bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WT1 in disease: shifting the epithelial–mesenchymal balance
Authors: Miller‐Hodges Eve , Hohenstein Peter
Published: August 2011

WT1 is a versatile gene that controls transitions between the mesenchymal and epithelial state of cells in a tissue‐context dependent manner. As such, WT1 is indispensable for normal development of many organs and tissues. Uncontrolled epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a hallmark of a diverse array of pathologies and disturbance of mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) has been associated with a number of developmental abnormalities. It is therefore not surprising that WT1 has been linked to many of these. Here we review the role of WT1 in proper control of the mesenchymal–epithelial balance of cells and discuss how far these roles can explain the role of WT1 in a variety of disease states. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hemolytic non‐uremic syndrome
Authors: Chen Kenneth S. , Neunert Cindy E. , Crary Shelley E. , Buchanan George R.
Published: August 2011

We describe three children who developed isolated but severe microangiopathic hemolytic anemia without other manifestations of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) or thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). All three recovered without specific treatment. We propose that they represent a unique phenotype in the spectrum of TTP and HUS, which we term “hemolytic non‐uremic syndrome.” Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 167–169. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification and validation of mouse sperm proteins correlated with epididymal maturation
Authors: Ijiri Takashi W. , Merdiushev Tanya , Cao Wenlei , Gerton George L.
Published: August 2011

Sperm need to mature in the epididymis to become capable of fertilization. To understand the molecular mechanisms of mouse sperm maturation, we conducted a proteomic analysis using saturation dye labeling to identify proteins of caput and cauda epididymal sperm that exhibited differences in amounts or positions on two‐dimensional gels. Of eight caput epididymal sperm‐differential proteins, three were molecular chaperones and three were structural proteins. Of nine cauda epididymal sperm‐differential proteins, six were enzymes of energy metabolism. To validate these proteins as markers of epididymal maturation, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence analyses were performed. During epididymal transit, heat shock protein 2 was eliminated with the cytoplasmic droplet and smooth muscle γ‐actin exhibited reduced fluorescence from the anterior acrosome while the signal intensity of aldolase A increased, especially in the principal piece. Besides these changes, we observed protein spots, such as glutathione S‐transferase mu 5 and the E2 component of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, shifting to more basic isoelectric points, suggesting post‐translational changes such dephosphorylation occur during epididymal maturation. We conclude that most caput epididymal sperm‐differential proteins contribute to the functional modification of sperm structures and that many cauda epididymal sperm‐differential proteins are involved in ATP production that promotes sperm functions such as motility.
Protein 8‐class secondary structure prediction using conditional neural fields
Authors: Wang Zhiyong , Zhao Feng , Peng Jian , Xu Jinbo
Published: August 2011

Compared with the protein 3‐class secondary structure (SS) prediction, the 8‐class prediction gains less attention and is also much more challenging, especially for proteins with few sequence homologs. This paper presents a new probabilistic method for 8‐class SS prediction using conditional neural fields (CNFs), a recently invented probabilistic graphical model. This CNF method not only models the complex relationship between sequence features and SS, but also exploits the interdependency among SS types of adjacent residues. In addition to sequence profiles, our method also makes use of non‐evolutionary information for SS prediction. Tested on the CB513 and RS126 data sets, our method achieves Q8 accuracy of 64.9 and 64.7%, respectively, which are much better than the SSpro8 web server (51.0 and 48.0%, respectively). Our method can also be used to predict other structure properties (e.g. solvent accessibility) of a protein or the SS of RNA.
An assessment of the ultrasonic probe‐based enhancement of protein cleavage with immobilized trypsin
Authors: Vale Gonçalo , Santos Hugo M. , Carreira Ricardo J. , Fonseca Luis , Miró Manuel , Cerdà Víctor , Reboiro‐Jato Miguel , Capelo José L.
Published: August 2011

The use of ultrasonic probe, in conjunction with immobilized trypsin, has been explored in this work for potential enhancement of protein digestion. Several solid supports commonly used to immobilize trypsin were subjected to different ultrasonication amplitudes and time in order to investigate their mechanical resistance to ultrasonic energy when provided by the ultrasonic probe. Glass beads and magnetic particles were found to remain intact in most conditions studied. It was found that immobilized trypsin cannot be reused after ultrasonication since the enzymatic activity was greatly diminished. For comparative purposes, vortex shaking was also explored for protein cleavage. Four standard proteins – bovine serum albumin, α‐lactalbumin, carbonic anhydrase and ovalbumin – were successfully identified using peptide mass fingerprint, or peptide fragment fingerprint. In addition, the performance of the classical protein cleavage (overnight, 12 h) and the ultrasonic methods was found to be similar when the digestion of a complex proteome, human plasma, was assessed through 18‐O quantification. The digestion yields found were 90–117% for the ultrasonic and 5–21% for the vortex when those methods were compared with the classical overnight digestion.
Identification and removal of proteins that co‐purify with infectious prion protein improves the analysis of its secondary structure
Authors: Moore Roger A. , Timmes Andrew G. , Wilmarth Phillip A. , Safronetz David , Priola Suzette A.
Published: August 2011

