bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal trends in stock origin and abundance of juvenile herring (Clupea harengus) in the Irish Sea
Authors: Burke Nóirín , Brophy Deirdre , Schön Pieter-Jan , King Pauline A.
Published: May 2009

Burke, N., Brophy, D., Schön, P-J., and King, P. A. 2009. Temporal trends in stock origin and abundance of juvenile herring (Clupea harengus) in the Irish Sea. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1749–1753. Celtic Sea herring (Clupea harengus) larvae partly disperse into the Irish Sea, where they mix with the resident stock during their first year of life. This affects the reliability of the use of acoustic estimates of juvenile abundance on the Irish Sea nursery grounds as a recruitment index for use in stock predictions. Otolith microstructure analysis can be used to distinguish between autumn-spawned and winter-spawned individuals. Because winter spawners do not occur in the Irish Sea, this component can be assigned to Celtic Sea immigrants. We used this method to estimate the proportion of winter-spawned individuals in samples of age-1 herring from the western Irish Sea over a 10-year period (1993–2003), and subtracted a corresponding proportion from the acoustic age-1 abundance estimates. The adjusted index for autumn-spawned (supposedly Irish Sea) juveniles was significantly correlated with the abundance of age-3 fish from the same year class in commercial catches and in the acoustic surveys (p < 0.05 and <0.01, respectively), whereas the correlations for unadjusted indices were not significant. These findings are discussed in relation to the monitoring and assessment of herring in the two areas.
Obstetric Emergencies during Labour
Authors: Garland Melissa
Published: May 2009

It is not every day that a GP is faced with an obstetric emergency, but in the event that you are it is essential to know what to do in these cases for the safe management of the situation. There are many complications that can occur during pregnancy and this article focuses on the management of obstetric emergencies during labour.
Effects of Protease and Urea on a Granular Starch Hydrolyzing Process for Corn Ethanol Production
Authors: Wang Ping , Johnston David B. , Rausch Kent D. , Schmidt Shelly J. , Tumbleson M. E. , Singh Vijay
Published: May 2009

The dry grind process using granular starch hydrolyzing enzymes (GSHE) saves energy. The amount of GSHE used is an important factor affecting dry grind process economics. Proteases can weaken protein matrix to aid starch release and may reduce GSHE doses. Two specific proteases, an exoprotease and an endoprotease, were evaluated in the dry grind process using GSHE (GSH process). The effect of protease and urea addition on GSH process was also evaluated. Addition of these proteases resulted in higher ethanol concentrations (mean increase of 0.3–1.8 v/v) and lower distillers' dried grains with solubles (DDGS) yields (mean decrease of 1.3–8.0% db) compared with the control (no protease addition). As protease levels and GSHE increased, ethanol concentrations increased and DDGS yields decreased. Protease addition reduced the required GSHE dose. Final mean ethanol concentrations without urea (15.2% v/v) were higher than with urea (15.0% v/v) in GSH process across all protease treatments.
Development of an Ethanol Yield Procedure for Dry‐Grind Corn Processing
Authors: Lemuz Carlos R. , Dien Bruce S. , Singh Vijay , McKinney John , Tumbleson M. E. , Rausch Kent D.
Published: May 2009

In 2008, the United States produced ethanol at a rate of 39.5 billion L/year; an additional 8.5 billion L/year capacity was under construction. Kernel composition and physical properties are not correlated with ethanol yield. A procedure that measured the potential of hybrids to produce ethanol would benefit corn seed companies, corn producers, and ethanol processors. The objective was to develop a laboratory procedure to measure ethanol yield from corn samples and evaluate the developed procedure for accuracy and precision. To determine parameters for routine analyses, effects of mill type, dry solids, and yeast addition were investigated separately followed by effects of fermentation time (Tf), glucoamylase dose, and yeast addition. Measurement of ethanol using HPLC and gravimetric (change in weight due to CO2 loss) methods were compared. Using the procedure developed, ethanol yields for five diverse hybrids (dent, waxy, white, high oil, and high amylose) were measured. Effects of mill type, dry solids, Tf, glucoamylase dose, and yeast addition were significant (P < 0.05). The gravimetric method estimated higher yields (428 ± 10 L/tonne) than HPLC (405 ± 15 L/tonne) and had a higher level of precision. Both methods had coefficients of variations of <4% and gave similar conclusions. In the final procedure, we used corn (25 g/batch) liquefied with α‐amylase (60 min at 90°C) in 75 mL of distilled water. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation was used (64 hr at 32°C) with glucoamylase and yeast. Gravimetric and HPLC methods measured differences in ethanol yield for the five hybrids (158–435 L/tonne). The method is suitable for routine testing of ethanol yield potential and as a reference method for verifying more rapid measurement techniques.
Bis(2-hydroxybenzaldehyde oxime)O,O′-butane-1,4-diyldicarbonyl ether
Authors: Etemadi Bijan , Kia Reza , Sharghi Hashem , Hosseini Sarvari Mona
Published: May 2009

The molecule of the title compound, C20H20N2O6, lies across a crystallographic inversion centre, the asymmetric unit comprising one half-molecule. An intramolecular O—H...N hydrogen bond generates a six-membered ring, producing anS(6)ring motif. Pairs of intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonds link neighbouring molecules into a layer withR22(38) ring motif. The crystal structure is further stabilized by the intermolecular C—H...π interactions.
4-Amino-2,3,5-trimethylpyridine monohydrate
Authors: Dai Li-Yan , Zhang Fu-Liang , Shen Liang , Chen Ying-Qi
Published: May 2009

