bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDY OF PULMONARY SURFACTANT AND SURFACTANT PROTEIN IN RATS WITH LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE-INDUCED ACUTE LUNG INJURY
Authors: Xu Feng , He Yong
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: The abnormal metabolism of pulmonary surfactant (PS) may have some relationship to acute lung injury (ALI).

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to examine the alteration trend of PS and surfactant-associated protein (SP) in rats with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI.

METHODS: Fifty-six adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into the normal saline (NS) group and the ALI group. The levels of mRNA of surfactant protein A (SP-A) and SP-B were measured by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction during intravenous LPS administration at 1, 3, 5, and 7 hours. The content and component of PS in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. In addition, lung dry/wet weight ratio, the protein content of BALF, alveolar oxygen partial pressure, and histologic changes were detected.

RESULTS: Compared with the NS group, the ALI group developed severe lung damage; edema, hemorrhage, and inflammation were found. Total phospholipids in BALF at 1, 3, 5, and 7 hours were lower than those in the NS group; phosphatidylcholine at 3, 5, and 7 hours was lower than that in the NS group, whereas lysophosphatidylcholine at 1, 3, 5, and 7 hours was higher than that in the NS group. The expression of SP-A and SP-B mRNA at 3, 5, and 7 hours was less than that in the NS group.

CONCLUSIONS: The changed metabolism of PS may be responsible for the pathogenesis of ALI. It is mainly demonstrated by the decrease in total phospholipids and phosphatidylcholine and the decreased expression of SP-A and SP-B mRNA. Decrease in content and change in components of PS may play an important role in severe hypoxemia in ALI.
INTERLEUKIN 18 GENE POLYMORPHISM AS A POTENTIAL HOST-SUSCEPTIBILITY FACTOR IN TUBERCULOSIS IN CHONGQING, CHINA
Authors: Jiang Li-Ping
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Interleukin 18 (IL-18), which is an important interferon γ inducer, regulates the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine interferon γ and the antituberculosis response.

OBJECTIVE: Our goal was to investigate polymorphisms of the IL-18 gene promoter and determine whether polymorphism of the IL-18 gene promoter is a potential host-susceptibility factor in tuberculosis in Chongqing, China.

METHODS: A total of 123 patients (including 91 children and 32 adults) with tuberculosis and 249 normal controls (including 167 children and 82 adults) were selected randomly. The polymorphisms at positions -607A/C and -137G/C in promoter of the IL-18 gene were analyzed by using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers.

RESULTS: The allele and genotype frequencies of IL-18/-607 gene polymorphisms were similar in patients with tuberculosis and in controls. However, frequencies of the -137GG, GC, and CC genotypes were 67.9%, 28.5%, and 3.6%, respectively, in controls and 78.9%, 19.5%, and 1.6%, respectively, in those with tuberculosis. Frequency of the -137GG genotype in tuberculosis was significantly higher than that in controls (χ2 = 4.881; P = .027 < .05). The frequency of allele G at position -137 in patients with severe tuberculosis was significantly higher than that in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (χ2 = 4.336; P = .037 < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: Polymorphism of the IL-18 gene promoter at position -137 is a potential host-susceptibility factor in tuberculosis in Chongqing. The people with allele C at position -137 in the promoter of the IL-18 gene may be protected against mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The polymorphisms at position -137 of the IL-18 gene may be associated with a severe degree of tuberculosis.
Direct inhibition of levodopa-induced beginning-of-dose motor deterioration by subthalamic nucleus stimulation in a patient with Parkinson disease
Authors: Oshima Hideki , Katayama Yoichi , Fukaya Chikashi , Kano Toshikazu , Kobayashi Kazutaka , Yamamoto Takamitsu , Suzuki Yutaka
Published: January 2008

✓Beginning-of-dose motor deterioration (BDMD) is a complication of levodopa medications in Parkinson disease (PD) that is presumably caused by inhibitory effects of levodopa. Only limited experience of BDMD has been described in the literature. The authors report the case of a patient with PD who demonstrated a marked BDMD while being treated with standard levodopa medications. This 55-year-old woman had a 12-year history of PD and a 10-year history of levodopa treatment. Marked exacerbation of symptoms occurred 15 to 20 minutes after every dose of levodopa at 100 mg and lasted approximately 15 minutes. The PD symptoms, particularly tremor and rigidity, were exacerbated more markedly during this period than during the wearing-off deterioration. The BDMD could be controlled very well by subthalamic nucleus (STN) stimulation without any change in the regimen of levodopa medications. These observations suggest that the BDMD was inhibited by STN stimulation through a direct effect.
Using BiblioSpec for Creating and Searching Tandem MS Peptide Libraries
Authors: Frewen Barbara , MacCoss Michael J.
Published: January 2008

BiblioSpec is a software package for creating and searching libraries of tandem MS peptide spectra. Library searching provides a quick method for making peptide‐spectrum matches by comparing a query spectrum to a collection of reference spectra of known peptide sequence. Pre‐assembled libraries for several model organisms can be used as the basis of a search or custom libraries can easily be assembled. The protocols in this unit describe installing BiblioSpec, searching libraries, and creating custom libraries. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 20:13.7.1‐13.7.12. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Mitochondrial DNA haplogroup diversity in Basques: A reassessment based on HVI and HVII polymorphisms
Authors: Alfonso‐Sánchez M. A. , Cardoso S. , Martínez‐Bouzas C. , Peña J. A. , Herrera R. J. , Castro A. , Fernández‐Fernández I. , De Pancorbo M. M.
Published: January 2008

