bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insects associated with the fruit of Syzygium paniculatum (Magenta Lillypilly) and Syzygium australe (Brush Cherry)
Authors: Juniper Peter A , Britton David R
Published: November 2010

Forty‐one insect species and morphospecies belonging to eight trophic guilds were reared from the fruit of cultivated and wild Syzygium paniculatum and Szygium australe (Myrtaceae) trees in Sydney and on the Central Coast of NSW. Species recovered from S. australe were primarily a subset of those recovered from S. paniculatum. Of the most commonly sampled species four were seed predators: Sigastus msp.1 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), Anselmella miltoni (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), Megastigmus sp. (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) and Coscinoptycha improbana (Lepidoptera: Carposinidae). Megastigmus also appears to be an inquiline associated with A. miltoni. Coscinoptycha improbana is primarily a frugivore. The frugivore Bactrocera jarvisi (Diptera: Tephritidae) and the saprophage Ectopsocus msp.1 (Psocoptera: Ectopsocidae) were also relatively abundant in samples. The rearing of C. improbana, A. miltoni and B. jarvisi as well as the less commonly sampled Acroceuthes metaxanthana (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Tortricinae), three morphospecies of Holocola (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) and Isotenes miserana (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) from S. paniculatum and S. australe constitute new host records for these insects.
Morphometric studies of the genusSitobionMordvilko 1914 in Australia (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Hales Dinah , Foottit Robert G , Maw Eric
Published: November 2010

The taxonomic status of several Australian populations within the aphid genusSitobionhas been uncertain for many years. Morphometric investigations using principal component analysis and canonical discriminant analysis have allowed us to clarify the relationships of these entities. A form on grasses, referred to in the literature asSitobionnearfragariae, is shown not to separate morphometrically fromS. fragariae(Walker) collected in Europe and North America. In contrast,Sitobion miscanthi(Takahashi) Clones 61 (2n = 20) and 34 (2n = 17) separate unequivocally from each other and from Clone 4 (2n = 18), the supposed ancestral karyotype. We argue against describing these as separate species. Sexual forms ofS. miscanthiand AustralianS. fragariaereared in the laboratory were compared with the sexual forms of EuropeanSitobion avenae(Fabricius) andS.fragariae, respectively. Australian specimens fromSmilax glyciphyllaandSmilax australis(Smilacaceae) are notSitobion smilacifoliae(Takahashi).
First valid records of Figitinae (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) from Australia:Xyalophora maurisp. n. andXyalophora australianasp. n.
Authors: Paretas‐Martínez Jordi , Pujade‐Villar Juli
Published: November 2010

Xyalophora australianasp. n. andXyalophora maurisp. n. are described, being the first valid records of the subfamily Figitinae in Australia. The most important characters that distinguish these new species from other species ofXyalophoraKieffer are mentioned and illustrated.Sarothrus io(Girault) is synonymised withAlloxysta victrix(Westwood).
Screening for hepatitis B in East Arnhem Land: a high prevalence of chronic infection despite incomplete screening
Authors: Carroll E. , Page W. , Davis J. S.
Published: November 2010

Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is common in Aboriginal Australians, but current seroprevalences in Northern Territory communities are unknown. We performed an audit of HBV serology on a convenience sample of 112 adults at an East Arnhem Land Health Service. Complete HBV serology was only available in 26 (23%) patients. Evidence of HBV exposure (core antibody‐positive) was found in 43 of 68 (63%) patients tested, and current HBV infection (surface antigen‐positive) was found in nine of 76 (12%). HBV is an incompletely defined, under‐resourced and substantial public health problem in Aboriginal Australians.
Primary cytomegalovirus ileitis complicated by massive gastrointestinal haemorrhage in a patient with steroid refractory Crohn's disease
Authors: Le S. T. T. , Lee S. S. K. , Prideaux L. , Block A. A. , Moore G. T. C.
Published: November 2010

A young man with known steroid refractory terminal ileal Crohn's disease developed torrential gastrointestinal bleeding necessitating an emergency ileal resection. Serology was indicative of primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and this was confirmed with histopathology of the resected ileum. We highlight the difficulty in clinical practice of distinguishing between CMV infection and CMV disease as well as the different investigations available to aid in the diagnosis of pathogenic CMV disease.
Ovarian clear cell adenofibromatous tumor of borderline malignancy associated with high levels of carbohydrate antigen 19‐9
Authors: Momotani Kiyoko , Tanaka Tomohito , Iwai Emi , Kanda Takayoshi , Munakata Satoru , Ohmichi Masahide
Published: November 2010

This report presents a case of ovarian clear cell adenofibromatous tumor of borderline malignancy, which is a rare variant of an ovarian epithelial tumor associated with high levels of carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9). A 79‐year‐old female with a large pelvic tumor underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy; her pre‐operative serum CA19‐9 level was 780 IU/mL. The diameter of the elastic hard ovarian tumor was 17 cm. Microscopically, many tubular glands lay in an abundant fibrocollagenous stroma. Most of the glands were lined with flattened cells or cuboidal clear cells with large nuclei, but in a small area there were small crowded glands. The epithelium of the glands, in which stratification occurred over three layers, had clear cytoplasmic regions and enlarged nuclei with prominent nucleoli. CA19‐9 was immunohistochemically positive in the epithelial cells. The final diagnosis was ovarian clear cell adenofibromatous tumor of borderline malignancy, stage Ia. Postoperatively, her serum CA19‐9 level decreased to the normal limit.
The RNA polymerase subunits E/F from the Antarctic archaeon Methanococcoides burtonii bind to specific species of mRNA
Authors: De Francisci Davide , Campanaro Stefano , Kornfeld Geoff , Siddiqui Khawar S. , Williams Timothy J. , Ertan Haluk , Treu Laura , Pilak Oliver , Lauro Federico M. , Harrop Stephen J. , Curmi Paul M. G. , Cavicchioli Ricardo
Published: November 2010

