bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two Direct Targets of Cytokinin Signaling Regulate Symbiotic Nodulation in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Ariel Federico , Brault-Hernandez Marianne , Laffont Carole , Huault Emeline , Brault Mathias , Plet Julie , Moison Michael , Blanchet Sandrine , Ichanté Jean Laurent , Chabaud Mireille , Carrere Sébastien , Crespi Martin , Chan Raquel L. , Frugier Florian
Published: October 2012

Cytokinin regulates many aspects of plant development, and in legume crops, this phytohormone is necessary and sufficient for symbiotic nodule organogenesis, allowing them to fix atmospheric nitrogen. To identify direct links between cytokinins and nodule organogenesis, we determined a consensus sequence bound in vitro by a transcription factor (TF) acting in cytokinin signaling, the nodule-enhanced Medicago truncatula Mt RR1 response regulator (RR). Among genes rapidly regulated by cytokinins and containing this so-called RR binding site (RRBS) in their promoters, we found the nodulation-related Type-A RR Mt RR4 and the Nodulation Signaling Pathway 2 (NSP2) TF. Site-directed mutagenesis revealed that RRBS  cis-elements in the RR4 and NSP2 promoters are essential for expression during nodule development and for cytokinin induction. Furthermore, a microRNA targeting NSP2 (miR171 h) is also rapidly induced by cytokinins and then shows an expression pattern anticorrelated with NSP2. Other primary targets regulated by cytokinins depending on the Cytokinin Response1 (CRE1) receptor were a cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase (CKX1) and a basic Helix-Loop-Helix TF (bHLH476). RNA interference constructs as well as insertion of a Tnt1 retrotransposon in the bHLH gene led to reduced nodulation. Hence, we identified two TFs, NSP2 and bHLH476, as direct cytokinin targets acting at the convergence of phytohormonal and symbiotic cues.
Plastid Localization of the Key Carotenoid Enzyme Phytoene Synthase Is Altered by Isozyme, Allelic Variation, and Activity
Authors: Shumskaya Maria , Bradbury Louis M.T. , Monaco Regina R. , Wurtzel Eleanore T.
Published: October 2012

Plant carotenoids have unique physiological roles related to specific plastid suborganellar locations. Carotenoid metabolic engineering could enhance plant adaptation to climate change and improve food security and nutritional value. However, lack of fundamental knowledge on carotenoid pathway localization limits targeted engineering. Phytoene synthase (PSY), a major rate-controlling carotenoid enzyme, is represented by multiple isozymes residing at unknown plastid sites. In maize (Zea mays), the three isozymes were transiently expressed and found either in plastoglobuli or in stroma and thylakoid membranes. PSY1, with one to two residue modifications of naturally occurring functional variants, exhibited altered localization, associated with distorted plastid shape and formation of a fibril phenotype. Mutating the active site of the enzyme reversed this phenotype. Discovery of differential PSY locations, linked with activity and isozyme type, advances the engineering potential for modifying carotenoid biosynthesis.
The inner-salt zwitterion, the dihydrochloride dihydrate and the dimethyl sulfoxide disolvate of 3,6-bis(pyridin-2-yl)pyrazine-2,5-dicarboxylic acid
Authors: Wang Yi , Stoeckli-Evans Helen
Published: October 2012

In the inner-salt zwitterion of 3,6-bis(pyridin-2-yl)pyrazine-2,5-dicarboxylic acid, (I), namely 5-carboxy-3-(pyridin-1-ium-2-yl)-6-(pyridin-2-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxylate, [C16H10N4O4, (Ia)], the pyrazine ring has a twist–boat conformation. The opposing pyridine and pyridinium rings are almost perpendicular to one another, with a dihedral angle of 80.24 (18)°, and are inclined to the pyrazine mean plane by 36.83 (17) and 43.74 (17)°, respectively. The carboxy and carboxylate groups are inclined to the mean plane of the pyrazine ring by 43.60 (17) and 45.46 (17)°, respectively. In the crystal structure, the molecules are linkedviaN—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen bonds, leading to the formation of double-stranded chains propagating in the [010] direction. On treating (Ia) with aqueous 1 MHCl, the diprotonated dihydrate form 2,2′-(3,6-dicarboxypyrazine-2,5-diyl)bis(pyridin-1-ium) dichloride dihydrate [C16H12N4O42+·2Cl−·2H2O, (Ib)] was obtained. The cation lies about an inversion centre. The pyridinium rings and carboxy groups are inclined to the planar pyrazine ring by 55.53 (9) and 19.8 (2)°, respectively. In the crystal structure, the molecules are involved in N—H...Cl, O—H...Owaterand Owater—H...Cl hydrogen bonds, leading to the formation of chains propagating in the [010] direction. When (Ia) was recrystallized from dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), the DMSO disolvate 3,6-bis(pyridin-2-yl)pyrazine-2,5-dicarboxylic acid dimethyl sulfoxide disolvate [C16H10N4O4·2C2H6OS, (Ic)] of (I) was obtained. Here, the molecule of (I) lies about an inversion centre and the pyridine rings are inclined to the planar pyrazine ring by only 23.59 (12)°. However, the carboxy groups are inclined to the pyrazine ring by 69.0 (3)°. In the crystal structure, the carboxy groups are linked to the DMSO molecules by O—H...O hydrogen bonds. In all three crystal structures, the presence of nonclassical hydrogen bonds gives rise to the formation of three-dimensional supramolecular architectures.
Tyr682 in the Aβ‐precursor protein intracellular domain regulates synaptic connectivity, cholinergic function, and cognitive performance
Authors: Matrone Carmela , Luvisetto Siro , La Rosa Luca R. , Tamayev Robert , Pignataro Annabella , Canu Nadia , Yang Li , Barbagallo Alessia P. M. , Biundo Fabrizio , Lombino Franco , Zheng Hui , Ammassari‐Teule Martine , D'Adamio Luciano
Published: October 2012