In the title compound, C8H12N2·H2O, four substituted pyridine molecules alternate with four water molecules, forming a large ringviaOwater—H...Npyridineand Namine—H...Owaterhydrogen bonding. Adjacent rings are connectedviaOwater—H...Owaterhydrogen-bonds, forming a three-dimensional network.
2,2-Bis(1H-indol-3-yl)indolin-3-one
Authors: Li Zhao-Hao , Xu Jing , Wu Wen-Liang , Su Wei-Ping
Published: May 2009

In the title molecule, C24H17N3O, the mean plane of the indolone ring forms dihedral angles of 112.0 (1) and 103.1 (1)° with the planes of the two indole rings. The dihedral angle between the mean planes of the two indole rings is 63.5 (1)°. In the crystal structure, molecules are linkedviaintermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a two-dimensional network parallel to theabplane.
N,N′-(Phenyliminodimethylene)diprop-2-enamide hemihydrate
Authors: Tamilvendan Dhanapal , Venkatesa Prabhu Ganesan , Fronczek Frank R. , Vembu Nagarajan
Published: May 2009

In the title compound, C14H17N3O2·0.5H2O, the asymmetric unit consists of anN,N′-(phenyliminodimethylene)diprop-2-enamide molecule and one half-molecule of water, with the O atom of the latter having 2 site symmetry. The supramolecular architecture is framed by the interplay of two-dimensional networks of both O—H...O and N—H...O interactions supported by C—H...O and edge-to-face C—H...π interactions.
2-(2-Hydroxyethylamino)-3-phenyl-1-benzofuro[3,2-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-one dichloromethane hemisolvate
Authors: Zhang Zheng-Hong , Liu Xiao-Ling , Chen Long-Ju
Published: May 2009

In the title compound, C18H15N3O3·0.5CH2Cl2, the fused ring benzofuro[2,3-d]pyrimidine system is essentially planar [maximum deviation 0.029 (1) Å]. The planes of the pyrimidinone and phenyl rings are nearly perpendicular [dihedral angle = 87.50 (14)°]. The packing of the molecules in the crystal structure is governed mainly by intermolecular O—H...O and N—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions and intermolecular π–π interactions between benzofuro[3,2-d]pyrimidine units [the interplanar distances areca3.4 and 3.5 Å, and the distances between adjacent ring centroids are in the range 3.64 (1)–3.76 (1) Å]. The dichloromethane solvent molecule lies on a special position.
4-(4-Fluorophenyl)-2-oxo-1,2,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinoline-3-carbonitrile
Authors: Zhang Jinpeng , Ding Jie , Yan Shu , Rong Liangce , Xu Lichun
Published: May 2009

In the molecule of the title compound, C20H13FN2O, the fluorophenyl ring is oriented at a dihedral angle of 72.76 (3)° with respect to the fused benzene ring. In the crystal structure, intermolecular N—H...O, C—H...O and C—H...F interactions link the molecules into chains. π–π contacts between the quinoline and benzene rings [centroid–centroid distance = 3.918 (3) Å] may further stabilize the structure. A weak C—H...π interaction is also present. The O atom and two of the CH2groups of the quinoline ring system are disordered over two positions. The O atom was refined with occupancies of 0.489 (17) and 0.511 (17), while C and H atoms were refined with occupancies of 0.435 (13) and 0.565 (13).
N-(3,4-Diethoxyphenyl)acetamide
Authors: Ma Pei-Hua , Zhou Kai-Zhi , Sun Mei-Lian , Zhao Xiu-Mei , Xiao Xin
Published: May 2009

In the title compound, C12H17NO3, the conformations of the N—H and C=O bonds areantito each other. In the crystal structure, N—H...O hydrogen-bond interactions help to establish the packing.
Bis[2-(pyrrolidin-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazole-κ2N2,N3]copper(II) dinitrate dihydrate
Authors: Dai Jing
Published: May 2009

In the title compound, [Cu(C11H13N3)2](NO3)2·2H2O, synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of Cu(NO3)2and racemic 2-(pyrrolidin-2-yl)-1H-1,3-benzimidazole, the CuIIatom lies on an inversion centre. The distorted octahedral CuIIenvironment contains two planartrans-relatedN,N-chelating 2-(pyrrolidin-2-yl)-1H-1,3-benzimidazole ligands in the equatorial plane and two monodentate nitrate anions, which are in weak interaction with the Cu atom, in the axial positions. The two benzimidazole ligands have opposite configurations (R/SandS/R) and compound is amesocomplex. In the crystal, N—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen bonds generate an infinite three-dimensional network. One methylene group of the pyrrolidine ring is disordered over two position with a 0.56 (3):0.44 (3) occupancy.
Ethylenediammonium dichloride
Authors: Gabro Milad , Lalancette Roger A. , Bernal Ivan
Published: May 2009

The title ionic compound, C2H10N22+·2Cl−, crystallizes with a center of symmetry within the cation. Each of the positively charged ammonium ends of the molecule is trigonally hydrogen bonded to three different chloride counter-ions, while each of the chloride ions is trigonally hydrogen bonded to three different ethylenediammonium cations. The hydrogen-bonding network leads to stabilization of the structure.
2,2,7-Trimethyl-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one
Authors: Zhang Ling , Shi Daxin , Fan Yanqiu , Qian Dongfeng , Li Jiarong
Published: May 2009