Prion diseases are neurodegenerative disorders associated with the accumulation of an abnormal isoform of the mammalian prion protein (PrP). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) has previously been used to show that the conformation of aggregated, infectious PrP (PrPSc) varies between prion strains and these unique conformations may determine strain‐specific disease phenotypes. However, the relative amounts of α‐helix, β‐sheet and other secondary structures have not always been consistent between studies, suggesting that other proteins might be confounding the analysis of PrPSc secondary structure. We have used FTIR and LC‐MS/MS to analyze enriched PrPSc from mouse and hamster prion strains both before and after the removal of protein contaminants that commonly co‐purify with PrPSc. Our data show that non‐PrP proteins do contribute to absorbances that have been associated with α‐helical, loop, turn and β‐sheet structures attributed to PrPSc. The major contaminant, the α‐helical protein ferritin, absorbs strongly at 1652 cm−1 in the FTIR spectrum associated with PrPSc. However, even the removal of more than 99% of the ferritin from PrPSc did not completely abolish absorbance at 1652 cm−1. Our results show that contaminating proteins alter the FTIR spectrum attributed to PrPSc and suggest that the α‐helical, loop/turn and β‐sheet secondary structure that remains following their removal are derived from PrPSc itself.
Dermaseptin 01 as antimicrobial peptide with rich biotechnological potential: study of peptide interaction with membranes containing Leishmania amazonensis lipid‐rich extract and membrane models
Authors: Salay Luiz C. , Nobre Thatyane M. , Colhone Marcelle C. , Zaniquelli Maria E. D. , Ciancaglini Pietro , Stabeli Rodrigo G. , Leite José Roberto S. A. , Zucolotto Valtencir
Published: August 2011

This article addresses the interactions of the synthetic antimicrobial peptide dermaseptin 01 (GLWSTIKQKGKEAAIAAA‐ KAAGQAALGAL‐NH2, DS 01) with phospholipid (PL) monolayers comprising (i) a lipid‐rich extract of Leishmania amazonensis (LRE‐La), (ii) zwitterionic PL (dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, DPPC), and (iii) negatively charged PL (dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol, DPPG). The degree of interaction of DS 01 with the different biomembrane models was quantified from equilibrium and dynamic liquid‐air interface parameters. At low peptide concentrations, interactions between DS 01 and zwitterionic PL, as well as with the LRE‐La monolayers were very weak, whereas with negatively charged PLs the interactions were stronger. For peptide concentrations above 1 µg/ml, a considerable expansion of negatively charged monolayers occurred. In the case of DPPC, it was possible to return to the original lipid area in the condensed phase, suggesting that the peptide was expelled from the monolayer. However, in the case of DPPG, the average area per lipid molecule in the presence of DS 01 was higher than pure PLs even at high surface pressures, suggesting that at least part of DS 01 remained incorporated in the monolayer. For the LRE‐La monolayers, DS 01 also remained in the monolayer. This is the first report on the antiparasitic activity of AMPs using Langmuir monolayers of a natural lipid extract from L. amazonensis. Copyright © 2011 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conventional and microwave‐assisted SPPS approach: a comparative synthesis of PTHrP(1–34)NH2
Authors: Rizzolo Fabio , Testa Chiara , Lambardi Duccio , Chorev Michael , Chelli Mario , Rovero Paolo , Papini Anna Maria
Published: August 2011

Attracted by the possibility to optimize time and yield of the synthesis of difficult peptide sequences by MW irradiation, we compared Fmoc/tBu MW‐assisted SPPS of 1–34 N‐terminal fragment of parathyroid hormone‐related peptide (PTHrP) with its conventional SPPS carried out at RT. MWs were applied in both coupling and deprotection steps of SPPS protocol. During the stepwise elongation of the resin‐bound peptide, monitoring was conducted by performing MW‐assisted mini‐cleavages and analyzing them by UPLC‐ESI‐MS. Identification of some deletion sequences was helpful to recognize critical couplings and as such helped to guide the introduction of MW irradiations to these stages. Copyright © 2011 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance measurement with advanced diagnostic tools of all‐sky microwave imager radiances in 4D‐Var
Authors: Cardinali Carla , Prates Fernando
Published: August 2011

In this paper, a comprehensive assessment of the impact of all‐sky radiance observations in the operational European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts' assimilation and forecast system is presented using advanced diagnostic tools. In particular, the observation influence in the assimilation process and the related contribution to the short‐range forecast error of radiance observations from microwave sensors is evaluated with recently developed diagnostic tools based on the adjoint version of the model. Recent operational changes to the assimilation of these observations result in a more beneficial impact on the initial condition and the short‐range forecast. The largest information content is obtained for observations that are located in clear‐sky regions as indicated by the model short‐range forecast and the observations themselves. However, the largest decrease in the forecast error is provided by observations detected in cloudy regions. It is shown that the use of Special Sensor Microwave/Imager data helps to reduce model systematic errors in the central eastern equatorial Pacific, where the intertropical convergence zone is located, and the Arabian Sea, where the monsoon season occurs. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Tangent linear approximation based observation data impact estimation in 4D‐Var
Authors: Ishibashi Toshiyuki
Published: August 2011

