bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acacia (SEN) SupergumTM (Gum Arabic): in vivo and in vitro Evaluation of Potential Health Benefits in Renal Disease
Authors: Glover D.A , Matsumoto N. , Riley S.G , Wolever T. , Ushida K. , Al-Assaf S. , Phillips G.O. , Phillips A.O.
Published: November 2011

Epidemiological evidence suggests that a high intake of dietary fibre is associated with numerous health benefits. Our interest is the potential therapeutic application of dietary fibre manipulation in the context of renal disease and its associated high cardiovascular risk. The relationship between blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular mortality is well established. In addition uncontrolled hypertension is strongly linked with an increased rate of progression of renal disease. There are studies dating back over 20 years which suggest that modification of fibre intake may have beneficial effects on renal function and blood pressure.
Enhancement of Bottled Water Characteristics using Gum Arabic
Authors: Rabah A.A. , Mahmoud T.E. , Al-Assaf S.
Published: November 2011

This study investigated the enhancement of bottled water characteristics using gum arabic. A commercially available mechanical powder of Acacia senegal (hashab) originating from Kordofan, Sudan, was used. The physicochemical properties of the test material were as follows: moisture content (10%), ash content (3.5%), specific optical rotation (−29.8), intrinsic viscosity (18.5 mL/g) and pH (4.33). Its minerals contents were 0.9 and 0.2 g / 100 g of Ca2+ and Mg2+ respectively. A value of 0.28% was determined for the nitrogen content, which corresponds to a protein content of 1.85% w/w. The sample was free of Pb, Co, Cu, Zn, Ni, Cd, Cr and Mn. Again, commercially available bottled water with a calcium carbonate hardness of 92 ppm and a pH of 7.6 was used. The bottled water was treated with gum arabic and analysed for pH, hardness, viscosity, colour, odour and microbiological characteristics. The results showed that the hardness was enhanced from 92 to 169 ppm by adding only 2 g of gum arabic to 1 L of bottled water. At this level of addition there was almost negligible increase in the viscosity whilst the mineral content, such as Ca2+ and Mg2+ was doubled. All other characteristics remained within the local and international accepted levels. The microbiological analysis showed no contamination and the physical tests also showed no significant odour and colour changes even when the treated bottled water was left for a period of a month under controlled conditions.
Immobilization of Enzymes on Porous Surfaces
Authors: Periyat P. , Magner E.
Published: November 2011

Immobilization is a well-established means of improving the operational and storage stability of enzymes, and enabling separation and recovery for reuse while maintaining the activity of the enzyme. In this Chapter, enzyme immobilization on porous supportsis described. Different immobilization methods, the factors affecting immobilization and the applications of immobilized enzymes in biocatalysis, drug delivery and biosensors are discussed.
Fibrous Proteins Interactions with Modified Surfaces of Biomaterials
Authors: Wolf-Brandstetter C. , Scharnweber D.
Published: November 2011

Fibrous proteins (or scleroproteins) provide the structural integrity of several tissues due to their unique secondary structure and form the main components of the so-called extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM is an important factor that regulates cell behaviour. Hence the utilization of ECM components for biomaterial coatings has become a focus of interest. In the majority of applications, collagen is the material of choice due to its predominant occurrence in extracellular tissues such as bone and cartilage. Collagen can be modified using a number of different glycoproteins, proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans, giving rise to artifical ECMs (aECMs) with different morphological and biochemical characteristics that affect cell behaviour and ultimately tissue response. In this Chapter, the basic properties of fibrous proteins and their applications as coating material for biomaterials are described with special emphasis on collagen, including immobilization strategies for monomeric or fibrillar collagen species. Other fibrous proteins which do not naturally occur within the ECM (e.g. fibroin, keratin) are included because the presence of cell adhesion sequences has been reported for them. The final Section gives an outlook about the possible utilization of sophisticated aECMs.
MRSA-resistant Textiles
Authors: Bauer J. , Kowal K. , Tofail S. A. M. , Podbielska H.
Published: November 2011

Nanotechnology is becoming important for the textile industry because of the unique technical and economic advantages that nanomaterials offer. Traditional methods used to impart different characteristics and functionality to textiles often do not lead to the desired results in an efficient way. Fabrics lose their properties during wearing, washing, dry cleaning and hot pressing. Nanotechnology may overcome these limitations of conventional methods and provide durability of textile functions. Nanoparticles that are applied on to the fabric have both a large surface area-to-volume ratio and high surface energy. Furthermore, nanoparticles that are attached to the fabrics may not significantly affect physical and mechanical properties such as breathability, hand feel, strength, wetting etc. Commercially available antimicrobial finishes are resistant to body fluids and processes of sterilization or disinfection. This last property is particularly important in developing MRSA-resistant textiles. We review works on textiles that offer resistance to MRSA and discuss how antibacterial nanoparticles can provide significant benefits when used in textiles for MRSA resistance in comparison to conventional textiles.
Organic Synthetic Methods
Authors: Hanson James R , Berry Martyn , Drayton Colin
Published: November 2011