There are two independent molecules in the the asymmetric unit of the title compound, C11H14N2O. The heterocyclic ring of the bicyclic system has a sofa conformation, with the C atom bearing the two methyl groups displaced by 0.541 (7) Å from the rest of the atoms of the ring [planar to within 0.064 (9) Å]. Molecules are linked into centrosymmetric dimersviaN—H...O hydrogen bonds.
Roles of Sall4 in the generation of pluripotent stem cells from blastocysts and fibroblasts
Authors: Tsubooka Noriko , Ichisaka Tomoko , Okita Keisuke , Takahashi Kazutoshi , Nakagawa Masato , Yamanaka Shinya
Published: May 2009

Pluripotency of embryonic stem (ES) cells is maintained by a network consisting of multiple transcription factors, including Oct3/4, Sox2, Nanog, Klf4 and Sall4. Among these factors, the forced expressions of Oct3/4, Sox2 and Klf4 are sufficient to reprogram fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The current study analyzed the role of Sall4 during the generation of ES cells and iPS cells. The mouse Sall4 gene was deleted by homologous recombination. Sall4‐null embryos died shortly after implantation, as has been reported. ES‐like cell lines can be established from Sall4‐null blastocysts, albeit with a lower efficiency and a slower time course. The knockdown of Sall4 significantly decreased the efficiency of iPS cell generation from mouse fibroblasts. Furthermore, retroviral transduction of Sall4 significantly increased the efficiency of iPS cell generation in mouse and some human fibroblast lines. These results demonstrated that Sall4 plays positive roles in the generation of pluripotent stem cells from blastocysts and fibroblasts.
A socio‐cognitive interpretation of the potential effects of downsizing on software quality performance
Authors: Ambrose Paul J. , Chiravuri Ananth
Published: May 2009

Organizational downsizing research indicates that downsizing does not always realize its strategic intent and may, in fact, have a detrimental impact on organizational performance. In this paper, we extend the notion that downsizing negatively impacts performance and argue that organizational downsizing can potentially be detrimental to software quality performance. Using social cognitive theory (SCT), we primarily interpret the negative impacts of downsizing on software quality performance by arguing that downsizing results in a realignment of social networks (environmental factors), thereby affecting the self‐efficacy and outcome expectations of a software professional (personal factors), which, in turn, affect software quality performance (outcome of behaviour undertaken). We synthesize relevant literature from the software quality, SCT and downsizing research streams and develop a conceptual model. Two major impacts of downsizing are hypothesized in the conceptual model. First, downsizing destroys formal and informal social networks in organizations, which, in turn, negatively impacts software developers' self‐efficacy and outcome expectations through their antecedents, with consequent negative impacts on software development process efficiency and software product quality, the two major components of software quality performance. Second, downsizing negatively affects antecedents of software development process efficiency, namely top management leadership, management infrastructure sophistication, process management efficacy and stakeholder participation with consequent negative impacts on software quality performance. This theoretically grounded discourse can help demonstrate how organizational downsizing can potentially impact software quality performance through key intervening constructs. We also discuss how downsizing and other intervening constructs can be managed to mitigate the negative impacts of downsizing on software quality performance.
Genetic analysis of aquabirnaviruses isolated from wild fish reveals occurrence of natural reassortment of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus
Authors: Romero‐Brey I , Bandín I , Cutrín J M , Vakharia V N , Dopazo C P
Published: May 2009

In this study, we report the sequencing of the whole genome [including the 5′ and 3′ non‐coding regions (NCR) of both segments A and B] of seven birnavirus strains isolated from wild fish from the Flemish Cap (FC) fishery at Newfoundland, Canada. From analysis and comparison of the sequences, most of the FC isolates clustered with the North American reference strains West Buxton (WB), Dry Mill and Jasper. One strain was included in the same genotype as the European strain Ab. In addition, at least in one case cohabitation of both type strains in an individual fish was demonstrated. These results clearly suggest the acquisition of the viruses from two different sources. The prevalence of the American type is easily explained by the close proximity of this fishing bank to the American coast whereas, although surprising, the presence of the European type strain could be because of migration of fish from European waters. In one strain, segment A and B sequences were typed differently (WB and Ab, respectively). These findings indicate natural reassortment between two strains of aquabirnaviruses in a host.
Microsatellite analysis of genetic diversity among clinical and nonclinical Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolates suggests heterozygote advantage in clinical environments
Authors: MULLER LUDO A. H. , McCUSKER JOHN H.
Published: May 2009