In variational data assimilation systems (variational DASs), the effect of each assimilated observation dataset on an analysis field is one of the main factors in determining analysis and succeeding forecast accuracy. We call the effects ‘observation impacts’. However, the estimation of the observation impacts is difficult because variational DASs do not construct the Kalman gain that fully determines them. Therefore, all known methods for the estimation have some shortcomings. We construct a new method for the observation impact estimation. The method estimates the observation impacts as a partial analysis increment vector (PIV) that is generated by each observation dataset. For real calculation of the PIVs, we introduce partial departure vectors. The method enables us to see how the Kalman gain transforms information of observations into analysis increments. The method can also estimate the observation impacts on a forecast field while the tangent linear approximation of a forecast model is valid. Comparisons of formulations of three types of the known methods with the new method clarify the origins of nonlinear interactions between observation impacts in the known methods. We perform a preliminary experiment of one analysis cycle on the global variational DAS of the Japan Meteorological Agency to demonstrate the validity and performance of the method. Observation data are divided into satellite radiance and other conventional data, and the latter are further divided into rawinsondes, satellite winds, and the others. The experimental results are as follows: (i) the method can identify the observation impacts of each observation dataset on an analysis and a forecast field in the operational variational DAS, (ii) there are negative correlations between an integrated background error vector and dominant PIVs, and (iii) the nonlinear interactions between observation impacts in the known methods can be estimated quantitatively. The method is useful for observational data impact estimation in variational DASs. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Masked illumination scheme for a galvanometer scanning high‐speed confocal fluorescence microscope
Authors: Kim Dong Uk , Moon Sucbei , Song Hoseong , Kwon Hyuk‐Sang , Kim Dug Young
Published: August 2011

High‐speed beam scanning and data acquisition in a laser scanning confocal microscope system are normally implemented with a resonant galvanometer scanner and a frame grabber. However, the nonlinear scanning speed of a resonant galvanometer can generate nonuniform photobleaching in a fluorescence sample as well as image distortion near the edges of a galvanometer scanned fluorescence image. Besides, incompatibility of signal format between a frame grabber and a point detector can lead to digitization error during data acquisition. In this article, we introduce a masked illumination scheme which can effectively decrease drawbacks in fluorescence images taken by a laser scanning confocal microscope with a resonant galvanometer and a frame grabber. We have demonstrated that the difference of photobleaching between the center and the edge of a fluorescence image can be reduced from 26 to 5% in our confocal laser scanning microscope with a square illumination mask. Another advantage of our masked illumination scheme is that the zero level or the lowest input level of an analog signal in a frame grabber can be accurately set by the dark area of a mask in our masked illumination scheme. We have experimentally demonstrated the advantages of our masked illumination method in detail. SCANNING 33:455–462, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The informational relevance of corporate social responsibility: evidence from DS400 index reconstitutions
Authors: Ramchander Sanjay , Schwebach Robert G. , Staking KIM
Published: August 2011

This study examines the relationship between corporate social responsibility and financial performance by analyzing the intra‐industry wealth impact of additions and deletions to the Domini Social 400 index. Results from the event study analysis indicate that additions to the index generate a positive share price response for the announcement firm and a negative response by rival firms. The opposite reaction is observed for index deletions. Additionally, the share price response is more pronounced for informationally opaque industries. Our study highlights the importance of external monitoring agencies in providing meaningful information that helps resolve investor uncertainty regarding the quality of a firm's relationships with its primary stakeholders. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amylose content, molecular structure, physicochemical properties and in vitro digestibility of starches from different mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) cultivars
Authors: Kaur Maninder , Sandhu Kawaljit Singh , Singh Narpinder , Lim Seung‐Taik
Published: August 2011

Physicochemical and in vitro digestibility characteristics of starches isolated from six cultivars of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) were studied. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between the cultivars with respect to amylose content (29.9–33.6%), relative crystallinity (29.0 to 31.7%), particle diameter (16.2–17.1 µm) and molecular weight of amylopectin (260–289 × 106 g/mol). The scanning electron micrographs revealed the presence of large oval to small round shape granules with average particle diameter of 16.2–17.1 µm. The X‐ray diffraction pattern was of the C‐type. The enthalpies of gelatinization and retrogradation were 8.9–10.3 and 4.6–6.3 J/g, respectively. The amounts of slowly digesting and resistant starch of mung bean followed the order: PBM‐1 > SML‐32 > ML‐613 > SML‐134 > ML‐267 > ML‐5 and ML‐5 > ML‐267 > SML‐134 > ML‐613 > SML‐32 > PBM‐1, respectively. The six starches exhibited significant (p < 0.05) differences in their pasting parameters. Correlation analysis showed that amylose content, granule diameter and relative crystallinity values were important in determining thermal, pasting and in vitro digestibility of starches.
Tumor necrosis factor inhibits mesenchymal stem cell differentiation into osteoblasts via the ubiquitin E3 ligase Wwp1
Authors: Zhao Lan , Huang Jian , Zhang Hengwei , Wang Yi , Matesic Lydia E. , Takahata Masahiko , Awad Hani , Chen Di , Xing Lianping
Published: August 2011

