bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theory of generation of kinetic Alfvén waves by Non-conventional Global Alfvén Eigenmodes
Authors: Fesenyuk O.P. , Yakovenko Yu.V. , Kolesnichenko Ya.I. , Pasichnyi A.A.
Published: July 2010

The process of radiation of kinetic Alfvén Waves (KAWs) by a non-conventional global Alfvén eigenmode (NGAE) or a reversed-shear Alfvén eigenmode (modes which exist above maxima of Alfvén continuum branches) is studied analytically and numerically. The Schrödinger equation describing a localized NGAE and emitted KAWs in the space of radial wave number is derived. Analytical expressions for the mode eigenfrequencies, the radiative damping rates and the wave amplitudes are obtained. The results obtained analytically are in agreement with those obtained numerically by means of two codes based on different methods. It is found that the amplitude of the radiated KAWs can be as large as the amplitude of the radiating mode, with the radiative damping rate being rather small.
Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound for Evaluating Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders in Pediatrics: A Tertiary Care Center Experience
Authors: Al‐Rashdan Abdullah , LeBlanc Julia , Sherman Stuart , McHenry Lee , DeWitt John , Al‐Haddad Mohammad
Published: July 2010

Background:

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with or without fine needle aspiration (FNA) has a well‐established role in the evaluation of various gastrointestinal (GI) tract disorders in adults. The clinical impact of EUS on the management of the pediatric population remains less clear. This study evaluates the feasibility, safety, and applications of EUS ± FNA in pediatric GI tract disorders.

Patients and Methods:

Using a prospectively maintained EUS database, all patients 18 years of age or younger referred for EUS at our institution were identified. Retrospective chart review was conducted to document procedure indications, type of anesthesia used, EUS findings, final FNA cytology results, and clinical impact of EUS ± FNA on the subsequent management of pediatric patients.

Results:

Fifty‐eight EUS procedures were performed in 56 patients (35 girls). Median age was 16 years (range 4–18 years). The main indications for EUS were acute or recurrent pancreatitis, abdominal pain of suspected pancreatobiliary origin, suspected biliary obstruction, upper GI mucosal/submucosal lesions, and evaluation of pancreatic abnormalities seen on prior imaging. Sedation used included nurse‐administered propofol sedation in 38 (73%), general anesthesia in 9 (17%), and fentanyl with meperidine in 3 (6%). Five therapeutic procedures performed included celiac plexus blocks in 4 and 1 EUS‐guided pancreatogram. In 44 (86%) patients, EUS provided a new diagnosis. The procedure was successfully completed in all patients with no reported complications.

Conclusions:

EUS ± FNA is feasible and safe and makes a significant impact on most pediatric patients. Nurse‐administered propofol sedation appears to be safe and well tolerated in this group.
Ancient DNA from Nubian and Somali wild ass provides insights into donkey ancestry and domestication
Authors: Kimura Birgitta , Marshall Fiona B. , Chen Shanyuan , Rosenbom Sónia , Moehlman Patricia D. , Tuross Noreen , Sabin Richard C. , Peters Joris , Barich Barbara , Yohannes Hagos , Kebede Fanuel , Teclai Redae , Beja-Pereira Albano , Mulligan Connie J.
Published: July 2010

Genetic data from extant donkeys (
Equus asinus
) have revealed two distinct mitochondrial DNA haplogroups, suggestive of two separate domestication events in northeast Africa about 5000 years ago. Without distinct phylogeographic structure in domestic donkey haplogroups and with little information on the genetic makeup of the ancestral African wild ass, however, it has been difficult to identify wild ancestors and geographical origins for the domestic mitochondrial clades. Our analysis of ancient archaeological and historic museum samples provides the first genetic information on the historic Nubian wild ass (
Equus africanus africanus
), Somali wild ass (
Equus africanus somaliensis
) and ancient donkey. The results demonstrate that the Nubian wild ass was an ancestor of the first donkey haplogroup. In contrast, the Somali wild ass has considerable mitochondrial divergence from the Nubian wild ass and domestic donkeys. These findings resolve the long-standing issue of the role of the Nubian wild ass in the domestication of the donkey, but raise new questions regarding the second ancestor for the donkey. Our results illustrate the complexity of animal domestication, and have conservation implications for critically endangered Nubian and Somali wild ass.
Automatic imitation in dogs
Authors: Range Friederike , Huber Ludwig , Heyes Cecilia
Published: July 2010

After preliminary training to open a sliding door using their head and their paw, dogs were given a discrimination task in which they were rewarded with food for opening the door using the same method (head or paw) as demonstrated by their owner (compatible group), or for opening the door using the alternative method (incompatible group). The incompatible group, which had to counterimitate to receive food reward, required more trials to reach a fixed criterion of discrimination performance (85% correct) than the compatible group. This suggests that, like humans, dogs are subject to ‘automatic imitation’; they cannot inhibit online the tendency to imitate head use and/or paw use. In a subsequent transfer test, where all dogs were required to imitate their owners' head and paw use for food reward, the incompatible group made a greater proportion of incorrect, counterimitative responses than the compatible group. These results are consistent with the associative sequence learning model, which suggests that the development of imitation depends on sensorimotor experience and phylogenetically general mechanisms of associative learning. More specifically, they suggest that the imitative behaviour of dogs is shaped more by their developmental interactions with humans than by their evolutionary history of domestication.
Using theories of behaviour change to inform interventions for addictive behaviours
Authors: Webb Thomas L. , Sniehotta Falko F. , Michie Susan
Published: July 2010

Aims  This paper reviews a set of theories of behaviour change that are used outside the field of addiction and considers their relevance for this field.

Methods  Ten theories are reviewed in terms of (i) the main tenets of each theory, (ii) the implications of the theory for promoting change in addictive behaviours and (iii) studies in the field of addiction that have used the theory. An augmented feedback loop model based on Control Theory is used to organize the theories and to show how different interventions might achieve behaviour change.