Synthesis is one of the major endeavours of the organic chemist, and the design of a successful synthesis requires a sound knowledge of functional group chemistry, stereochemistry and organic reaction mechanisms. Organic Synthetic Methods introduces the major methods of creating carbon-carbon and carbon-nitrogen bonds, along with functional group interconversions (oxidation, reduction, halogenation). The use of protecting groups and solid-phase methods are also discussed. The analysis of the structure of a target molecule, in terms of the structural consequences of synthetic reactions, is introduced to enable the student to identify key dissections and building blocks and hence develop a suitable synthetic method. Examples of the synthesis of labelled compounds are also provided. Ideal for the needs of undergraduate chemistry students, Tutorial Chemistry Texts is a major new series consisting of short, single topic or modular texts concentrating on the fundamental areas of chemistry taught in undergraduate science courses. Each book provides a concise account of the basic principles underlying a given subject, embodying an independent-learning philosophy and including worked examples.
La protonthérapie, technique de pointe à l’interface entre la physique et la médecine
Authors: Ferrand Régis
Published: November 2011

Forme de radiothérapie née pendant les années 50 autour d’accélérateurs de
physique nucléaire, la protonthérapie utilise les propriétés balistiques
spécifiques des faisceaux de protons pour mieux déposer la dose d’irradiation
dans les tumeurs en protégeant les organes sensibles avoisinants.

Nous aborderons dans cet article les étapes de la réalisation d’un traitement,
depuis les accélérateurs jusqu’à la mise en forme du faisceau, ainsi que
certaines pistes de recherche actuelles visant à réduire la taille et le coût
des installations, enjeu de la prochaine décennie pour démocratiser cette
modalité efficace mais encore marginale.
Flexible organic bistable devices based on [6,6]-phenyl-C85 butyric acid methyl ester clusters embedded in a polymethyl methacrylate layer
Authors: Ho Lee Min , Yeol Yun Dong , Min Park Hun , Whan Kim Tae
Published: October 2011

Flexible organic bistable devices (OBDs) consisting of [6,6]-phenyl-C85 butyric acid methyl ester ([84]PCBM) blended with a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) layer were fabricated on indium-tin-oxide (ITO) coated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates. Current-voltage curves of the Al/[84]PCBM:PMMA/ITO/PET device at 300 K showed a current bistability. The maximum ON/OFF ratios of the OBDs at flat and bent conditions were about 7.5 × 102 and 2.7 × 103, respectively. The cycle endurance was larger than 1 × 105 cycles. The memory mechanisms of the OBDs were attributed to trapping and detrapping processes of electrons into and from the PCBM clusters.
Quantification of graphene based core/shell quantum dots from first principles
Authors: Cui X. Y. , Zheng R. K. , Liu Z. W. , Li L. , Stampfl C. , Ringer S. P.
Published: October 2011

Density functional calculations are performed to study the electronic structure of recently proposed graphene/graphane based core/shell quantum dots, which have a type I band alignment and exhibit quantized carrier energy levels. Strong confinement is robust with shell thickness. The bandgap, band offset, and the number of confined carrier orbitals with different size and geometry are determined. Our findings indicate that these core/shell dots are potentially well suited for the design of advanced diode lasers and room-temperature single electron devices. The proposed method to determine the number of confined orbitals is applicable for other quantum dot systems.
Directivity and isotropic band-gap in 12-fold symmetry plasmonic quasi-crystals with small index contrast
Authors: Regan C. J. , Grave de Peralta L. , Bernussi A. A.
Published: October 2011

We experimentally investigated the map of the momentum of photons of propagating modes in dye-doped dielectric loaded plasmonic quasi-crystals with 12-fold symmetry. Using Fourier plane image analysis we established the relation between the pseudo-Brillouin zone and the directivity of propagating modes in plasmonic quasi-crystals with different periods at different frequencies. We demonstrated that a full isotropic bandgap can be achieved with the proposed structures.
An insulator-based dielectrophoretic microdevice for the simultaneous filtration and focusing of biological cells
Authors: Jen Chun-Ping , Chen Wei-Fu
Published: October 2011

Manipulating and discriminating biological cells of interest using microfluidic and micro total analysis system (μTAS) devices have potential applications in clinical diagnosis and medicine. Cellular focusing in microfluidic devices is a prerequisite for medical applications, such as cell sorting, cell counting, or flow cytometry. In the present study, an insulator-based dielectrophoretic microdevice is designed for the simultaneous filtration and focusing of biological cells. The cells are introduced into the microchannel and hydrodynamically pre-confined by funnel-shaped insulating structures close to the inlet. There are ten sets of X-patterned insulating structures in the microfluidic channel. The main function of the first five sets of insulating structures is to guide the cells by negative dielectrophoretic responses (viable HeLa cells) into the center region of the microchannel. The positive dielectrophoretic cells (dead HeLa cells) are attracted to regions with a high electric-field gradient generated at the edges of the insulating structures. The remaining five sets of insulating structures are mainly used to focus negative dielectrophoretic cells that have escaped from the upstream region. Experiments employing a mixture of dead and viable HeLa cells are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design. The results indicate that the performance of both filtration and focusing improves with the increasing strength of the applied electric field and a decreasing inlet sample flow rate, which agrees with the trend predicted by the numerical simulations. The filtration efficiency, which is quantitatively investigated, is up to 88% at an applied voltage of 50 V peak-to-peak (1 kHz) and a sample flow rate of 0.5 μl/min. The proposed device can focus viable cells into a single file using a voltage of 35 V peak-to-peak (1 kHz) at a sample flow rate of 1.0 μl/min.
Squeezed light reduces noise at a gravitational-wave observatory
Authors: Miller Johanna L.
Published: October 2011