This study provides a more complete characterization of the mitochondrial genome variability of the Basques, including data on the hypervariable segment HVII of the D‐loop region, which remains relatively unknown. To that end, genomic DNA from 55 healthy men living in the Arratia Valley (Biscay province) and the Goiherri region (Guipúzcoa province) was examined by direct sequencing. Three‐generation pedigree charts were compiled to ensure the collection from autochthonous individuals. The most notable findings emerging from the analysis of haplogroup composition are: (i) lack of U8a mitochondrial lineage, a rare subhaplogroup recently identified in Basques and proposed as a Paleolithic marker, (ii) low frequency of haplogroup V, which conflicts with results of earlier analyses describing high frequencies in southwestern Europe, and (iii) high frequency of haplogroup J, especially subhaplogroups J1c1 and J2a. The frequency of haplogroup J does not coincide with previous mtDNA studies in present‐day Basques, but is congruent with frequencies found in prehistoric and historic Basque populations. In explaining divergence in haplogroup composition between modern Basque samples, we hypothesized spatial heterogeneity promoted by population fragmentation due to extreme limitation of dispersal opportunities during the Pleistocene glaciations. Similarities between extinct and extant Basque populations as for the high frequency of lineage J, as well as the abundance of this haplogroup in northern Spain endorse a shift in the focus of attention of mtDNA analysts. A refined dissection of haplogroup J might provide more solid evidence about the process of postglacial recolonization of Europe, and thus about the shaping of the European gene pool. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new spin on losses looming larger than gains: asymmetric implicit associations from slot machine experience
Authors: Akalis Scott A.
Published: January 2008

Kahneman and Tversky's prospect theory states, among other things, that losses loom larger than gains. As much research as this simple idea has generated, key questions remain. How fundamental is the losses‐looming‐larger effect: will it emerge under more minimal circumstances than previously tested and will it manifest in implicit associations? And how does the actual experience of predominant losses or gains affect the losses‐looming‐larger effect? In two experiments employing non‐traditional methods, participants experienced slot machine spins in which symbols were paired with gain, loss, and neutral outcomes. After experiencing these pairings, participants took Implicit Association Tests (IATs). In Experiment 1, implicit associations formed by the minimal experience of the slot machine were lopsided: negative associations with the loss symbol were stronger than positive associations with the gain symbol. In addition, it was found that the extent to which losses loomed larger depended on the context of the slot machine experience, with losses looming implicitly larger than gains most when they were fewer in number (participants experienced a net‐gain) and least when they were the predominant outcome (participants experienced a net‐loss). Finally, in Experiment 2, a potential artifact was ruled out and a replication obtained by showing that slot machine losses implicitly loom larger whether conceptualized from the perspective of a casino player or a casino owner. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Presynaptic functional trkB receptors mediate the release of excitatory neurotransmitters from primary afferent terminals in lamina II (substantia gelatinosa) of postnatal rat spinal cord
Authors: Merighi Adalberto , Bardoni Rita , Salio Chiara , Lossi Laura , Ferrini Francesco , Prandini Massimiliano , Zonta Micaela , Gustincich Stefano , Carmignoto Giorgio
Published: January 2008

A subset of primary sensory neurons produces BDNF, which is implicated in control of nociceptive neurotransmission. We previously localized full‐length trkB receptors on their terminals within lamina II. To functionally study these receptors, we here employed patch‐clamp recordings, calcium imaging and immunocytochemistry on slices from 8–12 days post‐natal rats. In this preparation, BDNF (100–500 ng/mL) enhances the release of sensory neurotransmitters (glutamate, substance P, CGRP) in lamina II by acting on trkB receptors expressed by primary afferent fibers of the peptidergic nociceptive type (PN‐PAFs). Effect was blocked by trk antagonist K252a or anti‐trkB antibody clone 47. A pre‐synaptic mechanism was demonstrated after (i) patch‐clamp recordings where the neurotrophin induced a significant increase in frequency, but not amplitude, of AMPA‐mediated mEPSCs, (ii) real time calcium imaging, where sustained application of BDNF evoked an intense response in up to 57% lamina II neurons with a significant frequency rise. Antagonists of ionotropic glutamate receptors and NK1 receptors completely inhibited the calcium response to BDNF. Reduction of CGRP (a specific marker of PN‐PAFs) and substance P content in dorsal horn following BDNF preincubation, and analysis of the calcium response after depletion with capsaicin, confirmed that the neurotrophin presynaptically enhanced neurotransmitter release from PN‐PAFs. This is the first demonstration that trkB receptors expressed by PN‐PAF terminals in lamina II are functional during postnatal development. Implications of this finding are discussed considering that BDNF can be released by these same terminals and microglia, a fraction of which (as shown here) contains BDNF also in unactivated state. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008.
Syntheses, Structures and Magnetic Properties of Dinuclear Copper(II)–Lanthanide(III) Complexes Bridged by 2‐Hydroxymethyl‐1‐methylimidazole
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Xiong , Yang Yang‐Yi , Zai Shao‐Bo , Weng Ng Seik , Chen Xiao‐Ming
Published: January 2008

