bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of 1 and 3 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on motor function recovery after acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Khedr E. M. , Abdel‐Fadeil M. R. , Farghali A. , Qaid M.
Published: September 2009

Background and purpose:  The purpose of this study was to compare the long‐term effect of five daily sessions of 1 vs. 3 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on motor recovery in acute stroke.

Methods:  A total of 36 patients with acute ischaemic stroke participated in the study. The patients were randomly assigned into one of three groups; the first and second groups received real rTMS; 1 and 3 Hz and third group received sham stimulation, daily for 5 days. Motor disability was assessed before and after the last session, and then after first, second and third month. Cortical excitability was assessed before and after the second and fifth session. The outcome measure was clinical disability at 3 months post‐rTMS.

Results:  No significant differences were found in basal rating scales between the three groups. At the 3‐month time point, both of the real rTMS groups had improved significantly more in different rating scales than the sham group; in addition, the 1 Hz group performed better than the 3 Hz group. Measures of cortical excitability immediately after the last session showed that the 1 Hz group had reduced excitability of the non‐stroke hemisphere and increased excitability of the stroke hemisphere, whereas the 3 Hz group only showed increased excitability of the stroke hemisphere.

Conclusion:  These results confirm that five daily sessions of rTMS over motor cortex using either 1 Hz over the unaffected hemisphere or 3 Hz over the affected hemisphere can enhance recovery. At 3 months, the improvement was more pronounced in 1 Hz group.
Autobiographical memory in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Zarei M. , Pouretemad H. R. , Bak T. , Hodges J. R.
Published: September 2009

Background:  We aimed to investigate recall of autobiographical memories across lifetime periods in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).

Method:  Patients with PSP (n = 10) were given a test of autobiographical and personal semantic information and the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (ACE). The result was compared to 30 matched neurologically intact participants.

Result:  A mild autobiographical memory impairment was observed in PSP without a temporal gradient for the recall of autobiographical or personal semantic information. Performance correlated with verbal fluency in ACE.

Conclusion:  Patients with PSP show mild deficits in autobiographical memory, which is likely to reflect a frontal retrieval deficit.
Impact of stroke units on mortality: a Bayesian analysis
Authors: O’Rourke K. , Walsh C.
Published: September 2009

Background:  Observational studies of the impact of care delivered in stroke units on mortality after acute stroke have been difficult to interpret because of bias.

Methods:  This study used Bayesian methodology to (i) sequentially update current knowledge based on a systematic review of observational studies, (ii) adjust for the likely effect of observational bias in a conservative, scenario‐based approach and (iii) evaluate the likely impact of further studies. The data were interpreted both unmodified and adjusted for bias by explicitly correcting for point estimate and precision bias.

Results:  As of 2007, the total evidence base was almost 47 000 patients. The unadjusted data yielded a current 95% posterior credible interval (Cr.I.) for the odds ratio of death within 1 year after stroke unit versus alternative models of stroke care of (0.77, 0.85). Given the adjusted data, the current 95% Cr. I. is (0.79, 0.93).

Conclusions:  The current estimates are robust, with demonstrable stability despite the addition of recent large studies. Further studies are very unlikely to alter current knowledge but may have a role in ensuring regional stability of outcome.
Independent validation of the scales for outcomes in Parkinson’s disease‐autonomic (SCOPA‐AUT)
Authors: Rodriguez‐Blazquez C. , Forjaz M. J. , Frades‐Payo B. , De Pedro‐Cuesta J. , Martinez‐Martin P. ,   on behalf of the Longitudinal Parkinson’s Disease Patient Study (Estudio longitudinal de pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson–ELEP ) Group
Published: September 2009

Background and purpose: Autonomic dysfunction is common in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and causes a great impact in health‐related quality of life (HRQL) and functional status of patients. This study is the first independent validation of the Scales for Outcomes in PD‐Autonomic (SCOPA‐AUT).

Methods: In an observational, cross‐sectional study (ELEP Study), 387 PD patients were assessed using, in addition to the SCOPA‐AUT, the Hoehn and Yahr staging, SCOPA‐Motor, SCOPA‐Cognition, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale‐Geriatrics, modified Parkinson Psychosis Rating Scale, Clinical Impression of Severity Index for PD, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, SCOPA‐Sleep, SCOPA‐Psychosocial, pain and fatigue visual analogue scales, and EQ‐5D. SCOPA‐AUT acceptability, internal consistency, construct validity, and precision were explored.