Patients with chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, often have osteoporosis due to a combination of Tumor necrosis factor-induced increased bone resorption and reduced bone formation. To test if TNF inhibits bone formation by affecting the commitment and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into osteoblasts, we examined the osteogenic potential of MSCs from TNF transgenic (TNF-Tg) mice, a model of chronic inflammatory arthritis. MSC-enriched cells were isolated from bone marrow stromal cells using negative selection with anti-CD45 antibody coated magnetic beads. The expression profile of MSC surface markers the osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic properties of CD45− cells were confirmed by FACS and cell differentiation assays. MSC-enriched CD45− cells from TNF-Tg mice formed significantly decreased numbers of fibroblast and ALP+ colonies and had a decreased expression of osteoblast marker genes. As TNF may upregulate ubiquitin ligases, which negatively regulate osteoblast differentiation, we examined the expression levels of several ubiquitin ligases and found that Wwp1 expression was significantly increased in MSC-enriched CD45− cells of TNF-Tg mice. Wwp1 knockdown rescued impaired osteoblast differentiation of TNF-Tg CD45− cells. Wwp1 promotes ubiquitination and degradation of JunB, an AP-1 transcription factor that positively regulates osteoblast differentiation. Injection of TNF into wild-type mice resulted in decreased osteoblast differentiation of MSCs and increased JunB ubiquitination, which was completely blocked in Wwp1−/− mice. Thus, Wwp1 targets JunB for ubiquitination and degradation in MSCs after chronic exposure to TNF, and inhibition of Wwp1 in MSCs could be a new mechanism to limit inflammation-mediated osteoporosis by promoting their differentiation into osteoblasts.
Aerodynamic characteristics of wind turbine blades with a sinusoidal leading edge
Authors: Zhang Ri‐Kui , Wu Van Dam Jie‐Zhi
Published: August 2011

The aerodynamic characteristics of a kind of bionic wind turbine blades with a sinusoidal leading edge have been investigated in this paper based on a three‐dimensional Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes simulation. The calculated results show that compared with a straight leading‐edge blade, the new‐type blade has a great improvement in shaft torque at high wind speeds. The localized vortices shedding from the leading‐edge tubercles, which can generate a much greater peak of the leading‐edge suction pressure than that from the straight leading‐edge case, are the physical essentials to enhance the wavy blade's aerodynamic performances as the blade goes into stall. In particular, the outboard segment from the 60%R station to the blade tip is the key region for wavy leading‐edge blades to improve the aerodynamic characteristics at high‐speed inflows. In this key region, a wavy blade can obtain a greater power output as the wavelength l and the waveheight δ increase.

The present numerical results also show that the wavy leading‐edge shape is unfavorable for a wind turbine blade under the design conditions (e.g., at the rated wind speed). At these conditions, an early boundary‐layer separation as a result of the geometric disturbances of the leading‐edge tubercles will inevitably result in a visible shaft‐torque reduction in the wavy‐blade cases. Anyway, the wavy blades still tend to generate a more robust power output as a whole from 10 to 20 m s −1 than the original NREL phase‐VI blade. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing atmospheric stability and its impacts on rotor‐disk wind characteristics at an onshore wind farm
Authors: Wharton Sonia , Lundquist Julie K.
Published: August 2011

As the average hub height and blade diameter of new wind turbine installations continue to increase, turbines typically encounter higher wind speeds, which enable them to extract large amounts of energy, but they also face challenges due to the complex nature of wind flow and turbulence in the planetary boundary layer (PBL). Wind speed and turbulence can vary greatly across a turbine's rotor disk; this variability is partially due to whether the PBL is stable, neutral or convective. To assess the influence of stability on these wind characteristics, we utilize a unique data set including observations from two meteorological towers, a surface flux tower and high‐resolution remote‐sensing sound detection and ranging (SODAR) instrument. We compare several approaches to defining atmospheric stability to the Obukhov length (L). Typical wind farm observations only allow for the calculation of a wind shear exponent (α) or horizontal turbulence intensity (IU) from cup anemometers, whereas SODAR gives measurements at multiple heights in the rotor disk of turbulence intensity (I) in the latitudinal (Iu), longitudinal (Iv) and vertical (Iw) directions and turbulence kinetic energy (TKE). Two methods for calculating horizontal Ifrom SODAR data are discussed. SODAR stability parameters are in high agreement with the more physically robust L,with TKE exhibiting the best agreement, and show promise for accurate characterizations of stability. Vertical profiles of wind speed and turbulence, which likely affect turbine power performance, are highly correlated with stability regime. At this wind farm, disregarding stability leads to over‐assessments of the wind resource during convective conditions and under‐assessments during stable conditions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Access with Evidence Development: An Approach to Introducing Promising New Technologies into Healthcare
Authors: Menon Devidas , Stafinski Tania , Nardelli Alexa , Jackson Terri , Jhamandas Jack
Published: August 2011

