxylase gene and used for gene assignment by RFLP studies in two swine leucocyte antigen (SLA) informative families. The results demonstrate that the swine 21‐hydroxylase gene is located within or close to the swine MHC. Taken together, the present results suggest the existence of a single 21‐hydroxylase gene per haploid genome.
Variation in T cell responses to ovalbumin in cattle: evidence for Ir gene control
Authors: GLASS E. J. , OLIVER R. A. , SPOONER R. L.
Published: August 2013

Summary Genetic control of immune responsiveness in cattle was investigated using an antigen‐dependent T cell proliferation assay in vitro. Bovine T cell proliferative responses to ovalbumin were dependent upon major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules. Responses of an unrelated panel of animals to a limiting concentration of ovalbumin after a single immunization were compared. Two discrete patterns of response were observed. One group of animals had low or non‐responses which were not significantly different from the preimmune levels. Another group of animals showed significant responses. After a second immunization the majority of low responders remained low responders. There was no significant correlation between bovine MHC class I BoLA haplotype and magnitude of response within this group of unrelated animals. However, the magnitude of the T cell responses by two half‐sib family groups segregated with BoLA haplotypes inherited from the sire. In contrast no significant correlation with antibody responses in vivo could be demonstrated. We suggest that the observed variation in T cell response is linked to bovine MHC class II immune response (Ir) genes.
Ontogeny and expression of chicken A blood group antigens*
Authors: FULTON J. E. , HALL V. J. , LAMONT S. J.
Published: August 2013

Summary Expression of chicken red blood cell (RBC) surface antigens was studied by using a monoclonal antibody (ISU‐cA) specific for chicken A blood group antigens. Erythrocytes were examined from embryos of 3–18 days of incubation and from chicks at hatch up to 21 weeks of age. Specific antigens were detected on embryonic RBC surfaces by immunofluorescence as early as 3 days of incubation. Antigenic expression was examined by both haemagglutination and immunofluorescence and found to increase with age from embryos to mature birds. The antigen concentration on the cell surface was found to be affected by genotype; heterozygotes had an intermediate level of antigen between that of the two parental genotypes. These data confirm the co‐dominance that is observed with most blood group antigens. Flow cytometric analysis allowed confirmation that the entire erythrocyte population gradually increased in antigenic expression over time, rather than having an antigen‐negative subpopulation being replaced by a positive subpopulation.
Swine lymphocyte alloantigens (SLA) class I serology and genetics in Belgian Landrace and Pietrain breeds
Authors: VAREWYCK H. , RENARD C. , KRISTENSEN B. , BOUQUET Y. , VAIMAN M. , VAN DE WEGHE A. , VAN ZEVEREN A.
Published: August 2013

Summary Eighty anti‐SLA class I reagents were prepared resulting from skin graft and subcutaneous immunizations in 320 fattening pigs of the Belgian Landrace and Pietrain breeds. By means of these alloantisera seven internationally and five locally established specificities were recognized. Three of the locally assigned specificities were new: BM 36, BM 37 and BM 38. They were serologically and genetically defined. The typing battery was completed with French and Danish reagents, and correlation coefficients were calculated for the main alloantisera recognizing SLA class I alloantigens observed in the Belgian breeds.

The SLA haplotype frequencies were estimated in 372 Belgian Landrace and 369 Pietrain pigs. The SLA haplotype distribution differs significantly between both breeds and the genetic distance (0.54) at the SLA system is quite high.
Isolation and characterization of two male‐specific DNA fragments from the bovine gene
Authors: MILLER J. R. , KOOPMAN M.
Published: August 2013

Summary Two independent male‐specific DNA fragments were isolated from the bovine genome by the technique of cloning by deletion enrichment. Each is represented in the order of one to five copies per haploid genome. Neither fragment was found to be polymorphic between two individuals of different breeds with 12 different restriction enzymes. A ‘zoo blot’ demonstrated that one fragment had a closely related sequence in the sheep genome, although no other hybridizing sequences were detected in a variety of animal DNAs tested with both probes. The DNA sequence of each fragment is presented; one fragment has a continuous open reading frame and a potential Z‐DNA forming region.
Studies on the bovine major histocompatibility class I and class II antigens using homozygous typing cells and antigen‐specific BoT4+ blast cells
Authors: ROTHEL J. S. , DUFTY J. H. , WOOD P. R.
Published: August 2013

