bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-time thermal characterization of 12nl fluid samples in a microchannel
Authors: Choi Sun Rock , Kim Dongsik
Published: June 2008

This work presents a novel method and a device for real-time simultaneous measurement of the thermal conductivity and heat capacity of 12nl fluid samples. The device uses a micromachined thermal sensor composed of a microchannel and a thin-film probe. The method, based on the 3ω technique, employs a multiparameter-fitting scheme to determine the thermal properties with numerical computation of heat transfer. The thermal properties of 12nl samples have been measured successfully by the sensor. Furthermore, real-time thermal characterization of fluid samples flowing in a microchannel has been demonstrated, manifesting strong potential of the proposed technique as an in situ probe in various microfluidic applications.
Contribution of dielectrics to frequency and noise of NbTiN superconducting resonators
Authors: Barends R. , Hortensius H. L. , Zijlstra T. , Baselmans J. J. A. , Yates S. J. C. , Gao J. R. , Klapwijk T. M.
Published: June 2008

We study NbTiN resonators by measurements of the temperature dependent resonance frequency and frequency noise. Additionally, resonators are studied covered with SiOx dielectric layers of various thicknesses. The resonance frequency develops a nonmonotonic temperature dependence with increasing SiOx layer thickness. The increase in the noise is independent of the SiOx thickness, demonstrating that the noise is not dominantly related to the low temperature resonance frequency deviations.
Erratum to: A seed coat cyanohydrin glucosyltransferase is associated with bitterness in almond (Prunus dulcis) kernels
Authors: Franks Tricia K. , Yadollahi Abbas , Wirthensohn Michelle G. , Guerin Jennifer R. , Kaiser Brent N. , Sedgley Margaret , Ford Christopher M.
Published: June 2008

The secondary metabolite amygdalin is a cyanogenic diglucoside that at high concentrations is associated with intense bitterness in seeds of the Rosaceae, including kernels of almond (Prunus dulcis (Mill.), syn. Prunus amygdalus D. A. Webb Batsch). Amygdalin is a glucoside of prunasin, itself a glucoside of R-mandelonitrile (a cyanohydrin). Here we report the isolation of an almond enzyme (UGT85A19) that stereo-selectively glucosylates R-mandelonitrile to produce prunasin. In a survey of developing kernels from seven bitter and 11 non-bitter genotypes with polyclonal antibody raised to UGT85A19, the enzyme was found to accumulate to higher levels in the bitter types in later development. This differential accumulation of UGT85A19 is associated with more than three-fold greater mandelonitrile glucosyltransferase activity in bitter kernels compared with non-bitter types, and transcriptional regulation was demonstrated using quantitative-PCR analysis. UGT85A19 and its encoding transcript were most concentrated in the testa (seed coat) of the kernel compared with the embryo, and prunasin and amygdalin were differentially compartmentalised in these tissues. Prunasin was confined to the testa and amygdalin was confined to the embryo. These results are consistent with the seed coat being an important site of synthesis of prunasin as a precursor of amygdalin accumulation in the kernel. The presence of UGT85A19 in the kernel and other tissues of both bitter and non-bitter types indicates that its expression is unlikely to be a control point for amygdalin accumulation and suggests additional roles for the enzyme in almond metabolism.
Contraction of the banana prawn (Penaeus merguiensis) fishery of Albatross Bay in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Australia
Authors: Prince Jeremy D. , Loneragan Neil R. , Okey Thomas A.
Published: June 2008

When the biomass and area occupied by a stock decline together, catch rates can remain high (hyperstability) and management with effort controls may be ineffectual. Banana prawn (Penaeus merguiensis) catches declined from 2000 until 2005 in the Albatross Bay area in the Gulf of Carpentaria (GOC), Australia. Data from commercial logbooks were used to investigate historical changes in the banana prawn fishery in this and other regions of the Northern Prawn Fishery to infer the potential causes of this decline. Data since 1970 were analysed using: (1) the mapping of catch and effort; and (2) normalised rank order catch curves, to determine the distribution of catches across fishing areas. These analyses show that there has been a marked contraction of the Albatross Bay fishery over 33 years of fishing into the centre of a stable ‘hotspot’, suggesting a potential mechanism for the observed negative relationship between catchability and biomass. We believe this is the first observation of a Peneaus prawn fishing ground contracting as biomass declines, supporting the view that the contraction of an area occupied by a stock as biomass declines, is a generalised phenomena observed widely across fisheries resources and not a dynamic confined to certain finfish and molluscs.
Changes in the Antarctic sea ice ecosystem: potential effects on krill and baleen whales
Authors: Nicol Stephen , Worby Anthony , Leaper Rebecca
Published: June 2008