Processing of Aβ‐precursor protein (APP) plays an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. The APP intracellular domain contains residues important in regulating APP function and processing, in particular the 682YENPTY687 motif. To dissect the functions of this sequence in vivo, we created an APP knock‐in allele mutating Y682 to Gly (APPYG/YG mice). This mutation alters the processing of APP and TrkA signaling and leads to postnatal lethality and neuromuscular synapse defects when expressed on an APP‐like protein 2 KO background. This evidence prompted us to characterize further the APPYG/YG mice. Here, we show that APPYG/YG mice develop aging‐dependent decline in cognitive and neuromuscular functions, a progressive reduction in dendritic spines, cholinergic tone, and TrkA levels in brain regions governing cognitive and motor functions. These data are consistent with our previous findings linking NGF and APP signaling and suggest a causal relationship between altered synaptic connectivity, cholinergic tone depression and TrkA signaling deficit, and cognitive and neuromuscular decline in APPYG/YG mice. The profound deficits caused by the Y682 mutation underscore the biological importance of APP and indicate that APPYG/YG are a valuable mouse model to study APP functions in physiological and pathological processes.
Common genetic variants of the β2‐adrenergic receptor affect its translational efficiency and are associated with human longevity
Authors: Zhao Ling , Yang Fan , Xu Ke , Cao Huiqing , Zheng Gu‐Yan , Zhang Yan , Li Jianxin , Cui Hanbin , Chen Xiaomin , Zhu Zhiming , He Hongbo , Mo Xianming , Kennedy Brian K. , Suh Yousin , Zeng Yi , Tian Xiao‐Li
Published: October 2012

β‐adrenoceptors are the common pharmacological targets for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and asthma. Genetic modifications of β‐adrenergic system in engineered mice affect their lifespan. Here, we tested whether genes encoding for key components of the β‐adrenergic signaling pathway are associated with human longevity. We performed a 10‐year follow‐up study of the Chinese longitudinal healthy longevity survey. The Han Chinese population in this study consisted of 963 long‐lived and 1028 geography‐matched young individuals. Sixteen SNPs from ADRB1, ADRB2, ADCY5, ADCY6, and MAPK1 were selected and genotyped. Two SNPs, rs1042718 (C/A) and rs1042719 (G/C), of ADRB2 in linkage disequilibrium (D' = 1.0; r2 = 0.67) were found to be associated with enhanced longevity in men in two geographically isolated populations. Bonferroni‐corrected P‐values in a combined analysis were 0.00053–0.010. Men with haplotype A‐C showed an increased probability to become centenarians (the frequency of A‐C in long‐lived and young individuals are 0.332 and 0.250, respectively, OR = 1.49, CI 95% = 1.17–1.88, P = 0.0007), in contrast to those with haplotype C‐G (the frequency of C‐G in long‐lived and young individuals are 0.523 and 0.635, respectively, OR = 0.63, CI 95% = 0.51–0.78, P = 0.000018). The permuted P‐values were 0.00005 and 0.0009, respectively. ADRB2 encodes the β2‐adrenergic receptor; the haplotype A‐C markedly reduced its translational efficiency compared with C‐G (P = 0.002) in transfected HEK293 cells. Thus, our data indicate that enhanced production of β2‐adrenergic receptors caused by genetic variants is inversely associated with human lifespan.
Parvovirus transmission by blood products – a cause for concern?
Authors: Norja Päivi , Lassila Riitta , Makris Mike
Published: October 2012

The introduction of dual viral inactivation of clotting factor concentrates has practically eliminated infections by viruses associated with significant pathogenicity over the last 20 years. Despite this, theoretical concerns about transmission of infection have remained, as it is known that currently available viral inactivation methods are unable to eliminate parvovirus B19 or prions from these products. Recently, concern has been raised following the identification of the new parvoviruses, human parvovirus 4 (PARV4) and new genotypes of parvovirus B19, in blood products. Parvoviruses do not cause chronic pathogenicity similar to human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis C virus, but nevertheless may cause clinical manifestations, especially in immunosuppressed patients. Manufacturers should institute measures, such as minipool polymerase chain reaction testing, to ensure that their products contain no known viruses. So far, human bocavirus, another new genus of parvovirus, has not been detected in fractionated blood products, and unless their presence can be demonstrated, routine testing during manufacture is not essential. Continued surveillance of the patients and of the safety of blood products remains an important ongoing issue.
CBL mutations do not frequently occur in paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Coenen Eva A. , Driessen Emma M. C. , Zwaan C.Michel , Stary Jan , Baruchel Andre , de Haas Valerie , de Bont Eveline S. J. M. , Reinhardt Dirk , Kaspers Gertjan J. L. , Arentsen‐Peters Susan T. C. J. M. , Meyer Claus , Marschalek Rolf , Pieters Rob , Stam Ronald W. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M.
Published: October 2012

RAS‐pathway mutations, causing a proliferative advantage, occur in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and MLL‐rearranged leukaemia. Recently, mutations in the Casitas B lineage lymphoma (CBL) gene were reported to be involved in RAS‐pathway activation in various myeloid malignancies, but their role in paediatric AML is still unknown.