Summary Animals were identified from two sire lines as being homozygous for the class I bovine lymphocyte antigen (BoLA‐A) w23. These animals were also shown to be homozygous for class II antigens (BoLA‐D) which, however, differed between the two sire lines. Lymphocytes from these animals were then used either as stimulator cells in one‐way mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLR) with all animals in the herd carrying the w23 antigen or as antigen presenting cells to bovine T4+ cell blasts. It was shown that, within each sire Une, the genes encoding the MHC class I and class II antigens were closely linked. There were no detected recombinations between the MHC class I and class II regions nor within the BoLA‐D region responsible for mixed lymphocyte reactivity. MLR typing of MHC class II antigens correlated with the results from T‐lymphocyte proliferation studies. Cells from these cattle, which are homozygous at the class I and II MHC loci but differ in the class II antigen expressed, could be used to type the BoLA‐D of other cattle.
Linkage between genes for coat colour and for blood plasma esterase in dogs
Authors: ARNOLD I. C. J. , BOUW J.
Published: August 2013

Summary A study on linkage in dogs has been made on the basis of comparable studies in other mammal species. In a breeding experiment one dog was mated to 14 bitches. The dog was heterozygous for the plasma esterase locus (Es‐1) and the extension locus (E) for coat colour. The 14 bitches, homozygous for both loci, produced a total of 96 offspring. The recombination distance between the loci is calculated to be 34·4 ± 4·8CM. The basis for homology between species for the two loci has been discussed.
A bovine monoclonal antibody detecting a class I BoLA antigen
Authors: KEMP S. J. , TUCKER E. M. , TEALE A. J.
Published: August 2013

Summary The bovine IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) ILA70 was made by immunizing a calf with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM) from a BoLA‐w10 homozygous heifer and subsequently fusing lymphocytes from the local lymph‐node with the heterohybridoma 53B3. Family and population studies, antibody binding inhibition and immunoprecipitation of the target antigen all indicate that ILA70 detects a polymorphic epitope on a bovine class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. The antibody is complement fixing and so may be used in a standard cytotoxicity assay. Ascitic fluid with antibody activity many times greater than that of the tissue‐culture supernatant has been prepared in nude mice. The antibody‐producing heterohybridoma has been subcloned three times and appears to be stable. Such heterohybridomas may prove to be a valuable source of particularly discriminating and informative mAbs for the serological analysis of the products of the bovine MHC.
Influence of major histocompatibility complex on reproduction and production traits in swine
Authors: GAUTSCHI C. , GAILLARD C.
Published: August 2013

Summary The effects of the swine lymphocyte antigen (SLA) system on different performance traits were investigated in Swiss pig breeds. Litter size and piglet weight at birth and at weaning were considered and in gilts the average daily weight gain, backfat and muscle thickness as well as percentage valuable cuts were measured. These data were analysed with least squares procedures. Although the effect of SLA on these traits was very small, a few haplotypes seemed to have some influence. Sows of the Large White breed carrying H12 had a significant smaller and those with H24 had a bigger litter size at weaning. Some mating studies were performed to investigate the effects of SLA homozygosity. The obtained results suggest that this has a negative effect on the litter size, especially when H19 in the Large White breed and H7 in Landrace are involved.
A single gel for determining genetic variants of equine erythrocyte carbonic anhydrase (CA) and catalase (Cat)
Authors: BOWLING A. T. , GORDON L. , PENEDO M. C. T. , WICTUM E. , BEEBOUT J.
Published: August 2013

Summary We describe a method for agarose IEF under acid conditions in which a single gel can be used to diagnose from equine red cell lysates genetic variants for carbonic anhydrase (CA) and catalase (Cat) Family and population data for 4801 horses of 27 breeds and seven trap sites of Great Basin feral horses are presented to support the presence of a sixth CA allele, CAE, which has been recognized previously, but not described by published data. Allelic frequencies for the two systems suggest it may be appropriate to use this gel for parentage verification programmes or to obtain population data for studies of the genus Equus.
The HK/LK polymorphism of erythrocyte cation content in two wild species of East African bovids: demonstrated in wildebeest but not in African buffalo
Authors: GEORGIADIS N. , DUNHAM P. B.
Published: August 2013

