bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habitat suitability modelling of an invasive plant with advanced remote sensing data
Authors: Andrew Margaret E. , Ustin Susan L.
Published: February 2009

Aim  Lepidium latifolium (Brassicaceae; perennial pepperweed) is a noxious Eurasian weed invading riparian and wetland areas of the western USA. Understanding which sites are most susceptible to invasion by L. latifolium will allow more efficient management of this weed. We assessed the ability of advanced remote sensing techniques to develop habitat suitability models for L. latifolium.

Location  San Francisco Bay/Sacramento‐San Joaquin River Delta, California, USA.

Methods  Lepidium latifolium distribution was mapped with hyperspectral image data of Rush Ranch Open Space Preserve, providing presence/absence data to train and validate habitat models. A high‐resolution light detection and ranging digital elevation model was used to derive predictor environmental variables (distance to channel, distance to upland, elevation, slope, aspect and convexity). Aggregate decision tree models were used to predict the potential distribution of this species.

Results  Lepidium latifolium infested two zones: near the marshland–upland margin and along channels within the marsh. Topographical data, which are typically strongly correlated with wetland species distributions, were relatively unimportant to L. latifolium occurrence, although relevant microtopography information, particularly relative elevation, was subsumed in the distance to channel variable. The map of potential L. latifolium distribution reveals that Rush Ranch contains considerable habitat that it is susceptible to continued invasion.

Main conclusions  Lepidium latifolium invades relatively less stressful sites along the inundation and salinity gradients. Advanced remote sensing datasets were shown to be sufficient for species distribution modelling. Remote sensing offers powerful tools that deserve wider use in ecological research and management.
INTRADAY STEALTH TRADING: WHICH TRADES MOVE PRICES DURING PERIODS OF HIGH VOLUME?
Authors: Blau Benjamin M. , Van Ness Bonnie F. , Van Ness Robert A.
Published: February 2009

Research documents a U‐shaped intraday pattern of returns. We examine which trade sizes drive the U‐shaped pattern and find that intraday price changes from larger trades exhibit a U‐shaped pattern whereas price changes from smaller trades show a reverse U‐shaped pattern. We argue that price changes from smaller trades are higher during the middle of the day because informed investors break up their trades to disguise their information when intraday volume is low. Price changes from larger trades are likely higher at the beginning and end of the day because high volume allows informed investors to increase their trade size without revealing their information to the market.
INDUSTRY PROSPECTS AND ACQUIRER RETURNS IN DIVERSIFYING TAKEOVERS
Authors: Shahrur Husayn , Venkateswaran Anand
Published: February 2009

We use a sample of 816 diversifying takeovers from 1978 to 2003 to examine whether takeover announcements release negative information about the future prospects of the acquirer's main industry. We find that rivals that are most similar to the acquirer (homogeneous rivals) experience significant negative cumulative abnormal returns (CAR) around takeover announcements. Takeovers that result in negative wealth effects to acquirers are associated with negative abnormal revisions in analysts' forecasts of homogeneous rivals' earnings per share. We also find a decline in the posttakeover operating performance of rival firms. The decline is especially pronounced for homogeneous rivals and for takeovers with negative wealth effects to acquirers. Our findings imply that CAR‐based estimates of acquirer wealth gains from takeovers that do not account for industrywide information releases are significantly biased downward.
The sodium pump α1 sub‐unit: a disease progression–related target for metastatic melanoma treatment
Authors: Mathieu Véronique , Pirker Christine , Martin de Lassalle Elisabeth , Vernier Mathieu , Mijatovic Tatjana , DeNeve Nancy , Gaussin Jean‐François , Dehoux Mischael , Lefranc Florence , Berger Walter , Kiss Robert
Published: February 2009

Melanomas remain associated with dismal prognosis because they are naturally resistant to apoptosis and they markedly metastasize. Up‐regulated expression of sodium pump α sub‐units has previously been demonstrated when comparing metastatic to non‐metastatic melanomas. Our previous data revealed that impairing sodium pump α1 activity by means of selective ligands, that are cardiotonic steroids, markedly impairs cell migration and kills apoptosis‐resistant cancer cells. The objective of this study was to determine the expression levels of sodium pump α sub‐units in melanoma clinical samples and cell lines and also to characterize the role of α1 sub‐units in melanoma cell biology. Quantitative RT‐PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the expression levels of sodium pump α sub‐units. In vitro cytotoxicity of various cardenolides and of an anti‐α1 siRNA was evaluated by means of MTT assay, quantitative videomicroscopy and through apoptosis assays. The in vivo activity of a novel cardenolide UNBS1450 was evaluated in a melanoma brain metastasis model. Our data show that all investigated human melanoma cell lines expressed high levels of the α1 sub‐unit, and 33% of human melanomas displayed significant α1 sub‐unit expression in correlation with the Breslow index. Furthermore, cardenolides (notably UNBS1450; currently in Phase I clinical trials) displayed marked anti‐tumour effects against melanomas in vitro. This activity was closely paralleled by decreases in cMyc expression and by increases in apoptotic features. UNBS1450 also displayed marked anti‐tumour activity in the aggressive human metastatic brain melanoma model in vivo. The α1 sodium pump sub‐unit could represent a potential novel target for combating melanoma.
Small, dense HDL 3 particles attenuate apoptosis in endothelial cells: pivotal role of apolipoprotein A‐I
Authors: De Souza Juliana A. , Vindis Cecile , Nègre‐Salvayre Anne , Rye Kerry‐Anne , Couturier Martine , Therond Patrice , Chantepie Sandrine , Salvayre Robert , Chapman M. John , Kontush Anatol
Published: February 2009