RNA polymerase in Archaea is composed of 11 or 12 subunits – 9 or 10 that form the core, and a heterodimer formed from subunits E and F that associates with the core and can interact with general transcription factors and facilitate transcription. While the ability of the heterodimer to bind RNA has been demonstrated, it has not been determined whether it can recognize specific RNA targets. In this study we used a recombinant archaeal MbRpoE/F to capture cellular mRNA in vitro and a microarray to determine which transcripts it specifically binds. Only transcripts for 117 genes (4% of the total) representing 48 regions of the genome were bound by MbRpoE/F. The transcripts represented important genes in a number of functional classes: methanogenesis, cofactor biosynthesis, nucleotide metabolism, transcription, translation, import/export. The arrangement and characteristics (e.g. codon and amino acid usage) of genes relative to the putative origin of replication indicate that MbRpoE/F preferentially binds to mRNA of genes whose expression may be important for cellular fitness. We also compared the biophysical properties of RpoE/F from M. burtonii and Methanocaldococcus jannaschii, demonstrating a 50°C difference in their apparent melting temperatures. By using MbRpoE/F to capture and characterize cellular RNA we have identified a previously unknown functional property of the MbRpoE/F heterodimer.
‘Friendly islands’ in an unfriendly system: Examining the process of Tonga's WTO accession
Authors: Wallis Joanne
Published: November 2010

Tonga became the 151st member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in July 2007. This article considers the issues that Tonga faced during its WTO accession process, and the potential impact of the reforms it has made in compliance with the terms of its accession. It notes that WTO membership may offer some benefits to Tonga, including improved market access for its exports and the provision of technical assistance. The taxation and regulatory reforms necessitated by accession might also have some positive development effects. However, this article argues that the costs of WTO accession outweigh these benefits. This is because Tonga faced numerous challenges during its accession process, which led it to agree to substantial trade concessions. In addition, the ‘special and differential’ (S&D) treatment provisions intended to assist developing countries like Tonga once they become WTO members are inadequate. While this article focuses on Tonga, the issues raised are relevant to other Pacific SIDS engaged in WTO accession negotiations, including Vanuatu and Samoa.
Anti‐Cartel or Anti‐Foreign? Australian Attitudes to Anti‐Competitive Behaviour before the First World War
Authors: Round Kerrie , Shanahan Martin P. , Round David K.
Published: November 2010

More than a century elapsed between Australia's first legislative attempts to modify anticompetitive behaviour (the Australian Industries Preservation Act 1906) and its most recent efforts to criminalise price fixing (Trade Practices Amendment (Cartel Conduct and Other Measures) Act 2009). After a burst of activity in the first decade of Federation, the intervening years saw only sporadic interest by governments to promote competitive markets, with limited impact until the late 1960s. This paper assesses the first period of Australia's attempts to promote competition. It traces the political, economic and social environments of anticompetitive business behaviour in Australia from 1901 up to World War I. We suggest that Australia's initial forays into regulating cartels were motivated more by protectionist aims than by efforts to increase competition, which in part also explains the next half‐century of legislative apathy towards anti‐competitive legislation.
The Reproduction of Gender Inequality in Sweden: A Causal Mechanism Approach
Authors: Rothstein Bo
Published: November 2010

In many respects, Sweden is maybe the country where public policies to increase the equality between men and women have been most prolonged and advanced. In 1996 the UN declared Sweden to be the most gender‐equal country in the world. However, women still take much more responsibility for children and domestic work than men do, leading to the reproduction of gender inequality in the labour market and in society at large. A causal mechanism is used to analyse this phenomenon, starting from the observation that men are on average three years older than women and thus already have a stronger position on the labour market when a heterosexual couple is formed. This increases the risk that the woman will lose the first negotiations on how to divide household and wage labour when they have children. This will in turn lead to increasing returns for the man, increasing the risk that she will lose subsequent negotiations about the division of labour. What seems to be a rational arrangement for both (increasing the total income for the family) results in the reproduction of gender inequality. The analysis shows that gender inequality in a country like Sweden is reproduced behind the backs of the agents.
Possible gender differences in the quality of life and choice of therapy in acne
Authors: Berg M. , Lindberg M.
Published: November 2010

Background  Acne is a very common skin disease that has major impact on the patients’ quality of life. Although the disease has been extensively studied we still need more knowledge of factors influencing the decisions for choice of therapy.

Objective  To evaluate the relationships between clinical severity, patients’ self‐reported quality of life, treatment choice and the outcome of therapy in a structured out‐patient acne clinic.