Summary Concentrations of K and Na were determined in erythrocytes from wildebeest and African buffalo resident in Tanzania. The object was to determine if these species possess the HK/LK polymorphism which is typical of other bovid species, but not of other mammals. The polymorphism is characterized by individuals that are either of the HK phenotype (high K and low Na concentrations in red cells) or LK phenotype (low K and high Na concentrations in red cells). Wildebeest were shown to be polymorphic, with the distribution of phenotypes resembling that in domestic cattle. By contrast the polymorphism was not found in the African buffalo; all 59 individuals examined exhibited the HK phenotype. This was unexpected, since the polymorphism has been observed in five divergent bovid species, including two species (water buffalo and domestic cow) that are closely related to the African buffalo, and classified in the same subfamily (Bovinae). The most parsimonious interpretation of this pattern is that the trait was lost from the African buffalo after species in the Bovinae diverged. The biological significance of the HK/LK polymorphism, and reasons for its presence or absence among species in the Bovidae, remain obscure.
Assignment of nucleoside phosphorylase gene to q2.1 → q2.2 region of chromosome 7 in the pig, Sus scrofa domestica L
Authors: GELLIN J. , YERLE M. , GILLOIS M.
Published: August 2013

Summary Using in situ hybridization with a human probe, we have mapped the nucleoside phosphorylase gene on pig chromosome 7. These results are in agreement with those obtained by other groups, but give a more precise localization in the q2.1 → q2.2 region of chromosome 7.
Detection of bovine κ‐casein genomic variants by the polymerase chain reaction method*
Authors: DENICOURT D. , SABOUR M. P. , McALLISTER A. J.
Published: August 2013

Summary A method is described for identifying variants at the bovine κ‐casein locus by combining polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and restriction enzyme digests.
Genetic polymorphism of δ‐aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase (E.C. 4.2.1.24, ALAD) in the domestic rabbit
Authors: FERRAND N. , AMORIM A.
Published: August 2013

Summary A genetic polymorphism of δ‐aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) in the domestic rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, was detected by starch gel electrophoresis. Family data (15 matings with 49 offspring) support the genetic model of two common codominant alleles at an autosomal locus. Gene frequencies were calculated in a random sample of 55 mixed breed, unrelated domestic rabbits: ALAD1= 0·31 and ALAD2= 0·69.
The relationship between bovine major histocompatibility complex class II polymorphism and disease studied by use of bull breeding values
Authors: LUNDÉN A. , SIGURDARDÓTTIR S. , EDFORS‐LILJA I. , DANELL B. , RENDEL J. , ANDERSSON L.
Published: August 2013

Summary The predictive value of class II DQ and DYA polymorphisms of the bovine major histocompatibility (MHC) complex (BoLA) for the incidence of disease in dairy cattle was estimated in a sample of 196 progeny‐tested AI bulls of the Swedish Red and White breed. The BoLA DQ and DYA types of the bulls were determined by analysing restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs). Breeding values of bulls for clinical mastitis, all diseases including clinical mastitis and diseases other than clinical mastitis were used as measures of disease resistance or susceptibility. The relationship between MHC polymorphism and bull breeding values for disease resistance was evaluated statistically by linear regression analysis. A significant association between the haplotype DQ1A and susceptibility to clinical mastitis was revealed. No other DQ haplotype nor the DYA locus had a significant effect on any of the disease traits studied.
DNA fingerprints of chickens selected for high and low body weight for 31 generations
Authors: DUNNINGTON E. A. , GAL O. , PLOTSKY Y. , HABERFELD A. , KIRK T. , GOLDBERG A. , LAVI U. , CAHANER A. , SIEGEL P. B. , HILLEL J.
Published: August 2013

Summary Two lines of White Plymouth Rock chickens that have been divergently selected for 8‐week body weight for 31 generations were compared for patterns of DNA fingerprints (DFP). Digestion of DNA with HinfI and hybridization to Jeffreys' minisatellite probe 33.6 resulted in DFPs that were relatively similar within lines (bandsharing = 0.50) and less similar between lines (bandsharing = 0.22). Analyses of scorable DFP bands produced by mixing DNA from individuals within lines indicated that 48% were line‐specific. Causes for the differences in DFP patterns between lines and for occurrence of line‐specific bands for the two lines divergently selected for body weight are discussed.
Restriction site heteroplasmy in the mitochondrial DNA of the marine fish Sciaenops ocellatus (L.)
Authors: GOLD J. R. , RICHARDSON L. R.
Published: August 2013