The annual formation and loss of some 15 million km2 of sea ice around the Antarctic significantly affects global ocean circulation, particularly through the formation of dense bottom water. As one of the most profound seasonal changes on Earth, the formation and decay of sea ice plays a major role in climate processes. It is also likely to be impacted by climate change, potentially changing the productivity of the Antarctic region. The sea ice zone supports much wildlife, particularly large vertebrates such as seals, seabirds and whales, some exploited to near extinction. Cetacean species in the Southern Ocean will be directly impacted by changes in sea ice patterns as well as indirectly by changes in their principal prey, Antarctic krill, affected by modifications to their own environment through climate change. Understanding how climate change will affect species at all trophic levels in the Southern Ocean requires new approaches and integrated research programs. This review focuses on the current state of knowledge of the sea ice zone and examines the potential for climatic and ecological change in the region. In the context of changes already documented for seals and seabirds, it discusses potential effects on the most conspicuous vertebrate of the region, baleen whales.
Patterns of seagrass biomass removal by two temperate Australian fishes (Monacanthidae)
Authors: Wressnig Anna , Booth David J.
Published: June 2008

Despite the global significance of nearshore seagrass beds, little is known of their trophodynamic processes. Herbivory by seagrass fishes is thought to be significant but some species previously suspected to be herbivores may be largely detritivorous. Patterns of grazing on the seagrass Posidonia australis by two abundant monacanthid fishes, Meuschenia freycineti and Meuschenia trachylepis, were determined by calculating the removal of seagrass biomass in three Australian estuaries over 14 months. M. freycineti removed significantly more seagrass biomass than M. trachylepis but seagrass biomass removed by both species varied widely across the three estuaries over time. Median amounts of seagrass removal were generally low for all sites compared with standing stock biomass of P. australis leaves and its epiphytes. Nevertheless, grazing by the two species caused high localised rates of removal (up to 90 mg dry weight of P. australis with epibiota per m2) in winter, the season when seagrass growth is least. Such removal rates are far greater than those reported for any other fish grazer in P. australis. These two fish species directly affect seagrass biomass and potentially alter the trophodynamics of P. australis seagrass beds, especially when grazing intensity is high during the season of lowest seagrass growth.
A grassland classification system and its application in China
Authors: Ren J. Z. , Hu Z. Z. , Zhao J. , Zhang D. G. , Hou F. J. , Lin H. L. , Mu X. D.
Published: June 2008

China possesses vast grassland resources that include alpine meadow, tundra, steppe and desert. It is, therefore, desirable to establish a grassland classification system that involves the formative factors contributing to this diversity. This paper reports a grassland classification system called the Integrated Orderly Classification System of Grassland (IOCSG), which was formulated through grouping or clustering units with similar properties. The IOCSG involves a hierarchy of three classification levels. At the first level, grasslands are grouped into classes according to an index of moisture and temperature. At the second level, grasslands are differentiated as subclasses by the edaphic conditions. At the third level, grassland types within a subclass are distinguished by vegetation types. Under the IOCSG, seven thermal zones and six humidity zones have been identified and used to differentiate grassland classes. The IOCSG recognises 42 grassland Classes, of which 41 are present in China.
Eat To Live or Live To Eat? Do Parents and Children Agree?
Authors: Le Bigot Macaux Armelle
Published: June 2008

The lifestyles and diets of children in developed countries is changing rapidly in response to the social and cultural climate, as well as the availability of an increasing range of foods. The aim of this on-going study is to assess the trends in food-related behaviours of children and their attitudes towards food and nutrition. The study also monitors markers for physical activity, which have been presented elsewhere (Bellisle et al, 2000). Three successive surveys (1993, 1995, and 1997) were carried out on samples of 1000 French children aged 9–11 years and their mothers.

Results:

Attitudes towards food varied markedly between children and their mothers. Children viewed food primarily as a necessity of life, whereas mothers viewed food primarily as a pleasure for their child, with necessity and nutrition given a lower importance. Contrary to popular belief children's enjoyment of [unhealthy] and [healthy] foods was similar. French-fries were the favourite food for 92% of children, closely followed by pasta (89%). Fruit and candy received similar scores (82% and 81% respectively), suggesting that external factors such as convenience are the prime barrier to fruit consumption rather than the enjoyment factor. Over the three surveys a strong persistence of the traditional French meal pattern has been demonstrated, with breakfast, lunch and evening meals eaten by 97%, 96% and 99% of children respectively. One increasing occurrence is the viewing of television during meal times with 25% of breakfasts, 46% of afternoon snacks and 41% of evening meals consumed in front of the television. Children's attitudes towards food demonstrated an overwhelming trust of their mother and her ability to provide them with nourishing foods. Mothers often found it difficult to reconcile the demands of family life, employment, healthy eating and the maintenance of a pleasurable atmosphere at mealtimes.

Conclusions:

Overall, children and mothers appeared to have divergent attitudes towards food. An understanding of children's enjoyment of foods considered more 'healthy' or less [healthy] enables effective nutrition messages to be developed for children. However, further work is needed to explore the long-term impact of mothers' attitudes towards food and mealtimes on a child's relationship to food and eating habits during adolescence through to adulthood.
Nutrition and handgrip strength of older adults in rural Malawi
Authors: Chilima Dorothy M , Ismail Suraiya J
Published: June 2008

Objective:

To examine the relationship between the nutritional status and handgrip strength of older people in rural Malawi.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Lilongwe rural, Malawi, situated approximately 35–50 km from the city.

Subjects:

Ninety seven males and 199 females participated in this study.

Methods:

Selected anthropometric measurements were taken and nutrition indices were computed using standard equations. Handgrip strength was measured using an electronic grip strength dynamometer.