Results  Briefly, each theory provided the following recommendations for intervention: Control Theory: prompt behavioural monitoring, Goal‐Setting Theory: set specific and challenging goals, Model of Action Phases: form ‘implementation intentions’, Strength Model of Self‐Control: bolster self‐control resources, Social Cognition Models (Protection Motivation Theory, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Health Belief Model): modify relevant cognitions, Elaboration Likelihood Model: consider targets' motivation and ability to process information, Prototype Willingness Model: change perceptions of the prototypical person who engages in behaviour and Social Cognitive Theory: modify self‐efficacy.

Conclusions  There are a range of theories in the field of behaviour change that can be applied usefully to addiction, each one pointing to a different set of modifiable determinants and/or behaviour change techniques. Studies reporting interventions should describe theoretical basis, behaviour change techniques and mode of delivery accurately so that effective interventions can be understood and replicated.
Autoantibodies against peripheral blood cells appear early in HIV infection and their prevalence increases with disease progression
Authors: KLAASSEN R J L , MULDER J W , VLEKKE A B J , SCHATTENKERK J K M EEFTINCK , WEIGEL H M , LANGE J M A , VON DEM BORNE A E G K
Published: July 2010

The presence of platelet- and neutrophil-bound immunoglobulin (PBIg and NBIg) in thrombocytopenic or neutropenic HIV-infected individuals has led to the concept that in HIV infection thrombocytopenia and neutropenia are mediated by autoimmunity. However, PBIg and NBIg were also demonstrated in non-cytopenic HIV-infccted individuals. We determined the prevalence of autoantibodies against neutrophils and platelets by immunofluorescence in randomly chosen persons in different stages of asymptomatic and symptomatic HIV infection. Platelet and neutrophil autoantibodies already appeared in the asymptomatic stage and their prevalence further increased in the symptomatic stages. No correlation was found between the presence of either platelet or neutrophil antibodies and the occurrence of circulating immune complexes in the blood or the serum immunoglobulin level. There was no significant difference in neutrophil counts in HIV-infected persons with or without neutrophil autoantibodies. In addition, no significant difference in neutrophil count was found between HIV-infectcd and non-HIV-infectcd persons. HIV-infected individuals with platelet autoantibodies tended to have a lower platelet count than HIV-infected individuals without these antibodies. However, the platelet count in HIV-infected individuals without platelet antibodies was significantly lower than in the non-HIV infected persons. Thus, autoantibodies against platelets and neutrophils occur early in HIV infection and their prevalence is correlated with disease progression. Their presence is associated with cytopenia only in a limited number of persons. Non-immune mechanisms also mediate thrombocytopenia in HIV infection.
Heterogeneity of the Ro/SSA antigen and autoanti-Ro/SSA response: evidence of the four antigenically distinct forms
Authors: ITOH Y , RADER M D , REICHLIN M
Published: July 2010

Precipitating antibodies to the Ro/SSA antigen occur in the sera of 40% of patients with sytemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and in 40–70% of the sera of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome. Previous work has shown that lymphocyte extracts contain two Ro/SSA antigens with protein moieties of 60 kD and 52 kD and that erythrocyte haemolysate contain two analogous but antigenically distinct Ro/SSA molecules of 60 kD and 54 kD. Frequency analysis of the various specificities in 43 sera with precipitating anti-Ro/SSA and studies with affinity-eluted antibodies suggest that the lymphocyte 60 kD and erythrocyte 60 kD Ro/SSA molecules are related as are the lymphocyte 52 kD and erythrocyte 54 kD Ro/SSA proteins. Anti-Ro/SSA sera when accompanied by other precipitins (anti-La/SSB and anti-U1RNP) react preferentially with certain Ro/SSA isoforms. Evidence is also presented for a 45 kD form of Ro/SSA. These data suggest that the antigenic heterogeneity of the Ro/SSA antigen is immunologically relevant and that there are two families of Ro/SSA antigens: one comprising of the two 60-kD proteins in the erythrocyte and lymphocyte and the other the erythrocyte 54 kD and lymphocyte 52 kD Ro/SSA proteins, respectively.
The life situations of patients with primary antibody deficiency untreated or treated with subcutaneous gammaglobulin infusions
Authors: GARDULF A , BJÖRVELL H , GUSTAFSON R , HAMMARSTRÖM L , SMITH C I E
Published: July 2010

The life situations of 25 patients with hypogammaglobulinaemia were studied before and after the initiation of subcutaneous replacement therapy by using medical records, data registers and questionnaires (a study and a disease-specific questionnaire, the Sickness Impaet Profile and the General Health Rating Index). Before treatment, the patients perceived more dysfunctions with regard to ambulation. mobility, emotional behaviour, social interaction, sleep and rest, household management, work and recreation or pastime activities compared with a Swedish reference group (P= 0·0001). A significant increase in the perceived frequency of infections was also seen in untreated patients compared with a group of healthy individuals (P=0·0001) After 18 months of weekly subcutaneous infusions of an intramuscular gammaglobulin preparation (100 mg/kg), the patients reported a significantly increased, health-related function and improved self-rated health. A significantly higher pre-infusion IgG level was also found.
T cell responses to orbital antigens in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy
Authors: ARNOLD K , TANDON N , MCINTOSH R S , ELISEI R , LUDGATE M , WEETMAN A P
Published: July 2010