Summary Restriction site heteroplasmy involving the enzymes NcoI and XbaI was detected in the mitochondrial DNAs of two individuals of the marine fish Sciaenops ocellatus. This represents only the sixth documented example of mitochondrial DNA restriction site heteroplasmy in animals. Two heteroplasmic individuals were found in a survey of nearly 750 individuals, suggesting that in most studies the incidence of mitochondrial DNA site heteroplasmy may be too low to be routinely detected.
A bovine class I major histocompatibility complex molecule plus aTheileria parvaantigen resembles mouse H‐2Kd
Authors: GODDEERIS B. M.
Published: August 2013

SummaryTwo BoT2+, BoT8+cytotoxic T cell clones were generated from peripheral blood of a steer immunized with the intracellular protozoan parasiteTheileria parva. Both cytotoxic T cell clones appeared to be restricted by the same major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule and were specific for the immunizing parasite clone. However, one of the two clones also recognized uninfected mouse cell lines carrying the H‐2dhaplotype. Inhibition of cytotoxicity with monoclonal antibodies specific for polymorphic determinants on H‐2 molecules confirmed that this CTL clone recognized the H‐2KdMHC molecule. These results extend to the bovine system observations in other species that foreign MHC mimics self MHC plus antigen.
Linkage studies on erythrocyte antigen loci, the major histocompatibility complex and the haemoglobin beta gene cluster in goats
Authors: NESSE L. L. , BERGERSEN O. , EIDE D. M. , BRAEND M.
Published: August 2013

Summary Linkage studies on seven erythrocyte antigen loci, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and the haemoglobin beta gene cluster (HBB) were performed in 48 Norwegian goat families. Close linkage was excluded between the erythrocyte antigen B‐system and the MHC, between the erythrocyte antigen N7 locus and HBB, and between the MHC and the HBB.
Additional information on the linear order of the genes encoding the red blood group C‐system antigens in cattle
Authors: BUYS C.
Published: August 2013

Summary A linear model for the genes controlling the system C blood group factors was presented by Bouw et al. (1974) and confirmed by Guerin et al. (1981). The relative order of the R and W genes was not established by either of these studies. A recently observed recombination in the C system is reported here, providing evidence for the positioning of the R and W genes.
Nervilia brevilobatasp. nov. (Orchidaceae) from Taiwan and Hainan
Authors: Hsieh Szu‐I. , Gale Stephan W. , Lee Chi‐Te , Yeh Chuan‐Rong , Leou Chong‐Sheng , Yeh Ching‐Long
Published: August 2013

Nervilia brevilobataC. S. Leou, C. L. Yeh & S. W. Gale sp. nov. (Orchidaceae), discovered in Taiwan and Hainan, is described and illustrated. The new species belongs to the one‐flowered group inNervilia, but is readily distinguished from other species in the genus by the saccate base of the lip, the truncate‐rounded lobes of the hypochile, and by the relatively short, oblong‐orbicular epichile.
Effects of Postdensification Annealing upon Microstructures and Microwave Dielectric Characteristics in Ba((Co0.6−x/2Zn0.4−x/2Mgx)1/3Nb2/3)O3 Ceramics
Authors: Ma Pian P. , Yi Lei , Liu Xiao Q. , Li Lei , Chen Xiang M.
Published: August 2013

Effects of postdensification annealing upon microstructures and microwave dielectric characteristics in Ba((Co0.6−x/2Zn0.4−x/2Mgx)1/3Nb2/3)O3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3) complex perovskite ceramics have been investigated. Long‐time annealing at temperatures below the order–disorder transition temperature enhances the cation ordering degree and promotes the ordering domain growth. The most significant improvement of Qf value is obtained together with the suppressed temperature coefficient of resonant frequency in the samples annealed at 1400°C for 12 h, while the dielectric constant decreases slightly. The Qf value of ceramics annealed at 1400°C mainly attributes to the enhanced cation ordering degree, because their low‐energy domain boundaries are not detrimental to the Qf value. As the annealing temperature increases close to the transition temperature, coarse ordering domains with high‐energy boundaries are formed, and then the Qf value steadily decreases because of the inferior domain structure, even the cation ordering degree increases. The microwave dielectric characteristics of Ba((Co0.6−x/2Zn0.4−x/2Mgx)1/3Nb2/3)O3 ceramics are affected by the common function of ordering degree and domain structure. The best combination of microwave dielectric characteristics is obtained in the composition of x = 0.3 after annealing at 1400°C for 12 h: εr = 33.2, Qf = 117 200 GHz, and τf = 8.6 ppm/°C.
Oxygen Migration in Dense Spark Plasma Sintered Aluminum‐Doped Neodymium Silicate Apatite Electrolytes
Authors: An Tao , Baikie Tom , Herrin Jason , Brink Frank , Felix Shin J. , Slater Peter R. , Li Sean , White Tim J.
Published: August 2013