Results:

The mean handgrip strength (in kg) for men was significantly higher than for women (28.0±5.9 vs. 21.7±4.5). In addition, there was a significant decline in handgrip strength with age in both sexes. Furthermore, handgrip strength was positively correlated to the following nutritional status indicators: BMI (r = 0.40 in males and r = 0.34 in females), mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) (r = 0.45 in males and r = 0.38 in females) and arm-muscle area (AMA) (r = 0.39 in males and r = 0.37 in females). After controlling for potential confounders, namely sex, height and age, the correlations between handgrip strength and the nutrition indices were still significant.

Conclusion:

The results of this study support the hypothesis that poor nutritional status is associated with poor handgrip strength. Malawian males had both lower handgrip strength and lower arm muscle area than their counterparts from industrialised countries. However, Malawian females had similar handgrip strength despite lower arm muscle area, in comparison with women from industrialised countries, reflecting perhaps their higher level of physical activity. Further studies are required to determine whether by alleviating nutritional problems a concomitant improvement in handgrip strength can be obtained.
An overview of the health status of migrants in France, in relation to their dietary practices
Authors: Darmon Nicole , Khlat Myriam
Published: June 2008

Objective

To review studies on the morbidity, mortality and nutrition of migrant populations in France.

Design

A systematic search of the bibliographic database Medline, and direct contact with associations and institutions concerned with migrants' health.

Results

In France, as in other host countries, migrants belong to the lowest socio-economic strata. They have on average better health and lower mortality than the local-born population. Health benefits are particularly noticeable in Mediterranean men, especially for affluence-related diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. North African men smoke as heavily as the local-born of the same occupational categories, and yet their mortality rates from lung cancer are notably lower. Such a paradox may be the result of a synergy between different phenomena such as the selection of the fittest applicants for immigration and the maintenance of healthy lifestyles from the countries of origin. In contrast, migrant women do not enjoy the same health advantages, possibly because they are less likely to be selected on the basis of their health and because they are often non-working. Adult migrants from southern Europe and North Africa report dietary practices consistent with the typical Mediterranean diet, which is renowned for its positive effects on health.

Conclusions

The diet of Mediterranean adults living in France may partly explain the low rates of chronic diseases and high adult life expectancy observed in migrant men from northern Africa. Information about their diets might provide clues for the design of nutritional education campaigns aimed at low-income people.
Weight and body composition in a cohort of HIV-positive men and women
Authors: Forrester JE , Spiegelman D , Woods M , Knox TA , Fauntleroy JM , Gorbach SL
Published: June 2008

Objective:

At issue is whether weight loss in HIV infection is a cachectic process, characterised by loss of lean body mass with conservation of fat, or a process of starvation. We present data on body composition from 516 persons at different stages of HIV infection as determined by CD4 counts.

Design:

Cross-sectional analyses of body composition in relation to CD4 count.

Setting:

The baseline data from a prospective cohort study of outcomes in HIV/AIDS in relation to nutritional status in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Subjects:

The first 516 subjects with HIV/AIDS to enrol in the study.

Results:

Differences in weight in relation to CD4 counts were present only at CD4 counts of 600 or less (slope below CD4=600: 1.9 kg per 100 CD4 cells, P<0.0001). On average, 68% of the difference in weight over CD4 counts was fat (slope: 1.3 kg fat per 100 CD4 cells, P<0.0001).

Conclusions:

This cross-sectional analysis suggests that weight loss consists principally of fat loss in those persons with adequate fat stores. This observation will need to be confirmed in longitudinal analyses.
Epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases in Europe
Authors: Kromhout Daan
Published: June 2008

Within Europe large differences exist in mortality from coronary heart disease and stroke. These diseases show a clear West-East gradient with high rates in Eastern Europe. In spite the decreasing trend in age-adjusted cardiovascular disease mortality in Western European countries an increase in the number of cardiovascular patients is expected because of the ageing of the population. Consequently the health care cost for these diseases will increase.

Total and HDL cholesterol are major determinants of coronary heart disease. Saturated and trans fatty acids have a total and LDL cholesterol elevating effect and unsaturated fatty acids a lowering effect. N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids seem to have a protective effect on coronary heart disease occurrence independent of their effect on cholesterol.

Dietary antioxidants could be of importance because they may prevent oxidation of the atherogenic cholesterol rich LDL lipoproteins. There is however no convincing evidence that either vitamin E, carotenoids or vitamin C protect against coronary heart disease. Observational research has shown that flavonols, polyphenols with strong antioxidant properties present in plant foods, may protect against coronary heart disease.

Blood pressure is a major determinant of coronary heart disease and stroke. Historically salt is viewed as the most important dietary determinant of blood pressure. Recent research shows that also a low-fat diet rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium lowers blood pressure substantially. This suggests a multifactorial influence of different nutrients on blood pressure.

It can be concluded that a diet low in saturated and trans fatty acids and rich in plant foods in combination with regular fish consumption is associated with a low risk of cardiovascular mortality.
Motivations for healthful dietary change
Authors: Satia Jessie A , Kristal Alan R , Curry Susan , Trudeau Elyse
Published: June 2008

Objective:

To describe scales that measure motivations for changing dietary behaviour, and to examine associations of these scales with current diet and dietary change.