Plasma high‐density lipoproteins (HDLs) protect endothelial cells against apoptosis induced by oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL). The specific component(s) of HDLs implicated in such cytoprotection remain(s) to be identified. Human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC‐1) were incubated with mildly oxLDL in the presence or absence of each of five physicochemically distinct HDL subpopulations fractionated from normolipidemic human plasma (n= 7) by isopycnic density gradient ultracentrifugation. All HDL subfractions protected HMEC‐1 against oxLDL‐induced primary apoptosis as revealed by nucleic acid staining, annexin V binding, quantitative DNA fragmentation, inhibition of caspase‐3 activity and reduction of cytoplasmic release of cytochrome c and apoptosis‐inducing factor. Small, dense HDL 3c displayed twofold superior intrinsic cytoprotective activity (as determined by mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity) relative to large, light HDL 2b on a per particle basis (P < 0.05). Equally, all HDL subfractions attenuated intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS); such anti‐oxidative activity diminished from HDL 3c to HDL 2b. The HDL protein moiety, in which apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA‐I) predominated, accounted for ∼70% of HDL anti‐apoptotic activity. Furthermore, HDL reconstituted with apoA‐I, cholesterol and phospholipid potently protected HMEC‐1 from apoptosis. By contrast, modification of the content of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate in HDL did not significantly alter cytoprotection. We conclude that small, dense, lipid‐poor HDL 3 potently protects endothelial cells from primary apoptosis and intracellular ROS generation induced by mildly oxLDL, and that apoA‐I is pivotal to such protection.
Calcineurin inhibition enhances motor neuron survival following injury
Authors: Hui Kelvin K.W. , Liadis Nicole , Robertson Jennifer , Kanungo Anish , Henderson Jeffrey T.
Published: February 2009

The immunosuppressive agents cyclosporin A (CsA) and FK‐506 have previously been shown to exhibit neurotrophic and neuroprotective propertiesin vivo. Given that significant clinical expertise exists for both drugs, they represent an attractive starting point for treatment of acute neural injuries. One putative mechanism for neuroprotection by these drugs relates to inhibition of calcineurin activity. However each drug–immunophilin complex can potentially influence additional signal transduction pathways. Furthermore, several non‐immunosuppressive immunophilin ligands have been described as possessing neuroprotective properties, suggesting that neuroprotection may be separable from calcineurin inhibition. In the present study, we examined the mechanism of this neuroprotection in facial motor neurons following axotomy‐induced injury. Similar to previous studies in rats, CsA and FK‐506 enhanced motor neuron survival in mice following acute injury. To examine the mechanism responsible for neuroprotection by these agents, pharmacologic inhibitors of several potential alternate signalling pathways (17‐(allylamino)‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin, rapamycin, cypermethrin) were evaluated with respect to neuroprotection. Of these, only cypermethrin, a direct calcineurin inhibitor not previously associated with neuronal survival properties, was observed to significantly enhance motor neuron survival following injury. The results demonstrate for the first time that direct inhibition of calcineurin is neuroprotectivein vivo. These data support a model in which calcineurin inhibition promotes neuronal survival, distinct from effects upon neurite outgrowth.
Drug resistance and genotypic analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains from Thai tuberculosis patients
Authors: CHEUNOY WATTANA , HAILE MELLES , CHAIPRASERT ANGKANA , PRAMMANANAN THERDSAK , CRISTEA‐FERNSTRÖM MARIANA , VONDRACEK MARTIN , CHRYSSANTHOU ERJA , HOFFNER SVEN , PETRINI BJÖRN
Published: February 2009

The aim of this study was the molecular characterization of primary drug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains in Thailand. We examined a group of M. tuberculosis isolates from newly registered tuberculosis (TB) cases, collected at the largest university hospital, the Siriraj Hospital, in Thailand. Of 76 selected drug‐resistant M. tuberculosis strains recovered from previously untreated pulmonary TB patients whose sputum samples were sent to this hospital, 29 (38%) were single‐drug resistant, 26 (34%) multidrug resistant and two (2.6%) extensively drug resistant. Fifty (66%) strains belonged to Beijing genotype. The study demonstrate a severe problem of drug resistance among recently detected TB patients, and two large clusters of genetically similar strains indicated ongoing transmission of drug‐resistant TB.
Hematology and serum chemistry parameters in juvenile cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) of Mauritius origin: comparison between purpose‐bred and captured animals
Authors: Bonfanti Ugo , Lamparelli Domenica , Colombo Paolo , Bernardi Claudio
Published: February 2009

Background  The vast majority of non‐human primates used for experimental activities are purpose‐bred. However, in case of particular procedures or specific projects, it may still be necessary to use animals captured in the wild.

Methods  Sixty cynomolgus monkeys were randomly selected on the basis of breeding origin, and assigned to two groups, each of fifteen males and fifteen females. Analyses included the most frequently investigated parameters for hematology, coagulation, and biochemistry.

Results  Differences were observed in some parameters, particularly in eosinophils, basophils and monocytes, and in fibrinogen, total protein, globulins, alanine amino‐transferase, creatinine, aspartate amino‐transferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ‐glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, α‐hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, iron, potassium, and phosphorus.