A decades-old idea—tinkering with light’s quantum fluctuations to make a large interferometer even more sensitive—has now been implemented.
High-frequency electrolysis begets spontaneously combusting nanobubbles
Authors: Smart Ashley G.
Published: October 2011

The key is to feed the bubbles a balanced diet of hydrogen and oxygen before they have a chance to grow.
Gobbling up light with an antilaser
Authors: Stone A. Douglas
Published: October 2011

An unappreciated symmetry of electrodynamics enables experimenters to fabricate coherent perfect absorbers, devices that act like lasers run backward.
KPNA7, an oocyte- and embryo-specific karyopherin?subtype, is required for porcine embryo development
Authors: Wang Xin , Park Ki-Eun , Koser Stephanie , Liu Shihong , Magnani Luca , Cabot Ryan A.
Published: November 2011

Coordinated partitioning of intracellular cargoes between nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments is critical for cell survival and differentiation. The karyopherin α/β heterodimer functions to import cytoplasmic proteins that possess classical nuclear localisation signals into the nucleus. Seven karyopherin α subtypes have been identified in mammals. The aim of this study was to determine the relative abundance of transcripts encoding seven karyopherin α subtypes in porcine oocytes and embryos at discrete stages of cleavage development, and to determine the developmental requirements of karypopherin α 7 (KPNA7), an oocyte and cleavage stage embryo-specific karyopherin α subtype. We hypothesised that knockdown of KPNA7 would negatively affect porcine cleavage development. To test this hypothesis, in vitro matured and fertilised porcine oocytes were injected with a double-stranded interfering RNA molecule that targeted KPNA7; nuclei were counted in all embryos 6 days after fertilisation. Embryos injected with KPNA7-interfering RNAs possessed significantly lower cell numbers than their respective control groups (P < 0.05). In vitro binding assays also suggest that KPNA7 may transport intracellular proteins that possess unique nuclear localisation signals. Our data suggest that embryos have differential requirements for individual karyopherin α subtypes and that these karyopherin α subtypes differentially transport intracellular cargo during cleavage development.
La construcción discursiva del fracaso escolar
Authors: Patiño Santos Adriana
Published: October 2011

El estudio sociolingüístico y etnográfico de las prácticas comunicativas en un centro escolar multicultural de Madrid ha permitido identificar el conflicto en las interacciones como una de las dimensiones del fracaso escolar que padece este instituto. El fracaso escolar, entendido desde los planteamientos de Erickson (1987), hace referencia a la falta de interés y confianza mutua entre los protagonistas de la práctica escolar para llevar a cabo las tareas de enseñanza-aprendizaje. El conflicto se ritualiza en las interacciones del aula y se extiende a las demás prácticas comunicativas del centro en una lucha de los participantes por legitimar lo que cuenta para ellos ser “estudiante” y ser “profesor” dentro de este contexto particular.
Brr6 drives the Schizosaccharomyces pombe spindle pole body nuclear envelope insertion/extrusion cycle
Authors: Tamm Tiina , Grallert Agnes , Grossman Emily P.S. , Alvarez-Tabares Isabel , Stevens Frances E. , Hagan Iain M.
Published: October 2011

The fission yeast interphase spindle pole body (SPB) is a bipartite structure in which a bulky cytoplasmic domain is separated from a nuclear component by the nuclear envelope. During mitosis, the SPB is incorporated into a fenestra that forms within the envelope during mitotic commitment. Closure of this fenestra during anaphase B/mitotic exit returns the cytoplasmic component to the cytoplasmic face of an intact interphase nuclear envelope. Here we show that Brr6 is transiently recruited to SPBs at both SPB insertion and extrusion. Brr6 is required for both SPB insertion and nuclear envelope integrity during anaphase B/mitotic exit. Genetic interactions with apq12 and defective sterol assimilation suggest that Brr6 may alter envelope composition at SPBs to promote SPB insertion and extrusion. The restriction of the Brr6 domain to eukaryotes that use a polar fenestra in an otherwise closed mitosis suggests a conserved role in fenestration to enable a single microtubule organizing center to nucleate both cytoplasmic and nuclear microtubules on opposing sides of the nuclear envelope.
KCNQ1 subdomains involved in KCNE modulation revealed by an invertebrate KCNQ1 orthologue
Authors: Nakajo Koichi , Nishino Atsuo , Okamura Yasushi , Kubo Yoshihiro
Published: October 2011