Design:

A secondary analysis of a randomised trial of a self-help intervention to promote lower fat and higher fruit and vegetable consumption.

Participants and setting: Participants were 1205 adults selected at random from enrolees of a large Health Maintenance Organization. At baseline, data were collected on motives for changing diet, fruit and vegetable intake, fat-related dietary habits, and demographic characteristics. Participants were then randomised to receive the intervention or to receive no materials. A follow-up survey was administered at 12 months.

Results:

A majority of participants reported that it was very important to make dietary changes to feel better (72%) and to control an existing medical problem (57%), but very few (4%) were motivated by pressure from others. Factor analysis of the diet motivation items yielded two intrinsic (‘self-image’ and ‘personal health’) and one extrinsic (‘social pressure’) scales with fair internal consistency reliabilities (Cronbach's α = 0.59 to 0.68). Motivation scales were statistically significantly associated with demographic characteristics and baseline diet. For example, desire for a better self-image was a stronger motivator for changing diet among females, while personal health was more important to older persons and men (P< 0.001). Social pressure to change diet was statistically significantly associated with higher fat intake (r = 0.11) and self-image was associated with lower fat intake (r = −0.14, bothP< 0.001). Motivation by social pressure and self-image were both significantly associated with greater fat reduction at 12 months post-intervention (P< 0.05).

Conclusions:

The intrinsic and extrinsic motivation scales were weakly associated with current diet and predicted response to dietary intervention. More research is needed to better characterise and measure motives for dietary change, and to test whether tailoring interventions based on individuals' motives for dietary change would improve intervention effectiveness.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of undiagnosed diabetes among adult Moroccan Sahraoui women
Authors: Rguibi Mohamed , Belahsen Rekia
Published: June 2008

Objective

The goal of the present work was to examine the prevalence and associated risk factors of undiagnosed diabetes among urban Moroccan Sahraoui women.

Design and setting

Randomised sample of adult women living in the city of Laayoune in south Morocco who visited public health centres during an immunisation campaign. Body weight, height, waist and hip circumferences, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), triglycerides, dietary intake and physical activity were collected.

Subjects

Data were obtained on 249 urban women aged 15 years and older, who were not pregnant. Only subjects identified as of Sahraoui origin were eligible for this investigation.

Results

The prevalence of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) was 5.5% and that of undiagnosed diabetes 6.4%. Diabetes and IFG were more common among older and obese women as well as among women with hypertension or a family history of diabetes. In addition, sucrose intakes were higher in women with diabetes than in those with normal FPG. Also, physical activity estimated as the time spent in walking was negatively associated with FPG. Regression analyses showed an independent association of age, obesity, family history of diabetes and triglycerides with diabetes.

Conclusion

The high proportion of unknown diabetes suggests the need for increased diabetes awareness in this population. The data suggest also the involvement of obesity in diabetes and the potential importance of intervention strategies to reduce population adiposity for the prevention and management of cardiovascular risk factors.
Validity of protein, retinol, folic acid and n–3 fatty acid intakes estimated from the food-frequency questionnaire used in the Danish National Birth Cohort
Authors: Mikkelsen Tina B , Osler Merete , Olsen Sjurdur F
Published: June 2008

Objective

To validate intakes of protein, folic acid, retinol and n–3 fatty acids estimated from a food-frequency questionnaire in week 25 of pregnancy (FFQ-25).

Design

Validation was done against a 7-day weighed food diary (FD) and biomarkers of the nutrients in gestation week 32–38.

Subjects and setting

The FFQ-25 to be validated was used in the Danish National Birth Cohort comprising 101 042 pregnant Danish women, of whom 88 participated in the present validation study.

Results

Estimated intakes of protein, retinol and folic acid did not differ significantly between the two dietary methods, but intake of n–3 fatty acids was one third larger when estimated from the FFQ-25. The intakes estimated from the two dietary methods were all significantly correlated, ranging from 0.20 for retinol intake to 0.57 for folic acid intake. Sensitivities of being correctly classified into low and high quintiles were between 0.22 and 0.77, and specificities were between 0.62 and 0.89. Urinary protein content did not correlate significantly with protein estimated from the FFQ (r = 0.17, P > 0.05), but did with intake estimated from the FD (r = 0.56, P < 0.0001). Erythrocyte folate correlated significantly with the estimated total intake from the FFQ (r = 0.55, P < 0.0001) and the FD (r = 0.52, P < 0.0001). No correlations with plasma retinol were found. Erythrocyte eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n-3) correlated significantly with n–3 fatty acids intake estimated from both the FFQ-25 (r = 0.37, P < 0.001) and the FD (r = 0.62, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The FFQ-25 gives reasonable valid estimates of protein, retinol and folic acid intakes, but seems to overestimate intake of n–3 fatty acids.
Socio-economic inequalities in women's fruit and vegetable intakes: a multilevel study of individual, social and environmental mediators
Authors: Ball Kylie , Crawford David , Mishra Gita
Published: June 2008

Objective

This study employed a multilevel design to test the contribution of individual, social and environmental factors to mediating socio-economic status (SES) inequalities in fruit and vegetable consumption among women.