The genetic structure of a global sample of 170 clinical and nonclinical Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolates was analysed using 12 microsatellite markers. High levels of genetic diversity were revealed both among the clinical and among the nonclinical S. cerevisiae isolates without significant differentiation between these two groups of isolates, rendering a single origin of pathogenic isolates unlikely. This suggests that S. cerevisiae is a true opportunistic pathogen, with a diversity of unrelated genetic backgrounds able to cause infections in humans, and that the ability of S. cerevisiae isolates to cause infections is likely due to a combination of their phenotypic plasticity and the immune system status of the exposed individuals. As was previously reported for bread, beer and wine strains and for environmental S. cerevisiae isolates, the microsatellite genotypes indicated ploidy level variation, from possibly haploid up to tetraploid, among clinical S. cerevisiae isolates. However, rather than haploid, sporulation proficiency and spore viability data indicated that most S. cerevisiae isolates that were mono‐allelic at all examined microsatellite loci were likely homothallic and self‐diploidized. Interestingly, the proportion of heterozygous clinical isolates was found to be significantly higher than the proportion of heterozygous nonclinical isolates, suggesting a selective advantage of heterozygous S. cerevisiae yeasts in clinical environments.
Intestinal immune activation in presumed post‐infectious functional dyspepsia
Authors: Kindt S. , Tertychnyy A. , De Hertogh G. , Geboes K. , Tack J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract  Functional dyspepsia (FD) symptoms may develop after an acute gastroenteritis. In post‐infectious (PI) irritable bowel syndrome, persisting low‐grade colonic inflammation and increased enterochromaffine cells (EC) counts have been reported. The aim was to compare signs of inflammation and EC hyperplasia on duodenal biopsies in presumed PI‐FD and unspecified‐onset (U‐)FD. Duodenal biopsies were obtained in 12 U‐FD and 12 PI‐FD (on average 13 months after the acute event) patients. The presence of intra‐epithelial, intravillar, and the number of CD3, CD4, CD8 and CD68+ cells per crypts, and the mean number of Chromogranine A (CA) positive cells per villus were compared. We also measured gastric emptying and assessed proximal stomach function with a barostat. Data are shown as mean ± SEM. Focal aggregates of T cells and focal CD8+ aggregates, were found in PI‐FD but not in U‐FD patients (respectively 5/12 vs 0/12, P = 0.02 and 5/9 vs 0/11, P < 0.01). In patients with focal aggregates, gastric emptying was delayed (189 ± 37 min vs 98 ± 11 min, P = 0.002). The number of CD4+ cells per crypt (0.52 ± 1.6 vs 1.22 ± 2.18, P = 0.04), and the number of intravillar CD4+ cells (0.5 ± 0.2 vs 2.7 ± 0.7, P = 0.01) were reduced, while the number of CD68+ cells per crypt was increased (0.64 ± 0.13 vs 0.40 ± 0.05, P = 0.03) in PI‐FD. The number of EC and CA were comparable. PI‐FD is associated with persisting focal T‐cell aggregates, decreased CD4+ cells and increased macrophage counts surrounding the crypts. This may indicate impaired ability of the immune system to terminate the inflammatory response after acute insult.
Muscarinic M3facilitation of acetylcholine release from rat myenteric neurons depends on adenosine outflow leading to activation of excitatory A2Areceptors
Authors: Vieira C. , Duarte‐araújo M. , Adães S. , Magalhães‐cardoso T. , Correia‐de‐sá P.
Published: May 2009

Abstract Acetylcholine (ACh) is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the myenteric plexus, and it regulates its own release acting via muscarinic autoreceptors. Adenosine released from stimulated myenteric neurons modulates ACh release preferentially via facilitatory A2Areceptors. In this study, we investigated how muscarinic and adenosine receptors interplay to regulate ACh from the longitudinal muscle–myenteric plexus of the rat ileum. Blockade of the muscarinic M2receptor with 11‐[[2‐1[(diethylamino) methyl‐1‐piperidinyl]‐ acetyl]]‐5,11‐dihydro‐6H‐pyrido [2,3‐b][1,4] benzodiazepine‐6‐one (AF‐DX 116), 4‐diphenylacetoxy‐N‐methylpiperidine methiodide (4‐DAMP) and atropine facilitated [3H]ACh release evoked by short stimulation trains (5 Hz, 200 pulses). Prolonging stimulus train length (>750 pulses) shifted muscarinic autoinhibition towards facilitatory M3receptors activation, as predicted by blockade with J104129 (a selective M3antagonist), 4‐DAMP and atropine, whereas the selective M2antagonist, AF‐DX 116, was without of effect. Blockade of A2Areceptors with ZM 241385, inhibition of adenosine transport with dipyridamole, and inhibition of ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase with concanavalin A, all attenuated release inhibition caused by 4‐DAMP. J104129 and 4‐DAMP, but not AF‐DX 116, decreased (∼60%) evoked adenosine outflow (5 Hz, 3000 pulses). Oxotremorine (300 μmol L−1) facilitated the release of [3H]ACh (34 ± 4%,n = 5) and adenosine (57 ± 3%,n = 6) from stimulated myenteric neurons. 4‐DAMP, dipyridamole and concanavalin A prevented oxotremorine‐induced facilitation. ZM 241385 blocked oxotremorine facilitation of [3H]ACh release, but kept adenosine outflow unchanged. Thus, ACh modulates its own release from myenteric neurons by activating inhibitory M2and facilitatory M3autoreceptors. While the M2inhibition is prevalent during brief stimulation periods, muscarinic M3facilitation is highlighted during sustained nerve activity as it depends on extracellular adenosine accumulation leading to activation of facilitatory A2Areceptors.
Upper bathyal trace fossils document palaeoclimate changes
Authors: Hohenegger Johann , Pervesler Peter , Uchman Alfred , Wagreich Michael
Published: May 2009

Marine trace fossils were investigated in a 102‐m cored section that covers −14.379 to −14.142 Ma (Middle Miocene). Long‐term climate trends are perfectly reflected by changing trace fossil communities of the upper bathyal (−200 to −300 m). The community structure is expressed in abundance of taxa based on probabilities of time concordance between the deposition of the sediment and the time, when the traces were produced. Changes in community structure precisely parallel the increasing δ13C isotopes during the Middle Miocene climate transition and perfectly mirror oscillations in solar insolation in both amplitudes and phase. Furthermore, the density stratification of the seawater caused by wind‐induced currents is reflected in trace fossil communities. Additionally, the dependence of ichnotaxa abundance from threshold values in the sedimentation rate could be demonstrated.
The evolution of surgical techniques in clinical liver transplantation. A review
Authors: Polak Wojciech G. , Peeters Paul M.J.G. , Slooff Maarten J.H.
Published: May 2009