KCNQ1 channels are voltage-gated potassium channels that are widely expressed in various non-neuronal tissues, such as the heart, pancreas, and intestine. KCNE proteins are known as the auxiliary subunits for KCNQ1 channels. The effects and functions of the different KCNE proteins on KCNQ1 modulation are various; the KCNQ1–KCNE1 ion channel complex produces a slowly activating potassium channel that is crucial for heartbeat regulation, while the KCNE3 protein makes KCNQ1 channels constitutively active, which is important for K+ and Cl− transport in the intestine. The mechanisms by which KCNE proteins modulate KCNQ1 channels have long been studied and discussed; however, it is not well understood how different KCNE proteins exert considerably different effects on KCNQ1 channels. Here, we approached this point by taking advantage of the recently isolated Ci-KCNQ1, a KCNQ1 homologue from marine invertebrate Ciona intestinalis. We found that Ci-KCNQ1 alone could be expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and produced a voltage-dependent potassium current, but that Ci-KCNQ1 was not properly modulated by KCNE1 and totally unaffected by coexpression of KCNE3. By making chimeras of Ci-KCNQ1 and human KCNQ1, we determined several amino acid residues located in the pore region of human KCNQ1 involved in KCNE1 modulation. Interestingly, though, these amino acid residues of the pore region are not important for KCNE3 modulation, and we subsequently found that the S1 segment plays an important role in making KCNQ1 channels constitutively active by KCNE3. Our findings indicate that different KCNE proteins use different domains of KCNQ1 channels, and that may explain why different KCNE proteins give quite different outcomes by forming a complex with KCNQ1 channels.
Sexual Health Assessment
Authors: Lawrence Matthew , Carey Jennifer Caroline
Published: October 2011

An increase in the rate of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly Chlamydia, and an unacceptably high level of teenage pregnancies led the UK Government to identify sexual health as a new priority public health area in their 2004 White Paper ‘Choosing health: making healthier choices easier’. The sexual health assessment is an essential tool for the GP, which will direct the need for further investigation and/or treatment for sexual health problems. However, there is still significant stigma associated with many sexual health issues. Because of the sensitive nature of this topic, patients may feel embarrassed and experience additional anxieties when presenting to their doctor. This article aims to provide a framework for performing a thorough but sensitive sexual health assessment in primary care.
Sources of uncertainty in deterministic dynamics: an informal overview
Authors: Stewart Ian
Published: October 2011

The discovery of chaotic dynamics implies that deterministic systems may not be predictable in any meaningful sense. The best-known source of unpredictability is sensitivity to initial conditions (popularly known as the butterfly effect), in which small errors or disturbances grow exponentially. However, there are many other sources of uncertainty in nonlinear dynamics. We provide an informal overview of some of these, with an emphasis on the underlying geometry in phase space. The main topics are the butterfly effect, uncertainty in initial conditions in non-chaotic systems, such as coin tossing, heteroclinic connections leading to apparently random switching between states, topological complexity of basin boundaries, bifurcations (popularly known as tipping points) and collisions of chaotic attractors. We briefly discuss possible ways to detect, exploit or mitigate these effects. The paper is intended for non-specialists.
Contamination sensitivity and the development of disease-avoidant behaviour
Authors: Siegal Michael , Fadda Roberta , Overton Paul G.
Published: October 2011

Owing to their developing cognitive abilities and their limited knowledge about the biological basis of illness, children often have less expertise at disease avoidance than adults. However, affective reactions to contaminants through the acquisition of disgust and the social and cultural transmissions of knowledge about contamination and contagion provide impetus for children to learn effective disease-avoidant behaviours early in their development. In this article, we review the ontogenetic development of knowledge about contamination and contagion with particular attention to the role of socialization and culture. Together with their emerging cognitive abilities and affective reactions to contaminants, informal and formal cultural learning shape children's knowledge about disease. Through this process, the perceptual cues of contamination are linked to threats of disease outcomes and can act as determinants of disease-avoidant behaviours.
Disease avoidance as a functional basis for stigmatization
Authors: Oaten Megan , Stevenson Richard J. , Case Trevor I.
Published: October 2011

Stigmatization is characterized by chronic social and physical avoidance of a person(s) by other people. Infectious disease may produce an apparently similar form of isolation—disease avoidance—but on symptom remission this often abates. We propose that many forms of stigmatization reflect the activation of this disease-avoidance system, which is prone to respond to visible signs and labels that connote disease, irrespective of their accuracy. A model of this system is presented, which includes an emotional component, whereby visible disease cues directly activate disgust and contamination, motivating avoidance, and a cognitive component, whereby disease labels bring to mind disease cues, indirectly activating disgust and contamination. The unique predictions of this model are then examined, notably that people who are stigmatized evoke disgust and are contaminating. That animals too show avoidance of diseased conspecifics, and that disease-related stigma targets are avoided in most cultures, also supports this evolutionary account. The more general implications of this approach are then examined, notably how it can be used to good (e.g. improving hygiene) or bad (e.g. racial vilification) ends, by yoking particular labels with cues that connote disease and disgust. This broadening of the model allows for stigmatization of groups with little apparent connection to disease.
Simultaneous structural variation discovery among multiple paired-end sequenced genomes
Authors: Hormozdiari Fereydoun , Hajirasouliha Iman , McPherson Andrew , Eichler Evan E. , Sahinalp S. Cenk
Published: November 2011