Conclusions  Some values in the cynomolgus monkey may show significant differences according to the breeding background of the animals. Only data obtained from animals of similar origin have to be compared, to avoid misinterpretation during the evaluation of the experimental results.
Non‐infectious ulcerating oral mucous membrane diseases
Authors: Altenburg Andreas , Krahl Dieter , Zouboulis Christos C.
Published: February 2009

Non‐infectious ulcerative oral mucous membrane diseases are difficult to separate at first glance: they can appear as aphthous, bullous, lichenoid, drug‐induced or toxic‐irritative reactions. The overall considerations of history, localization of lesions, clinical and histological features, as well as direct and indirect immunofluorescence examination are required for the correct diagnosis. Some disorders start preferably at the oral mucosa, like pemphigus vulgaris and Adamantiades‐Behçet disease, while others, such as cicatricial pemphigoid and habitual aphthosis generally are confined to the mucous membranes. This overview summarizes clinical and diagnostic features, differential diagnoses and current therapeutic possibilities of non‐infectious inflammatory stom‐atopathies, which possess a specific position among skin diseases in distinction to infectious or neoplastic oral ulcers. This group of diseases includes aphthous lesions, lichen planus mucosae, lupus erythematosus, disorders with intraepi‐dermal or subepidermal formation of blisters including pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, erythema multiforme and variants as well as allergic or toxic contact stomatitis.
Polyvalent type IV sensitizations to multiple fragrances and a skin protection cream in a metalworker
Authors: Tanko Zita , Shab Arna , Diepgen Thomas Ludwig , Weisshaar Elke
Published: February 2009

Fragrances are very common in everyday products. A metalworker with chronic hand eczema and previously diagnosed type IV sensitizations to epoxy resin, balsam of Peru, fragrance mix and fragrance mix II was diagnosed with additional type IV sensitizations to geraniol, hydroxycitronellal, lilial, tree moss, oak moss absolute, citral, citronellol, farnesol, Lyral®, fragrance mix II and fragrance mix (with sorbitan sesquioleate). In addition, a type IV sensitization to the skin protection cream containing geraniol and citronellol used at the workplace was detected, and deemed occupationally relevant in this case. The patient could have had contact to fragrances through private use of cosmetics and detergents. On the other hand, the fragrance‐containing skin protection cream supports occupational exposure. This case report demonstrates that fragrance contact allergy has to be searched for and clarified individually, which requires a thorough history and a detailed analysis of the work place.
Bone metabolism markers and ghrelin in boys at different stages of sexual maturity
Authors: Jürimäe Jaak , Pomerants Triin , Tillmann Vallo , Jürimäe Toivo
Published: February 2009

Aim: To examine the relationship of the markers of bone formation (procollagen type I N‐terminal propeptide [PINP]) and bone resorption (type I carboxyterminal telopeptide [ICTP]) with bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), ghrelin and testosterone in boys during puberty.

Methods: Sixty boys were divided in three groups (20 boys in each) based on the pubertal stage (G1, I; G2–G3, II; G4–G5, III). Fasting PINP, ICTP, ghrelin and testosterone were measured. Total body BMD, lumbar BMD, lumbar apparent volumetric BMD (BMAD) and BMC were measured by DXA.

Results: PINP and ICTP values peaked at the beginning of puberty (Group II). Ghrelin was lower in Groups II and III compared to less mature boys. PINP and ICTP correlated with each other and were associated with lumbar BMAD in total group of boys. Relationships of PINP and ICTP with total BMD, total BMC and lumbar spine BMD in Group I were observed. PINP and ICTP were also correlated with testosterone in Group II and with lumbar spine BMAD in Group III.

Conclusion: These data suggest that testosterone stimulates PINP and ICTP in early puberty, while ghrelin has no direct influence on bone turnover markers in boys at different stages of puberty.
Predictors of burnout in the family caregivers of Alzheimer's disease: Evidence from Turkey
Authors: Yılmaz Aysegul , Turan Engin , Gundogar Duru
Published: February 2009

Objective:The aim of this study was to investigate the factors related to burnout in the family caregivers of Alzheimer's disease.

Methods:Subjects included in the study were 44 Alzheimer's disease patients and their primary caregivers. Patients were evaluated with Mini Mental State Examination, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Physical Self‐Maintenance Scale and Geriatric Depression Scale, and carers were administered Maslach Burnout Inventory, Ways of Coping Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale.

Results:The emotional exhaustion of caregivers revealed a significant relationship with the caregivers’ anxiety, submissive approach for coping and the patient's self‐maintenance. Depersonalisation was found to be related to the depression score of the patient.

Discussion:This study may serve to increase clinicians’ awareness of burnout in relatives of dementia patients. It points to the fact that research for determining the causes and consequences of burnout in the family caregivers is warranted.
The impact of ageing‐in‐place policies on structural change in residential aged care
Authors: Richardson Bev , Bartlett Helen
Published: February 2009

Objectives:  This paper reports findings from a study to investigate the impact of ageing‐in‐place policies on resident dependency levels and to explore the relationship between structural variables and outcome ratings.

Methods:  The study involved a time series data collection of high‐ and low‐care places and accreditation ratings from both the first and the second accreditation cycles in Queensland (N = 482 and 499). Paired‐samples t‐tests were also conducted on a sample of homes providing both high‐ and low‐level care to assess changing dependency levels over the two time periods.

Results:  A statistically significant increase (0.005) was found in the proportion of residents classified as high care living in low‐care homes between the first and the second accreditation cycles.