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is most likely to be a T cell-mediated disease, in which cytokines released in the extraocular muscles activate fibroblasts, increasing glycosaminoglycan production. The nature of the orbital antigen recognized by the infiltrating T cells is unclear, although it is possible that there is cross-reactivity between this and a thyroid autoantigen to explain the close association with thyroid autoimmunity. We have tested the ability of human and porcine eye muscle antigen preparations to stimulate proliferation of circulating T cells from healthy subjects and patients with TAO or Graves'disease without clinical TAO. Occasional responses were seen, particularly after depletion of CD8+ T cells, and two out of 10 TAO patients responded to eye muscle proteins of 25–50 kD after fractionation of antigens on gels and subsequent elution. There was no disease-specific response of T cells to R1, R14, Dl and 1D3, recombinant proteins identified from screening an eye muscle cDNA library with sera from patients with autoimmune thyroid disease. We have also found that interferon-gamma (IFN-7) production by T cells from TAO patients was not stimulated by eye muscle membrane antigens or by 1D3. These results suggest that the frequency of circulating T cells responding to eye muscle antigens in TAO is low, and that several candidate orbital antigens, including the 64-kD protein 1D3, are unlikely to be important T cell autoantigens in this condition.
Circulating proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6) and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in fulminant hepatic failure and acute hepatitis
Authors: SEKIYAMA K D , YOSHIBA M , THOMSON A W
Published: July 2010

Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) is characterized by massive necroinflammation of the liver tissue and is associated with high mortality. Serum concentrations of IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-α). IL-6 and IL-I receptor antagonist (IL-IRa) were measured in 30 patients with FHF and in 23 patients with acute hepatitis (AH) before start of treatment and in 23 healthy controls. Levels of all four molecules were increased significantly in FHF compared with AH, in which values were higher than in the healthy controls. High serum levels of IL-1β and a significantly reduced ratio of IL-IRa to IL-Iβ (IL-lRa/IL-lβ) were observed in FHF patients who subsequently died compared with subjects who survived. TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations were correlated with levels of human hepatocyte growth factor (hHGF), an index of hepatocyte regeneration. Although serum cytokine levels varied considerably between patients within each group studied, it is suggested that the striking elevation in proinflammatory cytokine levels in FHF may reflect both the insufficiency of hepatitis virus elimination and a failure to control a vicious cytokine cascade leading to overwhelming hepatocyte destruction rather than regeneration. The high cytokine levels observed in these patients and the significantly elevated IL-IRa/IL-lβ ratio in FHF patients who survived compared with those who did not suggest the possible therapeutic use of cytokine antagonists for the control of this life-threatening disease.
Isolation and functional characterization of T cells from human sputum
Authors: Pang G T , Clancy R L , Reeves G E
Published: July 2010

T cells play a central role in the control of inflammation in the bronchial mucosa through the elaboration of proinflammatory cytokines. This study describes a method for the isolation and cloning of T cells from sputum of adult subjects. In sputum. T cells were of a minor population (<2% of total cells), and not all expressed activation markers for CD29 (very late antigen-1 (VLA-1)). IL-2R and HLA-DR. When cultured in the presence of rIL-2 for 7 days and then cloned by limiting dilution, the ratios of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell clones (TCC) generated reflected those of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells found in sputum. CD4+ TCC and primary CD4+ T ceil populations produced a range of proinflammatory cytokines when stimulated with immobilized anti-CD3 MoAb. Analysis of mRNA messages by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) and Southern blot showed good correlation with the production of cytokine in culture supernatants. A correlation existed between the pattern of cell infiltrate in sputum and the cytokine profile.
In vitroanti-HIV-1 antibody production in subjects in different stages of HIV-1 infection
Authors: Rusconi S , Riva A , Meroni L , Zehender G , Cocchi F , Scapellato L , Galli M
Published: July 2010

We evaluated the in vitro antibody production from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) against HIV-1 proteins in infected adults. Fifty-four HIV-1 infected patients (four recent seroconverters, 15 asymptomatics with a CD4 count higher than 500/μl, 27 asymptomatics with a CD4 count between 200 and 500/μl and eight symptomatic patients) were tested. PBMC were incubated in the presence or absence of 1% pokeweed mitogen (PWM) at 37°C for 8 days. Western blot assay, p24 antigen ELISA and anti-p24 antibody ELISA were performed on serum and culture supernatants. Spontaneous production of anti-env antibody in culture supernatants was evidenced in all subjects. All the positive supernatants for anti-core antibodies (18/54) were derived from asymptomatic patients. PBMC from recent seroconverters and from symptomatic patients did not produce any anti-core antibody. Antibody production decreased after stimulation with PWM. The concentration of p24 antigen did not significantly increase in p24 positive supernatants following acidification (P= 0·1), suggesting that the inability to detect p24 antibody was not due to the anti-p24 antibody complexed to p24 antigen in culture supernatants. In vitro production of anti-p24 antibodies was significantly more frequent in asymptomatic subjects with high CD4+ cell counts (P= 002) and was absent in recent seroconverters. This last finding suggests that during the initial phases of the infection, anti-p24 antibody production may be restricted to cells residing in lymphoid organs. In addition, the lower percentage of anti-core antibody in people with low CD4+ cell counts is not merely a consequence of the binding of the antibody to an increased amount of antigen, but probably reflects an impaired production or a sequestration of producing cells in lymphoid tissue during the late stages of the infection.
Neutrophil and recombinant myeloperoxidase as antigens in ANCA positive systemic vasculitis
Authors: Short A K , Lockwood C M , Bollen A , Moguilevsky N
Published: July 2010

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is one of the major autoantigens recognized by anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies. The association of this antigen with specific disease entities requires that there is a source of pure antigen present in large quantities. Further delineation of the molecular mechanisms involved in the antigen antibody interaction requires the ability to manipulate the molecule. The expression of recombinant MPO in Chinese hamster ovary cells has produced a source of pure protein, suitable for molecular studies. We have shown that this protein is an antigen recognized by 95% of anti-MPO antibodies from patients with systemic vasculitis. This recombinant molecule will be of use in providing an additional specific solid-phase assay for these antibodies and further forms of this protein which mirror the antigenicity of native MPO more exactly may replace chemically purified antigen. It will also be of great value in studies examining the epitopes recognized by anti-MPO antibodies and in studies of immunoregulation and T cell activation.
Beneficial effect of amrinone on murine cardiac allograft survival
Authors: Hirozane T , Matsumori A , Furukawa Y , Matsui S , Sato Y , Matoba Y , Sasayama S
Published: July 2010