With the increasing popularity of whole-genome shotgun sequencing (WGSS) via high-throughput sequencing technologies, it is becoming highly desirable to perform comparative studies involving multiple individuals (from a specific population, race, or a group sharing a particular phenotype). The conventional approach for a comparative genome variation study involves two key steps: (1) each paired-end high-throughput sequenced genome is compared with a reference genome and its (structural) differences are identified; (2) the lists of structural variants in each genome are compared against each other. In this study we propose to move away from this two-step approach to a novel one in which all genomes are compared with the reference genome simultaneously for obtaining much higher accuracy in structural variation detection. For this purpose, we introduce the maximum parsimony–based simultaneous structural variation discovery problem for a set of high-throughput sequenced genomes and provide efficient algorithms to solve it. We compare the proposed framework with the conventional framework, on the genomes of the Yoruban mother–father–child trio, as well as the CEU trio of European ancestry (both sequenced by Illumina platforms). We observed that the conventional framework predicts an unexpectedly high number of de novo variations in the child in comparison to the parents and misses some of the known variations. Our proposed framework, on the other hand, not only significantly reduces the number of incorrectly predicted de novo variations but also predicts more of the known (true) variations.
The pathogenesis and management of the coagulopathy of acute promyelocytic leukaemia
Authors: Breen Karen A. , Grimwade David , Hunt Beverley J.
Published: November 2011

Coagulopathy occurs in most patients with (APML) and is life‐threatening; therefore prompt diagnosis and recognition of any coagulation defect is imperative. Unfortunately haemorrhage remains a major cause of early death, preventing some from reaching treatment. The coagulopathy is caused directly or indirectly by the leukaemic cells through expression of activators of coagulation and fibrinolysis, proteases and cytokine generation, compounded by failure of platelet production due to marrow invasion. At presentation the predominant feature is usually hyperfibrinolysis. Since the introduction of all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA), patient outcome has dramatically improved; yet, haemorrhagic complications remain the most frequent cause of mortality. Thrombotic complications occur but are less well recognized and potentially underreported. Supportive measures and prompt initiation of ATRA currently represent the mainstay of treatment of the coagulopathy in patients with suspected APML, but unanswered questions remain as to the optimal approach to further decrease the associated haemorrhagic and thrombotic risks. In particular, it is unclear how to best predict and monitor the coagulopathy; whether there is a role for the early use of antifibrinolytics; the most appropriate trigger for giving fibrinogen replacement and the value of low‐dose anticoagulation to suppress coagulation activation once fibrinolysis has been suppressed.
Stable bone mineral density over 6 years in HIV‐infected men treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)
Authors: Bolland Mark J , Grey Andrew , Horne Anne M , Briggs Simon E , Thomas Mark G , Ellis‐Pegler Rod B , Gamble Greg D , Reid Ian R
Published: October 2011

Objective  Most longitudinal studies of bone mineral density (BMD) in HIV‐infected cohorts have been of short duration, typically 1–2 years. Some studies, especially of cohorts treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), report short‐term stable or increasing BMD, but other studies, often in cohorts initiating HAART, report short‐term losses in BMD. We assessed BMD changes over the medium term in HIV‐infected men already established on HAART at baseline.

Design  Six‐year, prospective, longitudinal study.

Subjects  Forty‐four HIV‐infected men treated with HAART and 37 uninfected, healthy controls.

Measurements  Participants had measurements of BMD at baseline, 2 and 6 years.

Results  In the HIV‐infected men at baseline, the mean age was 49 years, the mean duration of infection was 8 years, and the mean duration of HAART was 50 months. Over 6 years of follow‐up, there was a greater increase in lumbar spine BMD (5·3%, 95% CI 3·8–6·5%) in the HIV‐infected men compared with controls (0·3%, 95% CI −1·0 to 1·6%), P < 0·001. There was no difference between the groups in the change in BMD over time at the total hip (HIV group: −0·6%, 95% CI −1·7 to 0·4%, controls −1·0%, 95% CI −2·2 to 0%, P = 0·8) or at the total body (HIV group, 0·3%, 95% CI −0·3 to 1·0%; controls, 0·5%, 95% CI −0·2 to 1·1%, P = 0·15). Lean mass increased in the HIV group, but not in the controls.