Conclusions:  The findings suggest that the ageing‐in‐place regulatory intervention achieved the intended policy goal and homes have effectively implemented staffing and quality control strategies to accommodate the changes.
Self‐provision in retirement: Quantitative evidence on older Australians’ expectations and experiences
Authors: Ong Rachel
Published: February 2009

Objectives:  To explore factors that correlate with expectations and experiences of self‐provision in retirement.

Methods:  A regression modelling approach is adopted using a national survey that contains data on the retirement expectations and experiences of older Australians.

Results:  Older Australians approaching retirement are more likely to expect to be self‐funded in retirement if they possess high qualification levels, stable employment and have healthy levels of wealth holdings. Divorced or separated older women are more likely to expect to be welfare‐reliant than other groups. The presence of children, disabilities and residence outside major cities do not affect prospective retirees’ expectations of being primarily self‐funded in retirement, but they do impact negatively on actual self‐provision in retirement. Forced retirement will significantly decrease the probability of self‐provision in retirement.

Conclusions:  Policy reforms that focus on increasing employment opportunities for women after child‐bearing and promoting retirement choice will reduce welfare reliance among older Australians.
Grandparenting a child with a disability: An emotional rollercoaster
Authors: Woodbridge Sandra , Buys Laurie , Miller Evonne
Published: February 2009

Objectives:  As our knowledge about the experiences of grandparents when their grandchild has a disability is extremely limited, the purpose of this research was to explore the emotional journey of Australian grandparents.

Method:  This qualitative research utilised purposive sampling and semi‐structured in‐depth interviews to explore the experiences of 22 Australian grandparents, whose grandchild had been diagnosed with a disability.

Results:  Three key themes characterized grandparent's emotional journey: adjusting (the transition from anger to acceptance), the ‘double grief’ (sadness about what might have been for both their child and grandchild) and pride in family (pride in family's ability to adjust to the challenges of the situation).

Conclusion:  As the first Australian study to explore the experiences of grandparents when their grandchild has a disability, the research provides important new knowledge about the emotional journey for grandparents. Unlike overseas research, Australian grandparents view themselves as being there to support their own children, rather than ‘holding the family together’. The findings will provide current policy debates about the role of grandparents and highlight the importance of support services that help facilitate grandparent's role within their family.
Photon propagation and the very high energy γ-ray spectra of blazars: how transparent is the Universe?
Authors: De Angelis A. , Mansutti O. , Persic M. , Roncadelli M.
Published: February 2009

Recent findings by γ-ray Cherenkov telescopes suggest a higher transparency of the Universe to very high energy (VHE) photons than expected from current models of the extragalactic background light. It has been shown that such transparency can be naturally explained by the DARMA scenario, in which the photon mixes with a new, very light, axion-like particle predicted by many extensions of the Standard Model of elementary particles. We discuss the implications of DARMA for observations of blazar VHE γ-ray spectra, and show that it successfully accounts for the observed correlation between spectral slope and redshift when the same intrinsic emission spectrum is adopted for faraway sources and for nearby ones. DARMA also predicts the observed blazar spectral index to become asymptotically independent of redshift for faraway sources. Our prediction can be tested with the satellite-borne Fermi/LAT (Large Area Telescope) detector as well as with the ground-based Cherenkov telescopes HESS, MAGIC, CANGAROO III, VERITAS and the Extensive Air Shower arrays ARGO-YBJ and Milagro.
Stability of relativistic jets from rotating, accreting black holes via fully three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic simulations
Authors: McKinney Jonathan C. , Blandford Roger D.
Published: February 2009

Rotating magnetized compact objects and their accretion discs can generate strong toroidal magnetic fields driving highly magnetized plasmas into relativistic jets. Of significant concern, however, has been that a strong toroidal field in the jet should be highly unstable to the non-axisymmetric helical kink (screw) m= 1 mode leading to rapid disruption. In addition, a recent concern has been that the jet formation process itself may be unstable due to the accretion of non-dipolar magnetic fields. We describe large-scale fully three-dimensional global general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations of rapidly rotating, accreting black holes producing jets. We study both the stability of the jet as it propagates and the stability of the jet formation process during accretion of dipolar and quadrupolar fields. For our dipolar model, despite strong non-axisymmetric disc turbulence, the jet reaches Lorentz factors of Γ∼ 10 with opening half-angle θj∼ 5° at 103 gravitational radii without significant disruption or dissipation with only mild substructure dominated by the m= 1 mode. On the contrary, our quadrupolar model does not produce a steady relativistic (Γ≳ 3) jet due to mass loading of the polar regions caused by unstable polar fields. Thus, if produced, relativistic jets are roughly stable structures and may reach up to external shocks with strong magnetic fields. We discuss the astrophysical implications of the accreted magnetic geometry playing such a significant role in relativistic jet formation, and outline avenues for future work.
CHANGES IN FREE FATTY ACID AND DIACYLGLYCEROL COMPOUNDS IN SHORT‐RIPENING DRY‐CURED SAUSAGE
Authors: GAMBACORTA G. , SINIGAGLIA M. , SCHENA A. , BAIANO A. , LAMACCHIA C. , PATI S. , LA NOTTE E.
Published: February 2009