Methods  In total 211 consecutive patients (143 females, 68 males) at a structured acne clinic were included. At the first visit a clinical assessment was conducted, therapy was initiated and the patients answered a quality‐of‐life questionnaire (Dermatology Life Quality Index, DLQI). A follow up was performed after six months, when patients once again answered the DLQI questionnaire and the clinical outcome was assessed by the physician.

Results  The quality of life was improved after treatment at a group level. At the first visit, the quality of life showed a gender difference (females scoring worse) but did not correlate to the clinical grading nor to the choice of therapy. At six months the DLQI correlated with clinical outcome. Patients with isotretinoin therapy showed a significantly greater improvement in quality of life. There was a tendency to gender difference in the choice of therapy, as in females 32% of the patients were treated with isotretinoin although they were clinically graded as moderate. The corresponding figure for males was 23%. A correlation was found between the initial clinical grading and gender, age and the choice of therapy.

Conclusion  DLQI can be used to evaluate treatment effects in acne. However, the self‐reported quality of life will depend on several factors including age, gender, psychosocial factors and clinical severity.
Stent Biomaterial and Design Selection Using Finite Element Analysis for Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Kumar Gideon P. , Mathew Lazar
Published: November 2010

Vascular support structures are important devices for treating valve stenosis. Large populations of patients are treated for valvular disease and the principal mode of treatment is the use of percutaneous valvuloplasty. Stent devices are proving to be imperative in minimally invasive cardiac surgery. This new technology provides highly effective results at minimal cost and short duration of hospitalization. This article discusses the finite element analysis (FEA) of various percutaneous aortic valve stent designs. The stent designs were modeled and subjected to FEA. Analysis was done on four models using three biomaterials, with loads ranging from 10 665.8 N/m2 to 26 664 N/m2. These pressures were selected as they are equivalent to human blood pressure, which ranges from 80 mm Hg to 200 mm Hg. They were also selected to understand the mechanical behavior of different stent designs under such high pressures. Four stent models were generated and their physical, mechanical, and behavioral properties were studied. FEA and simulation of these models encouraged the designer to select the geometry and the biomaterial suitable for performance during and after implantation. The analysis performed in this article may aid in understanding the stents' performance ranges when subjected to the physiological pressures exerted by the heart and cardiac blood flow during abnormal cardiovascular conditions. It may also help in finding the best design and the biomaterial that would be suitable under such conditions.
Investment Adjustment Costs: An Empirical Assessment
Authors: GROTH CHARLOTTA , KHAN HASHMAT
Published: November 2010

We evaluate the empirical evidence for costs that penalize changes in investment using U.S. industry data. In aggregate models, such investment adjustment costs have been introduced to help account for a variety of business cycle and asset market phenomena. So far no attempt has been made to estimate these costs directly at a disaggregated level. We consider an industry model with investment adjustment costs and estimate its parameters using generalized methods of moments. The findings indicate small costs associated with changing the flow of investment at the industry level. The weighted average of the industry elasticities with respect to the shadow price of capital, which depends inversely on the adjustment cost parameter, is eight times larger than the largest estimate reported in Levin et al. (2006). We examine a variety of factors that may account for this discrepancy, but a substantial part of it remains unexplained. Our results therefore suggest that more caution is needed when giving policy advice that hinges on a structural interpretation of large investment adjustment costs.
On the International Dimension of Fiscal Policy
Authors: BENIGNO GIANLUCA , DE PAOLI BIANCA
Published: November 2010

This paper analyzes the international dimension of fiscal policy in a small open economy framework. We consider the case in which the government finances its spending by levying distortionary taxes and issuing state‐contingent debt. While in a closed economy taxes are essentially invariant, in an open economy taxes can be as volatile as output. This is because the presence of a terms of trade externality introduces efficient fluctuations in the consumption–leisure wedge driven by movements in the real exchange rate. As a result, the optimal fiscal rule suggests that taxes should be varied to replicate these fluctuations.
Free Bank Failures: Risky Bonds versus Undiversified Portfolios
Authors: JAREMSKI MATTHEW
Published: November 2010

Almost 30% of the 872 banks established under the Free Banking System (1837–62) are considered failures, unable to reimburse noteholders for the full value of their bank notes upon closure. Lacking sufficient data, economists have focused on one of two general failure explanations: poor regulation design or undiversified bank portfolios. I test both explanations within hazard functions using Warren Weber's annual balance sheet data for almost every antebellum bank. My results suggest that free banking's bond‐secured note issue was the underlying problem, but individual banks could have avoided failure by diversifying their assets with loans and controlling their circulation.
Combining Judgment and Models
Authors: MONTI FRANCESCA
Published: November 2010

This paper proposes a parsimonious and model‐consistent method for combining forecasts generated by structural microfounded models and judgmental forecasts. The method delivers along several dimensions. First, it improves the forecasting performance of the model. Second, it allows interpreting the judgmental forecasts through the lens of the model. Finally, it provides a framework to assess the informational content of the judgmental forecasters. I illustrate the proposed methodology with a real‐time forecasting exercise using a simple neo‐Keynesian dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model and the Survey of Professional Forecasters.
HIV‐1 Transmission in the Male Genital Tract
Authors: Ganor Yonatan , Bomsel Morgane
Published: November 2010

Citation Ganor Y, Bomsel M. HIV‐1 transmission in the male genital tract. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 284–291