Design

A cross-sectional survey was linked with objective environmental data.

Setting

A community sample involving 45 neighbourhoods.

Subjects

In total, 1347 women from 45 neighbourhoods provided survey data on their SES (highest education level), nutrition knowledge, health considerations related to food purchasing, and social support for healthy eating. These data were linked with objective environmental data on the density of supermarkets and fruit and vegetable outlets in local neighbourhoods.

Results

Multilevel modelling showed that individual and social factors partly mediated, but did not completely explain, SES variations in fruit and vegetable consumption. Store density did not mediate the relationship of SES with fruit or vegetable consumption.

Conclusions

Nutrition promotion interventions should focus on enhancing nutrition knowledge and health considerations underlying food purchasing in order to promote healthy eating, particularly among those who are socio-economically disadvantaged. Further investigation is required to identify additional potential mediators of SES–diet relationships, particularly at the environmental level.
Small-scale behaviour of cosmic string networks
Authors: Polchinski Joseph
Published: June 2008

The evolution of cosmic string networks is an interesting dynamical problem. The equations governing these networks are classical and fully specified, but the length scale at which cosmic string loops form has been uncertain to tens of orders of magnitude. Numerical simulations are limited in the range of length and time scales they can reach, while analytic methods have been limited by the nonlinearities of the problem. We describe a recent analytic scaling model developed in collaboration with Jorge Rocha and Florian Dubath, which, together with recent simulations, appears to resolve this question.
‘Exotic’ quantum effects in the laboratory?
Authors: Schützhold Ralf
Published: June 2008

This article provides a brief (non-exhaustive) review of some recent developments regarding the theoretical and possibly experimental study of ‘exotic’ quantum effects in the laboratory with special emphasis on cosmological particle creation, Hawking radiation and the Unruh effect.
Skewed X chromosome inactivation in fraternal female twins results in moderately severe and mild haemophilia B
Authors: OKUMURA K. , FUJIMORI Y. , TAKAGI A. , MURATE T. , OZEKI M. , YAMAMOTO K. , KATSUMI A. , MATSUSHITA T. , NAOE T. , KOJIMA T.
Published: June 2008

Summary.  Female carriers of haemophilia B are usually asymptomatic; however, the disease resulting from different pathophysiological mechanisms has rarely been documented in females. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms responsible for haemophilia B in fraternal female twins. We sequenced the factor IX gene (F9) of the propositus, her father, a severe haemophilia B patient and the other family members. X chromosome inactivation was assessed by the methylation‐sensitive HpaII‐PCR assay using X‐linked polymorphisms in human phosphoglycerate kinase 1 gene (PGK1) and glutamate receptor ionotropic AMPA 3 gene (GRIA3). The twins were found to be heterozygotes with a nonsense mutation (p.Arg384X) inherited from their father. The propositus, more severely affected twin, exhibited a significantly higher percentage of inactivation in the maternally derived X chromosome carrying a normal F9. The other twin also showed a skewed maternal X inactivation, resulting in a patient with mild haemophilia B. Thus, the degree of skewing of maternal X inactivation is closely correlated with the coagulation parameters and the clinical phenotypes of the twins. Furthermore, we identified a crossing‐over in the Xq25–26 region of the maternal X chromosome of the more severely affected twin. This crossing‐over was absent in the other twin, consistent with their fraternal state. Differently skewed X inactivation in the fraternal female twins might cause moderately severe and mild haemophilia B phenotypes, respectively.
Genetic association analysis: a primer on how it works, its strengths and its weaknesses
Authors: Rodriguez‐Murillo Laura , Greenberg David A.
Published: June 2008

Currently, the most used approach to mapping disease genes is the genome wide association study, using large samples of cases and controls and hundreds of thousands of markers spread throughout the genome. This review focuses in explaining how an association study works, its strengths and its weaknesses, and the methods available to analyse the data. Issues related to sample size, genetic effect sizes, epistasis, replication and population stratification are specifically addressed, issues that an investigator must take into account when planning an association study of any complex disease. Finally, we include some special features concerning association studies in the Y chromosome, and we contrast the analysis characteristics of linkage and association.
The effects of cold storage of table grapes, sulphur dioxide and ethanol on species of black Aspergillus producing ochratoxin A
Authors: Guzev Ludmila , Danshin Anna , Zahavi Tirtza , Ovadia Amos , Lichter Amnon
Published: June 2008

Table grapes of cv. ‘Superior’ were sampled from four vineyards during three seasons, for the occurrence of black Aspergillus species that can produce ochratoxin A after storage. The ochratoxin A‐producing fungus, Aspergillus carbonarius, was identified in all the samples at harvest and it survived through cold storage. Storage of table grapes for 7 days at 20 °C resulted in occasional increase in the number of isolates recovered from the berries. In contrast, storage for 1 month at 0 °C, with sulphur dioxide (SO2) generator pads reduced the number of isolates significantly or completely, depending on the dose. Dipping the clusters in ethanol prior to cold storage did not reduce the number of isolates of the Aspergillus niger aggregate after storage. Exposure of A. carbonarius to a final level of 0.4 ppm of SO2 resulted in fewer fungal colonies than in the control, and the surviving spores developed into fungal colonies that failed to sporulate. These results demonstrate that A. carbonarius is ubiquitous on table grapes before storage and care should be taken to avoid its contamination.
Microbial growth and colour of minimally processed shiitake mushroom stored at different temperatures
Authors: Santana Cristiane Castro , Vanetti Maria Cristina Dantas , Kasuya Maria Catarina Megumi
Published: June 2008