The rapid development of new health technologies for which there is limited, but promising, evidence has resulted in a daunting challenge — to provide care that meets population health needs and optimizes patient outcomes, demonstrates an efficient use of healthcare resources, and upholds basic principles of equity, access, and choice. In this paper, we introduce ‘Access with Evidence Development’ as a possible mechanism for addressing this challenge and discuss its application to the “Zamboni procedure” for Multiple Sclerosis.
Comparative effects of retinoic acid, vitamin D and resveratrol alone and in combination with adenosine analogues on methylation and expression of phosphatase and tensin homologue tumour suppressor gene in breast cancer cells
Authors: Stefanska Barbara , Salamé Patrick , Bednarek Andrzej , Fabianowska-Majewska Krystyna
Published: August 2011

Aberrations in DNA methylation patterns have been reported to be involved in driving changes in the expression of numerous genes during carcinogenesis and have become promising targets for chemopreventive action of natural compounds. In the present study, we investigated the effects of all-transretinoic acid (ATRA), vitamin D3and resveratrol alone and in combination with adenosine analogues, 2-chloro-2′-deoxyadenosine (2CdA) and 9-β-d-arabinosyl-2-fluoroadenine (F-ara-A), on the methylation and expression of phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) tumour suppressor gene in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The present results showed that in non-invasive MCF-7 cells, ATRA, vitamin D3and resveratrol possess high efficacy in the reduction ofPTENpromoter methylation. It was associated withPTENinduction as well as DNA methyltransferase down-regulation andp21up-regulation after treatments with vitamin D3and resveratrol, suggesting a complex regulation of the DNA methylation machinery. Vitamin D3and resveratrol improved the inhibitory effects of 2CdA and F-ara-A onPTENmethylation in MCF-7 cells; however, only the combined action of vitamin D3and 2CdA boosted the induction ofPTENexpression, suggesting a cooperation of these compounds in additional processes driving changes inPTENexpression. In contrast, in highly invasive MDA-MB-231 cells, only vitamin D3reducedPTENmethylation and induced its expression without notable effects in combined treatments. The present results suggest that natural compounds can find application in epigenetic anticancer therapy aimed at inhibition of promoter methylation of tumour suppressor genes and induction of their expression at early stages of carcinogenesis.
Food additives such as sodium sulphite, sodium benzoate and curcumin inhibit leptin release in lipopolysaccharide-treated murine adipocytes in vitro
Authors: Ciardi Christian , Jenny Marcel , Tschoner Alexander , Ueberall Florian , Patsch Josef , Pedrini Michael , Ebenbichler Christoph , Fuchs Dietmar
Published: August 2011

Obesity leads to the activation of pro-inflammatory pathways, resulting in a state of low-grade inflammation. Recently, several studies have shown that the exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could initiate and maintain a chronic state of low-grade inflammation in obese people. As the daily intake of food additives has increased substantially, the aim of the present study was to investigate a potential influence of food additives on the release of leptin, IL-6 and nitrite in the presence of LPS in murine adipocytes. Leptin, IL-6 and nitrite concentrations were analysed in the supernatants of murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes after co-incubation with LPS and the food preservatives, sodium sulphite (SS), sodium benzoate (SB) and the spice and colourant, curcumin, for 24 h. In addition, the kinetics of leptin secretion was analysed. A significant and dose-dependent decrease in leptin was observed after incubating the cells with SB and curcumin for 12 and 24 h, whereas SS decreased leptin concentrations after 24 h of treatment. Moreover, SS increased, while curcumin decreased LPS-stimulated secretion of IL-6, whereas SB had no such effect. None of the compounds that were investigated influenced nitrite production. The food additives SS, SB and curcumin affect the leptin release after co-incubation with LPS from cultured adipocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Decreased leptin release during the consumption of nutrition-derived food additives could decrease the amount of circulating leptin to which the central nervous system is exposed and may therefore contribute to an obesogenic environment.
NOETHERIAN SPECTRUM ON RINGS AND MODULES
Authors: RUSH DAVID E.
Published: August 2011

It is shown that the well-known characterizations of when a commutative ringRhas Noetherian spectrum carry over to characterizations of when the set Spec(M) of prime submodules of a finitely generated moduleMis Noetherian. The symmetric algebraSR(M) ofMis used to show that the Noetherian property of Spec(R), and some related properties, pass from the ringRto the finitely generatedR-modules.
ISOPERIMETRIC INEQUALITIES FOR Lp GEOMINIMAL SURFACE AREA
Authors: ZHU BAOCHENG , LI NI , ZHOU JIAZU
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we establish a number of Lp-affine isoperimetric inequalities for Lp-geominimal surface area. In particular, we obtain a Blaschke–Santaló type inequality and a cyclic inequality between different Lp-geominimal surface areas of a convex body.
Breast-feeding and cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes in later life: evidence from epidemiological studies
Authors: Owen Christopher G. , Whincup Peter H. , Cook Derek G.
Published: August 2011