Three discrete dinuclear copper(II)–lanthanide(III) complexes, namely, [CuLn(mmi)2(NO3)3(H2O)2] [Ln = La (1), Sm (2)] and [CuGd(mmi)2(NO3)2(H2O)3][NO3] (3) (Hmmi = 2‐hydroxymethyl‐1‐methylimidazole) were synthesized and structurally characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis. In these complexes, dinuclear cores of CuII and LnIII are consolidated by a pair of μ‐1,1‐O bridges from mmi at a distance of 3.36–3.46 Å. The temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility and the field dependence of the magnetization indicate that 1, 2 and 3 exhibit paramagnetic, antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic behaviours, respectively. The value of the JCu–Gd coupling constant of 3 [8.7(1) cm–1] is fairly large, which is probably related to the small dihedral angles, α (5.0°), between the two planes of O–Cu–O and O–Gd–O in the CuO2Gd core.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Amphiphilic Cyclodextrins – Advances in Synthesis and Supramolecular Chemistry
Authors: Sallas Florence , Darcy Raphael
Published: January 2008

Amphiphilic cyclodextrins represent a new generation of these oligosaccharides, which are well known previously as host molecules in water. Cyclodextrins are now being modified with polar groups, lipophilic groups and conjugates which elaborate further their amphiphilicity and molecular recognition. The resulting amphiphiles are host molecules capable of forming all the assemblies expected of amphiphiles, but showing additional supramolecular properties. Examples of these macrocyclic amphiphiles are by now known that form thermotropic liquid crystals, while lyotropic assemblies include micelles, unimolecular micelles, nanoparticles, monolayers and bilayer vesicles. The assembly properties are modulated by both the lipidic and hydrophilic additions to the original cyclodextrin, however due to the mesomolecular size range substantial changes such as multiple glycosylation can be carried out without disrupting self‐assembly. The assemblies in certain cases show molecular recognition both by the cyclodextrin cavities and by the conjugated groups such as glycosyls. Multiple noncovalent interactions, delivery to biological cells and DNA delivery are among the capabilities of those amphiphilic cyclodextrins that form bilayer vesicles. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Electrochemical‐Mediated Cyclization of 2‐Alkynylanilines: A Clean and Safe Synthesis of Indole Derivatives
Authors: Arcadi Antonio , Bianchi Gabriele , Inesi Achille , Marinelli Fabio , Rossi Leucio
Published: January 2008

The electrochemical‐mediated annulation of 2‐alkynylanilines to the corresponding indole derivatives proceeds in good yields and under conditions that avoid the use of metal catalysts or classical organic acids and bases. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Environmental epigenomics in human health and disease
Authors: Dolinoy Dana C. , Jirtle Randy L.
Published: January 2008

The epigenome consists of the DNA methylation marks and histone modifications involved in controlling gene expression. It is accurately reproduced during mitosis and can be inherited transgenerationally. The innate plasticity of the epigenome also enables it to be reprogrammed by nutritional, chemical, and physical factors. Imprinted genes and metastable epialleles represent two classes of genes that are particularly susceptible to environmental factors because their regulation is tightly linked to epigenetic mechanisms. To fully understand the etiology of the most devastating diseases that plague humans, the full complexity of the human epigenome will ultimately need to be characterized. Moreover, the elucidation of the interaction of the environment with the epigenome should allow for the development of novel epigenetic‐based diagnostic, prevention, and therapeutic strategies for human diseases. Herein, we introduce the emerging field of environmental epigenomics, discuss the importance of imprinted genes and metastable epialleles as epigenetically labile genomic targets, and endorse the genome‐wide identification of the full suite of epigenetically labile targets in both the mouse and human genomes. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation of white matter pathology in ALS and PLS using tract‐based spatial statistics
Authors: Ciccarelli Olga , Behrens Timothy E. , Johansen‐Berg Heidi , Talbot Kevin , Orrell Richard W. , Howard Robin S. , Nunes Rita G. , Miller David H. , Matthews Paul M. , Thompson Alan J. , Smith Stephen M.
Published: January 2008

Objective:

We aimed to investigate differences in fractional anisotropy (FA) between primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the relationship between FA and disease progression using tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS).

Methods:

Two scanners at two different sites were used. Differences in FA between ALS patients and controls scanned in London were investigated. From the results of this analysis, brain regions were selected to test for (i) differences in FA between controls, patients with ALS and patients with PLS scanned in Oxford and (ii) the relationship between FA and disease progression rate in the Oxford patient groups.

Results:

London ALS patients showed a lower FA than controls in several brain regions. Oxford patients with PLS showed a lower FA than ALS patients and than controls in the body of the corpus callosum and in the white matter adjacent to the right primary motor cortex (PMC), while ALS patients showed reduced FA compared with PLS patients in the white matter adjacent to the superior frontal gyrus. Significant correlations were found between disease progression rate and (i) FA in the white matter adjacent to the PMC in PLS, and (ii) FA along the cortico‐spinal tract and in the body of the corpus callosum in ALS.