A study on lipolysis of Southern Italy short‐ripened dry‐cured sausages manufactured without and with starters was carried out. Samples were submitted to microbiological and chemical analysis during drying and ripening, whereas sensory analysis was performed at the end of the ripening. The starters, addition caused the inhibition of the Enterobacteriaceae. An increase of free fatty acids (FFAs) and diacylglycerols (DAGs) during the ripening was observed. The addition of starter did not affect FFA and DAG release. The DAG profile including 1,2‐ and 1,3‐isomers was analyzed for the first time in dry‐cured sausages. Oleic, linoleic and palmitic acids, and 1,2‐, 1,3‐palmitinolein, 1,2‐ and 1,3‐diolein were the most abundant compounds in FFA and DAG, respectively. A decrease in the concentration of some 1,2‐DAG and an increase of 1,3‐OO and 1,3‐OP species during the process was observed. Finally, the addition of starter cultures slightly influenced the sensory properties of sausages.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In this work the development and application of an analytical method for the determination of free fatty acids (FFAs) and diacylglycerols (DAGs) in sausages was achieved. DAGs are intermediate products of hydrolysis and also constitute a substrate for hydrolysis reactions leading to FFA release. These latter compounds undergo a series of reactions leading to the formation of low‐molecular‐weight products responsible for sensory properties of dry‐cured sausages. Therefore, the assessment of these lipolysis products is a useful tool for evaluating the ripening process of dry‐cured sausages.
EFFECTS OF DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID POSITIONAL DISTRIBUTION ON THE OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF MODEL TRIACYLGLYCEROL IN WATER EMULSION
Authors: SHEN ZHIPING , WIJESUNDERA CHAKRA
Published: February 2009

The effect of the positional distribution of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) within triacylglycerol (TAG) molecules on the oxidative stability of oil‐in‐water emulsions was investigated by using a synthetic TAG regio‐isomer pair SDS (1,3‐dioctadecanoyl‐2‐[4,7,10,13,16,19‐docosahexaenoyl] glycerol) and SSD (1,2–dioctadecanoyl‐3‐[4,7,10,13,16,19‐docosahexaenoyl] glycerol), where S and D represent stearic acid and DHA, respectively. Oil‐in‐water emulsions (10%, w/w) of each isomer were subjected to accelerated autoxidation by continuous exposure to air at 50C in the absence of light. Oxidation during the exposure (storage) was monitored by measuring a series of volatile compounds characteristic of DHA oxidation. SSD emulsion oxidized faster than SDS emulsion, showing that DHA is more stable to oxidation when located at the sn‐2 position of the TAG compared with the sn‐1(3) position. This regio‐isomeric effect is similar to that previously reported for bulk oil oxidation.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Many of the food products that have been selected for fortification with omega‐3 oils such as milk, yoghurt, salad dressings and juices are oil‐in‐water emulsions. This study, for the first time, demonstrated that the regio‐isomeric effects on oxidative stability of docosahexaenoic acid observed for bulk oil also apply to oil‐in‐water emulsion. Thus, potential exists for enhancing the oxidative stability of omega‐3‐fortified emulsion foods through modification of triacylglycerol structure.
SERUM HDL CHOLESTEROL WAS POSITIVELY ASSOCIATED WITH CHEESE INTAKE IN THE OSLO HEALTH STUDY
Authors: HØSTMARK ARNE T. , HAUG ANNA , TOMTEN SISSEL E. , THELLE DAG S. , MOSDØL ANNHILD
Published: February 2009

We have examined the association between cheese intake and serum lipids in the cross‐sectional Oslo Health Study (18,770 subjects), using ANOVA and linear regression. In both sexes and in most of four age groups, i.e., young (30 years), middle‐aged (40 and 45 years), seniors (59–60) and old (75–76 years), cheese intake was negatively associated with triacylglycerol (TAG) and positively with high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) (P < 0.05 for trend). In the whole material, HDL was 1.38 (1.36–1.40), 1.44 (1.42–1.45), 1.50 (1.49–1.51) and 1.57 (1.56–1.58) mmol/L in cheese intake groups 1–4, respectively (i.e., intake 0.5, 2.0, 5.0 or 10.5 times per week). Corresponding values for TAG were: 1.79 (1.73–1.86), 1.67 (1.63–1.71), 1.57 (1.54–1.61) and 1.48 (1.46–1.50) mmol/L. Also in multiple linear regression analysis with several confounding variables the serum HDL versus cheese intake association still prevailed (P = 0.001), but the cheese versus TAG association was not significant in the multivariate model.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The finding that cheese intake is positively and independently associated with serum high‐density lipoprotein in men and women across a wide age range, and negatively with serum triacylglycerol, raises the question of whether our dietary guidelines might have focused too much on negative effects of saturated fat whereby possible positive effects of cheese may have been overlooked. The results invite new experimental studies on the more comprehensive effects of cheese, butter and milk on blood lipids, apolipoproteins and coagulation factors.
AMP‐activated protein kinase – a sensor of glycogen as well as AMP and ATP?
Authors: McBride A. , Hardie D. G.
Published: February 2009