Conclusions  There was no evidence of accelerated bone loss over 6 years in middle‐aged, HIV‐infected men treated with HAART. For such patients, routine monitoring of BMD is not necessary over the short/medium term.
Ingestion and excretion of nitrogen and phosphorus by beef cattle under contrasting grazing intensities
Authors: Orr R. J. , Griffith B. A. , Cook J. E. , Champion R. A.
Published: November 2011

There is increased global interest in the environmental impacts of farming, including the need to prevent the contamination of soil, water and air with excessive amounts of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in grazed systems. Reduction in grazing intensity has frequently been recommended to meet biodiversity and production goals in sustainable grazing systems. The objective of this experiment was to measure N and P ingestion and excretion by beef cattle grazing semi‐natural pastures at two grazing intensities (Moderate or Lenient). The cattle grazing at Moderate grazing intensity had significantly more defaecations each day than those grazing at Lenient intensity (9·5 vs. 7·5) and tended to have more urinations (7·0 vs. 5·8). For the Moderate and Lenient treatments, respectively, 113 vs. 76 g N d−1 was excreted compared with 136 vs. 94 g N d−1 ingested; 12 vs. 8 g P d−1 was excreted compared with 13 vs. 10 g P d−1 ingested and urine N comprised 0·51 and 0·52 of the total N excreted each day. In improved, intensively managed grassland systems, urine N comprises a much higher proportion (approximately 0·70–0·85) of the daily total N excreted. The lower level found here is likely to impact on potential volatilization, denitrification and leaching losses, and these aspects should be examined further to see the extent to which semi‐improved grasslands containing increased plant diversity compared with improved grasslands can deliver higher resource protection, as well as enhanced grassland faunal diversity and abundance.
Alpha‐tocopherol and β‐carotene in legume–grass mixtures as influenced by wilting, ensiling and type of silage additive
Authors: Lindqvist H. , Nadeau E. , Jensen S. K.
Published: November 2011

Effects of wilting, ensiling and type of additive on α‐tocopherol and β‐carotene contents in legume–grass mixtures were examined. Swards of birdsfoot trefoil + timothy (Bft + Ti), red clover + timothy (Rc + Ti) and red clover + meadow fescue (Rc + Mf) were harvested as a first regrowth in August 2005. Forage was wilted to a dry‐matter (DM) content of 273 g kg−1 and ensiled without additive or with an inoculant or acid. Wilting decreased α‐tocopherol concentration by 30% in the Bft + Ti mixture (P = 0·015). Untreated Bft + Ti silage had higher α‐tocopherol content than red clover silages (56·9 vs. 34·2 mg kg−1 DM; P = 0·015). The α‐tocopherol concentration of Bft + Ti forages increased during ensiling from 41·1 mg kg−1 DM in wilted herbage to 56·9, 65·2 and 56·8 mg kg−1 DM in untreated, inoculated and acid‐treated silage respectively (P = 0·015). The inoculant increased α‐tocopherol content in the red clover silages (50·1 vs. 34·2 mg kg−1 DM; P = 0·015) compared with untreated red clover silages. Red clover mixtures had lower β‐carotene content than Bft + Ti (32·3 vs. 46·2 mg kg−1 DM; P = 0·016), averaged over treatments. In conclusion, wilting had small effects but the use of bacterial inoculant as an additive and a Bft + Ti mixture increased α‐tocopherol concentration in the silage.
Impact of erythropoietin on sustained virological response to peginterferon and ribavirin therapy for HCV infection: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Alavian S.‐M. , Tabatabaei S. V. , Behnava B.
Published: October 2011

Summary.  Anaemia is a common complication of antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection that necessitates dose reductions or therapy discontinuation. Administration of erythropoietin (EPO) is an alternative to ribavirin (RBV) dose reduction, but its advantage in terms of sustained virological response (SVR) has not been determined yet. In a systematic way, randomized studies were identified that evaluated the effect of EPO administration vs RBV dose reduction on virological response in patients who developed anaemia during anti‐HCV therapy. The random‐effects model was employed to run meta‐analysis. SVR was set as the end point of interest. Data were abstracted from four studies containing 257 patients who developed anaemia during therapy. One hundred and twenty six subjects underwent RBV dose reduction. Patients who received EPO in response to haemoglobin drop had a significantly higher probability of achieving SVR compared with those who underwent RBV dose reduction because of anaemia (relative risk = 1.83 95% CI; 1.41–2.37). No heterogeneity was observed across study results (I2 = 0). Publication bias assessment was nonsignificant. Our meta‐analysis indicates that administration of EPO in patients who develop anaemia during anti‐HCV therapy can considerably enhance SVR. Moreover, no adverse event of EPO administration was reported among included subjects.
Heterogeneity, cyclicity and diagenesis in a Mississippian brachiopod shell of palaeoequatorial Britain
Authors: Angiolini Lucia , Stephenson Michael , Leng Melanie J. , Jadoul Flavio , Millward Dave , Aldridge Anthony , Andrews Julian , Chenery Simon , Williams Gareth
Published: November 2011

Terra Nova, 24, 16–26, 2012

A shell of Gigantoproductus okensis shows twenty growth lines with marked changes of fabric, indicating periodical reduction of growth rates caused by environmental perturbations. The number of growth lines suggests a lifespan of 20 years in agreement with the survival rates of extant brachiopods, and with spiral deviation analysis. Geochemical analyses across the growth profile show a heterogeneous distribution of stable isotopes and trace elements. It is possible to distinguish primary from altered carbonate, and to interpret the isotopic data. The oxygen isotope signal in the unaltered parts is periodical and annual, with oscillation of ∼1.1‰. The higher values are at the growth lines (winter), and therefore most likely related to monsoon circulation during the Visean. The annual periodicity seems also present in the altered part of the shell, suggesting that diagenesis could have reset the primary values, but preserved their cyclicity.
Cytokinin‐facilitated proteolysis of ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATOR 2 attenuates signaling output in two‐component circuitry
Authors: Kim Kangmin , Ryu Hojin , Cho Young‐Hyun , Scacchi Emanuele , Sabatini Sabrina , Hwang Ildoo
Published: November 2011