Conclusions:

We described significant FA changes between PLS and ALS, suggesting that these two presentations of motor neuron disease show different features. The significant correlation between FA and disease progression rate in PLS suggests the tissue damage reflected in FA changes contributes to the disease progression rate. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combination of atorvastatin and celecoxib synergistically induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in colon cancer cells
Authors: Xiao Hang , Zhang Qiang , Lin Yong , Reddy Bandaru S. , Yang Chung S.
Published: January 2008

Previous studies in animal models have shown enhanced efficacy of a combined treatment of statins and Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs against colorectal cancer development. In our study, we investigated the combinational effects of atorvastatin and celecoxib in 2 human colon cancer cell lines HCT116 and HT29. Celecoxib moderately inhibited the growth of both cell lines with a similar IC50 of 40–50 μM, whereas atorvastatin showed stronger growth inhibitory effect in HCT116 cells than in HT29 cells (IC50 of 5–8 μM vs. 30–35 μM) after treatment for 48–72 hr. The combination of these 2 agents produced strong synergistic actions, as determined by isobologram analysis. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that the combination treatment for 24 hr caused extensive cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase; whereas at 48 hr or longer, apoptosis was induced significantly. The effects produced by the combination were much stronger than that by atorvastatin or celecoxib alone. Our results further demonstrated that the combinational effects of atorvastatin/celecoxib were associated with increased levels of p21Cip1/Waf1, p27Kip1, and phospho‐JNK; decreased levels of phospho‐AKT and hyper‐phosphorylated Rb; and activation of caspase cascade. Atorvastatin/celecoxib combination also selectively modified membrane localization of small G‐proteins, such as RhoA, RhoB and RhoC, which may contribute to the anti‐cancer effects. Taken together, the results demonstrated a strong synergy between the actions of atorvastatin and celecoxib in growth inhibition and killing of human colon cancer cells. The present work suggests the possible therapeutic application of this combination and provides leads for mechanistic and biomarker investigations in clinical trials. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lysophosphatidic acid‐induced c‐fos up‐regulation involves cyclic AMP response element‐binding protein activated by mitogen‐ and stress‐activated protein kinase‐1
Authors: Lee Chang‐Wook , Kim Nam‐Ho , Choi Ho‐Kyew , Sun Yuanjie , Nam Ju‐Suk , Rhee Hae Jin , Chun Jerold , Huh Sung‐Oh
Published: January 2008

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a lipid growth factor that exerts diverse biological effects through its cognate receptor‐mediated signaling cascades. Recently, we reported that LPA stimulates cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB) through mitogen‐ and stress‐activated protein kinase‐1 (MSK1). Previously, LPA has been shown to stimulate c‐fos mRNA expression in Rat‐2 fibroblast cells via a serum response element binding protein (SRF). However, involvement of CREB in LPA‐stimulated c‐fos gene expression is not elucidated yet. To investigate the CREB‐mediated c‐fos activation by LPA, various c‐fos promoter‐reporter constructs containing wild‐type and mutated SRE and CRE were tested for their inducibility by LPA in transient transfection assays. LPA‐stimulated c‐fos promoter activation was markedly decreased when SRE and CRE were mutated. A dominant negative CREB significantly down‐regulated the LPA‐stimulated c‐fos promoter activation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that LPA induced an increased binding of phosphorylated CREB and CREB‐binding protein (CBP) to the CRE region of the endogenous c‐fos promoter. Immunoblot analyses with various pharmacological inhibitors further showed that LPA induces up‐regulation of c‐fos mRNA level by activation of ERK, p38 MAPK, and MSK1. Taken together, our results suggest that CREB plays an important role in up‐regulation of c‐fos mRNA level in LPA‐stimulated Rat‐2 fibroblast cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 785–794, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of statistical measures for analyzing RNA secondary structures
Authors: Dai Qi , Wang Tian‐Ming
Published: January 2008

With more and more RNA secondary structures accumulated, the need for comparing different RNA secondary structures often arises in function prediction and evolutionary analysis. Numerous efficient algorithms were developed for comparing different RNA secondary structures, but challenges remain. In this article, a new statistical measure extending the notion of relative entropy based on the proposed stochastic model is evaluated for RNA secondary structures. The results obtained from several experiments on real datasets have shown the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Moreover, the time complexity of our method is favorable by comparing with that of the existing methods which solve the similar problem. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2008
Collective action in agrobiodiversity management: gendered rules of reputation, trust and reciprocity in Kerala, India
Authors: Padmanabhan Martina Aruna
Published: January 2008

Rising opportunity costs for continuing to grow and conserve traditional plant varieties has led to an erosion of agrobiodiversity. This study compares two institutions of collective biodiversity management in Kerala, India. The traditional mechanisms of a scheduled tribe, the Kurichyas, are contrasted with the new institution of the People's Biodiversity Register (PBR) under the local form of governance, the panchayat. Collective action is analysed for the core variables of reputation, trust and reciprocity. In the tribal institutions, traditional seed exchange rests on reputation and gender complementarities, which are eroded by a diminishing degree of trust and dissolving property rights for women and weakened by failing norms of reciprocity. The new institution of PBR threatens tribal women's reputations and their knowledge by reducing it to a bureaucratic register, the disembodiment of knowledge into information reduces trust and unpredictable returns diminish reciprocity. A massive public investment in strengthening women's capabilities for a transformation from conservers and users to advocates, managers and decision‐makers regarding biodiversity might halt the loss. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Familial relationships of normal spine shape
Authors: Dryden Ian L. , Oxborrow Neil , Dickson Robert
Published: January 2008