Neodymium silicate apatites are promising intermediate temperature (500°C–700°C) electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells. The introduction of Al promotes isotropic percolation of O2−, and at low levels (0.83–2.0 wt% Al) enhances bulk conductivity. To better understand the effect of Al‐doping on intrinsic conductivity, and the impact of grain boundaries on the transport, dense Nd9.33+x/3AlxSi6−xO26 (0 ≤ x ≤ 2) pellets were prepared by spark plasma sintering. Phase purity of the products was established by powder X‐ray diffraction and the microstructure examined by scanning electron microscopy. The ionic conductivity measured by AC impedance spectroscopy for the spark plasma sintered ceramics were compared with transport in single crystals of similar composition. Intermediate Al‐doping (0.5 ≤ x ≤ 1.5) delivered superior overall conductivity for both the polycrystalline and single crystal specimens.
Influence of secondary forest succession on plant diversity patterns in a Mediterranean landscape
Authors: Amici Valerio , Santi Elisa , Filibeck Goffredo , Diekmann Martin , Geri Francesco , Landi Sara , Scoppola Anna , Chiarucci Alessandro
Published: August 2013

Aim

As a consequence of multiple cycles of deforestation and reforestation, most forest landscapes in Europe consist of a complex mosaic of patches of different successional ages. Despite the biogeographical distinctiveness of the Mediterranean region, studies on the effects of forest age on plant species diversity and composition are almost lacking for this area. This paper evaluates the influence of forest successional age on plant species richness and composition in various forest types of Mediterranean Italy.

Location

The Natura 2000 network of Siena Province, Tuscany, Italy.

Methods

Occurrence data on vascular plant species in 208 forest plots were obtained from a larger data set sampled with a stratified random design. The forest successional age of each plot was quantified through a series of historical maps. Species richness and composition were related to the age of the forest by means ofGIStechniques and univariate and multivariate statistical analyses.

Results

Total species richness markedly decreased with increasing successional age due to a significant decrease in the richness of open‐habitat species which was not matched by increasing richness of mature forest species. Successional age was the key factor in controlling species richness, while local environmental properties emerged as the main factors shaping community composition. The different forest types showed different temporal trends of species richness and composition and different hierarchies of explanatory factors.

Main conclusions

Forest successional age emerged as an important factor affecting both species richness and composition, even within the same forest type. Thus, the classification and prioritization of Mediterranean forests exclusively based on present physiognomy or environmental variables causes loss of information about species richness and composition; this could be detrimental for biodiversity conservation.
Administration of Isoproterenol and Adenosine to Guide Supplemental Ablation After Pulmonary Vein Antrum Isolation
Authors: ELAYI CLAUDE S. , DI BIASE LUIGI , BAI RONG , BURKHARDT J. DAVID , MOHANTY PRASANT , SANTANGELI PASQUALE , SANCHEZ JAVIER , HONGO RICHARD , GALLINGHOUSE G. JOSEPH , HORTON RODNEY , BAILEY SHANE , BEHEIRY SALWA , NATALE ANDREA
Published: August 2013

Administration of Isuprel/Adenosine After PulmonaryVein Antrum Isolation

Background

Pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI) remains associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence. We administered adenosine and isoproterenol (ISP) after PVAI to uncover non‐PV atrial triggers and PV reconnection, potentially increasing ablation success rate.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐two consecutive patients with symptomatic AF presenting for PVAI were prospectively studied (group 1). Following PVAI, adenosine (18–24 mg) and ISP (20–30 mcg/min) were administered intravenously. Supplemental ablation was performed in patients with non‐PV triggers that induced AF (group 1A). Other subgroups included patients with (group 1B) or without (group 1C) consistent non‐PV atrial foci that did not induce AF. A cohort of 196 matched control patients undergoing PVAI without drug challenge was used for comparison (group 2).

Results

A total of 132 atrial non‐PV foci were revealed (31 inducing AF). The majority of atrial foci were observed with ISP (113/132, 86%). Less than 5% of patients had persistent PV recovery during the drug challenge. During a mean follow‐up of 22 ± 8 months, PVAI was successful in 110/192 (57%, group 1) versus 100/196 (52%, group 2), P = 0.038. Furthermore, the success rate was statistically different between group 1A (25/32, 78%), group 1B (28/83, 34%), and group 1C (57/74, 74%), P < 0.001.