We performed mutation analysis of 283 newly diagnosed and 33 relapsed paediatric AML cases. Only two mutant cases (0·7%) were identified in the newly diagnosed paediatric AML samples, of which one was MLL‐rearranged. Both mutant cases showed CBL mRNA expression in the range of the non‐mutated cases. Phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (pERK) was not correlated with CBL protein expression (n = 11).

In conclusion, we report a very low CBL mutation frequency in paediatric AML, which, together with the lack of difference in protein and mRNA expression, illustrates the limited role of CBL in paediatric AML.
Common variants within 6p21.31 locus are associated with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and, potentially, other non‐Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes
Authors: Slager Susan L. , Camp Nicola J. , Conde Lucia , Shanafelt Tait D. , Achenbach Sara J. , Rabe Kari G. , Kay Neil E. , Novak Anne J. , Call Timothy G. , Bracci Paige M. , Sille Fenna M. C. , Sanchez Sylvia , Akers Nicholas K. , Cunningham Julie M. , Serie Daniel J. , McDonnell Shannon K. , Leis Jose F. , Wang Alice H. , Weinberg J. Brice , Glenn Martha , Link Brian , Vachon Celine M. , Lanasa Mark C. , Skibola Christine F. , Cerhan James R.
Published: October 2012

A recent meta‐analysis of three genome‐wide association studies of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) identified two common variants at the 6p21.31 locus that are associated with CLL risk. To verify and further explore the association of these variants with other non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) subtypes, we genotyped 1196 CLL cases, 1699 NHL cases, and 2410 controls. We found significant associations between the 6p21.31 variants and CLL risk (rs210134: P = 0·01; rs210142: P = 6·8 × 10−3). These variants also showed a trend towards association with some of the other NHL subtypes. Our results validate the prior work and support specific genetic pathways for risk among NHL subtypes.
A disequilibrium compaction model constrained by seismic data and application to overpressure generation in The Eastern Black Sea Basin
Authors: Marín‐Moreno Héctor , Minshull Timothy A. , Edwards Rosemary A.
Published: October 2012

Locating and quantifying overpressures are essential to understand basin evolution and hydrocarbon migration in deep basins and thickly sedimented continental margins. Overpressures influence sediment cohesion and hence fault slip in seismically active areas or failure on steep slopes, and may drive catastrophic fluid expulsion. They also represent a significant drilling hazard. Here, we present a method to calculate the pore pressure due to disequilibrium compaction. Our method provides an estimate of the compaction factor, surface porosity and sedimentation rate of each layer in a sediment column using a decompaction model and the constraints imposed by seismic data and geological observations. For a range of surface porosities, an ad hoc iterative equation determines the compaction factor that gives a calculated layer thickness that matches the observed thickness within a tolerance. The surface porosity and compaction factor are then used to obtain a density profile and a corresponding estimate of P‐wave velocity (Vp). The selected parameters are those that give a good match with both the observed and calculated layer thicknesses and Vp profiles. We apply our method to the centre of the Eastern Black Sea Basin (EBSB), where overpressures have been linked to a low‐velocity zone (LVZ) at ca. 5500–8500 m depth. These overpressures were generated by the relatively high sedimentation rate of ca. 0.28 m ka−1 of the low permeability organic‐rich Maikop formation at 33.9–20.5 Ma and an even higher sedimentation rate of ca. 0.85 m ka−1 at 13–11 Ma. We estimate a maximum pore pressure of ca. 138 MPa at ca. 8285 m depth, associated with a ratio of overpressure to vertical effective stress in hydrostatic conditions () of ca. 0.7. These values are lower than those presented in a previous study for the same area.
Implication of 14‐3‐3ε and 14‐3‐3θ/τ in proteasome inhibition‐induced apoptosis of glioma cells
Authors: Yan Ying , Xu Ying , Gao Yan‐Yan , Zong Zhi‐Hong , Zhang Qiang , Li Chao , Wang Hua‐Qin
Published: October 2012

Proteasome inhibitors represent a novel class of anticancer agents that are used in the treatment of hematologic malignancies and various solid tumors. However, mechanisms underlying their anticancer actions were not fully understood. It has been reported that strong 14‐3‐3 protein expression is observed and associated with tumor genesis and progression of astrocytoma. In addition, global inhibition of 14‐3‐3 functions with a general 14‐3‐3 antagonist difopein induces apoptosis of human astrocytoma cells, validating 14‐3‐3 as a potential molecular target for anticancer therapeutic management. In the current study, for the first time we demonstrated that proteasome inhibitors downregulated 14‐3‐3ε and 14‐3‐3θ/τ in U87 and SF295 glioma cells. Overexpression of 14‐3‐3ε and 14‐3‐3θ/τ significantly suppressed apoptosis of human glioma cells induced by proteasome inhibitors. We also demonstrated that MG132 activated ASK1 and siASK1 compromised the MG132‐induced apoptosis of glioma cells. Furthermore, overexpression of 14‐3‐3ε and 14‐3‐3θ/τ markedly suppressed activation of ASK1. Collectively, the current study supported that proteasome inhibitors, at least in part, caused cytotoxicity of glioma cells via downregulation of 14‐3‐3ε and 14‐3‐3θ/τ and subsequent activation of ASK1. (Cancer Sci 2013; 104: 55–61)
Improving oral hygiene in the long‐term care of the elderly—a RCT
Authors: Zenthöfer Andreas , Dieke Reinhard , Dieke Anke , Wege Karl‐Christian , Rammelsberg Peter , Hassel Alexander J.
Published: October 2012

Background

Oral hygiene and health of the institutionalized elderly are frequently described as inadequate.