Familial correlations in the spinal shape of children are explored using statistical shape analysis. Measurements of the spine on the surface of the back were taken using an optical device, and recorded for several hundred children from the Leeds area of the U.K. A portion of the spine from the distal thoracic to proximal lumbar spine was used for the analysis, and measures of the shape of the spine line were determined using Procrustes analysis and principal components (PCs) analysis. Analysis was carried out on scans repeated in triplicate and scans taken six months apart, and good repeatability was demonstrated. Four groups of children were considered in the main study: monozygotic twins, dizygotic twins, same sex siblings and different sex siblings. Intra‐familial correlations were calculated for the shape measures, and also for age and sex matched unrelated controls. The second PC score (which measures possible lordosis) had significant positive correlation in the family groups. It was observed that the familial correlations were higher for the genetically closer groups. Also, the same sex siblings had higher correlation than the different sex siblings. All sibling groups showed greater correlation of sagittal profile for the second PC score than unrelated controls. A significant correlation was observed in same sex pairings for the control data. This work suggests that some elements of spinal profile may be familial but also shows correlation with sex. Both of these observations may be important in the aetiology of idiopathic scoliosis. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed models for ordinal data: A pharmacokinetic study on the effectiveness of drug for the reduction of epileptic seizures
Authors: Chakraborty Arindom , Das Kalyan
Published: January 2008

Population pharmacokinetics (PK)/pharmacodynamics analysis is considered as an important component of drug development process in these days. Owing to different standardization techniques in different laboratories, the drug concentrations in blood are reported in intervals in which they lie. For obvious reason the outcomes are then recorded as multiple discrete indicators with natural ordering. But in view of the reduced amount of information, the modeling of such data becomes intrinsically more difficult than that of continuous data. The primary concern in this study is to analyze a one‐compartmental PK model for ordinal data that can be used to describe the change in the concentration of drug over time. A flexible Monte Carlo EM‐based two‐step estimation method is proposed. Such a method is, in general, capable of analyzing a reasonably wide class of nonlinear mixed models. The modeling strategy is applied to a Phase I study of the drug Divalproex and its metabolite, developed for the treatment of epilepsy. The model's performance is evaluated through simulation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Generalized limits for energy extraction in a linear constant velocity flow field
Authors: Jamieson Peter
Published: January 2008

The Lanchester–Betz limit has long been established as setting an upper bound on the power performance coefficient of an energy extraction device operating in isolation in a linear constant velocity flow field. However, the ideal limiting performance of energy extraction devices operating in conjunction with ducts, diffusers or any systems that further modify inflow local to the plane associated with energy extraction has not been previously established.

The present analysis derives the limiting performance in such cases, with the Lanchester–Betz limit emerging as the special case of energy extraction in open flow. The key to this analysis is the characterization of an ideal system in terms of the axial induction that would exist at the plane of energy extraction in the absence of the energy extraction system. The concept of an ‘ideal system’ as one that matches the flow field in every state of loading of the energy extraction device is also crucial.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis of a system with a diffuser provides preliminary validation of the new theory. Generalization of the standard blade element theory is outlined, and the implications for the development of a rationalized design approach and optimization of a system with a rotor operating in a diffuser are addressed.

The theory has obvious applicability to systems that are purposefully designed to augment flow, but a wider relevance to wind technology in situations where terrain or other wind turbines modify the flow field is also suggested. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transesterification of Rapeseed Oil for Synthesizing Biodiesel by K/KOH/γ‐Al2O3 as Heterogeneous Base Catalyst
Authors: Ma Hongbin , Li Shufen , Wang Boyang , Wang Ruihong , Tian Songjiang
Published: January 2008

The heterogeneous base catalyst, γ‐Al2O3 loaded with KOH and K (K/KOH/γ‐Al2O3) was first prepared and used in the transesterification of rapeseed oil with methanol to produce biodiesel. The prepared catalyst was characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method, infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that when γ‐Al2O3 is loaded with KOH and K, the Al–O–K species is produced, resulting in an increase in the catalytic activity. The impacts of catalyst preparation conditions on the catalytic activities of K/KOH/γ‐Al2O3 were investigated. The results demonstrate that the catalyst K/KOH/γ‐Al2O3 has high catalytic activity when the added amounts of KOH and K are 20 and 7.5 wt% respectively. The transesterification of rapeseed oil to biodiesel with the prepared heterogeneous base catalyst was optimized. It was found that the yield of biodiesel can reach as high as 84.52% after 1 h reaction at 60°C, with a 9:1 molar ratio of methanol to oil, a catalyst amount of 4 wt%, and a stirring rate of 270 g.
Managing livestock enterprises in Australia's extensive rangelands for greenhouse gas and environment outcomes: a pastoral company perspective
Authors: Bentley D. , Hegarty R. S. , Alford A. R.
Published: January 2008