Amrinone is a non-glycoside positive inotropic agent with an inhibitory effect on a cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) phosphodiesterase isoenzyme. In the present study, we examined the immunosuppressive action of amrinone, since several other cyclic AM P-elevating agents have been shown to suppress T lymphocyte activation. First, the in vivo. effects of amrinone were investigated. Oral amrinone treatment, at 40mg/kg per day, significantly prolonged median cardiac allograft survival compared with non-treated controls (220 days versus 10-5 days, P<0.01) when DBA/2 mouse hearts (H-2d) were heterotopically transplanted into C57B1/6 mice (H-2d). Histopathological examination showed that there was less prominent cellular infiltration in the amrinone-treated than in the non-treated allografts. Plasma amrinone concentrations of mice after a single oral dose of 40mg/kg were within the range of clinical relevance. To clarify the mechanism of action, in vitro. studies were done. The generation of specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes after mixed lymphocyte culture was significantly suppressed by addition of amrinone to the culture medium at 5μg/ml. The production of IL-2 and the interferon-gamma during mixed lymphocyte culture was also suppressed by amrinone at 5 μg/ml. However, the level of intracellular cyclic AMP in mouse splenic lymphocytes was not affected significantly by the same dose of amrinone. In conclusion, amrinone has immunosuppressive actions at the therapeutic doses, and it may be a beneficial agent for therapy against acute cardiac allograft rejection.
A cross‐ecosystem assessment of the effects of land cover and land use on soil emission of selected greenhouse gases and related soil properties in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mapanda F. , Mupini J. , Wuta M. , Nyamangara J. , Rees R. M.
Published: July 2010