Objectives

This randomized and single‐blinded (outcome evaluation) study compared three types of intervention for improving oral hygiene with a control. The purpose was to investigate whether there were any significant differences between the intervention and control groups.

Methods

One hundred and six participants living in long‐term care homes in South‐West Germany were recruited and randomly divided into four groups—three therapy groups and one control group. For all three therapy groups, teeth and dentures were cleaned professionally and individual instruction was given. One of these groups was also re‐instructed and remotivated by a dentist (n = 27). One also received help from, and was remotivation by, staff educated in dental hygiene (n = 26). The third therapy group was not remotivated after professional cleaning of teeth and dentures (n = 26). For the control group, there was no intervention (n = 23). The main target clinical data were mean plaque (plaque‐control record, O'Leary), gingival bleeding (Ainamo/Bay), and denture hygiene indices. For assessment of the difference between being in an intervention group and in a control group, mixed‐model analysis for repeated measurements was performed for each main target variable. In addition, target clinical data were evaluated in long‐term follow‐up after 3 years.

Results

Compared with controls, denture hygiene, plaque, and gingival bleeding indices were significantly lower in the intervention groups over a twelve‐week period (mixed model for repeated measurements; P < 0.023). Estimates of effects between control and each treatment group were comparable among the three therapy groups; however, even though two of the groups received further help and instruction. Long‐term follow‐up showed that all indices were significantly worse than at the last study recall (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Professional cleaning of teeth and dentures, with individual instruction, can be recommended to improve oral hygiene. However, the effect decreases over time and renewal of the intervention is necessary.
Attendance at iron deficiency anaemia clinic: audit of outcomes 5 years on
Authors: Pengelly S. , Fabricius M. , McMenamin D. , Wu E. , Metzner M. , Lewis S. J. , Hosie K. B.
Published: October 2012

Aim  To determine the long‐term outcomes of patients in whom no initial cause for their anaemia is established.

Method  Six hundred and thirty‐nine patients presenting to an iron deficiency anaemia pathway were prospectively entered onto a database. Initial assessment included haematological review, coeliac screen, oesophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonic imaging as per British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines. A 5‐year audit of outcomes was undertaken using patient medical records and hospital laboratory databases.

Results  A diagnosis was found initially in 266 (42%) patients, with 124 (19%) having a gastrointestinal (GI) luminal neoplasm, 54 (8%) of which were malignant. Twelve patients had a nonluminal or non‐GI malignancy. Eighty‐eight (14%) had benign upper GI bleeding and 23 (4%) had coeliac disease. One hundred and forty‐three (22%) did not have confirmed iron deficiency anaemia on review of haematinics. Complete records were available for 595 (93%) patients at 5 years. Of the 373 patients in whom a cause was not initially diagnosed, 6 (2%) were ultimately diagnosed with a GI luminal malignancy and 18 (5%) with a nonluminal or non‐GI malignancy. There was no difference in the incidence of malignancies between those with or without confirmed iron deficiency.

Conclusions  Most patients in whom no cause was found at initial investigation resolve on oral iron supplements. Patients with normal ferritin values had as high an incidence of GI malignancies as those with low values and should be investigated. In the over 50s if the anaemia remains after a course of iron further investigation is recommended as there is a significant incidence of both GI and non‐GI pathology.
Growth differences of Japanese eels Anguilla japonica between fresh and brackish water habitats in relation to annual food consumption in the Kojima Bay‐Asahi River system, Japan
Authors: Kaifu Kenzo , Miller Michael J. , Yada Takashi , Aoyama Jun , Washitani Izumi , Tsukamoto Katsumi
Published: October 2012

To learn about the relationships between feeding and growth of temperate eels in freshwater and brackish water habitats, we analysed 533 yellow‐phase Japanese eels Anguilla japonica collected in both types of habitats in southeastern Japan. Because male eels were very rare in each habitat (FW, N = 1; BW, N = 20), characteristics of female eels were compared between the different habitats. Annual food consumption was evaluated with the consideration of instantaneous food consumption and annual activity period. Stomach fullness index (stomach content weight/body weight) was used as an indicator of instantaneous food consumption. The ratios of number of months with eel catch to those when eel sampling was conducted were used as an indicator of activity period. Female yellow eels tended to be older and slower growing in fresh water (N = 78; age, mean ± SD = 7.9 ± 2.4 years; growth rate, 59.8 ± 14.0 mm year−1) than in brackish water (N = 229; age, 5.5 ± 1.8 years; growth rate, 90.1 ± 24.4 mm year−1). Irrespective of sex, yellow eels in brackish water had a higher stomach fullness index and a greater ratio of months with eel catches, indicating greater annual food consumption by brackish water eels. These results indicate that greater annual food consumption contributes to the greater growth rates of Japanese eels in brackish water habitats.
Alpha activity marking word boundaries mediates speech segmentation
Authors: Shahin Antoine J. , Pitt Mark A.
Published: October 2012