HIV‐1 is mainly a sexually transmitted infection, and epithelial surfaces covering genital mucosa are the primary site of HIV‐1 transmission. Although male circumcision was reported to reduce male acquisition of HIV‐1 by 60%, the initial mechanisms of HIV‐1 transmission in the male genitals remain elusive. We established two novel models of the adult human foreskin epithelium that allowed for polarized infection via the mucosal pole with either HIV‐1‐infected cells that are present in all secretions vectorizing HIV‐1 or cell‐free HIV‐1. Efficient HIV‐1 transmission occurs following 1 hr of polarized exposure of the inner, but not outer, foreskin to mononuclear cells highly infected with HIV‐1, but not to cell‐free virus. HIV‐1‐infected cells form viral synapses with apical foreskin keratinocytes, leading to polarized budding of HIV‐1, which is rapidly internalized by Langerhans cells (LCs) in the inner foreskin. In turn, LCs form conjugates with T‐cells, thereby transferring HIV‐1. Seminal plasma from HIV‐negative men mixed with cervico‐vaginal secretions from HIV‐positive women, which mimics the in‐vivo mixture of these genital fluids during woman‐to‐man HIV‐1 sexual transmission, decreases HIV‐1 infection at the foreskin. Our results rationalize at the cellular level the apparent protective outcome of circumcision against HIV‐1 acquisition by men.
A new pathway in teaching dermatology
Authors: Mühlstädt Michael , Thomas Peter
Published: November 2010

New legislative requirements for medical licensure in 2003 made necessary restructuring of medical education at German universities. Since the hours of patient contact and the proportion of small group teaching were explicitly defined, many curricula had to be changed fundamentally. For the clinical years of its Medical Curriculum Munich (MeCuMLMU) the medical faculty of the Ludwig‐Maximilian University in Munich (LMU) decided on a modular concept. For dermatology, this meant less lecture time, more student‐patient interaction, the introduction of small group teaching, and the establishing of a catalogue of learning objectives. In cooperation with the Virtual University of Bavaria the internet was integrated into mandatory teaching for the first time. A faculty development program was instituted to increase teaching competence. All measures were designed to create an individual learning setting offering optimal support for every student. The large number of students remains the final nemesis.
Feasibility and compliance in a nutritional primary prevention trial in infants at increased risk for type 1 diabetes
Authors: Virtanen SM , Bärlund S , Salonen M , Savilahti E , Reunanen A , Paronen J , Hämäläinen A‐M , Ilonen J , Teramo K , Erkkola M , Ormisson A , Einberg Ü , Riikjärv M‐A , Ludvigsson JG , Knip M , Åkerblom HK ,   The Finnish TRIGR Study Group
Published: November 2010

Aim:  The international Trial to Reduce IDDM in the Genetically at Risk (TRIGR) was launched to determine whether weaning to a highly hydrolysed formula in infancy reduces the incidence of type 1 diabetes in children at increased genetic disease susceptibility. We describe here the findings on feasibility and compliance from the pilot study.

Methods:  The protocol was tested in 240 children. The diet of the participating children was assessed by self‐administered dietary forms, a structured questionnaire and a food record. Blood samples were taken and weight and height measured at birth and at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months.

Results:  A majority of the subjects (84%) were exposed to the study formula at least for 2 months. Linear growth or weight gain over the first 2 years of life was similar in the two study groups. The levels of IgA and IgG antibodies to cow’s milk and casein were higher in the cow’s milk–based formula group than in the hydrolysed formula group during the intervention period (p < 0.05), reflecting the difference in the intake of cow’s milk protein.

Conclusion:  This randomized trial on infant feeding turned out to be feasible, and dietary compliance was acceptable. Valuable experience was gained for the planning and sample size estimation of the study proper.
Tissue‐Specific and Dose‐Related Accumulation of Arsenic in Mouse Offspring Following Maternal Consumption of Arsenic‐Contaminated Water
Authors: Markowski Vincent P. , Currie Douglas , Reeve Elizabeth A. , Thompson Douglas , Wise Sr John P.
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  The developmental toxicity of arsenic is not as well characterized as other metals such as lead or mercury. Many previous animal studies have used an acute exposure paradigm, which does not model chronic, low‐level human exposure. The following study administered 10, 20, 40, 80 or 100 ppm sodium arsenite in drinking water to pregnant C57BL6/J mice. Adipose, blood, brain, breastmilk in stomach, kidney and liver tissues were collected from male and female offspring on postnatal day (PND) 1 and 21 to allow for disposition comparisons between tissues, sexes and across time. The 100 ppm dose was foetotoxic. Significantly fewer female pups were born in litters exposed to 80 ppm, while significantly more male pups were born in litters exposed to 20 ppm. Total arsenic levels differed between tissues with the highest levels in the brain and kidney in PND1 offspring. Levels were higher on PND1 than PND21, and there were few sex differences. The dose–response relationships in PND1 tissues were curvilinear, but in PND21 liver and kidney tissues, arsenic levels in control animals were significantly higher than levels in exposed animals. The tissue and age‐specific disposition suggests that common biomarkers such as blood and urinary arsenic are not accurate predictors of levels in sensitive organs such as the brain.
Genistein and Folic Acid Prevent Oxidative Injury Induced by β‐Amyloid Peptide
Authors: Ding Bingjie , Yuan Linhong , Yu Huanling , Li Li , Ma Weiwei , Bi Yanxia , Feng Jinfang , Xiao Rong
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  To explore the mechanism(s) of the neuroprotective effects of genistein (GEN) and folic acid (FA) on neurons treated with beta amyloid 31–35 (Aβ31–35), the primary cultured cortical neurons were treated with GEN and/or FA for 2 hr prior to exposure to Aβ31–35. Cell viability and fluidity of cell membrane were measured by 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2]‐2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide and fluorescence polarization, respectively. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2+ concentrations were measured by laser scanning confocal microscope. Glutataione (GSH) and Glutathione disulfide (GSSG) in mitochondria were measured by enzymatic method. Flow cytometry technique was used to measure mitochondrial membrane potential. The expression of HCY‐2 and p38‐MAPK mRNA in neurons was analysed by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The results showed that GEN and/or FA increased cell viability and reduced concentration of Ca2+ and generation of ROS in neurons compared with Aβ31–35‐treated cells. Furthermore, the ratio of GSH/GSSG in mitochondria and mitochondrial membrane potential was increased after GEN and/or FA treatment. RT‐PCR results showed that GEN and/or FA down‐regulated expression of HCY‐2 and p38‐MAPK mRNA. We conclude that GEN and/or FA had neuroprotective effects in Aβ31–35‐treated neurons. The mechanisms might be associated with multiple factors such as maintaining redox balance, stabilizing mitochondrial membrane integrity and modulating the signal pathways related to oxidation and apoptosis.
Karyotyping, is it Worthwhile in Transsexualism?
Authors: Inoubli Adrien , De Cuypere Griet , Rubens Robert , Heylens Gunter , Elaut Els , Van Caenegem Eva , Menten Björn , T’Sjoen Guy
Published: November 2010