Land used for agricultural production can contribute significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; however, there is very little information on the role of management and land use change in influencing these emissions in Africa. Thus, exploring GHG emissions that occur at the soil‐atmosphere interface is an essential part of the effort to integrate land management strategies with climate change mitigation and adaptation in southern Africa. We measured soil emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from rain‐fed perennial tropical grassland, wastewater‐irrigated perennial tropical pastureland, recently cleared woodland, miombo woodland, aEucalyptusplantation, regular cropland and recently cleared‐and‐cropped land, on two contrasting soils at five sites in one cropping season in Zimbabwe. Gas samples were collected using static chambers and analysed by gas chromatography. Considerably high GHG emissions were found on sewage effluent‐irrigated pastureland (means, 190 mg CO2‐C m−2hour−1, 102 µg CH4‐C m−2hour−1and 6 µg N2O‐N m−2hour−1from sandy soil) and altered woodlands (mean ranges, 38–70 CO2‐C m−2hour−1, 12–43 µg CH4‐C m−2hour−1and 20–31 µg N2O‐N m−2hour−1from deforested and cultivated woodland on clay and sandy soils). Relatively low and less variable emissions were found among the rain‐fed perennial tropical grasslands, regular croplands andEucalyptusplantations (mean ranges, 19–39 mg CO2‐C m−2hour−1, −9.4–2.6 µg CH4‐C m−2hour−1and 1.0–4.7 µg N2O‐N m−2hour−1). Variability in CO2, CH4and N2O emissions from soils was to the greatest extent influenced by soil temperature, but soil moisture, mineral‐N and pH were also important. The increased N2O emissions from cleared woodland on clay soil were attributed to increased mineralization and N availability when no tree could take up that N, while the N mineralized on the sandy soil could have been largely leached due to the soil's poor nutrient holding capacity, resulting in a relatively lower N2O emission response to clearing. We concluded that the alteration of woodlands by deforestation and cultivation increased soil temperature, resulting in increased soil respiration, while the establishment ofEucalyptusplantations may provide an option for reduction in soil emissions of CO2and N2O and a sink for CH4.
Development of a 1‐Methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) Sachet Release System
Authors: Lee Younsuk S. , Beaudry Randy , Kim Jai N. , Harte Bruce R.
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT The partitioning of 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) between the gas/polymer matrix was determined for 2 adsorbing agents and 4 sachet materials to estimate the adsorption potential of 1‐MCP at 23°C. The release study was performed using a closed system under 2 different environmental conditions, dry air (0% RH) and 90% RH. Sachets made from Tyvek®, paper, low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), and polyvinyl acetate (PVA) materials were fabricated to contain silica gel and activated carbon. Activated carbon sachets did not release 1‐MCP at either testing condition. Activated carbon had a very strong affinity for 1‐MCP. The permeability coefficients of 1‐MCP and water in polyethylene and polyvinyl acetate films were determined using a quasi‐isostatic method. LDPE sachets containing silica gel had similar 1‐MCP release rates at both 0% and 90% RH. PVA sachets containing silica gel had slow release of 1‐MCP. The amount of 1‐MCP released from PVA sachets containing silica gel at 90% RH was larger than the amount of 1‐MCP released at 0% RH. Release of 1‐MCP from paper and Tyvek sachets was largely dependent on the sorbate‐absorbing ability of the adsorbing agents.
Carotenoid Profile in Grapes Related to Aromatic Compounds in Wines from Douro Region
Authors: Oliveira Carla , Barbosa Antonina , Ferreira A. C. Silva , Guerra Joaquim , Guedes DE Pinho Paula
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to characterize 8 representative grape varieties of the Douro Region using the carotenoid profile as it relates to aromatic compounds in the respective wines. Some other analyses, such as the determination of sugar, probable alcohol, pH, and total acidity, were also performed in an attempt to understand in which way the evaluated characteristics influenced by grape variety could contribute to the wine aroma. For the 3 y of the study, grape varieties with higher concentrations of carotenoids (Touriga Femea, Tinta Amarela, and Tinta Barroca) have lower values of free norisoprenoids, even with exceptions (Touriga Femea). Conversely, grape varieties with lower concentrations of carotenoids (Touriga Nacional, Sousao, and Tinto Cao) appear to have higher contents of free norisoprenoids, namely b‐ionone for Touriga Nacional and vitispirane and 1,1,6‐trimethyl‐1,2‐dihydronaphthalene (TDN) for Sousao and Tinto Cao. Touriga Nacional, followed by Touriga Femea, was the wine variety with the highest values of total free terpenols (linalol, a‐terpineol, nerol, and geraniol), the presence of which is responsible for the floral aroma.
Influence of Pre‐drying Treatments on Quality and Safety of Sun‐dried Tomatoes. Part I: Use of Steam Blanching, Boiling Brine Blanching, and Dips in Salt or Sodium Metabisulfite
Authors: And Guadalupe Latapi , Barrett Diane M.
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT The effect of various pre‐drying treatments on the subsequent quality of sun‐dried tomatoes was evaluated by determining moisture, color, rehydration ratio, mold, yeast, sulfur dioxide, and/or salt content. The 4 pre‐drying treatments under investigation were (1) steam blanching or (2) boiling brine blanching, followed by gas sulfuring and (3) dipping in either salt (0%, 10%, 15%, 20%) or (4) sodium metabisulfite (0%, 4%, 6%, 8%) for 0, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 min. Neither blanching pretreatment improved the quality of the dried product. Salt dipping resulted in significant differences in rehydration ratio, yeast, and salt. The most effective salt pretreatment conditions were a 10% or 15% salt dip for 5 min. Sodium metabisulfite dipping caused significant differences in rehydration ratio, yeast, color, and sulfur dioxide. Dipping tomatoes in 6% or 8% sodium metabisulfite for 5 min before drying established the best color. The 9 pretreatments studied were also evaluated for storage stability at 25 °C and 30% to 34% relative humidity for 3 mo.
Effect of Capsicum annuum (Red Sweet and Cayenne) and Piper nigrum (Black and White) Pepper Powders on the Shelf Life of Fresh Pork Sausages Packaged in Modified Atmosphere
Authors: Martínez Luis , Cilla Irene , Antonio Beltrán José , Roncalés Pedro
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT Capsicum annuum (red sweet and hot cayenne) and Piper nigrum (black and white) pepper powders were evaluated for inhibition of oxidative reactions and extension of the shelf life of fresh pork sausages packaged in a modified atmosphere. Sausages containing either red sweet pepper or cayenne pepper (0.1%, 0.5%, or 2%) or black or white pepper (0.1%, 0.5%, or 1%) were packaged in a modified atmosphere of 80% O2+ 20% CO2, stored for 16 d in the dark at 2 °C, and analyzed each 4 d for pH, CIE L*, a*, and b*, 2‐thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS), psychrotrophic aerobes, sensory discoloration, and off‐odor. Results demonstrated that Capsicum peppers (sweet red and hot cayenne) enhanced red color but failed to prevent discoloration, whereas they were very effective in inhibiting lipid oxidation, chiefly at the highest concentration used (2%), which resulted in a delay of off‐odor formation. Piper peppers (black and white) significantly delayed discoloration with small modification of sausage color; furthermore, they also inhibited lipid oxidation, which led to a delay of off‐odor formation, particularly in the form of black pepper. Besides this, all those spices inhibited microbial growth when added at the highest concentration (1%Piper and 2%Capsicum).
Vitamin K Contents of Grains, Cereals, Fast‐Food Breakfasts, and Baked Goods
Authors: Ferreira Dan W. , Haytowitz David B. , Tassinari Michele A. , Peterson James W. , Booth Sarah L.
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT Accurate dietary assessment of vitamin K requires representative food composition data for specific geographical regions. The purpose of this study was to determine the contents of 3 different forms of vitamin K (phylloquinone [K1], 2′,3′‐dihydrophylloquinone [dK], and menaquinone‐4 [MK‐4]) in representative grains, cereals, and baked goods, including breakfast foods, in the U.S. food supply. Samples were obtained as part of USDA's Natl. Food and Nutrient Analysis Program and analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Overall, breads, grains, and breakfast cereals were limited sources of K1 (range: nondetectable [ND] to 11.2 μg/100 g), with a wide range in dK (range: ND to 47.0 μg/100 g). In contrast, processed foods, such as fast‐food breakfast sandwiches and baked goods, contain wide ranges of K1 (0.9 to 39.3 μg/100 g) and dK (ND to 72.2 μg/100 g). For any given food, K1 concentrations clustered within a narrow range, whereas dK concentrations had a wide range for a given food, suggestive of divergent use of hydrogenated oils in the manufacturing process. Low MK‐4 concentrations (1.8 to 4.0 μg/100 g) were detected in meat‐ and cheese‐containing breakfast foods and certain pie crusts. These data suggest that processed foods that contain K1‐rich plant oils are a source of K1 and dK in the U.S. food supply.
Mapping of Kisspeptin Fibres in the Brain of the Pro‐Oestrous Rat
Authors: Desroziers E. , Mikkelsen J. , Simonneaux V. , Keller M. , Tillet Y. , Caraty A. , Franceschini I.
Published: July 2010

Kisspeptins are a family of small peptides that play a key role in the neuroendocrine regulation of the reproductive function through neural pathways that have not yet been completely identified. The present study aimed to investigate the distribution of kisspeptin neurone fibres in the female rat brain by comparing precisely the immunoreactive pattern obtained with two antibodies: one specifically directed against kisspeptin‐52 (Kp‐52), the longest isoform, and the other directed against kisspeptin‐10 (Kp‐10), whose sequence is common to all putative mature isoforms. With both antibodies, immunoreactive cell bodies were exclusively observed in the arcuate nucleus, and immunoreactive fibres were confined to the septo‐preoptico‐hypothalamic continuum of the brain. Fibres were observed in the preoptic area, the diagonal band of Broca, the septohypothalamic area, the anteroventral periventricular, suprachiasmatic, supraoptic, paraventricular and periventricular nuclei, the dorsal border of the ventromedian nucleus, the dorsomedial and arcuate nuclei, and the median eminence. In the latter structure, varicose fibres were mainly distributed in the internal layer and were detected to a lesser extent throughout the external layer, including around the deeper part of the infundibular recess. Most regions of immunoreactive cells and fibres matched perfectly for the two antibodies. However, fibres in the dorsolateral septum, anterior fornix, accumbens nucleus and the lateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis were only recognised by antibody anti‐Kp‐10, suggesting that anti‐Kp‐10 may recognise a wider range of kisspeptin isoforms than anti‐Kp‐52 or cross‐react with molecules other than kisspeptin in rat tissue. Overall, these results illustrate the variety of projection sites of kisspeptin neurones in the rat and suggest that these peptides play a role in different functions.
Vasopressin Protects Hippocampal Neurones in Culture Against Nutrient Deprivation or Glutamate‐Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Chen J. , Aguilera G.
Published: July 2010