The classical role of the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is to act as a sensor of the immediate availability of cellular energy, by monitoring the concentrations of AMP and ATP. However, the β subunits of AMPK contain a glycogen‐binding domain, and in this review we develop the hypothesis that this is a regulatory domain that allows AMPK to act as a sensor of the status of cellular reserves of energy in the form of glycogen. We argue that the pool of AMPK that is bound to the glycogen particle is in an active state when glycogen particles are fully synthesized, causing phosphorylation of glycogen synthase at site 2 and providing a feedback inhibition of further extension of the outer chains of glycogen. However, when glycogen becomes depleted, the glycogen‐bound pool of AMPK becomes inhibited due to binding to α1→6‐linked branch points exposed by the action of phosphorylase and/or debranching enzyme. This allows dephosphorylation of site 2 on glycogen synthase by the glycogen‐bound form of protein phosphatase‐1, promoting rapid resynthesis of glycogen and replenishment of glycogen stores. This is an extension of the classical role of AMPK as a ‘guardian of cellular energy’, in which it ensures that cellular energy reserves are adequate for medium‐term requirements. The literature concerning AMPK, glycogen structure and glycogen‐binding proteins that led us to this concept is reviewed.
A2B5 Cells from Human Glioblastoma have Cancer Stem Cell Properties
Authors: Tchoghandjian Aurélie , Baeza Nathalie , Colin Carole , Cayre Myriam , Metellus Philippe , Beclin Christophe , Ouafik L'Houcine , Figarella‐Branger Dominique
Published: February 2009

Glioblastomas, like other cancers, harbor small cell populations with the capability of sustaining tumor formation. These cells are referred to as cancer stem cells. We isolated cells expressing the surface marker A2B5 from three human glioblastomas (GBM) and showed that after grafting into nude mice, they generated dense and highly infiltrative tumors. Then, we extensively studied A2B5+ cells isolated from 11 human GBM. These cells display neurosphere‐like, self‐renewal, asymmetrical cell division properties and have multipotency capability. Stereotactic xenografts of dissociated A2B5+‐derived secondary spheres revealed that as few as 1000 cells produced a tumor. Moreover, flow cytometry characterization of A2B5+‐derived spheres revealed three distinct populations of cells: A2B5+/CD133+, A2B5+/CD133‐ and A2B5‐/CD133‐, with striking proportion differences among GBM. Both A2B5+/CD133+ and A2B5+/CD133‐ cell fractions displayed a high proliferative index, the potential to generate spheres and produced tumors in nude mice. Finally, we generated two green fluorescent protein‐cell lines that display—after serum induction—distinct proliferative and migratory properties, and differ in their CD133 level of expression. Taken together, our results suggest that transformed A2B5+ cells are crucial for the initiation and maintenance of GBM, although CD133 expression is more involved in determining the tumor's behavior.
Psychological well‐being of Australian veterinarians
Authors: Fritschi L , Morrison D , Shirangi A , Day L
Published: February 2009

Objective  To use established psychological scales to measure levels of distress, anxiety and depression in veterinarians, and compare these levels between different veterinary subgroups and other professional groups.

Methods  A cohort of veterinarians was identified through contact with veterinary schools in Australia. Participants completed a self‐reporting questionnaire that included queries about general health and demographics, psychological well‐being, job‐specific perceptions of health, dispositional characteristics and social support.

Results  Of the 2125 respondents who completed the psychological questionnaire, approximately one‐third reported poor psychological health. Increasing age, increasing time in current job, increasing years since graduation and male gender was associated with fewer signs of distress, anxiety and depression. Compared with the general population, veterinarians experienced more negative emotions at work, but were similar to other professional groups.

Conclusions  Poor psychological health is common in the profession and professional veterinary bodies may wish to consider providing training in dealing with work‐related distress, anxiety and depression.
Clinical and pathological findings associated with congenital hypovitaminosis A in extensively grazed beef cattle
Authors: Hill BD , Holroyd RG , Sullivan M
Published: February 2009

Objective  To determine the cause of exceptionally high mortality (41.4%) in perinatal calves on a beef cattle property 50 km south‐west of Julia Creek in north‐western Queensland.

Design  Investigations were based on clinical assessment of affected calves and laboratory analysis of pre‐ and postmortem specimens taken from 12 calves aged from 6 to 36 h of age.

Methods  Associations between gross and histopathological findings and biochemical analyses conducted on serum and tissue samples were examined in relation to clinical observations.

Results  Clinical signs varied, but commonly included mild to severe ataxia, difficulty finding a teat and sucking, blindness (partial or complete, as judged by avoidance of obstacles) and depression with prominent drooping of the head. Gross and histopathological findings included herniation of the cerebellar vermis through the foramen magnum, squamous metaplasia of interlobular ducts in the parotid salivary glands and Wallerian degeneration of the optic nerves. Biochemical analysis of serum and liver samples available from four of the calves revealed low or undetectable levels of both vitamin A and vitamin E.

Conclusion  Although vitamin E is known to have a sparing effect on vitamin A, the role (if any) played by deficiency of this vitamin was uncertain. The combination of clinical signs, postmortem findings, histopathological features and biochemical findings indicate that gestational vitamin A deficiency was highly likely to have been an important contributor to perinatal calf mortalities in this herd.
Ausweitung der Absicherung im Krankheitsfall: potenzielle Verknüpfungen zwischen gesetzlichen sozialen Sicherungssystemen und gemeinschaftsgestützten Sozialschutzeinrichtungen
Authors: Schremmer Jens , Coheur Alain , Jacquier Christian , Schmitt‐Diabaté Valérie
Published: February 2009