Introduction

Karyotyping is often performed in transsexual individuals.

Aim

Quantification and characterization of karyotype findings and abnormalities in transsexual persons.

Main Outcome Measures

Karyotypes were listed both in male-to-female and in female-to-male transsexual persons.

Methods

The data were collected through a retrospective study.

Results

Karyotypes of 368 transsexual individuals (251 male-to-female, 117 female-to-male) are described. Normal findings were found in 97.55%. Prevalence of abnormal karyotypes was 3.19% among male-to-female, and 0.85% among female-to-male transsexuals. Nine karyotypes showed variations; Klinefelter syndrome was confirmed in three persons, whereas others displayed autosomal aberrations.

Conclusion

Karyotyping is only of very limited information in the transsexual population.
APPLICATION OF A FUNCTIONAL MATHEMATICAL QUALITY INDEX TO ASPARAGINE, FREE SUGAR AND PHENOLIC ACID CONTENT OF 20 COMMERCIAL POTATO VARIETIES
Authors: FINOTTI ENRICO , BERSANI ENRICO , VIVANTI VITTORIO , FRIEDMAN MENDEL
Published: November 2010

In this article, we apply a functional mathematical index (FMI), introduced in a previous publication, to 20 commercial potato varieties. The index allows evaluation of nutritional, safety and processing “quality parameters” of different potato cultivars. The main goal of the index is to link the quality of the chemical composition with factors that may affect the growth, production, distribution and processing of potatoes and potato products for commercial use. The index has been used to assess FMI values of 20 commercial potato cultivars in terms of their content of asparagine and reducing sugars, which form heat‐induced potentially toxic acrylamide and of antioxidative phenolic compounds, which participate in nonenzymatic browning reactions and may exert beneficial effects after consumption.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The index could be useful to a wide set of users, including consumers of potatoes as well as to potato producers and breeders, because it makes it possible to relate the index to the potato price and operate a more accurate choice for selection of so‐called “optimal potatoes.” Potato producers may find the index useful because it can help them detect the critical points throughout the whole food production chain in order to facilitate selection of high‐quality potatoes for sale to consumers. Potato breeders could apply the index to the development and selection of improved cultivars for commercial use.
SCOPE AND CONCEPTUAL ISSUES IN TESTING THE RACE–CRIME INVARIANCE THESIS: BLACK, WHITE, AND HISPANIC COMPARISONS*
Authors: STEFFENSMEIER DARRELL , ULMER JEFFERY T. , FELDMEYER BEN , HARRIS CASEY T.
Published: November 2010

Our goal in this article is to contribute conceptually and empirically to assessments of the racial invariance hypothesis, which posits that structural disadvantage predicts violent crime in the same way for all racial and ethnic groups. Conceptually, we elucidate the scope of the racial invariance hypothesis and clarify the criteria used for evaluating it. Empirically, we use 1999–2001 averaged arrest data from California and New York to extend analyses of the invariance hypothesis within the context of the scope and definitional issues raised in our conceptual framing—most notably by including Hispanic comparisons with Blacks and Whites, by examining the invariance assumption for homicide as well as the violent crime index, by using discrete as well as composite disadvantage measures, and by using census place localities as the study unit. The mixed findings we report from our comparisons (across Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics; offense types; and type of disadvantage) suggest caution and uncertainty about the notion that structural sources of violence affect racial/ethnic groups in uniform ways. We conclude that the hypothesis should be regarded as provisional, and its scope remains to be established as to whether it applies only under narrow conditions or is a principle of general applicability.
Synthesis of 2‐(4‐Substitutedbenzyl‐[1,4]Diazepan‐1‐yl)‐N‐(1‐Methyl‐4,5‐Dihydro‐[1,2,4]Triazolo[4,3‐A]Quinolin‐7‐Yl)Acetamides as Inotropic Agents
Authors: Ye Bai‐Jun , Liu Xue‐Kun , Jiang Sheng‐Ming , Cui Xun , Piao Hu‐Ri
Published: November 2010