Abstract: Currently, liver transplantation (LT) is an accepted method of treatment of end‐stage liver disease, metabolic diseases with their primary defect in the liver and unresectable primary liver tumors. Surgical techniques in LT have evolved considerably over the past 40 yr. The developments have led to a safer procedure for the recipient reflected by continuously improving survival figures after LT. Also the new techniques offer the possibility of tailoring the operation to the needs and condition of the recipient as in partial grafting or in different revascularization techniques, or in techniques of biliary reconstructions. In addition, the new techniques such as split LT, domino transplantation and living donor LT have brought about an increase in the available grafts. In this review the evolution of surgical techniques in LT over the past 40 yr and their contribution to the current results are discussed.
Consecutive national surveys of ABO‐incompatible blood transfusion in Japan
Authors: Fujii Y. , Shibata Y. , Miyata S. , Inaba S. , Asai T. , Hoshi Y. , Takamatsu J. , Takahashi K. , Ohto H. , Juji T. , Sagawa K.
Published: May 2009

Background and Objectives  Morbidity and mortality from ABO‐incompatible transfusion persist as consequences of human error. Even so, insufficient attention has been given to improving transfusion safety within the hospital.

Materials and Methods  National surveys of ABO‐incompatible blood transfusions were conducted by the Japanese Society of Blood Transfusion, with support from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. Surveys concluded in 2000 and 2005 analysed ABO‐incompatible transfusion data from the previous 5 years (January 1995 to December 1999 and January 2000 to December 2004, respectively). The first survey targeted 777 hospitals and the second, 1355 hospitals. Data were collected through anonymous questionnaires.

Results  The first survey achieved a 77·4% response rate (578 of 777 hospitals). The second survey collected data from 251 more hospitals, but with a lower response rate (61·2%, or 829 of 1355 hospitals). The first survey analysed 166 incidents from 578 hospitals, vs. 60 incidents from 829 hospitals in the second survey. The main cause of ABO‐incompatible transfusion was identification error between patient and blood product: 55% (91 of 166) in the first survey and 45% (27 of 60) in the second. Patient outcomes included nine preventable deaths from 1995 to 1999, and eight preventable deaths from 2000 to 2004.

Conclusion  Misidentification at the bedside persists as the main cause of ABO‐incompatible transfusion.
Robust QTL fine mapping by applying a quantitative transmission disequilibrium test to the Mendelian sampling term
Authors: Simianer H. , Pimentel E.C.G.
Published: May 2009

In many farm animal populations, high‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes are becoming available on a large scale, and routine estimation of breeding values is implemented for a multiplicity of traits. We propose to apply the basic principle of the quantitative transmission disequilibrium test (QTDT) to estimated Mendelian sampling terms. A two‐step procedure is suggested, where in the first step additive breeding values are estimated with a mixed linear model and the Mendelian sampling terms are calculated from the estimated breeding values. In the second step, the QTDT is applied to these estimated Mendelian sampling terms. The resulting test is expected to yield significant results if the SNP is in sufficient linkage disequilibrium and linkage with quantitative trait loci (QTL). This principle is illustrated with a simulated data set comprising 4665 individuals genotyped for 6000 SNP and 15 true QTL. Thirteen of the fifteen QTL were significant on a genome‐wide 0.1% error level. Results for the empirical power are derived from repeated samples of 1000 and 3000 genotyped individuals, respectively. General properties and potential extensions of the methodology are indicated. Owing to its computational simplicity and speed, the suggested procedure is well suited to scan whole genomes with high‐density SNP coverage in samples of substantial size and for a multiplicity of different traits.
High‐resolution seabed imagery as a tool for biodiversity conservation planning on continental margins
Authors: Schlacher Thomas A. , Williams Alan , Althaus Franziska , Schlacher‐Hoenlinger Monika A.
Published: May 2009

Submarine canyons increase seascape diversity on continental margins and harbour diverse and abundant biota vulnerable to fishing. Because many canyons are fished, there is an increasing emphasis on including them in conservation areas on continental margins. Here we report on sponge diversity and bottom cover in three canyons of South‐eastern Australia, test the performance of biological and abiotic surrogates, and evaluate how biological data from detailed seabed surveys can be used in conservation planning in these habitats. The biological data on sponge assemblage structure and species richness were obtained from 576 seafloor images taken between 148 and 472 m depth, yielding 65 morphospecies. Seafloor characteristics were similar within and between canyons, being almost exclusively composed of sediments with very few rocky substrates of higher relief. This environmental homogeneity did not, however, translate into biological uniformity of the megabenthos, and environmental factors were consequently poor predictors of biological features. By contrast, total bottom cover of sponges was highly correlated with species richness and served as a good proxy for species‐level data in this situation. Design strategies that employ information on cover or richness of sponges provided a large dividend in conservation effort by dramatically reducing the number of spatial units required to achieve a specified conservation target of 50–90% of species to be included in reserves. This demonstrates that image‐derived data are useful for the design of reserves in the deep sea, particularly where extractive sampling is not warranted. Using biological data on the sponge megabenthos to identify conservation units can also minimise socio‐economic costs to fisheries because of a smaller geographic and bathymetric ambit of conservation areas.
Usefulness of sural nerve biopsy in the genomic era
Authors: Kanda Takashi
Published: May 2009