This paper considers the body of observational evidence examining the association of being breast-fed to cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes in later life, and whether any potentially advantageous findings are causal. Early cardiovascular consequences/correlates of breast-feeding, compared to being formula fed, include markedly higher levels of total blood cholesterol, lower levels of pre-prandial blood glucose and insulin and lower levels of adiposity. However, a key issue is whether these early differences at a period of rapid development programme/influence cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes in later life. Evidence of long-term effects of early feeding, largely from observational studies, has shown that those breast-fed have lower levels of blood total cholesterol, lower risk of type-2 diabetes and marginally lower levels of adiposity and blood pressure in adult life. There is no strong evidence to suggest effects of early feeding on adult levels of blood glucose, blood insulin and CHD outcomes, although further data are needed. However, the influence of confounding factors, such as maternal body size, maternal smoking and socio-demographic factors, and exclusivity of early feeding on these potentially beneficial associations needs to be considered before inferring any causal effects. Moreover, fewer studies have examined whether duration of exclusive breast-feeding has a graded influence on these risk factors and outcomes; such data would help further in deciding upon causal associations. While strong observational evidence suggests nutritional programming of adult cholesterol levels, associations with other markers of cardiometabolic risk and their consequences in later life need to be confirmed in well-conducted observational and experimental studies.
The New Arab Cold War: rediscovering the Arab dimension of Middle East regional politics
Authors: VALBJØRN MORTEN , BANK ANDRÉ
Published: August 2011

This article provides a conceptual lens for and a thick interpretation of the emergent regional constellation in the Middle East in the first decade of the 21st century. It starts out by challenging two prevalent claims about regional politics in the context of the 2006 Lebanon and 2008–09 Gaza Wars: Firstly, that regional politics is marked by a fundamental break from the ‘old Middle East’ and secondly, that it has become ‘post-Arab’ in the sense that Arab politics has ceased being distinctly Arab. Against this background, the article develops the understanding of a New Arab Cold War which accentuates the still important, but widely neglected Arab dimension in regional politics. By rediscovering the Arab Cold War of the 1950–60s and by drawing attention to the transformation of Arab nationalism and the importance of new trans-Arab media, the New Arab Cold War perspective aims at supplementing rather that supplanting the prominent moderate-radical, sectarian and Realist-Westphalian narratives. By highlighting dimensions of both continuity and change it does moreover provide some critical nuances to the frequent claims about the ‘newness’ of the ‘New Middle East’. In addition to this more Middle East-specific contribution, the article carries lessons for a number of more general debates in International Relations theory concerning the importance of (Arab-Islamist) non-state actors and competing identities in regional politics as well as the interplay between different forms of sovereignty.
Deforestation and CO2 emissions in coastal Tanzania from 1990 to 2007
Authors: GODOY FABIANO L. , TABOR KARYN , BURGESS NEIL D. , MBILINYI BONIFACE P. , KASHAIGILI JAPHET J. , STEININGER MARC K.
Published: August 2011

Conversion of forest to other land uses is a major contributor to climate change. The coastal forests of Tanzania have increasingly been recognized as being of global biodiversity importance, due to high rates of species endemism. Rates of forest loss are similar to those of other tropical regions, resulting in increasing levels of threat for the biological values within the remaining forest and potentially significant source of CO2 emissions. This study estimated the remaining cover and carbon stock of Tanzania's coastal forests and the CO2 emissions due to forest loss between c. 1990 and c. 2007. Coastal Tanzania contained over 273 700 ha of forest in 2007. Deforestation rates in the area have slowed from 1.0% yr−1, or > 3735 ha yr−1 during the 1990s, to 0.4% yr−1, or > 1233 ha yr−1 during 2000–2007. Despite lower deforestation rates in 2000–2007, the percentage forest lost from within reserved areas has remained steady at 0.2% yr−1 for both time periods. CO2 emissions from deforestation slowed from at least 0.63 Mt CO2 yr−1 in 1990–2000 to at least 0.20 Mt CO2 yr−1 in 2000–2007. Regional forest clearance in Tanzania is highly dynamic; while rates have slowed since 2000, forest habitat conversion has continued and there is no guarantee that future rates will remain low. A rigorous policy on reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation (REDD) should be implemented to avoid future increases in deforestation rates.
MODEL PROGENY TESTING PROGRAMME FOR DRAUGHT IN THE HARIANA BREED
Authors: Nagarcenkar R.
Published: August 2011

Six institutional herds in northern India with a breedable female population of about 900 are cooperating in a progeny testing programme for the improvement of draught ability in the Hariana breed.
CRIOLLO CATTLE OF THE AMERICAS
Authors: Wilkins J.V.
Published: August 2011

The origin of the Criollo cattle of the Americas is described. Then a review is given of the Criollo in each of a number of different Latin American countries with their present known performances, their geographical distributions, numbers and improvement programmes.
THE CRIOLLO CATTLE PROJECT OF SANTA CRUZ, BOLIVIA
Authors: Wilkins J.V. , Rojas F. , Martinez L.
Published: August 2011