Results: Data quality was satisfactory (97%). SCOPA‐AUT total score did not show floor or ceiling effect, and skewness was 0.40. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranged from 0.64 (Cardiovascular and Thermorregulatory subscales) to 0.95 (Sexual dysfunction, women). Item homogeneity index was low (0.24) for Gastrointestinal subscale. Factor analysis identified eight factors for men (68% of the variance) and seven factors for women (65% of the variance). SCOPA‐AUT correlated at a high level with specific HRQL and functional measures (rS = 0.52–0.56). SCOPA‐AUT scores were higher for older patients, for more advanced disease, and for patients treated only with levodopa (Kruskal–Wallis test,P < 0.01). Standard error of measurement for SCOPA‐AUT subscales was 0.81 (sexual, men) – 2.26 (gastrointestinal).

Conclusions: Despite its heterogeneous content, which determines some weaknesses in the psychometric attributes of its subscales, SCOPA‐AUT is an acceptable, consistent, valid and precise scale.
Management of mitochondrial stroke‐like‐episodes
Authors: Finsterer J.
Published: September 2009

Aim of this review is to discuss recent findings concerning the management of stroke‐like episodes (SLEs) in patients with mitochondrial disorders (MIDs). Various databases were searched for appropriate literature. SLEs are a dominant feature of MIDs and occur most frequently in MELAS‐syndrome, less frequently in MERRF‐syndrome, Kearns‐Sayre‐syndrome, or Leigh‐syndrome. SLEs occur at all ages and are frequently accompanied by other cerebral abnormalities. Clinically, SLEs mimic ischemic stroke but not on imaging studies and concerning the management. The morphological equivalent on MRI is the stroke‐like‐lesion, representing a vasogenic edema (hyperintensity on T2, diffusion‐weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient in the acute and subacute or chronic stage, most frequently in the parieto‐occipital region, surpassing vascular territories). For diagnostic and therapeutic reasons SLEs need to be clearly delineated from ischemic stroke and cerebral bleeding. Though there is no causal therapy available, symptomatic and general measures can help to resolve the clinical manifestations. In conclusion this review shows that SLEs are a dominant feature of some syndromic or non‐syndromic MIDs. The most effective strategy for the treatment of SLEs appears to be the application of L‐arginine, coenzyme‐Q, steroids, edaravone, creatine‐monohydrate, or dichloracetate.
George III, Tyrant: The Crisis as Critic of Empire, 1775–1776
Authors: YORK NEIL
Published: September 2009

The Crisis, a London weekly published between January 1775 and October 1776, attempted to join Britain and the American colonies in a transatlantic community of protest. It did so more stridently than virtually anything printed either in the colonies or elsewhere in the London press. King George III, his chief ministers, and their supporters in parliament were all fair game for its caustic commentary. It condemned their imperial policy as self‐destructive and their treatment of the Americans as foolishly shortsighted. It condoned American resistance to what it characterized as tyrannical policies and called on Britons to beware that what began as oppression of the colonies could end up threatening rights on their own side of the Atlantic as well. Even so, the men behind The Crisis hoped for a solution to the problems of empire within it, not outside it, and their ardour for the Patriot cause cooled once Revolutionary Americans declared independence. Despite their rhetorical blasts at Whitehall and Westminster, the men behind The Crisis were not looking to turn protest into rebellion nor were they interested in trading monarchy for a republic. They fell silent when their differences with American Revolutionaries became too obvious to deny.
Lagging behind in good times: immigrants and the increased dependence on social assistance in Sweden
Authors: Mood Carina
Published: September 2009

Mood C. Lagging behind in good times: immigrants and the increased dependence on social assistance in Sweden

Int J Soc Welfare 2011: 20: 55–65 © 2009 The Author, Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and the International Journal of Social Welfare.

After the 1990s recession in Sweden, social assistance (SA) recipiency decreased to levels that were clearly lower than before the recession. However, this decrease masked a strong polarisation: the number of short‐term recipients fell, but the number of long‐term recipients was higher than before the recession. This article shows how SA recipiency and dependence changed over a whole economic cycle in Sweden's largest city, Stockholm, and asks whether the increasing dependence can be explained by immigration. It is shown that the relative increase of long‐term SA is similar among immigrants and native‐born, but decomposition analysis reveals that the increase among native‐born is of minor importance for the overall increase. Nearly half the increase can be attributed instead to the increased representation of immigrants in the population, and another 38 per cent to increased dependence among immigrants. Only 15 per cent of the total increase in long‐term SA is a result of increased dependence among native‐born.
Serum insulin patterns and the relationship between insulin sensitivity and glycaemic profile in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Seneviratne HR , Lankeshwara D , Wijeratne S , Somasunderam N , Athukorale D
Published: September 2009

Objective  To evaluate serum insulin levels and insulin sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in relation to their glycaemic status.