Conclusion

After PVAI, ablation guided by the administration of adenosine and ISP to target non‐PV triggers inducing AF increased AF ablation outcomes. Patients with non‐PV foci that did not induce AF had no further ablation, with the lowest ablation success rate. This group may likely benefit from further ablation after PVAI.
Brucine suppresses colon cancer cells growthviamediatingKDRsignalling pathway
Authors: Luo Wenjuan , Wang Xiaoli , Zheng Lei , Zhan Yingzhuan , Zhang Dongdong , Zhang Jie , Zhang Yanmin
Published: August 2013

Angiogenesis plays an important role in colon cancer development. This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of brucine on tumour angiogenesis and its mechanism of action. The anti‐angiogenic effect was evaluated on the chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model and tube formation. The mechanism was demonstrated through detectingmRNAand protein expressions ofVEGFR2 (KDR),PKCα,PLCγ and Raf1 by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and Western blot (WB), as well as expressions ofVEGFandPKCβ andmTORbyELISAandWB. The results showed that brucine significantly reduced angiogenesis ofCAMand tube formation, inhibited theVEGFsecretion andmTORexpression in LoVo cell and down‐regulated themRNAand phosphorylation protein expressions ofKDR,PKCα,PLCγ and Raf1. In addition, the effects of brucine onKDRkinase activity, viability of LoVo cell and gene knockdown cell were detected with the Lance™ assay,WST‐1 assay and instantaneous siRNA. Compared to that of normal LoVo cells, the inhibition on proliferation of knockdown cells by brucine decreased significantly. These results suggest that brucine could inhibit angiogenesis and be a useful therapeutic candidate for colon cancer intervention.
Weight loss on a structured hypocaloric diet with or without exercise improves emotional distress and quality of life in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wycherley Thomas Philip , Clifton Peter Marshall , Noakes Manny , Brinkworth Grant David
Published: August 2013

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the effects of a caloric restricted weight loss program with or without supervised resistance exercise training (EX) on diabetes‐related emotional distress and quality of life (QOL) in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

In a parallel design, 106 men and women with type 2 diabetes were randomized to a prescriptive 16‐week caloric restricted diet (D; 6,000–7,000 kJ/day), with (n = 65) or without (n = 41) EX (three times per week). Bodyweight, glycated hemoglobin, diabetes‐specific emotional distress (Problem Areas in Diabetes [PAID] questionnaire) and QOL (Diabetes‐39 [D‐39] questionnaire) was assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention.

Results

A total of 84 participants completed the study (D n = 33, D + EX n = 51). Weight loss was significantly greater in D + EX compared with D (−11.4 ± 5.8 vs −8.8 ± 5.8 kg, P = 0.04 time × diet). Overall, there were significant improvements in glycated hemoglobin, PAID total score and the D‐39 dimensions of ‘diabetes control’, ‘anxiety and worry’, ‘sexual functioning’, ‘energy and mobility’, ‘overall rating of QOL’ and ‘severity of diabetes’ (P ≤ 0.01 for time). The D‐39 dimension, ‘social burden’, did not change (P = 0.07 for time). There was no difference between groups in the response for any of these variables (P ≥ 0.10).

Conclusion

A structured caloric restricted diet with or without EX improves emotional distress and QOL in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes. This trial was registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (http://www.anzctr.org.au; ACTR No: ACTRN12608000206325).
Effect of combination therapy with repaglinide and metformin hydrochloride on glycemic control in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kawamori Ryuzo , Kaku Kohei , Hanafusa Toshiaki , Oikawa Tatsuya , Kageyama Shigeru , Hotta Nigishi
Published: August 2013

Aims/Introduction

We investigated the efficacy and safety of repaglinide as an add‐on therapy for Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving metformin monotherapy (at a dose of 1,500 mg/day, mainly) in addition to diet and exercise.

Materials and methods

In the 16‐week multicenter, placebo‐controlled, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group trial (the phase III study), patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with metformin monotherapy were randomly assigned to the repaglinide or placebo group. Thereafter, a 36‐week, multicenter, uncontrolled, dose‐titration method study was extended to a total duration of 52 weeks (the long‐term study). The primary end‐point of each study was a change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline.