In an attempt to search for more potent positive inotropic agents, a series of N‐(4,5‐dihydro‐1‐methyl‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]quinolin‐7‐yl)‐2‐(substitutedbenzyl‐[1,4]diazepan‐1‐yl)acetamides were synthesized and evaluated for positive inotropic activity by measuring left atrium stroke volume in isolated rabbit heart preparations. Some of these derivatives exhibited favorable activity compared with the standard drug, milrinone, among which 2‐(4‐(4‐methylbenzyl)‐[1,4]‐diazepan‐1‐yl)‐N‐(4,5‐dihydro‐1‐methyl‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]quinolin‐7‐yl)acetamide (6m) was the most potent, increasing stroke volume by 8.38 ± 0.16% (milrinone 2.45 ± 0.06%) at 3 × 10−5 m. The chronotropic effects of those compounds having inotropic effects were also evaluated in this work.
The impact of positive resection margins in partial laryngectomy for advanced laryngeal carcinomas and radiation failures
Authors: Soudry E. , Hadar T. , Shvero J. , Segal K. , Shpitzer T. , Nageris B.I. , Feinmesser R.
Published: November 2010

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2010, 35, 402–408

Objectives:  To investigate the prognostic significance of positive margin and disease course in partial laryngectomy for advanced laryngeal carcinoma and radiation failure.

Design:  Retrospective case control study.

Setting:  A major tertiary referral centre.

Participants:  Patients who underwent partial laryngectomy for advanced laryngeal carcinoma or for radiation failure with at least 2 years of follow‐up.

Main outcome measures:  Margin status versus primary treatment and salvage treatment versus disease‐free survival and overall survival.

Results:  Twenty nine patients with sufficient follow‐up data were found. Twelve patients had histological positive margin. Five of the 12 patients with a histological positive margin failed surgery as did four patients with clear margins. A positive margin had no effect on disease‐free survival (P = 0.287) but was associated with poorer overall survival (P = 0.051). Of 11 patients treated primarily with surgery, recurrence was documented in one of eight with a positive margin and none of three with clear margins. Of 18 patients who underwent surgery secondary to radiation failure, recurrence was documented in all four with a positive margin and 4 of 14 with negative margins. Extended frontolateral resection, performed only in radiation failures, was associated with worse disease‐free survival.

Conclusions:  Non‐irradiated patients with involvement of a single margin after partial laryngectomy may be spared total laryngectomy if adjuvant radiation is administered. Patients who fail radiation should undergo radical partial laryngectomy, with conversion to total laryngectomy in those with a positive margin.
Prophylactic steroids and/or antibiotics to reduce post‐tonsillectomy morbidity: a yet unanswered conundrum
Authors: Browning G.G.
Published: November 2010

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2010, 35, 417
Effect of Oryzanol and Ferulic Acid on the Glucose Metabolism of Mice Fed with a High‐Fat Diet
Authors: Son Myoung Jin , Rico Catherine W. , Nam Seok Hyun , Kang Mi Young
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  The effects of oryzanol and ferulic acid on the glucose metabolism of high‐fat‐fed mice were investigated. Male C57BL/6N mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: NC group fed with normal control diet; HF group fed with high‐fat (17%) diet; HF‐O group fed with high‐fat diet supplemented with 0.5% oryzanol; and HF‐FA group fed with high‐fat diet supplemented with 0.5% ferulic acid. All animals were allowed free access to the experimental diets and water for 7 wk. At the end of the experimental period, the HF‐O and HF‐FA groups exhibited significantly lower blood glucose level and glucose‐6‐phosphatase (G6pase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activities, and higher glycogen and insulin concentrations and glucokinase (GK) activity compared with NC and HF groups. The results of this study illustrate that both oryzanol and ferulic acid could reduce the risk of high‐fat diet‐induced hyperglycemia via regulation of insulin secretion and hepatic glucose‐regulating enzyme activities.
Comparative Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Red and White Pitayas and Their Correlation with Flavonoid and Polyphenol Content
Authors: Kim HyoenJi , Choi Hyung‐Kyoon , Moon Jeong Yong , Kim Young Suk , Mosaddik Ashik , Cho Somi Kim
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  Pitaya, commonly known as dragon fruit, has generated considerable consumer interest because of its attractive color and micronutrient content. The present study investigated the total polyphenol and flavonoid content, antioxidant activity against various free radicals, and antiproliferative effect on several cancer cell lines of extracts of flesh and peel of white and red pitayas, collected from Jeju Island, Korea. The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents of 80% methanol extracts of red pitaya peel (RPP) and white pitaya peel (WPP) were approximately 3‐ and 5‐fold higher than those of red pitaya flesh (RPF) and white pitaya flesh (WPF), respectively. Overall, the total flavonoid and polyphenol contents of these extracts were RPP>WPP>RPF>WPF and WPP>RPP>RPF>WPF, respectively. In addition, a study involving nontargeted high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC–PDA‐ESI‐MS) of different pitaya extracts indicated the presence of phenolic, hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, flavonol glycosides, betacyanin, and its derivatives with a few unknown compounds. Separately, peel extracts of both red and white pitayas showed higher 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl, hydroxyl, and alkyl radical‐scavenging activity than did the corresponding flesh extracts. Both peel extracts also showed stronger antiproliferative activity against AGS and MCF‐7 cancer cells than either flesh extract. There was a direct correlation between the phenolic content and antioxidant effect, but no correlation observed between antioxidant activity and antiproliferative activity. These results suggest that the peel of white and red pitaya may be a valuable ingredient in foods and may also be useful in cosmetic, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical applications.
Acceptability of Complementary Foods and Breads Prepared from Zinc‐Fortified Cereal Flours among Young Children and Adults in Senegal
Authors: Aaron G.J. , Lo N. Ba , Hess S.Y. , Guiro A.T. , Wade S. , Ndiaye N.F. , Guinard J.‐X. , Brown K.H.
Published: November 2010