This study examined the neurophysiological mechanisms of speech segmentation, the process of parsing the continuous speech signal into isolated words. Individuals listened to sequences of two monosyllabic words (e.g. gas source) and non‐words (e.g. nas sorf). When these phrases are spoken, talkers usually produce one continuous s‐sound, not two distinct s‐sounds, making it unclear where one word ends and the next one begins. This ambiguity in the signal can also result in perceptual ambiguity, causing the sequence to be heard as one word (failed to segment) or two words (segmented). We compared listeners' electroencephalogram activity when they reported hearing one word or two words, and found that bursts of fronto‐central alpha activity (9–14 Hz), following the onset of the physical /s/ and end of phrase, indexed speech segmentation. Left‐lateralized beta activity (14–18 Hz) following the end of phrase distinguished word from non‐word segmentation. A hallmark of enhanced alpha activity is that it reflects inhibition of task‐irrelevant neural populations. Thus, the current results suggest that disengagement of neural processes that become irrelevant as the words unfold marks word boundaries in continuous speech, leading to segmentation. Beta activity is likely associated with unifying word representations into coherent phrases.
The ‘Modernity’ of Medieval Popular Revolt
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: October 2012

This essay argues that late medieval European popular protest fails to fit the pattern of ‘pre‐modern’ revolts in models devised by historians and social scientists over the past 50 years. By their criteria late medieval in fact appear more ‘modern’ than those of the early modern period and even those of the 21st century as seen with the English summer riots of 2011 and the ‘Arab Spring’. Late medieval revolts differed from the 21st century ones in three cardinal respects: (1) unlike the English riots that flared more or less spontaneously, drawn together by instantaneous social networking, late medieval ones relied on planning, assemblies, fraternities, elections of leaders, and negotiation; (2) the present intertwining of religious dogma with struggles for social and economic justice seen in the Arab Spring, was largely absent from revolts of the later Middle Ages; even strife between English burgesses and the Church focused on concrete economic and political rights without resort to religious language or ideology; and (3) unlike the mass brutality and repression seen today in Syria, such massacres of the innocents were rare in the later Middle Ages. Instead, a large proportion of late medieval revolts succeeded.
Bisphosphonates and their clinical implications in endodontic therapy
Authors: Moinzadeh A.‐T. , Shemesh H. , Neirynck N. A. M. , Aubert C. , Wesselink P. R.
Published: October 2012

This review gives an overview of the factors that may play a role in the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients treated with bisphosphonates (BPs) and undergoing nonsurgical endodontic treatment as well as some recommendations for its prevention. BPs are a widely prescribed group of drugs for diverse bone diseases. The occasional but devastating adverse effect of these drugs has been described as bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ). As this condition is debilitating and difficult to treat, all efforts should be made to prevent its occurence in patients at risk. The main triggering event is considered to be dental extraction. Even though nonsurgical endodontic treatment appears to be a relatively safe procedure, care remains essential. After an overview of this class of drugs, the clinical presentation, epidemiology and pathogenesis of BRONJ, as well as the possible risk factors associated with its development after nonsurgical endodontic treatment will be described. Finally, several strategies will be proposed for the prevention of BRONJ during nonsurgical endodontic treatment.
Effects of temperature, salinity and body size on routine metabolism of coastal largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides
Authors: Glover D. C. , DeVries D. R. , Wright R. A.
Published: October 2012

Routine metabolism (i.e. standard metabolism plus a low level of activity) of coastal largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides from Mobile‐Tensaw Delta, AL, U.S.A. was examined as a function of temperature (15, 20, 25 and 30° C), salinity (0, 4, 8 and 12) and body mass (range 24–886 g) using flow‐through respirometry. Functionally, a cubic relationship best described the effect of salinity on respiration; the magnitude of these effects increased with temperature and body mass. The best model predicted that specific respiration (mg O2 g−1 h−1) at temperatures >20° C was lowest at salinities of 0·0 and 9·7, and elevated at 3·2 and 12·0; salinity had little to no effect at temperatures ≤20° C. Respiration increased exponentially with temperature, but when compared with previously published respiration rates for M. salmoides from northern latitudes, predicted respiration was higher at cool temperatures and lower at high temperatures. The reduced energetic cost near the isosmotic level (i.e. c. 9) may be an adaptive mechanism to tolerate periods of moderate salinity levels and may help explain why M. salmoides do not flee an area in response to increased salinity. Further, these results suggest that salinity has high energetic costs for coastal populations of M. salmoides and may contribute to the observed slow growth and small maximum size within coastal systems relative to inland freshwater populations.
Genetic differentiation between two sympatric morphs of the blind Iran cave barb Iranocypris typhlops
Authors: Hashemzadeh Segherloo I. , Bernatchez L. , Golzarianpour K. , Abdoli A. , Primmer C. R. , Bakhtiary M.
Published: October 2012