Results

After 16 weeks, mean reductions in HbA1c were significantly greater for the repaglinide group than for the placebo group (–0.98 ± 0.72% vs 0.13 ± 0.63%, P < 0.001). In the long‐term study, the mean change in HbA1c was −0.76 ± 0.83%. The rate of adverse events was 60.6 and 50.0% in the repaglinide and placebo groups, respectively, in the phase III study, and 78.3% in the long‐term study. Hypoglycemia was reported in 11.7, 0 and 13.3% of patients in the repaglinide group, placebo group and long‐term study, respectively.

Conclusions

Combination therapy with repaglinide and metformin resulted in an approximately 1% reduction in HbA1c at week 16 and in a significant long‐term improvement in HbA1c at the end of the study. No safety problems were noted during the concomitant use of repaglinide and metformin. These studies were registered with JapicCTI (nos. JapicCTI‐101202 and JapicCTI‐101203).
Dairy Biofilm: Impact of Microbial Community on Raw Milk Quality
Authors: Ksontini H. , Kachouri F. , Hamdi M.
Published: August 2013

The aims of this study were (1) to characterize the dairy biofilm, and (2) to evaluate the impact on the raw milk quality. The ecological profile of biofilm revealed that gram‐positive bacteria and fungi exhibited a significantly higher biofilm organization than gram‐negative (43–64%). From 16S rDNA sequencing, microbial diversity of biofilm was constituted by Lactococcus lactis, Staphylococcus xylosus, Bacilus cereus, Candida albicans. The milk analysis in input and in output of pipelines has revealed that the rate of milk microbial community has increased to attempt 97 to 100%. The investigation of the impact of biofilm on the physicochemical properties of material has showed a decrease of hydrophobicity of stainless steel which become hydrophilic after 7 h of contact (ΔGiwi = 6.62 mJ/m2) and the increase of the electron donor character (γ− = 44.8 mJ/m2). While, after 24 h of contact, results showed a decrease of the hydrophilicity degree and surface energy components of stainless steel that become hydrophobic (ΔGiwi = −56.51 mJ/m2) and lowly electron donor (γ− = 2.3 mJ/m2).

Practical Applications

Dairy biofilm formation on stainless steel was investigated employing thermodynamic approach. The results revealed that the microbial adhesion on substrata was dependent on two factors: materials species and microorganisms community. These findings have important potential in the food process applicability as they suggest that the variation of surface chemistry could contribute to understand the biofilm formation to surface and also favor the protective biofilms approach on industry workshop surfaces that favors the antimicrobial coating of devices makes it simultaneously anti‐adhesive and give it antimicrobial activity.
Meal replacement reduces insulin requirement, HbA1c and weight long‐term in type 2 diabetes patients with >100 U insulin per day
Authors: Kempf K. , Schloot N. C. , Gärtner B. , Keil R. , Schadewaldt P. , Martin S.
Published: August 2013

Background

Despite high insulin doses, good glycaemic control is often lacking in type 2 diabetes patients and new therapeutic options are needed.

Methods

In a proof of principle study, an energy‐restricted, protein‐rich meal replacement (PRMR) was examined as a means of reducing insulin requirement, HbA1C and body weight. Obese type 2 diabetes patients (n = 22) with >100 U insulin per day replaced, in week 1, the three main meals with 50 g of PRMR (Almased‐Vitalkost) each (= 4903 kJ day−1). In weeks 2–4, breakfast and dinner were replaced, and, in weeks 5–12, only dinner was replaced. Clinical parameters were determined at baseline, and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks, as well as after 1.5 years of follow‐up. The Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was used for the intention‐to‐treat analysis and the Mann–Whitney U‐test for subgroup analyses.

Results

The 12‐week‐programme was completed by 15 participants (68%). After 1 week, the mean insulin dose was reduced from 147 (75) U to 91 (55) U day−1 (P = 0.0001), and to 65 (32) U (P < 0.0001) after 12 weeks of study. Over a period of 12 weeks, HbA1c decreased from 8.8% (1.4%) to 8.1% (1.6%) (P = 0.048) and weight decreased from 118.0 (19.7) kg to 107.4 (19.2) kg (P < 0.0001). Moreover, body mass index, waist and hip circumference, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol improved significantly. After 1.5 years, insulin requirement and weight remained significantly lower than baseline. Participants who continued PRMR further reduced their HbA1c, weight and insulin dose. Two patients were able to stop insulin therapy altogether.