Abstract:  We completed a series of studies to assess the acceptability of zinc‐fortified, cereal‐based complementary foods and zinc‐fortified wheat breads. Young children and their caregivers completed acceptability tests with complementary foods fortified with iron only (60 mg iron as ferrous fumarate per kilogram cereal flour), or the same level of iron and zinc (240 mg zinc as zinc oxide per kilogram cereal flour), and the caregivers completed triangle taste tests to compare the same products. A separate group of adult participants completed acceptability tests with wheat breads fortified with iron and folic acid (15 mg iron as ferrous fumarate per kilogram flour and 1.5 mg folic acid per kilogram flour) or the same levels of iron‐folic acid and 2 levels of zinc (63 mg zinc or 126 mg zinc as zinc oxide per kilogram flour). Finally, a threshold test was administered to another group of adult participants to compare nonfortified wheat bread to breads fortified with zinc in 80 mg increments ranging from 80 to 400 mg zinc as zinc oxide per kilogram flour. All products were acceptable when compared to non‐zinc‐fortified equivalents, and were well liked by the respective participants. For the triangle tests, caregivers were not able to detect significant differences between products. For threshold tests, adult participants detected differences in breads prepared from fortified wheat flour at 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg zinc per kilogram flour, but not at 240 mg and 400 mg zinc per kilogram flour, respectively, when compared to nonfortified bread equivalents. Zinc fortification of cereal flours in the ranges of fortification that were tested does not adversely affect the acceptability of complementary foods and breads prepared from these flours.

Practical Application:  Fortification of staple food products is a low‐cost approach to deliver additional micronutrients (including zinc) to large segments of a population. Determining the acceptability of products fortified with zinc is an important step in the development of zinc fortification programs.
Density Functional Theory Combined with Molecular Mechanics: The Infrared Spectra of Flavin in Solution†
Authors: Rieff Benjamin , Mathias Gerald , Bauer Sebastian , Tavan Paul
Published: November 2010

The photophysics and photochemistry of flavin dyes determine the functional dynamics of a series of blue light photoreceptors that include the so‐called BLUF (blue light sensors using flavin) domains. To enable molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies of such signaling processes, we derived molecular mechanics (MM) models of flavin chromophores from density functional theory (DFT). Two 300 K ensembles of lumiflavin (LF) in aqueous solution were generated by extended MM‐MD simulations using different MM potentials for the water. In a DFT/MM hybrid setting, in which LF was treated by DFT and the polarizing environment at atomistic resolution by MM, we applied instantaneous normal mode analyses (INMA) to these ensembles. From these data we determined the inhomogeneously broadened solution spectra as mixtures of Gaussian bands using a novel automated procedure for mode classification. Comparisons with vibrational spectra available in the literature on native and isotopically labeled flavins in aqueous solution serve us to determine suitable frequency scaling factors and to analyze the accuracy of our scaled DFT/MM‐INMA approach. We show that our approach not only agrees with established computational descriptions but also extends such methods substantially by giving access to inhomogeneous line widths and band shapes.
Vitamin B1 as a Scavenger of Reactive Oxygen Species Photogenerated by Vitamin B2
Authors: Natera José , Massad Walter A. , García Norman A.
Published: November 2010

Kinetics and mechanism of photoprocesses generated by visible light‐irradiation of the system riboflavin (Rf, vitamin B2) plus Thiamine (Th) and Thiamine pyrophosphate (ThDP), representing vitamin B1, was studied in pH 7 water. A weak dark complex vitamin B2–vitamin B1, with a mean value of 4 ± 0.4 m−1 is formed. An intricate mechanism of competitive reactions operates upon photoirradiation, being the light only absorbed by Rf. Th and ThDP quench excited singlet and triplet states of Rf, with rate constants in the order of 109 and 106 m−1 s−1, respectively. With Vitamin B1 in a concentration similar to that of dissolved molecular oxygen in water, the quenching of triplet excited Rf by the latter is highly predominant, resulting in the generation of O2(1Δg). Superoxide radical anion was not detected under work conditions. A relatively slow O2(1Δg)‐mediated photodegradation of Th and ThDP was observed. Nevertheless, Th and especially ThDP behave as efficient physical deactivators of O2(1Δg). The thiazol structure in vitamin B1 appears as a good scavenger of this reactive oxygen species. This characteristic, that presents at vitamin B1 as a potential photoprotector of biological entities against O2(1Δg) attack, was been experimentally confirmed employing the protein lisozime as a photo‐oxidizable target.
Experience of the International Association of Geoanalysts as a Certifying Body
Authors: Kane Jean S.
Published: November 2010