The value of peripheral nerve biopsy is now sometimes questioned due to the high complication rate and the recent development of noninvasive molecular techniques for diagnosis of hereditary neuropathy. However, the disorders that can be diagnosed by genetic analysis are limited and sural nerve biopsy is still a powerful tool for making a correct diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy. Histological evaluation of the sural nerve has long focused on changes of the two major components of peripheral nerves, axons and myelin, as well as on the detection of diagnostic changes such as amyloid deposits, sarcoid tubercles, and vasculitis. In addition to these components, the sural nerve biopsy specimen contains various important cells, including perineurial cells, mast cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, and lymphocytes. Among these cells, the endothelial cells and pericytes form the blood‐nerve barrier (BNB) and investigation of these cells can reveal important information, especially in inflammatory neuropathies. To better understand the biological basis of BNB, we established rat and human immortal cell lines from the endothelial cells and pericytes of endoneurial microvessels. Characterization of these cell lines is now underway at our laboratory. These BNB cell lines should provide useful information concerning the pathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy, and we should obtain a new perspective for the investigation of nerve biopsy specimens after understanding the molecular background of the BNB.
Association between the dysbindin gene (DTNBP1) and cognitive functions in Japanese subjects
Authors: Hashimoto Ryota , Noguchi Hiroko , Hori Hiroaki , Ohi Kazutaka , Yasuda Yuka , Takeda Masatoshi , Kunugi Hiroshi
Published: May 2009

Aim:  The dysbindin gene (dystrobrevin binding protein 1: DTNBP1) is a susceptibility gene for schizophrenia. Susceptibility genes for schizophrenia have been hypothesized to mediate liability for the disorder at least partly by influencing cognitive performance. This report investigated the relationship between cognitive function and the dysbindin gene.

Methods:  The possible association between a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of DTNBP1 (rs2619539: P1655), which is a risk‐independent SNP for schizophrenia in Japanese populations, and memory and IQ was investigated in 70 schizophrenia patients and 165 healthy volunteers in a Japanese population.

Results:  This SNP was associated with two memory scales, verbal memory and general memory, on the Wechsler Memory Scale–Revised (WMS‐R), and three subcategories of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale–Revised (WAIS‐R), vocabulary, similarities and picture completion in healthy subjects. The SNP, however, did not influence either the indices of WMS‐R, IQ or subcategories of WAIS‐R in schizophrenia patients.

Conclusion:  A risk‐independent SNP in DTNBP1 may have an impact on cognitive functions such as memory and IQ in healthy subjects.
Psychiatric consultation for post‐liver‐transplantation patients
Authors: Chiu Nien‐Mu , Chen Chao‐Long , Cheng Andrew T. A.
Published: May 2009

Aim:  This report describes the clinical characteristics of referral inpatients who received liver transplantation and the surgeon's concordance with the psychiatric consultation.

Methods:  During a 4‐year period, psychiatric consultation was arranged for 30 post‐liver‐transplantation inpatients at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. A psychiatrist assessed these patients and made psychiatric diagnoses according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 4th edition. The clinical data were routinely collected via modified MICRO‐CARES software. At the end of the 4‐year study period, all the medical records of these 30 inpatients were reviewed.

Results:  Psychiatric diagnosis was made in 70% of the patients (n = 21) in three major categories, including delirious state (n = 8), depressive disorder (n = 5), and anxiety/dyssomnia (n = 8). All these conditions were improved by psychiatric management. We found that the consultee's concordance with recommended drug prescriptions was high with antidepressants in depressive patients and low with antipsychotics in patients with delirium. Moreover, anxiolytics were frequently prescribed in post‐transplant inpatients before psychiatric consultation.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that psychiatric consultation is beneficial to inpatients after liver transplantation, especially those with depression and delirium.
Developmental pattern of urinary bile acid profile in preterm infants
Authors: Nishiura Hiroshi , Kimura Akihiko , Yamato Yasuhiko , Aoki Kumiko , Inokuchi Takahiro , Kurosawa Takao , Matsuishi Toyojiro
Published: May 2009

Background:  Bile acid metabolism in preterm infants is yet to be fully characterized. We compared the developmental pattern of urinary bile acid profiles in ten infants born at gestational ages from 25 to 33 weeks with previous data from full‐term infants from birth to about 7 months of age.

Methods:  Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was performed on serial samples.

Results:  Total urinary bile acid concentrations gradually increased until 1 to 2 months of age. After this peak of excretion (30 to 60 µmol/mmol creatinine), total urinary bile acid concentrations gradually decreased to less than 20 µmol/mmol creatinine. The percentage of usual bile acids (mainly cholic acid) relative to total urinary total bile acids gradually deceased from approximately 30% at birth to less than 15% at 7 months of age. On the other hand, 1β‐hydroxylated bile acids (mainly 1β,3α,7α,12α‐tetrahydroxy‐5β‐cholan‐24‐oic acid) relative to total urinary bile acids were increased gradually from 60% at birth to reach 70% to 80% at 1 month of age. The percentage of 1β‐hydroxylated bile acids relative to total urinary bile acids then remained stable at a high percentage (70% to 90%) until the age of 7 months.

Conclusion:  Physiological cholestasis in preterm infants persists longer than in full‐term infants. Moreover, as large amounts of cholic and 1β,3α,7α,12α‐tetrahydroxy‐5β‐cholan‐24‐oic acids were detected in urine from preterm infants during this study, the 25‐hydroxylation pathway may be particularly important for bile acid synthesis in early preterm infants.
Effects of bodyweight‐based exercise training on muscle functions of leg multi‐joint movement in elderly individuals
Authors: Yamauchi Junichiro , Nakayama Satoshi , Ishii Naokata
Published: May 2009

Background:  Because demands of functional exercise training with using own bodyweight for elderly individuals were increasing, the present study investigated the effects of bodyweight‐based exercise training on muscle functions of leg multi‐joint movements in elderly individuals.