Conclusions

Energy‐restricted PRMR was effective in reducing insulin requirement of type 2 diabetes patients with intensified insulin therapy accompanied by a reduction of HbA1c, weight and other cardiometabolic risk factors. With the continuous use of PRMR, glycaemic control might be improved in the long term.
Evaluation of the fecal steroid concentrations inAlouatta belzebul(Primates,Atelidae) in theNationalForest ofTapirape‐Aquiri inPará,Brazil
Authors: Monteiro Frederico Ozanan Barros , Kugelmeier Tatiana , do Valle Rodrigo del Rio , Lima Alexandre Bastos Fernandes , Silva Felipe Ennes , de Souza Martins Simone , Pereira Luciana Guedes , Dinucci Karen Lopes , Viau Priscila
Published: August 2013

Background

The studies on fecal steroid metabolites published with free‐living primates are limited mainly by the difficulty in obtaining samples.

Methods

A radioimmunoassay was used to measure the fecal steroid concentrations inAlouatta belzebulin theNationalForest ofTapirape‐Aquiri in Brazil.

Results and Conclusions

Androgens were significantly higher for the adult males from theArea ofInfluence (AI‐Igroup) when compared to those from theControlArea (CAgroup) (P < 0.05). Progestin and estrogen concentrations were higher in the females from theCAgroup than in those from theAI‐Ifor both the adult females and females with offspring; however,P < 0.05 was only observed in the concentrations of fecal progestins from the adult females. The physiological differences between theAI‐IandCAgroups suggest that the cause was a sum of factors, such as an exposure to sound waves, feeding habits, daily activity patterns, and the habituation of the animals.
Caring for people with early and advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: how do family carers cope?
Authors: Figueiredo Daniela , Gabriel Raquel , Jácome Cristina , Marques Alda
Published: August 2013

Aims and objectives

To examine the coping strategies of family carers of people with early and advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and how those relate to their subjective health.

Background

Caring for a family member with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be a stressful experience. Understanding how carers cope with this is critical for improving outcomes. However, this topic has received little attention in the literature, particularly considering the care‐giving experience with early chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Design

A cross‐sectional study with a convenience sample of family carers of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods

A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio‐demographics and care‐giving characteristics. Self‐rated physical and mental health was measured by two items from the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health checklist. Coping strategies were assessed with the Carers' Assessment of Managing Index. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed.

Results

A total of 158 family carers participated: 109 caring for people with early and 49 with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The two groups differed significantly on self‐rated mental health and on problem‐solving, emotional‐cognitive and managing stress coping type. Significant correlations between self‐rated physical health and problem‐solving coping and between self‐rated mental health and emotion‐cognitive and managing stress coping were found for carers of patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Conclusions

This study provides a unique insight into family carer coping strategies at different stages of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Carers of people with early and advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease cope differently with their caring demands. Nevertheless, problem‐focused coping strategies were perceived as the most helpful by both groups.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings are relevant to informing early supportive interventions aiming to prevent burden and promote healthy adjustment to care‐giving demands within the specific context of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Comparative evaluation of the degree of pegylation of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles in enhancing central nervous system delivery of loperamide
Authors: Kirby Brian P , Pabari Ritesh , Chen Chi-Nan , Al Baharna Marwa , Walsh Jeremy , Ramtoola Zebunnissa
Published: August 2013

Objectives

In this study, we examined the relative cellular uptake of nanoparticles (NPs) formulated using poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymers with increasing degree of pegylation (PLGA-PEG) and their potential to deliver loperamide to the brain of a mouse.

Method

NPs containing coumarin-6 or loperamide HCl were formulated using PLGA and PLGA-PEG, with PEG content of 5–15%, by the solvent evaporation method. NPs were characterised for size, surface charge, morphology, encapsulation efficiency and drug release. Cellular uptake of coumarin-6 NPs was examined in Caco-2 monolayers using confocal microscopy and central nervous system (CNS) delivery of loperamide HCl from the NPs was examined following intranasal administration in a mouse model.

Key findings

No difference in NP characteristics was observed, irrespective of degree of pegylation, except for the surface charge which increased with increasing PEG content. PLGA-PEG NPs were found to have increased cellular uptake in comparison to PLGA NPs. Interestingly, this pattern was reflected in the CNS delivery of loperamide HCl in the mouse model.

Conclusion

The results from this study show that PLGA-PEG NPs have the potential to act as carriers for the noninvasive administration of therapeutic agents to the brain and possibly across other physiological barriers.