Design  An observational study.

Setting  A tertiary‐level reproductive health centre in Sri Lanka.

Sample  Infertile women diagnosed as having PCOS (n = 168) on the basis of the Rotterdam criteria were included in the study.

Methods  Glycaemic status and serum insulin values were assessed at fasting and at 2 hours after a 75‐g oral glucose load and stratified as diabetes mellitus (DM) (10.12%), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) (23.21%) and normoglycaemia (66.67%). The normoglycaemic group was restratified as groups A (10.7%), B (79.5%) and C (9.8%) on the basis of serum insulin levels, with group A having the lowest and group C the highest values. The Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI) scores of women with DM and IGT and those in groups A, B and C in the normoglycaemic category were compared.

Main outcome measures  Insulin sensitivity in these groups of women.

Results  Body mass index (BMI) exceeded 23 kg/m2 in 77.38% of the women. In normoglycaemic women with PCOS, insulin sensitivity was highest in group A. In groups B and C, insulin sensitivities corresponded to those found for women with IGT and DM respectively. This pattern was also reflected in the BMI.

Conclusions  Normoglycaemic women with PCOS are heterogeneous regarding insulin sensitivity. The treatment offered to those with DM and IGT could be extended to subgroups B and C of normoglycaemic subjects. Normoglycaemic women with PCOS with high insulin sensitivity (group A) would not qualify for this treatment.
Sulforaphane as an inducer of glutathione prevents oxidative stress‐induced cell death in a dopaminergic‐like neuroblastoma cell line
Authors: Tarozzi Andrea , Morroni Fabiana , Merlicco Adriana , Hrelia Silvana , Angeloni Cristina , Cantelli‐Forti Giorgio , Hrelia Patrizia
Published: September 2009

The total GSH depletion observed in the substantia nigra (SN) appears to be responsible for subsequent oxidative stress (OS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and dopaminergic cell loss in patients with Parkinson’s disease. A strategy to prevent the OS of dopaminergic cells in the SN may be the use of chemopreventive agents as inducers of endogenous GSH, antioxidant and phase 2 enzymes. In this study, we demonstrated that treatment of the dopaminergic‐like neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cell line with sulforaphane (SF), a cruciferous vegetables inducer, resulted in significant increases of total GSH level, NAD(P)H : quinone oxidoreductase‐1, GSH‐transferase and ‐reductase, but not GSH‐peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities. Further, the elevation of GSH levels, GSH‐transferase and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase‐1 activities was correlated to an increase of the resistance of SH‐SY5Y cells to toxicity induced by H2O2 or 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA). The pre‐treatment of SH‐SY5Y cells with SF was also shown to prevent various apoptotic events (mitochondrial depolarization, caspase 9 and 3 activation and DNA fragmentation) and necrosis elicited by 6‐OHDA. Further, the impairment of antioxidant capacity and reactive oxygen species formation at intracellular level after exposure to 6‐OHDA was effectively counteracted by pre‐treatment with SF. Last, both the cytoprotective and antioxidant effects of SF were abolished by the addition of buthionine sulfoximine supporting the main role of GSH in the neuroprotective effects displayed by SF. These findings show that SF may play a role in preventing Parkinson’s disease.
Acrolein scavenging: a potential novel mechanism of attenuating oxidative stress following spinal cord injury
Authors: Hamann Kristin , Shi Riyi
Published: September 2009

It has long been established that oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of spinal cord injury, and represents an important target of therapeutic intervention following the initial trauma. However, free radical scavengers have been largely ineffective in clinical trials, and as such a novel target to attenuate oxidative stress is highly warranted. In addition to free radicals, peroxidation of lipid membranes following spinal cord injury (SCI) produces reactive aldehydes such as acrolein. Acrolein is capable of depleting endogenous antioxidants such as glutathione, generating free radicals, promoting oxidative stress, and damaging proteins and DNA. Acrolein has a significantly longer half‐life than the transient free radicals, and thus may represent a potentially better target of therapeutic intervention to attenuate oxidative stress. There is growing evidence, from our lab and others, to suggest that reactive aldehydes such as acrolein play a critical role in oxidative stress and SCI. The focus of this review is to summarize the cellular and biochemical mechanisms of acrolein‐induced membrane damage, mitochondrial injury, oxidative stress, cell death, and functional loss. Evidence will also be presented to suggest that acrolein scavenging may be a novel means of therapeutic intervention to attenuate oxidative stress and improve recovery following traumatic SCI.
Analysis of human myocardial dynamics using virtual markers based on magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Kvitting John‐Peder Escobar , Sigfridsson Andreas , Wigström Lars , Bolger Ann F. , Karlsson Matts
Published: September 2009