Vasopressin (VP) secreted within the brain modulates neuronal function by acting as a neurotransmitter. Recent studies show that VP prevents serum deprivation‐induced apoptosis in the neuronal cell line, H32. To determine whether VP is anti‐apoptotic in hippocampal neurones, primary cultures of these neurones were used to examine the effect of VP on neuronal culture supplement (B27) deprivation‐, or glutamate‐induced apoptosis, and the signalling pathways mediating the effects. Removal of B27 supplement from the culture medium for 24 h or the addition of glutamate (3–10 μm) decreased neuronal viability (P < 0.05) and increased Tdt‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labelling (TUNEL) staining and caspase‐3 activity (P < 0.05), which is consistent with apoptotic cell death. VP (10 nm) reduced B27 deprivation‐ or glutamate‐induced cell death (P < 0.05). These anti‐apoptotic effects of VP were completely blocked by a V1 but not a V2 receptor antagonist, indicating that they are mediated via V1 VP receptors. The anti‐apoptotic effect of VP in neurones involves activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and inositol trisphosphate/protein kinase B (Akt) signalling pathways. This was shown by the transient increases in phospho‐ERK and phospho‐Akt after incubation with VP revealed by western blot analyses, and the ability of specific inhibitors to reduce the inhibitory effect of VP on caspase‐3 activity and TUNEL staining by 70% and 35%, respectively (P < 0.05). These studies demonstrate that VP has anti‐apoptotic actions in hippocampal neurones, an effect that is mediated by the MAPK/ERK and phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase/Akt signalling pathways. The ability of VP to reduce nutrient deprivation or glutamate overstimulation‐induced neuronal death suggests that VP acts as a neuroprotective agent within the brain.
The optimal bolus dose of alfentanil for tracheal intubation during sevoflurane induction without neuromuscular blockade in day‐case anaesthesia
Authors: KIM J. Y. , KWAK Y. L. , LEE K. C. , CHANG Y. J. , KWAK H. J.
Published: July 2010

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal bolus dose of alfentanil required to provide successful intubating conditions following inhalation induction of anaesthesia using 5% sevoflurane and 60% nitrous oxide without neuromuscular blockade in adult day‐case anaesthesia.

Methods: Twenty‐four adults, aged 18–60 years, undergoing general anaesthesia for short ambulatory surgery were enroled into the study. After vital capacity induction, with sevoflurane 5% and 60% nitrous oxide in oxygen, pre‐determined dose of alfentanil was injected over 30 s. The dose of alfentanil was determined by modified Dixon's up‐and‐down method (2 μg/kg as a step size). Ninety seconds after the end of bolus administration of alfentanil, the trachea was intubated. Systolic blood pressure, heart rate and SpO2 were recorded at anaesthetic induction, before, 1 min and 3 min after intubation.

Results: The bolus dose of alfentanil for successful tracheal intubation was 10.7±2.1 μg/kg in 50% of patients during inhalation induction. From probit analysis, 50% effective dose (ED50) and ED95 values (95% confidence limits) of alfentanil were 10.7 μg/kg (8.0–12.9 μg/kg) and 14.9 μg/kg (12.9–31.1 μg/kg), respectively.

Conclusions: Using the modified Dixon's up‐and‐down method, the bolus dose of alfentanil for successful tracheal intubation was 10.7±2.1 μg/kg in 50% of adult patients during inhalation induction using 5% sevoflurane and 60% nitrous oxide in oxygen without neuromuscular blocking agent in day‐case anaesthesia.
Anlage einer Station zur Massenzucht von Königinnen der Kleinen Roten Waldameise*)
Authors: Gösswald Karl
Published: July 2010

Schluß: Zusammenfassung

1. Die Massenzucht von Königinnen der Kleinen Roten Waldameise gibt der künstlichen Vermehrung dieses nützlichen Raubinsekts starken Auftrieb.

2. Zur Einrichtung einer Königinnenzuchtstation sind zunächst geeignete Stammkolonien ausfindig zu machen. Die Herkunft der Ableger und die Entwicklung wird nach einem einheitlichen Verfahren laufend kontrolliert.

3. Besonderer Wert ist auch auf die Standortwahl zu legen. Es ist zweckmäßig mikroklimatische Unterschiede auszunutzen in dem Sinne, daß ein Teil der Königinnenzucht einer Station an einem besonders wärmebegünstigten, ein anderer Teil zur Verlängerung der Schwarm‐, Zucht‐ und somit Kolonievermehrungszeit an einem kühlen Platz angelegt wird.

4. Die Entwicklung der Ableger ist durch Plünderungen seitens des Menschen und durch grobe Störungen beim Holzfällen und ‐schleifen sehr gefährdet.

5. Die Entwicklung der seit 1947 ausgesetzten Ableger Nr. 1–64 wird dargelegt durch Angabe von Nesthöhe, Nestdurchmesser von Boden und geschätzter Zahl der ; von Jahr zu Jahr ergibt sich eine erhebliche Steigerung, so daß der Individuenbestand von 1 Million ausgesetzter Ameisen auf 8 Millionen angewachsen ist. Dabei war die Hauptmasse der Nester ab 1949 ausgesetzt worden.