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Die Ausweitung der sozialen Absicherung im Krankheitsfall in Entwicklungsländern wird vermehrt als eine vorrangige Aufgabe anerkannt. Um dieses Ziel zu verfolgen, können verschiedene Finanzierungsmodelle und institutionelle Methoden verwendet werden. Kurzfristig kann eine gesamthafte Absicherung jedoch mit keiner von ihnen erreicht werden. Auf der Grundlage einer Analyse der jeweiligen Stärken und Schwächen sozialer Krankenversicherungssysteme sowie gemeinschaftsgestützter Sozialschutzseinrichtungen zeigt dieser Artikel das große Potenzial von Strategien zur Ausweitung der Absicherung auf, die einen pluralistischen institutionellen Ansatz verwenden, um in optimaler Weise Verknüpfungen zu schaffen und Komplementaritätseffekte zu nutzen. Verschiedene Arten möglicher Verknüpfungen zwischen unterschiedlichen Methoden werden vorgestellt, deren spezifischer Mehrwert anhand von Beispielen auf der Landesebene veranschaulicht wird.
Der rechtliche Aufbau des Systems der sozialen Sicherheit der Republik Kosovo
Authors: Arastey Sahún María Lourdes , Vallejo Pilar Rivas
Published: February 2009

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Nach erfolglosen Versuchen der internationalen Gemeinschaft, ein Abkommen zwischen Serbien und dem Kosovo auszuhandeln, erklärte das Kosovo am 17. Februar 2008 unter kontroversen Umständen seine Unabhängigkeit. Der vorliegende Artikel beschreibt und analysiert das Sozialschutzsystem unmittelbar nach der Unabhängigkeitserklärung. Nach dem Konflikt und angesichts der enormen wirtschaftlichen Schwierigkeiten konnte die Gesellschaft im Kosovo keine vollständige Wiederherstellung des Systems der sozialen Sicherheit erwarten. Bisher hat sich die Mission der Vereinten Nationen verpflichtet, einen Mindestrechtsrahmen aufzubauen, um zu versuchen, auf die wichtigen und wesentlichen Herausforderungen einzugehen. Aber die Kernstruktur des Systems der sozialen Sicherheit muss noch geschaffen werden. In einer komplexen Situation wie im Kosovo ist die Verwirklichung eines Rahmens für den Sozialschutz indes als wesentlicher Mechanismus für den Wiederaufbau und die Erhaltung des Friedens anzusehen.
Developing 23 new polymorphic microsatellite markers and simulating parentage assignment in the Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis
Authors: MORISHIMA KAGAYAKI , YAMAMOTO HIROSHI , SAWADA YOSHIFUMI , MIYASHITA SHIGERU , KATO KEITARO
Published: February 2009

Twenty‐three new polymorphic microsatellite markers were isolated in the Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis. Each locus comprised three to 34 alleles. The expected and observed heterozygosities ranged between 0.46 and 0.96 and between 0.44 and 0.97, respectively. The Kto9, Kto11, and Kto42 markers demonstrated significant deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium; high null allele frequencies (0.08–0.14) were observed in the deviating group. From the results of simulation of parentage assignment, a combination of four loci (i.e. Kto15, Kto23, Kto38, and Kto39) was considered the best for parentage assignment.
Variable microsatellite loci isolated from the Asian honeybee, Apis cerana (Hymenoptera; Apidae)
Authors: TAKAHASHI JUN‐ICHI , SHIMIZU SOUTA , KOYAMA SATOSHI , KIMURA KIYOSHI , SHIMIZU KIYOSHI , YOSHIDA TADAHARU
Published: February 2009

We developed 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci for the Asian honeybee, Apis cerana using the magnetic particle method. Eight of these 12 were highly polymorphic, having four to seven alleles with an expected heterozygosity of 0.38 to 0.78. The primers also produce polymorphic products in related honeybee species such as Apis nigrocincta. These loci can be used to study parameters associated with genetic structure, such as paternity frequency and worker reproduction.
Isolation and characterization of 10 microsatellite loci in the common dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius
Authors: NAIM DARLINA MD. , KEMP STEPHEN J. , TELFER SANDRA , WATTS PHILLIP C.
Published: February 2009

To assess the level and spatial pattern of genetic diversity of the common dormouse, Muscardinus avellanarius, we developed polymorphic microsatellite loci from partial genomic libraries enriched for microsatellite motifs. Ten dinucleotide polymorphic microsatellites were isolated and levels of genetic diversity were assessed in 139 individuals from Bontuchel, (Denbighshire, Wales). We observed high levels of heterozygosity (mean HO = 0.792 ± 0.077; mean HE = 0.730 ± 0.084) and a large number of alleles (Na = 6–17). There was no evidence of deviations from Hardy–Weinberg conditions, or genotypic disequilibrium between any pairs of loci. This is the first description of microsatellite primers from a common dormouse and these loci are currently being used to quantify dormouse spatial genetic structure.
Microsatellite loci for assessing genetic diversity, dispersal and clonality of coral symbionts in ‘stress‐tolerant’ clade D Symbiodinium
Authors: PETTAY DANIEL T. , LAJEUNESSE TODD C.
Published: February 2009

Reef corals harbouring clade D Symbiodinium spp. (endosymbiotic dinoflagellates) appear more tolerant of environmental stress. As sea surface temperatures rise, symbioses involving Symbiodinium D may increase in prevalence. For this reason, eight polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed for clade D Symbiodinium. From the analysis of 132 samples originating from cnidarian hosts in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, 4 to 35 alleles were found at each haploid locus and diversity indices ranged from 0.35 to 0.97. Population genetic analyses of these symbionts should reveal how environmental perturbations affect genetic diversity, geographical distributions, and possible host‐range expansions to new coral species.
Isolation and characterization of 11 new microsatellite markers for Macaranga (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: BAIER CHRISTINA , GUICKING DANIELA , PRINZ KATHLEEN , FEY‐WAGNER CHRISTINA , WÖHRMANN TINA , WEISING KURT , DEBENER THOMAS , SCHIE STEPHAN , BLATTNER FRANK R.
Published: February 2009