Background:  Myocardial dynamics are three‐dimensional (3D) and time‐varying. Cineradiography of surgically implanted makers in animals or patients is accurate for assessing these events, but this invasive method potentially alters myocardial motion. The aim of the study was to quantify myocardial motion using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hence to provide a non‐invasive approach to characterize 3D myocardial dynamics.

Methods:  Myocardial motion was quantified in ten normal volunteers by tracking the Lagrangian motion of individual points (i.e. virtual markers), based on time‐resolved 3D phase‐contrast MRI data and Fourier tracking. Nine points in the myocardium were tracked over the entire cardiac cycle, allowing a wire frame model to be generated and systolic and diastolic events identified.

Results:  Radius of curvature of the left ventricular (LV) wall was calculated from the virtual markers; the ratio between the anterior–posterior (AP) and septal–lateral (SL) walls in the LV shows an oval shape of the apical short axis plane at end systole (ES) and more circular at end diastole (ED). The AP/SL ratio for the basal plane shows an oval shape at ES and ED. We found that the rotation of the basal plane in ES was less compared to the apical plane [−2·0 ± 2·2 versus 4·1 ± 2·6 degrees (P<0·005)]. The apical plane rotated counter clock wise as viewed from the apex.

Conclusion:  This new non‐invasive tool, despite current limitations in temporal and spatial resolution, may provide a comprehensive set of virtual myocardial markers throughout the entire LV without the confounding effects introduced by surgical implantation.
Farming flexibility and food security under climatic uncertainty: Manang, Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Aase Tor Halfdan , Chaudhary Ram P , Vetaas Ole R
Published: September 2009

Climate change is predicted to cause a substantial decrease in food production in poor regions during this century. But since reliable models of future climates have not been produced at local level as yet, this article focuses on the flexibility of farming systems in terms of adaptability to changing conditions of production, whatever those changes may turn out to be. Defining flexibility as ‘uncommitted potentiality for change’Bateson 1972, the aim of the article is to identify such potentialities among subsistence farmers in a remote part of the Himalayas. Our analysis reveals four ‘uncommitted potentialities’ for adaptation to a future situation that will be climatologically different from the present. In order to maintain local food security under changing climate conditions, farmers in the study valley of Manang can reclaim abandoned land, they can depend more on barley, they may reduce the conspicuous exhibition of horses, and relocate farming from the slope to the valley bottom. The inherent flexibility in their farming system renders Mananges quite robust in facing future uncertainties. Thus, Manang is more appropriately labelled ‘dynamic’ than ‘fragile’, which is a term often ascribed to high Himalayan communities and environments.
Employer Demand for Health Services Researchers in the Year 2020
Authors: Thornton Craig , Brown Jonathan D.
Published: September 2009

Objective. To describe factors that will shape future demand for doctoral‐trained health services researchers.

Study Design/Data Sources. Commentary based on recent trends in funding for health services research (HSR), the number of federally funded HSR projects listed in HSRProj, national expenditures for health, and interviews with a small number of employers.

Principal Findings. Despite rapid growth in the overall health care sector, inflation‐adjusted funding for HSR has declined, implying little or no net growth in demand for people to lead HSR studies. Employers report being able to hire researchers to conduct HSR by drawing on people trained in many disciplines.

Conclusion. Employers have considerable flexibility in hiring individuals to conduct HSR when demand is relatively stable. They may have much more difficulty hiring well‐qualified researchers when faced with sharp increases in demand for HSR, such as could be generated by recent economic stimulus legislation.
DNA mismatch repair (MMR)‐dependent 5‐fluorouracil cytotoxicity and the potential for new therapeutic targets
Authors: Li Long Shan , Morales Julio C , Veigl Martina , Sedwick David , Greer Sheldon , Meyers Mark , Wagner Mark , Fishel Richard , Boothman David A
Published: September 2009