Methods:  Twenty‐seven untrained healthy elderly individuals (mean ± standard deviation, 66.0 ± 5.7 years) completed the training program for 10 months. The exercise program consisted mainly of exercises for large leg muscle groups without using external weight, performing 10–50 repetitions and 1–3 sets for each exercise. Before and after the training period, force–velocity relations of knee–hip extension movements were measured with a servo‐controlled dynamometer and the maximum force (Fmax), velocity (Vmax) and power (Pmax) were determined.

Results:  After the training, Fmax and Pmax increased and these increases represented 15% (P < 0.001) and 13% (P < 0.01) of pre‐training value, respectively, while Vmax did not change. Increases in Fmax after the training were positively correlated with the initial exercise intensity determined from bodyweight (BW)/Fmax of pre‐training values (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  A training program using bodyweight can be substantially effective in improving lower limb muscle force and power in elderly individuals; however, the initial training status is important for progressive increases in muscle force.
Three different premixed combinations of biphasic insulin aspart – comparison of the efficacy and safety in a randomized controlled clinical trial in subjects with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Cucinotta D. , Smirnova O. , Christiansen J. S. , Kanc K. , Le Devehat C. , Wojciechowska M. , López de la Torre M. , Liebl A.
Published: May 2009

Aim:  To evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of biphasic insulin aspart (BIAsp) 30 twice daily (b.i.d.) vs. BIAsp 50 or BIAsp 70 (high‐mix regimens) thrice daily (t.i.d.) all in combination with metformin in a 36‐week clinical trial in subjects with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:  Efficacy measurements included haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and eight‐point plasma glucose (PG); safety included adverse events (AEs) and hypoglycaemic episodes. The three treatment groups (approximately 200 subjects in each group) were well matched regarding sex ratio, ethnicity, age and body mass index.

Results:  After 12 weeks, 43% and 54% in the BIAsp 50 and 70 groups, respectively, switched their dinner insulin to BIAsp 30. Both high‐mix regimens were non‐inferior to BIAsp 30 b.i.d., as measured by change in HbA1c, and the BIAsp %50 regimen was superior. The odds for meeting the American Diabetes Association and The American Association of Clinícal Endocrinologist HbA1c targets of <7% and ≤6.5%, respectively, were significantly higher with the BIAsp 50 regimen than with BIAsp 30. A significantly lower PG level was achieved from lunch until 02:00 hours with both high‐mix regimens compared with BIAsp 30 b.i.d. AEs were mild or moderate with all three regimens. Frequency of hypoglycaemic episodes was comparable for the BIAsp 50 and the BIAsp 30 b.i.d. regimens but was significantly higher with BIAsp 70 t.i.d.

Conclusions:  Glycaemic control improved with BIAsp 50 t.i.d. without higher incidence of hypoglycaemia compared with BIAsp 30 b.i.d.; with BIAsp 70 t.i.d. lower PG levels from lunch to 02.00 hours, but more hypoglycaemic episodes were obtained compared with BIAsp 30 b.i.d. (Clinical Trials.gov ID no: NCT00184574).
Pharmacokinetics and linear exposure of AFRESA™ compared with the subcutaneous injection of regular human insulin
Authors: Rave K. , Potocka E. , Boss A. H. , Marino M. , Costello D. , Chen R.
Published: May 2009

Aim:  AFRESA™ [Technosphere® Insulin (TI); MannKind Corporation, Valencia, CA], a dry powder preparation of regular human insulin (RHI), utilizes a novel and versatile drug carrier platform that enables pulmonary administration of medications typically administered by injection. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters of three different inhaled doses of TI with those of subcutaneous (s.c.) RHI.

Methods:  This randomized, open‐label, four‐way crossover study of 11 healthy, non‐smoking volunteers evaluated PK and PD profiles following single inhalations of 25, 50 or 100 U TI and 10 IU RHI administered subcutaneously using a euglycaemic clamp technique.

Results:  Following inhalation of TI, peak insulin concentrations (Cmax) were achieved approximately 2 h earlier than with RHI (12–17 min for TI vs. 134 min for RHI). Area under the insulin concentration–time curve (AUC) and insulin Cmax values increased with increasing TI dose. Insulin exposure, as measured by AUC, was found to be linear over the dose range studied. Compared with s.c. RHI, TI at doses of 25, 50 and 100 U showed a relative bioavailability of 25, 23 and 21%, respectively. The maximum bioeffect, as measured by the glucose infusion rate, occurred approximately 2 h earlier for all three TI doses (42, 50 and 58 min, respectively) than for s.c. RHI (171 min). No treatment‐related adverse events were reported with TI.

Conclusion:  TI is an inhaled insulin with a more rapid absorption and a more rapid elimination than subcutaneously administered RHI, resulting in a quick onset and short duration of action. Insulin exposure following TI administration was found to be linear over the dose range of 25–100 U.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and tolerability of multiple oral doses of linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor in male type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Heise T. , Graefe‐Mody E. U. , Hüttner S. , Ring A. , Trommeshauser D. , Dugi K. A.
Published: May 2009

Aims:  To investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of multiple oral doses of the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor linagliptin (BI 1356) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods:  Forty‐seven male type 2 diabetic patients received linagliptin 1, 2.5, 5 or 10 mg, or placebo, once daily for 12 days.