Cytokinins propagate signals via multiple phosphorelays in a mechanism similar to bacterial two‐component systems. In Arabidopsis, signal outputs are determined by the activation state of transcription factors termed type‐B Arabidopsis response regulators (ARRs); however, their regulatory mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that the proteolysis of ARR2, a type‐B ARR, modulates cytokinin signaling outputs. ARR2‐hemagglutinin (HA) is rapidly degraded by cytokinin treatment, but other type‐B ARRs, such as ARR1‐HA, ARR10‐HA, ARR12‐HA and ARR18‐HA, are not. ARR2 degradation is mediated by the 26S proteasome pathway, and requires cytokinin‐induced phosphorylation of Asp80 residue in the receiver domain. Through mutational analysis of amino acid residues in the receiver domain, we found that substitution of Lys90 with Gly inhibits ARR2 degradation. ARR2K90G‐HA in transgenic Arabidopsis conferred enhanced cytokinin sensitivity in various developmental processes, including primary root elongation, callus induction, leaf senescence and hypocotyl growth. ARR2K90G‐HA increased the expression of type‐A ARRs, primary cytokinin‐responsive genes and indicators of signaling output in two‐component circuits. Expression of ARR2K90G‐HA from the native ARR2 promoter in the arr2‐4 knock‐out mutant also increased cytokinin sensitivity. In conclusion, ARR2 proteolysis is involved in the maintenance of the primary signaling output for normal developmental processes mediated by cytokinin in Arabidopsis.
Leprosy decline in Amazonas State, Brazil
Authors: Penna Maria Lucia Fernandes , Pedrosa Valderiza Lourenço , dos Santos Pereira Emília
Published: October 2011

Objective  To analyse the leprosy case detection rates in Amazonas State, Brazil, by age group from 1980 to 2009.

Method  The historical data series of leprosy cases by age group from 1980 to 2009 were fitted as a function of time using Poisson regression models. Relative annual reduction in the detection rate (RAR) by age group was estimated as one minus the exponential of the estimated regression coefficient for time. To compare the regression coefficients, we used their 95% confidence interval.

Results  The relative annual reduction varied from 9% in the age group of 0–4 years to 1% in the age group of 60–69 years. There was a declining trend of the RAR in the younger age groups that disappeared after 29 years of age. The detection rate in people >29 years old declined very little over time, with no statistically significant difference between age groups.

Conclusion  Our findings show a reduction in the infection risk in the last 30 years and a birth cohort effect: cohorts born in more recent years faced smaller risks of leprosy infection than older cohorts.
Improving an adult holding system for Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata, to enhance sterile male performance
Authors: Silva N. , Dantas L. , Calisto R. , Faria M. J. , Pereira R.
Published: October 2011

The success of using the sterile insect technique (SIT) for Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), suppression programmes is dependent on the release into the field of sterile males that survive and compete successfully with wild males for matings with wild females. The effects of pre‐release aromatherapy using ginger root oil (GRO) and the addition of hydrolysed yeast (protein and other nutrients) to the fly diet, on sterile male dispersal, survival, sexual maturation and mating performance under laboratory and field conditions were evaluated. The interaction between providing protein and/or GRO treatment was also evaluated. Under field cage conditions, male mating performance was significantly higher in treatments with GRO but was unaffected by the provision of protein. There was no interaction between them. However, after releases under field conditions, survival of protein‐fed sterile males was significantly longer compared with protein‐deprived sterile males. The use of GRO should be incorporated into the sterile male–handling protocol for SIT programmes. In combination with the validation of the provision of these supplements, two new cage systems developed in the Madeira‐Med Programme were tested in comparison with the standard plastic adult rearing containers boxes for a more cost‐effective sterile male emergence, feeding, holding and collecting process at fly emergence and release facilities. This selected cages systems can handle approximately 1 million pupae and reduces manual labour and other costs while maintaining good sterile male quality.
Estimation of spawning habitats of market squid (Doryteuthis opalescens) from field surveys of eggs off Central and Southern California
Authors: Zeidberg Louis D. , Butler John L. , Ramon Darlene , Cossio Anthony , Stierhoff Kevin L. , Henry Annette
Published: November 2011