Extensive grazing of beef cattle is the principal use of the northern Australia land area. While north Australian beef production has traditionally utilised a low-input, low-output system of land management, recent innovations have increased the efficiency with which beef is produced. Investment to raise efficiency of cattle production by improving herd genetics, property infrastructure, the seasonal feed-base and its utilisation, as well as promoting feedlot finishing can all be expected to reduce the number of unproductive animals and reduce age-at-slaughter. Consequently, these innovations can all be expected to contribute to a reduction in the emissions intensity of greenhouse gases (GHG; t GHG/t liveweight gain). The North Australian Pastoral Company (NAPCO) has adopted these technologies to enhance reproductive and growth efficiency of the herd and has coupled them with changes in other aspects of property operation, such as use of solar energy systems, establishment of introduced perennial pastures and minimum tillage, to achieve production and operational gains, which also reduce the emissions intensity of their pastoral properties. Investments to improve production efficiency have been consistent with both financial and, in principle, environmental objectives of NAPCO. While NAPCO supports the development and implementation of new mitigation strategies, the company requires greater knowledge on pastoral emission levels and clarity on the future position of agriculture in a carbon economy. This information would enable confirmation of current emission levels, modelling of mitigation options and evaluation of the efficacy of potential on-farm carbon sinks. This paper presents NAPCO’s perspective on GHG emissions in the context of its pastoral enterprise, including current and future research and mitigation objectives.
Supplementation with whole cottonseed reduces methane emissions and can profitably increase milk production of dairy cows offered a forage and cereal grain diet
Authors: Grainger C. , Clarke T. , Beauchemin K. A. , McGinn S. M. , Eckard R. J.
Published: January 2008

The experimental objective was to determine if whole cottonseed (WCS) could be used as a dietary supplement to reduce enteric methane emissions and profitably increase milk production from dairy cattle over the summer period when pasture is limited in quantity and has a low nutritive value. Fifty lactating cows, ~200 days in milk, were randomly allocated to one of two groups (control or WCS). Cows were offered lucerne hay (in the morning) and pasture silage (in the afternoon) made from a predominantly ryegrass sward in one group for 5 weeks. The hay and silage were placed on the ground in a bare paddock. Cows in each group were also individually offered cracked grain in a feed trough at 3 kg DM/cow.day at milking times. In addition, at milking times, cows in the WCS group were individually offered 2.7 kg DM/cow.day of untreated WCS with their grain supplement. Measurements of methane emissions (n = 12), using the SF6 tracer technique, were made in weeks 3 and 5 after the commencement of feeding treatments. Supplementation with WCS significantly reduced methane emissions by 12% (g/cow.day) and by 21% (g/cow.kg milk solids) and significantly increased yield of milk (n = 25) by 15%, milk fat by 19% and milk protein by 16%. WCS had no effect on concentration of milk fat or lactose, but resulted in a significant 3% decrease in protein concentration. WCS appears to be a promising supplement for reducing methane emissions and increasing milk production from dairy cattle when pasture is limited in quantity and has a low nutritive value.
An overview of the international context for greenhouse gas reductions
Authors: Plume Helen , Lincoln Roger , Montgomery Hayden
Published: January 2008

The international context for addressing greenhouse gases, including those from agriculture, is presented. The Kyoto Protocol rules are set for the first commitment period from 2008 to 2012. During this period, industrialised country parties (countries that have both signed and ratified the agreement) are to collectively reduce total greenhouse gas emissions by 5% below 1990 emission levels. Arrangements for a post-2012 agreement are currently being discussed. Science plays a vital role in identifying options for greenhouse gas emission reductions in the agriculture sector.
Avian (IgY) anti-methanogen antibodies for reducing ruminal methane production: in vitro assessment of their effects
Authors: Cook S. R. , Maiti P. K. , Chaves A. V. , Benchaar C. , Beauchemin K. A. , McAllister T. A.
Published: January 2008

In vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD) and production of methane, volatile fatty acids (VFA) and ammonia from an early lactation diet or from freeze-dried alfalfa were assessed in the presence of anti-methanogen antibody treatments in two in vitro ruminal incubations (experiments 1 and 2). In experiment 1, hens were immunised with crude cell preparations of Methanobrevibacter smithii, Methanobrevibacter ruminantium or Methanosphaera stadtmanae and complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). Semipurified egg antibodies (IgY) prepared from the hens’ eggs (α-SMICFA, α-RUMCFA, or α-STADCFA, respectively) were dispensed into 24 replicate vials (400 μL per vial) containing 500 mg of an early lactation total mixed ration (18% crude protein; 33% neutral detergent fibre; DM basis). Vials containing an equal volume of semipurified antibodies from eggs of non-immunised hens were included as a control. In experiment 2, hens were immunised with one of the three antigenic preparations combined with Montanide ISA 70 adjuvant. Triplicate vials per time point included 0.6 g of freeze-dried egg powder (α-SMIMon, α-RUMMon, α-STADMon; 19.0 ± 2.6 mg IgY/g) or a mixture of all three (ComboMon) and 500 mg of freeze-dried alfalfa. Total gas, methane production and pH were measured at intervals over 24 h. After 24 h, samples were analysed for VFA, ammonia and IVDMD. In experiment 1, cumulative CH4 production was similar (P > 0.05) among treatments at each sampling time. At 24 h, average CH4 production across treatments was 27.03 ± 0.205 mg/g DM. In experiment 2, α-SMIMon, α-STADMon and ComboMon reduced methane production at 12 h (P ≤ 0.05) compared with the control, but by 24 h, CH4 levels in all treatments were similar (P > 0.05) to the control. At 24 h, total VFA concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) in α-RUMMon and α-SMIMon than in the control. The transient nature of the inhibition of methane production by the antibodies may have arisen from instability of the antibodies in ruminal fluid, or to the presence of non-culturable methanogens unaffected by the antibody activity that was administered.
Effect of plant extracts on methanogenesis and microbial profile of the rumen of buffalo: a brief overview
Authors: Kamra D. N. , Patra A. K. , Chatterjee P. N. , Kumar Ravindra , Agarwal Neeta , Chaudhary L. C.
Published: January 2008