The effect of storage temperature on the microbiological and sensory characteristics of minimally processed shiitake was investigated. Shiitake mushrooms were washed, sanitised, packed in polystyrene trays, overwrapped with plastic film and stored at 7, 10 or 15 °C. Microbial counts, polyphenoloxidase activity, external lightness (L*) and acceptance tests were conducted. Mesophilic, aerobic psychrotrophic bacteria, yeasts and moulds predominated during storage. Pseudomonas was detected after 10 days’ storage showing an increase of, approximately, 7 log cycles at 15 °C. Mushroom rejection occurred when the microbial population was lower than 106 CFU g−1, suggesting that, other factors, such as browning, affect mushroom spoilage more than microbial activity. Mushrooms treated with citric or ascorbic acids maintained high L* value during 10 days. The shelf life of minimally processed shiitake mushrooms was 10 days at 7 °C, but less than 5 days at 10 °C, and approximately 3 days at 15 °C.
The role of the mesophyll in stomatal responses to light and CO2
Authors: MOTT KEITH A. , SIBBERNSEN ERIK D. , SHOPE JOSEPH C.
Published: June 2008

Stomatal responses to light and CO2 were investigated using isolated epidermes of Tradescantia pallida, Vicia faba and Pisum sativum. Stomata in leaves of T. pallida and P. sativum responded to light and CO2, but those from V. faba did not. Stomata in isolated epidermes of all three species could be opened on KCl solutions, but they showed no response to light or CO2. However, when isolated epidermes of T. pallida and P. sativum were placed on an exposed mesophyll from a leaf of the same species or a different species, they regained responsiveness to light and CO2. Stomatal responses in these epidermes were similar to those in leaves in that they responded rapidly and reversibly to changes in light and CO2. Epidermes from V. faba did not respond to light or CO2 when placed on mesophyll from any of the three species. Experiments with single optic fibres suggest that stomata were being regulated via signals from the mesophyll produced in response to light and CO2 rather than being sensitized to light and CO2 by the mesophyll. The data suggest that most of the stomatal response to CO2 and light occurs in response to a signal generated by the mesophyll.
Identification of plant defence genes in canola using Arabidopsis cDNA microarrays
Authors: Schenk P. M. , Thomas‐Hall S. R. , Nguyen A. V. , Manners J. M. , Kazan K. , Spangenberg G.
Published: June 2008

We report the identification of novel defence genes in canola by using a cDNA microarray from Arabidopsis. We examined changes that occur in the abundance of transcripts corresponding to 2375 Arabidopsis expressed sequence tags (selected for defence gene identification) following inoculation of canola plants with the fungal necrotrophic leaf pathogen, Alternaria brassicicola. Microarray data obtained from this cross‐hybridisation experiment were compared to expression profiles previously obtained from the equivalent Arabidopsis experiment. Homology searches using a canola expressed sequence tag database with ∼6000 unique clones led to identification of canola defence genes. Pathogen‐responsive transcripts included those associated to known defence genes, reactive oxygen species metabolism, disease resistance and regulatory genes, and cell maintenance/metabolism genes. Using specific primers for quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase PCR, gene expression profiles in canola were obtained that demonstrated coordinated defence responses, including systemic responses in distal tissue and salicylic acid‐ and methyl jasmonate‐mediated signalling against A. brassicicola.
K–Ar and 40Ar/39Ar phengite ages of Sanbagawa schist clasts from the Kuma Group, central Shikoku, southwest Japan
Authors: Nuong Nguyen D. , Itaya Tetsumaru , Hyodo Hironobu , Yokoyama Kazumi
Published: June 2008

Conglomerates of the Kuma Group, central Shikoku, southwest Japan contain Sanbagawa schist clasts with a variety of metamorphic grades and lithologies. K–Ar and 40Ar/39Ar dating of phengite show all the pelitic schist clasts from low‐ to high‐grade zones have similar phengite ages (82–84 Ma) that are significantly older than those from the in situ Sanbagawa sequence of central Shikoku. This is because the Kuma–Sanbagawa sequence was exhumed earlier than the in situ Asemi sequence with an exhumation process intermediate between those for the Kanto Mountains and the in situ Asemi sequences. 40A/39Ar plateau ages (103 and 117 Ma) of phengite in amphibolites indicate the timing of the early stage of the exhumation of the metamorphic pile, probably close to the peak metamorphic age.
Petrology, geochronology and tectonic implications of Mesozoic high Ba–Sr granites in the Haemi area, Hongseong Belt, South Korea
Authors: Choi Seon‐Gyu , Rajesh V. J. , Seo Jieun , Park Jung‐Woo , Oh Chang‐Whan , Pak Sang‐Joon , Kim Sung‐Won
Published: June 2008