The metabolism and efficacy of 5‐fluorouracil (FUra) and other fluorinated pyrimidine (FP) derivatives have been intensively investigated for over fifty years. FUra and its antimetabolites can be incorporated at RNA‐ and DNA‐levels, with RNA level incorporation provoking toxic responses in human normal tissue, and DNA‐level antimetabolite formation and incorporation believed primarily responsible for tumour‐selective responses. Attempts to direct FUra into DNA‐level antimetabolites, based on mechanism‐of‐action studies, have led to gradual improvements in tumour therapy. These include the use of leukovorin to stabilize the inhibitory thymidylate synthase‐5‐fluoro‐2′‐deoxyuridine 5′ monophoshate (FdUMP)‐5,10‐methylene tetrahydrofolate (5,10‐CH2FH4) trimeric complex. FUra incorporated into DNA also contributes to antitumour activity in preclinical and clinical studies. This review examines our current state of knowledge regarding the mechanistic aspects of FUra:Gua lesion detection by DNA mismatch repair (MMR) machinery that ultimately results in lethality. MMR‐dependent direct cell death signalling or futile cycle responses will be discussed. As 10–30% of sporadic colon and endometrial tumours display MMR defects as a result of human MutL homologue‐1 (hMLH1) promoter hypermethylation, we discuss the use and manipulation of the hypomethylating agent, 5‐fluorodeoxycytidine (FdCyd), and our ability to manipulate its metabolism using the cytidine or deoxycytidylate (dCMP) deaminase inhibitors, tetrahydrouridine or deoxytetrahydrouridine, respectively, as a method for re‐expression of hMLH1 and re‐sensitization of tumours to FP therapy.
Update on the evaluation of a new drug for effects on cardiac repolarization in humans: issues in early drug development
Authors: Salvi Vaibhav , Karnad Dilip R , Panicker Gopi Krishna , Kothari Snehal
Published: September 2009

Following reports of death from cardiac arrhythmias with drugs like terfenadine and cisapride, the International Conference for Harmonization formulated a guidance (E14) document. This specifies that all new drugs must undergo a ‘thorough QT/QTc’ (TQT) study to detect drug‐induced QT prolongation, a surrogate marker of ventricular tachycardia, especially torsades de pointes (TdPs). With better understanding of data from several completed TQT studies, regulatory requirements have undergone some changes since the E14 guidance was implemented in October 2005. This article reviews the implications of the E14 guidance and the changes in its interpretation including choice of baseline QT, demonstration of assay sensitivity, statistical analysis of the effect of new drug and positive control, and PK‐PD modelling. Some issues like use of automated QT measurements remain unresolved. Pharmaceutical companies too are modifying Phase 1 studies to detect QTc liability early in order to save time and resources. After the E14 guidance, development of several drugs that prolong QTc by >5 ms is being abandoned by sponsors. However, all drugs that prolong the QT interval do not increase risk of TdP. Researchers in regulatory agencies, academia and industry are working to find better biomarkers of drug‐induced TdP which could prevent many useful drugs from being prematurely abandoned. Drug‐induced TdP is a rare occurrence. With fewer drugs that prolong QT interval reaching the licensing stage, knowing which of these drugs are torsadogenic is proving to be elusive. Thus, paradoxically, the effectiveness of the E14 guidance itself has made prospective validation of new biomarkers difficult.

This article is part of a themed section on QT safety. To view this issue visit http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2010
Color Stability, Surface Roughness, and Surface Porosity of Acrylic Resins for Eye Sclera Polymerized by Different Heat Sources
Authors: Canadas Marília Daniela Busnardo , Garcia Lucas Fonseca Roberti , Consani Simonides , Pires‐de‐Souza Fernanda Carvalho Panzeri
Published: September 2009

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the color stability, surface roughness, and surface porosity of acrylic resins for eye sclera polymerized by different heat sources and submitted to accelerated artificial aging (AAA).

Materials and Methods: Three groups of ten specimens each were formed according to the heat source used during the polymerization cycle: GI—short cycle, GII—long cycle, and GIII—dry‐heat oven. The groups were submitted to color spectrophotometry through the CIE L*a*b* system and to surface roughness and porosity analysis using a Surfcorder IF 1700 profilometer. After the tests, specimens were submitted to AAA, with a maximum aging time of 384 hours, corresponding to a year of clinical use. After aging, the color and roughness of each group were assessed.

Results: The results showed that the variability of ΔE was clinically unacceptable for all groups but the method of polymerization was insignificant (p > 0.05) for color change. For roughness, polymerization cycle was significant for the results. GIII (0.23 ± 0.06) presented the highest roughness difference (before and after AAA), statistically significant (p < 0.05) from GII. No statistically significant difference could be found among groups when considering the porosity test.