Plants rich in secondary metabolites (saponins, tannins, essential oils, etc.) have antimicrobial activity which can be exploited for selective inhibition of a particular group of microbes in the rumen. We have screened a large number of plant extracts for their potential to inhibit methanogenesis and ciliate protozoa in an in vitro gas production test using buffalo rumen liquor as the inoculum. Out of 93 plant extracts tested, 11 inhibited in vitro methanogenesis to the extent of 25–50% and nine plant extracts inhibited methanogenesis more than 50%. Among 20 extracts exhibiting antimethanogenic activity, nine were ethanol extracts, 10 were methanol extracts and only one was a water extract. Some of these plant extracts inhibited ciliate protozoa as tested by microscopic examination and 14C-labelled radioisotopic technique, but the protozoa inhibition was not correlated with methane inhibition, indicating that the methanogens sensitive to plant secondary metabolites may or may not be having any symbiotic relationship with ciliate protozoa. Methane inhibition was accompanied by a drastic fall in the number of methanogens as determined by real time PCR. Plants that appeared to have some potential as feed additives to control methanogenesis by the ruminants are: (i) seed pulp of Sapindus mukorossi (rich in saponins) and Terminalia chebula (rich in tannins); (ii) leaves of Populus deltoides, Mangifera indica and Psidium guajava (rich in tannins and essential oils); and (iii) flower buds of Syzygium aromaticum and bulb of Allium sativum (rich in essential oils). Some of the plants reported in literature exhibiting antimethanogenic activity include Equisetum arvense, Lotus corniculatus, Rheum palmatum, Salvia officinalis, Sapindus saponaria, Uncaria gambir and Yucca schidigera.
Within- and between-animal variance in methane emissions in non-lactating dairy cows
Authors: Vlaming J. B. , Lopez-Villalobos N. , Brookes I. M. , Hoskin S. O. , Clark H.
Published: January 2008

Several studies on methane (CH4) emissions have focussed on selecting high and low CH4-emitting animals. One challenge faced by this work is the lack of consistency, or repeatability, in animal rankings over time. Repeatability for individual animals over time needs to be high to reliably detect high and low CH4-emitting animals. A possible explanation for the lack of repeatability is a relatively high within-animal variation in daily CH4 emissions, meaning that animals could then change their ranking when compared at different points in time. An experiment was undertaken with four non-lactating dairy cattle to assess the within- and between-animal variation in CH4 emissions over time when measured using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer technique. Two contrasting diets were fed to the cattle at maintenance energy levels: lucerne silage (diet 1) and a cereal + lucerne + straw mixed ration diet (diet 2). Daily CH4 measurements were undertaken for 23 days on diet 1 and 30 days on diet 2. There was a significant (P < 0.001) difference between diet 1 and diet 2 in daily CH4 production, with mean (±s.e.) production of 124.3 (11.1) g CH4/day from diet 1 and 169.8 (±11.0) g CH4/day from diet 2. Lower CH4 yield (g CH4/kg dry matter intake) was recorded on diet 1 (22.8 ± 2.0) than diet 2 (32.0 ± 2.0). Cows differed significantly (P < 0.05) from one another in daily CH4 yield (diet 1: cow 1 = 19.4 ± 0.6, cow 2 = 22.2 ± 0.8, cow 3 = 23.2 ± 0.7, cow 4 = 25.4 ± 0.6; diet 2: cow 1 = 26.0 ± 0.7, cow 2 = 36.4 ± 0.7, cow 3 = 29.3 ± 0.7, cow 4 = 36.6 ± 0.7). Variances for daily CH4 yield were smaller for diet 1 (within animal = 6.91, between animals = 6.23) than for diet 2 (within animal = 10.09, between animals = 27.79). Estimates of repeatability (variation between animals/total variation) for daily CH4 yield were 47 and 73% in diet 1 and 2, respectively. Coefficients of variation in average daily CH4 emissions in this experiment ranged from 8 to 18% despite the fact that each animal received the same quantity and quality of feed each day. While further research is required, the high within-animal variability in CH4 emissions measured using the SF6 tracer technique may explain why there has been difficulty in obtaining consistent rankings in CH4 yields when animals are measured on multiple occasions. The results also suggest that the SF6 tracer technique may exaggerate apparent between animal differences in CH4 emissions.
Immunohistochemistry of Whole-Mount Mouse Embryos
Authors: Joyner Alex , Wall Nancy
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION

The technique presented this protocol is ideal for obtaining an overall, three-dimensional picture of the distribution of an antigen in embryos from the prestreak stage to ~10.5 dpc (days post-coitum). The embryos are fixed and permeabilized so that antibodies can penetrate all of the tissues. However, antibodies will not penetrate the embryo completely if it is too large, and so it is better to dissect specific organs (e.g., brain, lungs, and gut) and process them separately.
Preparation of Biodegradable Nanoparticles and Their Use in Transfection
Authors: Vasir Jaspreet K. , Labhasetwar Vinod
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION

Biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) are colloidal particles with a gene of interest encapsulated inside a polymeric matrix. They are typically 100 nm in diameter, and are formulated using FDA-approved, biodegradable, biocompatible polymers such as poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) or polylactide (PLA). The NPs are taken up by cells via an endocytic process, and the encapsulated plasmid DNA entrapped in NPs is protected from degradation by both extra- and intracellular nucleases. It is released slowly, sustaining gene delivery and gene expression. In contrast, higher but transient gene expression is observed with lipid- or polymer-based complexes where most of the delivered DNA is available quickly for transfection. Thus, unlike other nonviral gene delivery systems, NPs thus constitute a sustained gene expression vector. Sustained gene expression is advantageous, especially when the half-life of the expressed protein is very low or when chronic gene delivery is required for therapeutic efficacy. This protocol describes a method for nanoencapsulation of DNA and the subsequent use of NPs for transfection.
The crassicornis species‐group of the genus Anotylusi (Staphylinidae)
Authors: HAMMOND P. M.
Published: January 2008

The crassicornis Group of the genus Anotylus is defined and its species revised. Three of these, garambanus, opacifrons and quadricollis, are described as new; three new synonymies are recognized. A key is provided to the eight species, and the ranges of the species indicated by maps. The phylogeny of the species‐group is discussed, and illustrated by means of a cladogram.
The identification of British limnephilid larvae (Trichoptera)
Authors: Hliley P. D.
Published: January 2008

Fifty–six species of Limnephilidae have been recorded from Britain. Larvae of forty–three species were collected, and the identities of forty–two were confirmed by direct association of individual larvae with their resultant adult stage. Information was obtained on the larvae of twelve more species, leaving the larva of only onespecies, Limnephilus fuscinervis, unknown. A key is provided to the fifth instar larvae of fifty–four species. Limnephilus nigriceps is omitted from the keydue to lack of information. The terminology of morphological characters is reviewed.
Identification of adult females of Tinodes in Britain (Trichoptera: Psychomyiidae)
Authors: FISHER DOROTHEA
Published: January 2008

Abstract A key is provided to the females of the eight species of Tinodes recorded from Britain: Tinodes assimilis, T.dives, T.maclachlani, T.maculicornis, T.pallidulus, T.rostocki, T.unicolor, T.waeneri. The genital segments are described and notes given on mating and egg‐laying.
A key to the eggs of stick and leaf insects (Phasmida)
Authors: CLARK J. T.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. An illustrated key is provided for the identification of the eggs of fifty‐eight genera of Phasmida.
The metathoracic scent gland system in Hydrocorisae (Heteroptera: Nepomorpha)
Authors: STADDON B. W. , THORNE M. J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The metathoracic scent gland system is a basic feature of the order Heteroptera. It occurs widely not only in the terrestrial forms (Geocorisae) and water‐surface bugs (Amphibicorisae) but also in the totally aquatic bugs (Hydrocorisae) and their littoral relatives (Ochteridae, Gelastocoridae). In Hydrocorisae the metathoracic scent gland conforms to Carayon's (1971) omphalian type (orifice median and undivided or, if divided, orifices close together towards the mid‐ventral line) but shows marked differences in structure and physiological function between species from different families. There is taxonomic interest in the distribution of the three distinctly different types of metathoracic occlusion apparatus. Naucoridae and Belostomatidae have a median lip‐valve, Notonectidae and Gelastocoridae a pair of stop‐valves, Corixidae a median flap‐valve. The valve opener muscles are usually dorso‐ventral but are ventral in Corixidae; the cuticular microsculpture in the metathoracic efferent system specifically in Hydrocorisae with stop‐valves (Notonectidae, Gelastocoridae) is similar to that widely present in Geocorisae. Groupings of Hydrocorisae from variations in the metathoracic occlusion apparatus differ from others based upon variations in the chemical constitution of the secretions. It is considered that the facts now known on metathoracic scent gland structure and function accord well with the hypothesis that Hydrocorisae constitute a polyphyletic assemblage.
The taxonomic status of the Bermuda beach cricket (Orthopteroida: Gryllidae)
Authors: KEVAN D. KEITH McE.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Gryllus bermudensis Caudell from the Bermudas is compared with its closest relative G.firmus Scudder from the southeastern seaboard of the U.S.A. The two are very similar: a few minor morphological differences, mainly in the male copulatory structures, have been detected; bermudensis differs from most, but not all, mainland populations of firmus in that it lacks a diapause; the calling songs and stridulatory apparatus are virtually indistinguishable. They interbreed freely, and apparently indefinitely in captivity, but there is an initial fall‐off in fertility when ♀bermudensis are mated with ♂firmus from North Carolina, although not in the reciprocal cross. The reduction is not sustained at so low a level in the hybrids. G.bermudensis is therefore regarded as a subspecies of G.firmus. The most closely related species is probably G.ovisopis T. J. Walker.