Results:  Linagliptin exposure [area under the plasma concentration–time curve and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax)] increased less than proportionally with dose. Accumulation half‐life was short (8.6–23.9 h), resulting in rapid attainment of steady state (2–5 days) and little accumulation (range: 1.18–2.03). The long terminal half‐life (113–131 h) led to a sustained inhibition of DPP‐4 activity. Renal excretion was below 1% on day 1 in all dose groups. Inhibition of plasma DPP‐4 activity correlated well with linagliptin plasma concentrations, resulting in DPP‐4 inhibition >90% in the two highest dose groups; even 24 h postdose, DPP‐4 inhibition was >80%. Following an oral glucose tolerance test, 24 h after the last dose, statistically significant reductions of glucose excursions were observed with linagliptin (2.5, 5 and 10 mg doses) compared with placebo. Linagliptin was well tolerated. The frequency of adverse events (AEs) was not higher with linagliptin (54%) than with placebo (75%). No serious AEs and no episodes of hypoglycaemia were reported.

Conclusions:  In type 2 diabetic patients, multiple rising doses of linagliptin were well tolerated and resulted in significant improvements of glucose parameters. Together with the favourable pharmacokinetics, these results confirm the unique profile of linagliptin in the DPP‐4 inhibitor class.
An assessment of the economic and heart health benefits of replacing saturated fat in the diet with monounsaturates in the form of rapeseed (canola) oil
Authors: Harland J. I.
Published: May 2009

There is a well‐established requirement for the UK population to reduce the saturates content of its diet from around 13.3% energy (E) intake to 10% E intake (including alcohol) and to improve fat quality by increasing monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) intake. Canola (rapeseed) oil is one of the richest sources of dietary MUFAs and is a good source of the omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) alpha‐linolenic acid. Recent advances using conventional plant breeding have led to the development of high‐oleic canola, which has an increased level of MUFA and greater oxidative stability, making it suitable for a wide range of culinary purposes including frying.

Around 7% of dietary saturated fatty acid (SFA) intake in adults derives from potatoes (fried potatoes and chips) and savoury snacks, with the value increasing to 13%–15% SFA in 4–18‐year‐olds. Traditionally, frying oils have been high in saturates content and their replacement with lower SFA alternatives provides the opportunity for food manufactures to lower SFA content of food with minimal consumer intervention. It has been estimated that at least half of the SFA in this category of foods can be replaced.

In this review of literature, ten intervention studies were identified, where SFAs and/or carbohydrates were replaced by rapeseed oil, and the effect on blood lipids were reported. Results from these studies were pooled using standard meta‐analysis methods. The standard mean differences in total cholesterol (Total‐C) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) were 0.86 mmol/l [95% confidence interval (CI): −1.05 to −0.66] (ten studies) and 0.87 mmol/l (95% CI: −1.07 to −0.66) (nine studies), respectively, both significant (P < 0.0001) and non‐heterogeneous (P > 0.1).

Using the pooled data, it can be calculated that each gram of SFA intake reduction was associated with reductions in both Total‐C and LDL‐C of 0.03 mmol/l, while each gram increase in either MUFA or PUFA reduced Total‐C by 0.05 and 0.09, respectively, and LDL‐C by 0.04 mmol/l and 0.08 mmol/l, respectively. It was also calculated that each 10 g increase in MUFA or rapeseed oil intake was associated with a reduction in Total‐C of 9.8% and 5.8%, respectively.

In 2006, annual direct healthcare costs associated with coronary heart disease were estimated at £3.2 billion and the overall cost to the UK economy was nearly £9.0 billion. Assuming 3.5 g total fat (typically 30% E SFA) is replaced by 3.5 g rapeseed oil, then it can be predicted that Total‐C will be reduced by 1.9%, equivalent to an annual reduction of £61 million direct health costs and £171 million total costs.
Shared Services in Australian Local Government: Rationale, Alternative Models and Empirical Evidence
Authors: Dollery Brian , Akimov Alexandr , Byrnes Joel
Published: May 2009

Widespread enthusiasm amongst Australian policy elites for structural reform in local government has evaporated as disappointing outcomes of council amalgamation programs became evident. As a consequence, emphasis has now shifted towards shared serviced models as a means of enhancing service provision and reducing costs. However, a disturbing feature of the current debate on shared services has been the absence of a well‐articulated economic and political rationale for this form of service delivery, a lack of analysis of alternative models of shared service provision and a neglect of available empirical evidence. This article seeks to remedy these deficiencies by considering the analytical foundations of shared local services, conducting a review of alternative models as vehicles for shared services and evaluating available empirical evidence.
HEALTHY MINDS IN HEALTHY BODIES: AN INTERNATIONAL COMPARISON OF EDUCATION‐RELATED INEQUALITY IN PHYSICAL HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Jürges Hendrik
Published: May 2009

We study education‐related inequality in the physical health of older adults across 11 European countries and the United States. Combining the data from Health and Retirement Study 2002, the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing 2002 and the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe 2004, our results suggest that education is strongly correlated with health both across and within countries. Education‐related inequality in health is larger in Mediterranean and Anglo‐Saxon countries than in western European countries. We find no evidence of a trade‐off between health levels and equity in health. Education‐related inequality in health is hardly driven by income or wealth effects (except in the United States), and differences in health behaviours (smoking) by education level contribute little to health differences across education groups.