Plans to improve the milk production ability of the Criollo in Bolivia are outlined. The background problems are stated, and experiments to improve by crossbreeding are described. The Criollo improvement project which makes use of the purebred Criollo was planned in two stages. The first was the attempt to measure the performance of Criollo cows purchased from commercial herds, and milked without their calves. The second stage was the comparison of performance with the results of the crossbred trial. The intentions and plans to progeny test the Criollo bulls are summarized and the hopes of producing bulls for sale and use on temperate breeds of cow are described. The problems encountered in the project are stated, and the results are viewed in the context of work with Criollo in other countries.
THE NATIVE PIG OF SRI LANKA
Authors: Rajamahendran R. , Ravindran V. , Goonewardene L.A. , Sahaayaruban P. , Rajaguru A.S.B.
Published: August 2011

The origin and breed characteristics of the native pig of Sri Lanka are reported. The breed suffers from many disadvantages including inter alia small litter size, heavy preweaning mortality and poor growth rate. Nevertheless, it will remain a valuable genetic resource and a source of meat, providing additional income to the household economies in the western coastal belt of Sri Lanka.
THE BARROSO CATTLE OF GUATEMALA
Authors: Melgar R. A.
Published: August 2011

The Barroso cattle of Guatemala was developed on the Pacific coast of Guatemala as a dualpurpose breed suited to a tropical environment. Numbers are fast diminishing but one large herd remains where certain measurements were made to describe the breed.
THE CONSERVATION OF ANIMAL GENETIC RESOURCES IN GREAT BRITAIN
Authors: Alderson Lawrence
Published: August 2011

Resources available for animal genetic conservation should be used judiciously. Thus breeds qualifying for conservation should not only be numerically endangered but also possess genetic merit. In determining genetic merit, future changes in market requirements or production systems should be considered. There is an urgent need for an evaluation of the present commercial value of rare breeds in breeding programmes. Support for rare breed preservation in Great Britain is implemented through conservation programmes, evaluation studies and education at different levels.
SAVING THE TUROPOLJE PIG IN CROATLA
Authors: Grunenfelder H.-P. , Gugic G. , Punz F.
Published: August 2011

On the front lines of Croatia's war areas live the Turopolje pigs, in danger of extinction. Immediate action is sorely needed. The new European Foundation SAVE (Safeguard for Agricultural Varieties in Europe), an umbrella organization for the in-situ conservation of agricultural genetic resources, has started an international rescue project. The remaining pigs are listed and will be regrouped for a mating program, which avoids inbreeding. For an additional insurance, SAVE will also bring new breeding groups away from the front lines in, and outside of, Croatia. A breeding register has been set up provisionally at the herdbook office for endangered breeds with Pro Specie Rara in St. Gallen, Switzerland.
PRESERVATION OF LIVESTOCK GENETIC RESOURCES IN BULGARIA
Authors: Dimitrov Ts. , Dimitrova l.
Published: August 2011

The objective of this study is to present the local livestock breeds threatened with extinction as well to suggest an alternative initiative for their preservation and utilization. Both the geographical location and natural resources of Bulgaria are prerequisites for a large variety among species and strains of farm animals. Traditionally a considerable number of local breeds and strains have been bred on the territory of the country. In the recent 25–30 years an evident decline of their numbers is marked chiefly due to the introduction of high-productive, widespread breeds. This study presents the biological features of local indigenous breeds of farm animals threatened with extinction as well as the specificity of their region of location. The genetic research results based on polymorphism of serum blood proteins and blood groups are discussed. The diversity of indigenous sheep breeds is the largest, and 15 of them are under control. In latter years investigations show that they are 1.3 to 3.6 per cent from the total number of this species. The genetic analyses attest that these specific genetic resources can be used for keeping the genetic variety within and between sheep populations as well as for improving the adaptability of the newlyestablished breeds. Among the cattle two local breeds are of interest for genetic resources preservation purposes. As the most attractive emerges, Rhodope's Short-Horned cattle having unique biological characteristics as a representative ofBos Taunisin Europe and whose domain of location is over 1800 meters above sea level. The only impressive strain among the pig breeds has a different biological status from the well-known breeds on the European continent. The results of the present study show that the investigated indigenous breeds and strains are mainly located in mountainous regions considered as“hard”for farming. Thus, the preservation of genetic resources of local farm animals will contribute in using their valuable abilities of adaptation for breeding programmes in ecologically clear regions.
THE GERMAN COACH HORSE “SAXONY WARMBLOOD”
Authors: Sprenger K.-U.
Published: August 2011

The author gives information on the phenotypic and genetic characteristics, the history and the present state of the endangered breed German Coach Horse
THE STATE OF POULTRY GENETIC RESOURCES IN RUSSIA
Authors: Moiseyeva Irina G.
Published: August 2011

This paper presents a review of past and present effort for the maintenance and improvement of breeds of chicken. This involves what is done on large state farms, in research institutes and by fancy breeders. The present sate of this genetic resources is illustrated by a long table listing all the breeds with the available information.
THE CRIOLLO SHEEP IN PERU
Authors: Burfening Peter J. , C Juan Chavez
Published: August 2011