6. Der Abgang durch Nestplünderung und Zerstörung bis zur Sicherung, die mittels des Nestschutzes erst Ende 1949 möglich war, ist recht erheblich. Unter dem Schutz dieser Sicherung wurde die Entwicklung noch sehr beschleunigt, so daß bereits in 5–6 Monaten ein Wachtum der Nester auf 512% des Ausgangsbestandes zu verzeichnen war; dabei ist das Hauptwachstum der Ableger nach dem Seßhaftwerden erst im nächstfolgenden Tahr zu erwarten.

7. Auch die Entwicklung der bereits im Königinnenzuchtwald vorhandenen Stammkolonie wurde verfolgt; diese 1944 aus sieben großen Nestern bestehende Kolonie war bis 1947 stark durch Puppenräuber geschwächt worden, drei Nester waren ausgerottet, nach dem Nestschutz trat eine rasche Erholung der übriggebliebenen vier Nester ein bis zu einem Gesamtbestand von 1800000 so daß der Gesamtbestand nunmehr 68 Nester mit ca. 10000000 Ameisen enthält.

8. Die Methoden zum Schutz durch pyramidenartiges Eingittern mit engmaschigem Drahtgeflecht, das die Nester zugleich gegen natürliche Feinde einschließlich Specht sichert, werden dargelegt, desgleichen eine Methode zum natürlichen Schutz durch Überdecken mit dürrem Reisig, wo Eingriffe seitens des Menschen nicht zu befürchten sind.

9. Die Methode der Königinnenmassenzucht wird kurz zusammengefaßt.
Die Nahrung der Myiasis‐Fliegenlarven auf dem Wollschaf
Authors: Fiedlerx O. G. H.
Published: July 2010

1. Die verschiedenartigen Hautmyiasen, welche typisch für primäre (L. cuprina und C. chloropyga) und sekundäre (C. albiceps) Schaffliegen‐maden sind, wurden beschrieben.

2. Die Gewichtszunahme der Larven in verschiedenen Brutmedien (Fleisch, Serum, Blut) zeigt einen deutlichen, artlichen Unterschied. Wäh rend alle Maden in gleicher Weise am besten auf Fleisch gedeihen, sind die primären Larven auch befähigt, von Serum zu leben, was für die sekun‐dären Maden keine ausreichende Nahrung darstellt. Auf Blut allein gedeihen alle Arten schlecht.

3. Das Wachstum der Maden dieser zwei Fliegengruppen auf dem Schaf geht verschieden schnell vor sich, bedingt durch unterschiedliche Nahrungswahl auf dem Wirtstier.

4. Die primären Schaffliegen haben eine physiologische Fortentwicklung erfahren, die sie zu fakultativen Ektoparasiten werden läßt. Die Hauptnahrung ihrer Maden besteht auf dem Schaf aus der Lymphe, die in großen Mengen aus den von ihnen erzeugten, sehr oberflächlichen und entzündeten Hautwunden austritt. Nebenher wird das entstehende nekrotische Gewebe an der Oberfläche der Wunden verzehrt. Dieser Nahrungs‐wechsel verlängert zwangsläufig die Fraßperiode um einige Tage.

5. Die sekundären Maden hingegen ernähren sich hauptsächlich vom Körpergewebe des Wirtes.

6. Die frisch geschlüpften primären Maden dringen in kürzester Zeit zur Haut des Schafes vor, wo sie sofort in Gemeinschaftsarbeit beginnen, durch extraintestinal Verdauung ein Stuck der Epidermis zu entfernen und den Lymphaustritt anzuregen. Der alkalisch reagierende Verdauungssaft hat fernerhin die Eigenschaft, das Corium zu entzünden und hyperaemisch zu gestalten und somit ein immer stärkeres Lymphexudat anzuregen.
Zur Biologie und Morphologie des Schwarzen Triebrüßlers Ceuthorrhynchus picitarsis Gyll., mit differentialdiagnostischen Angaben zur Unterscheidung der Larven von Ceuthorrhynchus napi Gyll., C. quadridens Panz. und C. picitarsis Gyll
Authors: Dosse Gudo
Published: July 2010

Nach einigen biologischen Angaben über das Verhalten der Käfer auf ihrer Nährpflanze und ihre Eiablage wird die Larve des Ceuthorrhynchus picitarsis eingehend beschrieben und die wesentlichsten Erkennungsmerkmale durch Zeichnungen belegt. Folgende Unterscheidungsmerkmale zu der Larve von C. napi und C. quadridens, die unter Umständen zur gleichen Zeit mit der von C. picitarsis im Raps, Rübsen oder Kohl anzutreffen sind, werden herausgestellt: C. napi besitzt am hinteren äußeren Rand der Parietalia auf der Kopfkapsel eine Borste, die bei den Larven der andern beiden Rüsselkäferarten fehlt.

Am Innenast der Maxillen finden sich bei der Larve von C. napi 11 Messerchen, bei der von C. quadridens 10 und bei der von C. picitarsis 9.

Das sicherste Erkennungsmerkmal liegt in der Struktur der Larvenhaut. Der gesamte Körper der Larve von C. napi ist mit warzenähnlichen Wülsten bedeckt, auf denen die Haare ihren Ansatzpunkt nehmen. Die Larvenhaut des C. picitarsis ist mit kleinen schüppchenähnlichen Gebilden übersät, die wie winzige Höckerchen wirken. Die Larvenhaut des C. quadridens dagegen ist völlig glatt. Als zusätzliches Hilfsmittel bei der Bestimmung der Larven können die Farbe und die Kopfkapselbreiten dienen.