Reference materials (RMs) to support geoanalysis have a long history, dating back to the issuance of G‐1 and W‐1 in 1951. This paper addresses only one aspect of the most recent part of that history, the experience of the International Association of Geoanalysts (IAG) as a certifying body. In 2002, the Certification Committee of the IAG met in Potsdam to discuss becoming a certifying body able to produce RMs for the geoanalytical community. Following that meeting, the IAG developed and published a protocol to assure that IAG RMs would meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) guidelines to the fullest extent possible. Many practical problems arise in the application of the recommendations of the ISO Guides to any one specific certification project. The recommendations describe the ideal; achievable reality is always somewhat less than that ideal, presenting a significant challenge to the IAG as a certifying body. This paper will summarise experience to date, while focusing on the most challenging issues, deriving uncertainties compliant with the Guide to Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) and establishing traceability of certified values (CVs).
Multi‐Elemental Analysis of ATHO‐G Rhyolitic Glass (MPI‐DING Reference Material) by Femtosecond and Nanosecond LA‐ICP‐MS: Evidence for Significant Heterogeneity of B, V, Zn, Mo, Sn, Sb, Cs, W, Pt and Pb at the Millimetre Scale
Authors: Borisova Anastassia Y. , Freydier Rémi , Polvé Mireille , Jochum Klaus Peter , Candaudap Frederic
Published: November 2010

This paper reports on the application of variants of LA‐ICP‐MS – including infrared femtosecond laser ablation (fs‐LA) inductively coupled plasma‐quadrupole mass spectrometry (ICP‐QMS) and nanosecond laser ablation (ns‐LA) coupled with single‐collector sector‐field (SF‐) ICP‐MS – to the in situ determination of trace elements in different splits of the reference material (RM) ATHO‐G (MPI‐DING). Analyses of the materials performed by fs‐ and ns‐LA‐ICP‐MS demonstrated the efficiency of the techniques with typical accuracy at a level of ≤ ± 20%. One ‘anomalous’ split, however, displayed a significant discrepancy from the reference concentrations for B, V, Zn, Mo, Sn, Sb, Cs, W and Pb. Three‐ to six‐fold enrichment of V, Mo, Cs and Pt relative to the reference contents in this split is likely to have been due to direct contact of the silicate melt with Pt crucible walls and ceramics. Boron, Zn, Sn, Sb, W and Pb depletion relative to the reference concentrations is probably due to siderophile element adsorption by the Pt walls and/or related to the formation of volatile‐depleted compositional cords during the preparation process. Our results imply that additional precautions should be taken against volatile/siderophile element heterogeneity in marginal/surface layers (≤ 10 mm) during the preparation of RMs by the fusion technique.
How Fit Are Your Data?
Authors: Paul Bédard L. , Barnes Sarah‐Jane
Published: November 2010

Most laboratories aim to produce data of the highest quality. Trying to lower uncertainties to infinitesimal figures and push detection limits even lower are valid goals. However, is it possible to overachieve? Are old data still of good enough quality to be usable? In a geochemical context, the main goal of producing analytical results is to answer geological or environmental questions. Not all scientific problems require the same data quality. What is really required are data of adequate quality – i.e., ‘fit‐for‐purpose’– to ensure that the geological problem at hand can be solved. Furthermore, it is doubtful that uncertainties and reproducibilities associated with field sampling are better than those from laboratories. It is thus proposed that, as geoanalysts, we encourage data users (students, colleagues or referees) to ensure that their analytical results are of sufficient quality to solve the problem. However, authors have to demonstrate, through the use of reproducibility testing, reference and quality control materials, that the quality of their results is sufficient to solve the problem. Uncertainties and detection limits in publications should not only be evaluated with respect to a set value, such as 10%, but also with regard to the geological problem to be solved.
Developments at ISO/REMCO and its Impact on the Production and Use of Geological Reference Materials
Authors: Botha Angelique
Published: November 2010

During the past decade the work of ISO/REMCO, the International Organization for Standardization’s Technical Committee on Reference Materials, was dedicated to achieving global harmonisation, and true involvement of the member countries. The first major accomplishment was the clarification of the terminology in the definitions for reference material and certified reference material, which were published as an amendment to ISO Guide 30 in 2008. The next milestone was the recognition that ISO Guide 34 (‘General requirements for the competence of reference material producers’) be used in conjunction with ISO/IEC 17025 for the accreditation of reference material producers. The third edition of ISO Guide 34 published in November 2009, clarifies the acceptable procedures for the certification of reference materials. This paper will discuss the role of ISO/REMCO in formalising the procedures for the accreditation of reference material producers and the evolution of the terms reference material and certified reference material. The paper will conclude with a case study, where a primary method in a single laboratory – one of the recognised acceptable metrologically valid procedures according to ISO Guide 34 – was used for the certification of reference materials. The reference materials are South African Reference Material SARM 2 (Syenite), SARM 3 (Lujavrite) and SARM 4 (Norite) from the suite of six NIMROCs that were originally certified by the Council for Mineral Technology (MINTEK) in South Africa in the 1970s.