Collision between the North and South China continental blocks began in the Korean peninsula during the Permian (290–260 Ma). The Haemi area in the Hongseong collision belt (proposed as the eastern extension in South Korea of the Dabie–Sulu collision zone of China) within the Gyeonggi Massif comprises post‐collisional high Ba–Sr granite with intermediate enclaves that intruded into the Precambrian rocks. The intermediate enclaves have a shoshonitic affinity whereas the granite is a high‐K calc‐alkaline variety. The chondrite‐normalized rare earth element (REE) pattern with relative enrichment of LREE over HREE and absence of a significant negative Eu anomaly typifies both enclaves and granite. Geochemical similarities of enclaves and granite are attributed to the involvement of enriched mantle sources in their genesis. However, dominant crustal components were involved in the formation of high Ba–Sr granites. A granite crystallization age of 233 ± 2 Ma was obtained from SHRIMP U–Pb zircon dating. This age is slightly younger than the Triassic collision event in the Hongseong Belt. Geochemical data, U–Pb zircon age, and regional tectonics indicate that the Haemi high Ba–Sr granite formed in a post‐collisional tectonic environment. A Mesozoic post‐collisional lithospheric delamination model can account for the genesis of high Ba–Sr granite in the Haemi area.
SHRIMP zircon and EPMA monazite dating of granitic rocks from the Maizuru terrane, southwest Japan: Correlation with East Asian Paleozoic terranes and geological implications
Authors: Fujii Masahiro , Hayasaka Yasutaka , Terada Kentaro
Published: June 2008

Abstract  The Maizuru terrane, distributed in the Inner Zone of southwest Japan, is divided into three subzones (Northern, Central and Southern), each with distinct lithological associations. In clear contrast with the Southern zone consisting of the Yakuno ophiolite, the Northern zone is subdivided into the western and eastern bodies by a high‐angle fault, recognized mainly by the presence of deformed granitic rocks and pelitic gneiss. This association suggests an affinity with a mature continental block; this is supported by the mode of occurrence, and petrological and isotopic data. Newly obtained sensitive high mass‐resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) zircon U–Pb ages reveal the intrusion ages of 424 ± 16 and 405 ± 18 Ma (Siluro–Devonian) for the granites from the western body, and 249 ± 10 and 243 ± 19 Ma (Permo–Triassic) for the granodiorites from the eastern body. The granites in the western body also show inherited zircon ages of around 580 and 765 Ma. In addition, electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) monazite U–Th–total Pb dating gives around 475–460 Ma. The age of intrusion, inherited ages, mode of occurrence, and geological setting of the Siluro–Devonian granites of the Northern zone all show similarities with those of the Khanka Massif, southern Primoye, Russia, and the Hikami granitic rocks of the South Kitakami terrane, Northeast Japan. We propose that both the Siluro–Devonian and Permo–Triassic granitic rocks of the Northern zone are likely to have been juxtaposed through the Triassic–Late Jurassic dextral strike‐slip movement, and to have originated from the Khanka Massif and the Hida terrane, respectively. This study strongly supports the importance of the strike‐slip movement as a mechanism causing the structural rearrangement of the Paleozoic–Mesozoic terranes in the Japanese Islands, as well as in East Asia.
Neuromodulation for the treatment of urinary incontinence
Authors: Yamanishi Tomonori , Kamai Takao , Yoshida Ken‐Ichiro
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  Neuromodulation has been reported to be effective for the treatment of stress and urgency urinary incontinence. The cure and improvement rates of pelvic floor neuromodulation in urinary incontinence are 30–50% and 60–90%, respectively. In clinical practice, vaginal, anal and surface electrodes are used for external, short‐term stimulation, and sacral nerve stimulation for internal, chronic (long‐term) stimulation. The effectiveness of neuromodulation has been verified in a randomized, placebo‐controlled study. However, the superiority to other conservative treatments, such as pelvic floor muscle training has not been confirmed. A long‐term effect has also been reported. In conclusion, pelvic floor exercise with adjunctive neuromodulation is the mainstay of conservative management for the treatment of stress incontinence. For urgency and mixed stress plus urgency incontinence, neuromodulation may therefore be the treatment of choice as an alternative to drug therapy.
616. NERINE RIDLEYI
Authors: Duncan Graham
Published: June 2008

Summary The history, taxonomy, genome size, distribution and cultivation requirements of the South African Nerine ridleyi E.P.Phillips (Amaryllidaceae) are discussed; a full botanical description, illustration and distribution map are provided.
THE CONCEPT OF PHILOSOPHICAL EXPERIENCE
Authors: BØYUM STEINAR
Published: June 2008

Abstract: We often speak about religious experience, and sometimes we speak about metaphysical experience. Yet we seldom hear about philosophical experience. Is philosophy purely a matter of theories and theses, or does it have an experiential aspect? In this article, I argue for the following three claims. First, there is something we might call philosophical experience, and there is nothing mystical about it. Second, philosophical experiences are expressed in something quite similar to what Kant called “aesthetic judgements.” Third, philosophical experiences are expressed by using words in what Wittgenstein called “secondary sense.” Finally, I try to show the educational significance of pursing philosophical experiences. Through articulating them one might find one's ground, and through articulating them in a less private and more universal form one might raise oneself to universality. Thus, in expressing philosophical experiences one aspires to speak in a universal voice.
THE PUZZLE OF FALLIBLE KNOWLEDGE
Authors: VAHID HAMID
Published: June 2008