We provide primer sequences for 11 new polymorphic microsatellite markers developed in the tropical ant–plant genus Macaranga (Euphorbiaceae), after enrichment cloning of Macaranga tanarius and Macaranga hypoleuca. Allele numbers per locus ranged from two to 16 among 20 accessions of M. tanarius, and from three to 10 among 22 accessions of M. hypoleuca. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.150 to 0.900 and from 0.375 to 0.894 in M. tanarius, and from 0.545 to 1.000 and from 0.434 to 0.870 in M. hypoleuca, respectively. Six of the 11 primer pairs successfully cross‐amplified polymorphic polymerase chain reaction products in Macaranga winkleri.
Genome‐wide cross‐amplification of domestic sheep microsatellites in bighorn sheep and mountain goats
Authors: POISSANT J. , SHAFER A. B. A. , DAVIS C. S. , MAINGUY J. , HOGG J. T. , CÔTÉ S. D. , COLTMAN D. W.
Published: February 2009

We tested for cross‐species amplification of microsatellite loci located throughout the domestic sheep (Ovis aries) genome in two north American mountain ungulates (bighorn sheep, Ovis canadensis, and mountain goats, Oreamnos americanus). We identified 247 new polymorphic markers in bighorn sheep (≥ 3 alleles in one of two study populations) and 149 in mountain goats (≥ 2 alleles in a single study population) using 648 and 576 primer pairs, respectively. Our efforts increased the number of available polymorphic microsatellite markers to 327 for bighorn sheep and 180 for mountain goats. The average distance between successive polymorphic bighorn sheep and mountain goat markers inferred from the Australian domestic sheep genome linkage map (mean ± 1 SD) was 11.9 ± 9.2 and 15.8 ± 13.8 centimorgans, respectively. The development of genomic resources in these wildlife species enables future studies of the genetic architecture of trait variation.
A Comparison of Different Culture Methods for the Recovery ofCampylobacterSpecies from Pets
Authors: Acke E. , McGill K. , Golden O. , Jones B. R. , Fanning S. , Whyte P.
Published: February 2009

Five culture methods for the recovery ofCampylobacterspecies (spp.) were evaluated on 361 rectal swabs collected from cats and dogs in Ireland. Speciation using PCR methods was performed on all isolates to assess the sensitivity of each culture method for isolation ofCampylobacterspp., and to establish the prevalence ofCampylobacter jejuni,C. coli,C. upsaliensis,C. lariandC. helveticus. Overall 163 of 361 (45.2%) samples were confirmedCampylobacterspp. positive. Direct plating onto modified charcoal cefoperazone deoxycholate agar (mCCDA) with cefoperazone, amphotericin and teicoplanin (CAT) selective supplement yielded a significantly higher prevalence ofCampylobacterspp. (33.0%) than each of the other four methods (P ≤ 0.05). This method was also the most sensitive method for isolation ofC. upsaliensiscompared with any of the other four methods used in the current study (P ≤ 0.05). A direct plating method onto mCCDA agar with CCDA selective supplement and a filtration method onto blood agar after pre‐enrichment in CAT supplemented broth yielded lowerCampylobacterspp. prevalences of 19.7% and 17.5% respectively. A filtration method onto CAT agar and pre‐enrichment in Preston broth before plating onto mCCDA agar were less sensitive for the isolation ofCampylobacterspp. Speciation results ofCampylobacterisolates revealed the majority ofCampylobacterisolates wereC. upsaliensis(50.0%) andC. jejuni(41.9%). A small number of isolates wereC. coli(2.6%),C. lari(1.5%) andC. helveticus(1.1%). The overall detection ofCampylobacterspp. in the 361 pets sampled was significantly increased by using a combination of isolation methods (P ≤ 0.05), producing a more accurate determination of the prevalence ofCampylobacterspp. in pets in Ireland and of the actualCampylobacterspecies. As the majority ofCampylobacterspp. were recovered by direct plating onto mCCDA agar with CAT supplement, this method is the method of choice if only a single method is selected for isolation of the most commonCampylobacterspp. detected in pets and humans.
Periplasmic
c
Cytochromes and Chlorate Reduction in
Ideonella dechloratans
Authors: Bäcklund Anna Smedja , Bohlin Jan , Gustavsson Niklas , Nilsson Thomas
Published: February 2009

The aim of this study was to clarify the pathway of electron transfer between the inner membrane components and the periplasmic chlorate reductase. Several soluble
c
-type cytochromes were found in the periplasm. The optical difference spectrum of dithionite-reduced periplasmic extract shows that at least one of these components is capable of acting as an electron donor to the enzyme chlorate reductase. The cytochromes were partially separated, and the fractions were analyzed by UV/visible spectroscopy to determine the ability of donating electrons to chlorate reductase. Our results show that one of the
c
cytochromes (6 kDa) is able to donate electrons, both to chlorate reductase and to the membrane-bound cytochrome
c
oxidase, whereas the roles of the remaining
c
cytochromes still remain to be elucidated. Peptide extracts of the
c
cytochromes were obtained by tryptic in-gel digestion for matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry analysis. Peptide sequences obtained indicate that the 6-kDa cytochrome
c
protein is similar to
c
cytochromes from the chlorate-reducing bacterium
Dechloromonas aromatica
.