There are approximately ffteen million sheep in Peru, with more than 50% of this population being located in peasant communities and considered to be Criollo. Sheep were introduced by the Spanish, producing an almost complete displacement of the native camelid population. These animals were the foundation of the Criollo sheep presently found in the peasant communities of the Peruvian Andes. The Criollo sheep has a typically pear-shaped body, with a relatively small head, most often with horns. Productive characteristics among the Criollo sheep in the sierra are highly variable and depend mainly on the locations where they were raised. Criollo sheep andtheir crosses with improved breeds show a higher survival rate than crosses among the improved breeds of sheepin Peru. This indicates that although not as productive in conventional terms (weaning weight or fleece production) the criollo are well adapted to their environment.
WHITE FULANI CATTLE OF WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICA
Authors: Tawah C. L. , Rege J. E. O.
Published: August 2011

The paper reviews information on the White Fulani cattle under the headings: origin, classification, distribution, population statistics, ecological settings, utility, husbandry practices, physical characteristics, special genetic characteristics, adaptive attributes and performance characteristics. It was concluded that the breed is economically important for several local communities in many West and Central African countries. The population of the breed is substantial. However, introgression from exotic cattle breeds as well as interbreeding with local breeds represent the major threat to the breed. The review identified a lack of programmes to develop the breed as being inimical to its long-term existence.
GUDALI CATTLE OF WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICA
Authors: Tawah C. L. , Rege J. E. O.
Published: August 2011

The objective of this paper was to compile the available information in the conventional and non-conventional literature on the origin, distribution, ecological settings, utility, husbandry practices and production systems of the Gudali, a West and Central African shorthorned zebu which is similar in conformation, size and origin to the East African shorthorned zebu. These animals are reputed not only for their beef and dairy qualities. but also for their hardiness to the harsh northerly environments. Under the prevailing circumstances in the pastoral systems, natural selection is the primary force affecting any genetic change and, as a result, animals tend to perform relatively poorly. Most of the documented studies have been limited in scope and applicability. Therefore, further studies are needed to adequately characterize these animals under their different production systems.
THE VECHUR CATTLE OF KERALA
Authors: Type Sosamma
Published: August 2011

Vechur cattle, once popular in southern Kerala (India) is on the verge of extinction. By extensive search the few remaining animals could be traced. They are being conserved by Kerala Agricultural University. Cows are extremely sma.ll in size, i.e. weighing around 125 kg with a height of not more than 90 cm They are capable of producing 2–3 kg fat milk per day. Heat tolerance, disease resistance and general adaptability are added qualities. Age at first calving is three years and the intercalving period 14 months. As a part of characterization of these animals, cytogenetic, biochemical, immunogenetic studies as well as blood typing, milk composition and fat globule studies have been taken up.
CONSERVATION AND UTILIZATION OF BEEF CATTLE GENETIC RESOURCES IN JAPAN
Authors: Obata Taro , Satoh Masahiro , Takeda Hisato
Published: August 2011

There are four cattle beef breeds in Japan: Japanese Black, Japanese Brawn, Japanese Poll and Japanese Shorthorn. These breeds were crossed with European breeds in the early 1900's. As a result of introducing European blood, Japanese beef cattle have an expanded and more diverse gene pool. Furthermore, both the breed used for crossing and the selection criteria employed varied significantly from prefecture to prefecture Consequently, a number of distinct strains have been established. At present, however, the genetic diversity is becoming increasingly concentrated around a limited number of strains noted for their superior meat quality. From the genetic conservation view point, it is necessary to stock minor strains by frozen semen and embryos for future domands of genetic resources. This paper discusses the conservation and current utilization of beef cattle genetic resources in Japan.
SIRI: THE CATTLE OF EASTERN HIMALAYAS
Authors: Tantia M. S. , Vij P. K. , Vijh RK. , Kumar P. , Joshi B. K. , Nivsarkar A. E. , Sahai R
Published: August 2011

A pilot survey was conducted in the western d.istrict of Sikkim to monitor the status of the Siri cattle breed. Data was recorded on certain morphological characters, management practices and performance of Siri animals. Measurements were recorded of body length, heart girth, body height, paunch girth, hip width, pin width, face length, face width, ear length and horns on 89 animals of age groups up to 1 year,1 to 3 years and adult. It was noted that pure Siri animals were reared only in the remote inaccessible areas. Extensive crossbreeding with Jersey semen/bulls is progressively eroding the purity of the breed. Measures to conserve the Siri cattle breed in its native ecology have been advocated.
CABALLO GALLEGO DE MONTE (PONEY GALLEGO)
Authors: Sánchez García I. , Iglesias A. , Fernández A. , Viana J. L.
Published: August 2011

Se describe el origen, antecedentes históricos y situación censal del poney gallego, así como los sistemas de explotación en libertad. Se realiza una descripción de sus características etnológicas, parámetros biométricos y estructura genética, además de las características productivas y planes de conservación.
Diversity of animal genetic resources and sustainable development of animal production in China
Authors: Changjiang Shen
Published: August 2011

Development of China's animal production in the last twenty years regarding farm animal diversity and the risk it faces in China are presented. The approaches of animal genetic resources conservation to satisfy a sustained development for animal production in future are expressed. Six approaches and measures are recommended.