Zum Schluß werden Methoden angegeben, die eine eingehende Untersuchung der Larvenstruktur ermöglichen.
Untersuchungen an den gelben Obstbaumschildläusen Quadraspidiotus piri Licht. und Quadraspidiotus schneideri n. sp.
Authors: Bachmann Fritz
Published: July 2010

Es wird festgestellt, daß die in ihrer Bedeutung und Verbreitung weitgehend bekannte Schildlaus Quadraspidiotus piri Lichtenstein in zwei Arten zerfällt, deren Verschiedenheit Gegenstand der meisten Untersuchungen in der vorliegenden Arbeit bildet.

Qu. piri und Qu. schneideri sind in erster Linie Obstbaumschädlinge ohne Bevorzugung einer bestimmten Obstart. Erstere, die als nördliche gelbe Obstbaumschildlaus bezeichnet wird, ist vor allem in der Mittel‐ und Nordschweiz verbreitet, während die als südliche gelbe Obstbaumschildlaus bezeichnete zweite Art ihr Hauptvorkommen in der klimatisch günstigeren Südwestschweiz hat. Ferner konnte wenigstens teilweise gezeigt werden, daß diese geographische Trennung ihre Fortsetzung in den umliegenden europäischen Ländern findet.

Die morphologischen Untersuchungen beschränken sich auf die für die Artbestimmung wichtigen Merkmale am Pygidium, wobei besonderes Gewicht auf die artdifferenzierenden Merkmale gelegt wird. Als solche gelten vor allem die Dorsaldrüsen, die Perivaginaldrüsen, der Vulvaabstand und die randständigen Platten.

Während in morphologischer Hinsicht die beiden Arten nur geringe Unterschiede aufweisen, verhält sich deren Entwicklungsgang völlig verschieden. In beiden Fällen ist das Überwinterungsstadium durch eine Diapause fixiert, Qu. piri überwintert aber als Lii, Qu. schneideri hingegen als befruchtetes Weibchen.

Häutungsvorgang und Schildbildung werden mit den aus der Literatur bekannten Angaben verglichen und ergänzt.

Auf Grund eingehender Kopulationsbeobachtungen und in Berücksichtigung der festgestellten fakultativen Parthenogenese wird die Stellung der beiden Arten in der phylogenetischen Entwicklungsreihe im Vergleich zu anderen Arten umrissen.

Die Vermehrungspotenz unter natürlichen und verbesserten Bedingungen und deren Abhängigkeit von der Affinität zur Wirtspflanze wird diskutiert.

Die Bedeutung der natürlichen Feinde wird für Qu. piri als groß, für Qu. schneideri als gering erachtet.

Die Eignung verschiedener Spritzmittel für die Bekämpfung wird diskutiert und gezeigt, daß Winterspritzungen den Sommerbehandlungen vorzuziehen sind. Die Wirkungsart der spezifischen Insektizide wird dargelegt und begründet und die Abhängigkeit der Wirkung von der Anwendungstemperatur nachgewiesen. Ferner wird gezeigt, daß die Widerstandsfähigkeit der Deckelschildläuse ihrem Überwinterungsstadium proportional ist.

Aus den gewonnenen Erkenntnissen resultiert folgende Empfehlung für die Bekämpfung der beiden Arten:

Für eine erfolgreiche Bekämpfung eignen sich nur Mineralölpräparate. Unter diesen verdienen die Gelböle gegenüber den Weißölen den Vorzug. Die Behandlung soll möglichst im Spätwinter an einem warmen Tage durchgeführt werden. Als Mindestkonzentration gilt bei Gelbölen gegen Qu. piri 3%, gegen Qu. schneideri 4%. Bei Verwendung von Weißölen sollten diese Konzentrationen um je 1% erhöht werden.
Über die Wirkungsweise neuer Insektizide der Indengruppe1
Authors: Römer Dietmar
Published: July 2010

Die vorliegende Arbeit sollte Aufschluß darüber bringen, in welchem Verhältnis Fraß‐, Kontakt‐ und Atemgifiwirkung nach Verabreichung von HDP, einem hochchlorierten Indenwirkstoff, an Insekten stehen. Weiterhin sollten die bevorzugten Aufnahmestellen ermittelt und diejenigen Organe oder Organgsysteme festgestellt werden, die von eiiiem derartigen Insektizid ange riffen werden. Ferner sollte ein Beitrag dazu geliefert werden, wie man len sich i en Eintritt des Todes nach Gaben von hochchlorierten Indenen vorstel‐kann.
Zur Systematik, Biologie und Ökologie unterirdisch lebender Aphiden (Homoptera, Aphidoidea) (Anoeciinae, Tetraneurini, Pemphigini und Fordinae): Teil III (Fordinae)
Authors: Zwölfer Helmut
Published: July 2010

Die Verteilungskurven der diagnostisch benutzten Größenmaße und Indices ergeben bei Berücksichtigung der jahreszeitlih bedingten Veränderungen ein einheitliches Bild. Die untersuchte Pentaphis‐Gruppe wird deshalb als Art angesehen. Da die von MORDVILK1O9 21 beschriebenen „Arten” F. proximalis und F. pskovensis sowie die von THEOBALD (1915) beshriebene F. hexagona mit ihren Merkmalen innerhalb des Schwankungsbereiches von Forda marginata KOCH liegen, fallen diese Artnamen in Synonymie. Zur sicheren Bestimmung der Arten F. retroflexa COURCHET und F. sensoriata BOERNER sind geflügelte Tiere notwendin. Die ungeflügelten Exules dieser Arten liegen mit ihren Merkmalen ebenfalls im Variationsbereich von F. marginata KOCH.

Die larvale Ant.‐Borstenlänge erlaubt eine Unterscheidung von Sommerform (von Mai bis September gesammelte Tiere, Verteilungsschwerpunkt der BorstenlEnge bei 0,016) und Winterform (Oktober bis April, Verteilungsschwerpunkt der Borstenlänge bei 0,035). Die Sommerform kann neben den Triommatidien Fazettenaugen besitzen, sie kann ferner geflügelte Tiere ausbilden. Bei den ad. Sommertieren sind die Ant.‐Gl. und Ant.‐Borsten durchschnittlich etwas kleiner als bei der Winterform.