Abstract: Although the fallible/infallible distinction in the theory of knowledge has traditionally been upheld by most epistemologists, almost all contemporary theories of knowledge claim to be fallibilist. Fallibilists have, however, been forced to accommodate knowledge of necessary truths. This has proved to be a daunting task, not least because there is as yet no consensus on how the fallible/infallible divide is to be understood. In this article, after examining and rejecting a number of representative accounts of the notion of fallible knowledge, I argue that the main problems with these accounts actually stem from the very coherence of that notion. I then claim that the distinction is best understood in terms of the externalist/internalist conceptions of knowledge. Finally, I seek to garner some independent support for the proposal by highlighting some of its consequences, including its surprising bearing on certain recent and seemingly distant controversies involving issues in epistemology and philosophy of mind.
WISDOM, MODERATION, AND ELENCHUS IN PLATO'S APOLOGY
Authors: KING CHRISTOPHER S.
Published: June 2008

Abstract: This article contends that Socratic wisdom (sophia) in Plato's Apology should be understood in relation to moderation (sophrosune), not knowledge (episteme). This stance is exemplified in an interpretation of Socrates' disavowal of knowledge. The god calls Socrates wise. Socrates holds both that he is wise in nothing great or small and that the god does not lie. These apparently inconsistent claims are resolved in an interpretation of elenchus. This interpretion says that Socrates is wise insofar as he does not believe himself to know what he does not know. Whether one knows is demonstrated through elenchus, which moderates between knowledge claims. Thus, elenchus is productive of a kind of wisdom even if it does not produce knowledge. This claim, if true, forms a suitable basis for Socrates' defense of himself. That it does so serves as further evidence for the interpretation of sophia as sophrosune.
Optimal HIV testing and earlier care: the way forward in Europe
Authors: Coenen T , Lundgren J , Lazarus JV , Matic S
Published: June 2008

The articles in this supplement were developed from a recent pan‐European conference entitled ‘HIV in Europe 2007: Working together for optimal testing and earlier care’, which took place on 26–27 November in Brussels, Belgium. The conference, organized by a multidisciplinary group of experts representing advocacy, clinical and policy areas of the HIV field, was convened in an effort to gain a common understanding on the role of HIV testing and counselling in optimizing diagnosis and the need for earlier care. Key topics discussed at the conference and described in the following articles include: current barriers to HIV testing across Europe, trends in the epidemiology of HIV in the region, problems associated with undiagnosed infection and the psychosocial barriers impacting on testing. The supplement also provides a summary of the World Health Organization's recommendations for HIV testing in Europe and an outline of an indicator disease‐guided approach to HIV testing proposed by a committee of experts from the European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS). We hope that consideration of the issues discussed in this supplement will help to shift the HIV field closer towards our ultimate goal: provision of optimal HIV testing and earlier care across the whole of the European region.
To test or not to test: psychosocial barriers to HIV testing in high‐income countries
Authors: De Wit JBF , Adam PCG
Published: June 2008

To contribute to the evidence‐based understanding of the psychosocial factors that influence individuals' uptake of testing for HIV, we assessed and synthesized the pertinent published literature in the fields of public health, behavioural medicine, and (health) psychology. Although the evidence base appears too limited to allow firm conclusions and definition on psychological barriers to HIV testing in high‐income countries, we identified convergent themes from the available studies. Testing for HIV seems to be more likely when individuals perceive that they have been at risk, though this association is not perfectly observed. Fear of the consequences of testing positive –mainly worries related to discrimination and rejection – also hinders HIV testing. Finally, individuals appear more likely to test for HIV when they perceive more benefits from testing. The perspective of targeted individuals, in particular the social connotations and consequences of HIV diagnoses, is crucial to understand testing decisions.
Hypothalamic Deep-Brain Stimulation: Target and Potential Mechanism for the Treatment of Cluster Headache
Authors: May A
Published: June 2008

Recently, functional imaging data have underscored the crucial role of the hypothalamus in trigemino-autonomic headaches, a group of severe primary headaches. This prompted the application of hypothalamic deep-brain stimulation (DBS), with the intention to preventing cluster headache (CH) attacks in selected severe therapy-refractory cases. To date, a total of 50 operated intractable CH patients, one patient with short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing and three with atypical facial pain, have been reported. However, it is not apparent why the spontaneous bursts of activation in the inferior posterior hypothalamus result in excruciating head pain, whereas continuous electrical stimulation of the identical area is able to prevent these attacks. Recently, this issue has been addressed by examining 10 operated chronic CH patients, using H215O-positron emission tomography and alternately switching the hypothalamic stimulator on and off. The stimulation-induced activation in the ipsilateral posterior inferior hypothalamic grey (the site of the stimulator tip) as well as activation and de-activation in several cerebral structures belonging to neuronal circuits usually activated in pain transmission. These data argue against an unspecific antinociceptive effect or pure inhibition of hypothalamic activity as the mode of action of hypothalamic DBS and suggest functional modulation of the pain-processing network.