The phylogenetic relationship between two sympatric morphotypes of the Iran cave barb Iranocypris typhlops, and Garra rufa, was investigated by sequencing the cytochrome c oxidase I (coI) region (788 bp) providing the first molecular evidence of their phylogeny. Consistent with their morphological differences, the mean genetic distance between the two forms of I. typhlops was significantly higher than generally reported for intraspecific divergence in freshwater fishes. They were phylogenetically closer to G. rufa than to any other species.
The effect of familiarity on aggregation and social behaviour in juvenile small spotted catsharksScyliorhinus canicula
Authors: Jacoby D. M. P. , Sims D. W. , Croft D. P.
Published: October 2012

This study was designed to address whether juvenile small spotted catsharksScyliorhinus caniculaaggregate and to determine whether potential aggregation is underpinned by social preferences for conspecifics. Using controlled and replicated experiments, the role of familiarity as a potential mechanism driving aggregation and social behaviour in this species was considered. ObservedS. caniculaassociation data compared to null model simulations of random distributions revealed differences in aggregation under different social contexts. Only familiar juvenileS. caniculaaggregated more than would be expected from random distribution across their habitat. Familiarity increased the mean number of groups but did not significantly affect mean group size. Significant preference and avoidance behaviour across all groups were also observed. Furthermore, the strength of social attraction, quantified by the mean association index, was significantly higher in groups containing familiar individuals. Mixed familiar and unfamiliar treatments were also conducted to test for within‐ and between‐group effects, finding high variation across replicates with some groups assorting by familiarity and others not. It is believed that this study is the first to examine experimentally the influence of conspecific familiarity on aggregation behaviour in sharks. These results not only imply a functional benefit to aggregation, but also suggest that persistent social affiliation is likely to influence dispersal following hatching in this small benthic elasmobranch.
Comparison of remote video and diver's direct observations to quantify reef fishes feeding on benthos in coral and rocky reefs
Authors: Longo G. O. , Floeter S. R.
Published: October 2012

This study compared remote underwater video and traditional direct diver observations to assess reef fish feeding impact on benthos across multiple functional groups within different trophic categories (e.g. herbivores, zoobenthivores and omnivores) and in two distinct reef systems: a subtropical rocky reef and a tropical coral reef. The two techniques were roughly equivalent, both detecting the species with higher feeding impact and recording similar bite rates, suggesting that reef fish feeding behaviour at the study areas are not strongly affected by the diver's presence.
Effect of the cluster heterogeneity on mechanical properties, chromatic indices and chemical composition of Italia table grape berries (Vitis vinifera L.) sorted by flotation
Authors: Segade Susana Río , Giacosa Simone , de Palma Laura , Novello Vittorino , Torchio Fabrizio , Gerbi Vincenzo , Rolle Luca
Published: October 2012

The impact of cluster heterogeneity on mechanical properties, chromatic indices and chemical composition of Italia table grape berries sorted by flotation was evaluated in this study. The density sorting at commercial harvest permitted to get berries of different ripeness and relatively different quality attributes. Individually, some grape chromatic characteristics, physical characteristics (weight of the whole berry and berry skin), content and composition of reducing sugars, organic acids and phenolic compounds (flavanols of low molecular mass in berry skins) permitted to characterise and to differentiate berries belonging to different density classes. However, the tested mechanical properties were not related to the berry density. When the variables that significantly contributed to the berry differentiation were globally assessed, the chemical parameters related to sugars (142.3–164.4 g kg−1), content of skin oligomeric flavanols [46.3–137 mg (+)‐catechin kg−1], berry skin weight (379–607 mg), yellow/blue colour component (26.31–29.96) and chroma (26.40–30.06) were the more representative.
Enhanced antimicrobial activity of nisin in combination with allyl isothiocyanate against Listeria monocytogenes,Staphylococcus aureus,Salmonella Typhimurium and Shigella boydii
Authors: Zou Yunyun , Jung Lae‐Seung , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Sungkyun , Cho Youngjae , Ahn Juhee
Published: October 2012

This study was designed to evaluate the synergistic antimicrobial effect of nisin and allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) against Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Typhimurium and Shigella boydii. The synergistic interactions between nisin and AITC were observed against all foodborne pathogens, showing the fractional inhibitory concentrations <1. The populations of L. monocytogenes and S. aureus at the combined treatment of nisin and AITC were decreased to below 1 log CFU mL−1 after 10‐h incubation at 37 °C. The changes in fatty acid profiles of all strains were substantially influenced by nisin alone and the combined treatment of nisin and AITC. A good agreement was observed among cell viability, membrane permeability and depolarisation activity in response to nisin and AITC. The results suggest that nisin and AITC as synergistic inhibitors could be an effective approach to achieve satisfactory antimicrobial activity against a wide range of foodborne pathogens.
Effects of combined nonthermal treatment on microbial growth and the quality of minimally processed yam (Dioscorea japonica Thunb) during storage
Authors: Chun Ho H. , Yu Dong J. , Song Kyung B.
Published: October 2012