Like many other loliginid squid, Doryteuthis (Loligo) opalescens deposits egg cases on the ocean floor. Depending upon temperature, egg cases may persist for 5–12 weeks before the paralarvae hatch. Because of this relatively long duration and squid’s pelagic life history, egg cases provide a practical life stage to survey. During 2001–2002, squid egg beds in Monterey Bay, Carmel Bay, and around the California Channel Islands were surveyed using a remotely operated vehicle with the goal of delineating the habitat of egg beds that are spawned during active commercial fishing. Egg cases were highly aggregated and densities reached 1338 capsules m−2. Squid eggs were significantly shallower in Central California. Egg cases occurred between 20 and 93 m around the Channel Islands, and in Central California they were between 13 and 61 m. The temperatures in both regions were similar (10–12 °C), with some eggs in Southern California found up to 14.4 °C. Ninety‐five percent of eggs were found on sand, suggesting that temperature and substrate are stronger behavioral cues than depth to stimulate spawning. Suitable spawning habitat was defined by three criteria: sandy benthic substrate, temperatures between 10 and 14.4 °C, and depths between 20 and 70 m when the first two criteria hold. Additionally, within this defined area, oxygen concentration is quantified. The greatest commercial landings of market squid occur in both Central and Southern California during a time of year when water temperatures of 10–12 °C are prevalent in the 20–70 m depth range.
Glucocorticoid resistance in paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Bhadri Vivek A , Trahair Toby N , Lock Richard B
Published: November 2011

Glucocorticoids (GCs), such as prednisolone and dexamethasone, are key components in multi‐agent chemotherapy protocols used for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Approximately 10% of children with ALL will respond poorly to GCs, and GC resistance is associated with a significantly inferior outcome. This review summarises the current knowledge of GC resistance in ALL, including the roles of the GC receptor and its co‐chaperone molecules, the pro‐apoptotic and pro‐survival B‐cell lymphoma 2 family members and alternative non‐apoptotic mechanisms of cell death. It concludes with a discussion on therapeutic attempts to overcome GC resistance.
Changes in anticonvulsant prescribing for Australian children: Implications for Quality Use of Medicines
Authors: Cohen Simon A , Lawson John A , Graudins Linda V , Pearson Sallie‐A , Gazarian Madlen
Published: November 2011

Aims:  The evidence‐base guiding choices between newer versus established anticonvulsants in children is limited. Inappropriate use exposes children to potentially ineffective and/or harmful medicines. Our objective is to describe recent anticonvulsant prescribing patterns in the Australian paediatric population, evaluating overall trends and extent of off‐label prescribing of newer agents.

Methods:  Aggregated national data on 15 anticonvulsants with Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme subsidy dispensed by community pharmacies for children aged <16 years were obtained from the Drug Utilisation Subcommittee, which is part of the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing. We analysed trends for the five most prescribed anticonvulsants dispensed between 2002 and 2009 and off‐label prescribing for agents where approved Australian product information stipulates a minimum age.

Results:  Valproate was the most frequently prescribed anticonvulsant with no marked change in prescription numbers per 1000 children aged 0–16 years (11.3–11.8 prescriptions/year). Lamotrigine was the most frequently prescribed newer anticonvulsant (7.9–9.3 prescriptions/year). Carbamazepine prescriptions decreased by 38% and topiramate prescriptions increased by 19% over the 7‐year study period; 3.6% of topiramate prescriptions were off‐label (by age) for children aged <2 years. Since Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme listing in 2003, levetiracetam prescriptions increased steeply to 2.5 prescriptions/year per 1000 children in 2009; 4.2% were off‐label for children aged <4 years.

Conclusions:  The substantial reduction in carbamazepine use and corresponding increase in newer anticonvulsant prescribing, including off‐label uses, raises questions about potentially suboptimal Quality Use of Medicines. Such major changes in prescribing may have important clinical and economic consequences. Further study to better understand paediatric prescribing choices and outcomes is needed.
Portrait of socio‐economic inequality in childhood morbidity and mortality over time, Québec, 1990–2005
Authors: Barry Mamadou S , Auger Nathalie , Burrows Stephanie
Published: November 2011

Aim:  To determine the age and cause groups contributing to absolute and relative socio‐economic inequalities in paediatric mortality, hospitalisation and tumour incidence over time.

Methods:  Deaths (n= 9559), hospitalisations (n= 834 932) and incident tumours (n= 4555) were obtained for five age groupings (<1, 1–4, 5–9, 10–14, 15–19 years) and four periods (1990–1993, 1994–1997, 1998–2001, 2002–2005) for Québec, Canada. Age‐ and cause‐specific morbidity and mortality rates for males and females were calculated across socio‐economic status decile based on a composite deprivation score for 89 urban communities. Absolute and relative measures of inequality were computed for each age and cause.

Results:  Mortality and morbidity rates tended to decrease over time, as did absolute and relative socio‐economic inequalities for most (but not all) causes and age groups, although precision was low. Socio‐economic inequalities persisted in the last period and were greater on the absolute scale for mortality and hospitalisation in early childhood, and on the relative scale for mortality in adolescents. Four causes (respiratory, digestive, infectious, genito‐urinary diseases) contributed to the majority of absolute inequality in hospitalisation (males 85%, females 98%). Inequalities were not pronounced for cause‐specific mortality and not apparent for tumour incidence.

Conclusions:  Socio‐economic inequalities in Québec tended to narrow for most but not all outcomes. Absolute socio‐economic inequalities persisted for children <10 years, and several causes were responsible for the majority of inequality in hospitalisation. Public health policies and prevention programs aiming to reduce socio‐economic inequalities in paediatric health should account for trends that differ across age and cause of disease.