The effects of combination treatment with aqueous chlorine dioxide (ClO2) and ultraviolet‐C (UV‐C) on the quality of yams were examined. Yam samples were treated with distilled water, 50 ppm aqueous ClO2, 5 kJ m−2 UV‐C or a combination of 50 ppm aqueous ClO2 and 5 kJ m−2 UV‐C. The microbiological analysis of the yams after aqueous ClO2 treatment, UV‐C irradiation or combination treatment indicated significant reductions in the populations of pre‐existing microorganisms. In particular, the combination treatment reduced the populations of total aerobic bacteria, yeast and mould, and coliform bacteria in the yams by 3.2, 3.4 and 3.8 log CFU g−1, respectively. The combination treatment also maintained the colour of the yams during storage. Sensory evaluation results indicated that the qualities of the yams treated with the combination of aqueous ClO2 and UV‐C were better than those of the other treatments. These results clearly indicate that combination treatment with aqueous ClO2 and UV‐C could be useful in improving the microbial safety and extending the shelf life of the yams.
Effects of rind removal on physicochemical quality characteristics of fresh‐cut watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb) Matsum & Nakai] during cold storage
Authors: Petrou Petros , Soteriou Georgios , Schouten Rob E. , Kyriacou Marios C.
Published: October 2012

The impact of removing the rind from fresh‐cut watermelon slices was assessed on the quality of the product during storage at 4 °C for 9 days. Flesh lycopene declined from 55.4 to 47.9 mg kg−1 f.w. and colour lightness (L*) increased from 43.2 to 45.8 after 2 days of storage. Initial heart and placental flesh firmness increased from 7.3 and 9.8 N, respectively, to 9.5 and 12.8 N after 9 days, but were unaffected by rind processing. Electrolyte leakage from placental tissue was unaffected by storage and rind. Rind presence limited juice run‐off by 47.2% and maintained mean total soluble sugar concentration in the slices at 86.0 mg mL−1 as opposed to 76.8 mg mL−1 in rind‐less slices. Change in the quality was most pronounced between 0 and 2 day of storage. Removing the rind accelerated senescence and off‐flavour production, while the presence of rind improved the overall storage stability of fresh‐cut watermelon slices.
Functional components of grape pomace: their composition, biological properties and potential applications
Authors: Yu Jianmei , Ahmedna Mohamed
Published: October 2012

The roles of functional foods on human health have been realised by more and more researchers, food producers and consumers. Functional food ingredients from both plant and animal sources such as dietary fibre, soy protein isolate, whey protein isolate and omega 3 fatty acid have been widely used in functional food product development. Many fruit processing by‐products such as grape, apple and orange peels are rich in bioactive phytochemicals, dietary fibre and unsaturated fatty acids, hence have potential to serve as functional food ingredients. In this review, we summarise recent advancement of research in grape pomace (GP), the residual of grapes after wine making. The polyphenol profile of GP and their biological, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, the stability of GP polyphenols in food system, the interaction between GP polyphenol and other food ingredients, as well as the functionalities of grape seed oil and GP fibre are covered.
Evolution of amino acids and biogenic amines in natural ciders as a function of the year and the manufacture steps
Authors: Garai‐Ibabe Gaizka , Irastorza Ana , Dueñas María Teresa , Martín‐Álvarez Pedro J. , Moreno‐Arribas Victoria M.
Published: October 2012

The evolution of biogenic amines and other nitrogen compounds during the elaboration period of natural ciders in two successive seasons and two types of presses was studied. The harvest year affects the concentrations of most of the amino acids, while few of them were affected by the type of press. Asparagine and aspartic acid were the most abundant amino acids in fresh musts followed by α‐alanine, α‐aminobutyric acid, glutamine and glutamic acid. The mean concentrations of these amino acids in the fresh musts from the two harvest years were 12.35, 11.12, 6.45, 6.29, 5.28 and 4.87 mg L−1, respectively. During cidermaking, a decrease in the sum of all amino acids was detected (from 128 ± 54.311 mg L−1 to 22.5 ± 4.863 mg L−1 in 2005 and from 72.2 ± 15.256 mg L−1 to 6.5 ± 4.112 mg L−1 in 2006). Furthermore, significant differences in the concentration of most amino acids related to harvest year were observed. Concerning the biogenic amine content, putrescine was the main and the only amine present in all musts (3.72 ± 1.68 mg L−1) and ciders (3.59 ± 1.83 mg L−1). Histamine was the second biogenic amine of quantitative importance in final ciders (1.15 ± 0.69 mg L−1), and tyramine was only detected in one of the cidermaker cellars at the end of the elaboration period. The low concentrations of biogenic amines in ciders were attributed to the low contents of the corresponding precursor amino acids and do not affect to cider quality.
E‐beam irradiation affects the maximum specific growth rate of Bacillus cereus
Authors: Aguirre Juan , Rodríguez Mª Rosa , González Rodrigo , García de Fernando Gonzalo
Published: October 2012

When conventional preservative treatments are applied, such as heat or acid, the maximum specific growth rate (μmax) of survivors is the same as that of untreated cells. However, when new nonthermal technology is applied, the effects of it on the kinetics of the microorganism can be unpredictable. In this sense, Cabeza et al. (2010) reported longer doubling times after irradiating with accelerated electron beam. The aim of this work was to study the effect of electron beam irradiation on the μmax of Bacillus cereus and compare it with a conventional inactivation treatment (heat). To prove this, μmax was estimated in ham at 12 °C and in TSB at 22 °C after 0, 2, 3 or 4 log reduction by irradiation; likewise, μmax was estimated in whole milk at 12 °C and in TSB at 22 °C after the same log reduction using heat treatments. Our findings show that irradiation affected the μmax of survivor cells. Irradiation intensity was inversely proportional to μmax, such that greater intensity was associated with lower μmax. At the same time, growth temperature had an effect on the decrease in μmax: the radiation‐induced reductions in μmax were greater at 12 °C than at 22 °C. In summary, E‐beam irradiation decreases the μmax of B. cereus, while heat treatment does not. This suggests that the shelf life of irradiated foods must be longer than that of heat‐preserved foods after the application of a similar inactivation treatment.
The fossil history of Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi) in equatorial East Africa
Authors: Faith J. Tyler , Tryon Christian A. , Peppe Daniel J. , Fox David L.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Within the last several decades, Grévy's zebra (Equus grevyi) has undergone a massive reduction in geographical range and population size, largely as the result of human impacts. To place its recent decline in a deeper prehistoric context, and to understand the factors mediating its range and abundance over geological time frames, this study examines the fossil history of Grévy's zebra in equatorial East Africa.

Location

Equatorial East Africa.

Methods

Presence/absence data for ungulates recovered from fossil sites spanning the last c. 400,000 years in Kenya and Ethiopia were compiled from the literature and from previously unreported palaeontological sites. Associations between Grévy's zebra and other taxa were examined using principal coordinates analysis and non‐random species pairs were identified using a Bayesian approach. Changes in rainfall were reconstructed using the average hypsodonty index of ungulate species from fossil assemblages.

Results

Grévy's zebra was common during dry phases of the Pleistocene and was found to the south and west of its historical range, coinciding with an expansion of arid grasslands. At the onset of the Holocene, Grévy's zebra was extirpated from southern Kenya and almost completely disappeared from the fossil record. Grévy's zebra was associated with several specialized grazers that became extinct by the end of the Pleistocene. These extinctions and the decline of Grévy's zebra from the Pleistocene to the Holocene are explained by increased precipitation and the consequent loss of arid grasslands at the Pleistocene–Holocene transition. Grévy's zebra is never associated with domestic livestock, unlike the widespread plains zebra.

Main conclusions

Grévy's zebra thrived in equatorial East Africa during periods of the Pleistocene when environmental conditions favoured an expansion of arid grasslands. Environmental change across the Pleistocene–Holocene transition contributed to decreases in the range size and abundance of Grévy's zebra, setting the stage for the anthropogenic decline observed in recent decades. The spread of pastoralists in the middle Holocene may have additionally contributed to its prehistoric decline. Contemporary climate change warrants further consideration in planning for the long‐term survival of Grévy's zebra.
Sources older people draw on to nurture, strengthen and improve self‐efficacy in managing home rehabilitation following orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Tung Yi‐Chen , Cooke Marie , Moyle Wendy
Published: October 2012

Aims and objectives.  To explore how older people maintained and improved their self‐efficacy in managing home rehabilitation and their adherence to rehabilitation exercise programmes following orthopaedic surgery.

Background.  Successful postoperative orthopaedic rehabilitation for older people depends on building their confidence about adherence to exercise programmes designed to improve their functional performance. Many older people, however, do not reach a satisfactory level of functional ability before discharge and some fail to adhere to their rehabilitation exercise programme at home. This contributes to a reduced quality of life. Although many studies report the influences of self‐efficacy, little is known about the factors that help rebuild self‐efficacy beliefs towards postdischarge exercise following orthopaedic surgery.

Design.  A descriptive exploratory qualitative study.

Methods.  Semi‐structured interviews were used with 15 older people who had returned to their homes following orthopaedic surgery.

Results.  Findings emphasise the importance of social support from family, friends and community to nurture self‐efficacy. Accessing personal beliefs and attitudes, adaptive strategies and goal setting were all sources and ways participants rebuilt their confidence and motivation in regard to adhering to a rehabilitation programme.

Conclusion.  Facilitating self‐efficacy assists older people to manage home rehabilitation and planning care with family and friends to create a support system in early discharge planning allows a safer and smoother recovery.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Rehabilitation programmes and education should encourage an understanding of self‐efficacy as a means to improve individual functional performance.
Resilience in families with a member with chronic pain: a mixed methods study
Authors: West Caryn , Buettner Petra , Stewart Lee , Foster Kim , Usher Kim
Published: October 2012

Aims and objective.  To measure and explore between 2007–2010 measure and explore the nature of family resilience in the context of families with a member with chronic pain.

Background.  Chronic pain impacts on the entire family. The literature suggests that it is possible to strengthen resilience in individuals with chronic conditions, but little is known about the impact of chronic pain on family resilience.

Design.  A explanatory sequential mixed method study was undertaken.

Methods.  In the initial quantitative phase, assessment measures were administered using the Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale, Family Impact of Pain Scale, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 and Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey. Data were collected and analysed from 31 family cases (n = 67 participants). In the second, qualitative phase, follow‐up semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with 10 families to help explain the quantitative results.

Results.  The impact of pain on the family was high overall, but the perceived impact was greater for the person with pain. Resilience scores were above average for both the person with pain and other family members. However, the person with pain scored lower on the resilience scale than other members of the family. The families scored high for social support overall, while the person with pain perceived they had greater support than their family members.

Conclusions.  Identifying the strengths or resilient properties inherent in families and using those strengths in the planning and implementation of care, especially of chronic conditions such as chronic pain, is pivotal to quality health outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important that nurses and healthcare professionals include family members when planning and delivering care for persons with chronic pain. Identification of strengths within families can help tailor nursing interventions to meet family needs.