Conclusion: It may be concluded that irrespective of the type of heat used for polymerization, there was an intense color alteration, to clinically unacceptable levels, when the specimens were submitted to AAA. For the other properties, alterations were less intense.
Corporate Relocation in Venture Capital Finance
Authors: Cumming Douglas , Fleming Grant , Schwienbacher Armin
Published: September 2009

This paper introduces an analysis of international relocation decisions of venture capital (VC)–backed companies. Relocations to the United States are motivated by economic conditions as well as an improvement in the laws of the country in which the entrepreneurial firm is based. Relocations to the United States yield much greater returns to Asia–Pacific VCs than investing in companies already based in the United States at the time of VC investment. Further, more experienced Asia–Pacific VCs have greater success with their investee relocations to the United States, and these relocations yield higher returns relative to staying in their country of origin.
Day surgery visits for dental problems
Authors: Quiñonez Carlos , Gibson Debbie , Jokovic Aleksandra , Locker David
Published: September 2009

Abstract –  Objectives:  To fill an information gap for dental care policy stakeholders in Canada, this pilot study explored the nature of day surgery (DS) visits for dental problems in Ontario, the country’s largest province.

Methods:  The Canadian Institute for Health Information’s National Ambulatory Care Reporting System was used, which contains demographic, diagnostic, procedural and administrative information for ambulatory care settings across Ontario. Fiscal years 2003/2004 to 2005/2006 data were included for DS visits that had a main problem coded with an International Classification of Diseases code in the range K00‐K14, representing diseases of the oral cavity, salivary glands and jaws.

Results:  During this period, approximately 75 791 persons made 79 133 DS visits for dental problems in Ontario. Proportionally, children under 5 years of age with dental caries represent the majority of DS visits. Restorations and extractions were the most frequently performed DS care procedure.

Conclusions:  This is the first study of its kind in Canada, and confirms many of the assumptions held about DS care for dental problems. The study also acts as a baseline for ongoing quality improvement and planning within the province of Ontario.
The influence of water depths and inter‐specific interactions on cover responses of juvenile Atlantic salmon
Authors: Gibson R. J. , Erkinaro J.
Published: September 2009

Abstract  –The responses of salmon parr,Salmo salar,to instream cover, related to several water depths, were tested in an ellipsoidal stream tank. Opaque plastic covers, most of which were 20 cm in length and 16 cm high, were randomly distributed through the tank, occupying about 3% of the bottom area. Six salmon parr were used for each experiment. In experiments with channel depths of 40 cm, the proportion of salmon under covers was 36.4%, at 30 cm 60.7%, and at 20 cm, 79.4%. Presence of similar‐sized brown trout,Salmo trutta,increased the use of covers in channels and greater use of the pool area by salmon. The salmon were completely dominated by the trout, making about four times more more aggressive than salmon. Our findings show that water depth itself provides cover for young salmon.
Abnormal dose-response melatonin suppression by light in bipolar type I patients compared with healthy adult subjects
Authors: Hallam Karen T. , Begg Denovan P. , Olver James S. , Norman Trevor R.
Published: September 2009

Objective:

Among potential endophenotypes proposed for bipolar affective disorder focusing on circadian abnormalities associated with the illness has particularly high face validity. Melatonin sensitivity to light is one circadian endophenotype proposed as useful in bipolar disorder. The aim of this study was to investigate melatonin sensitivity to light over a range of light intensities in order to compare and contrast responses in bipolar I patients with those of healthy adult volunteers.

Methods:

The study included seven patients (4 females, 3 males) with bipolar I disorder and 34 control participants (22 females, 12 males) with no personal or family history of affective illness. Melatonin sensitivity to light was determined in all patients and participants across a range of light intensities (0, 200, 500 and 1000 lux).

Results:

The results indicated that patients showed melatonin super-sensitivity to light in comparison with controls, a response that was consistent across the entire light intensity range investigated.

Conclusion:

The study provides further evidence for a super sensitive response in bipolar I patients and suggests that its potential usefulness as an endophenotypic marker of the illness is deserving of further research.
Ownership Concentration and Product Innovation in Chinese Firms: The Mediating Role of Learning Orientation
Authors: Li Yuan , Guo Hai , Yi Yaqun , Liu Yi
Published: September 2009

Drawing on institutional theory, this study empirically examines the relationship between a firm's levels of ownership concentration and product innovation and the mediating effect of learning orientation, using a sample of 351 Chinese firms. Does ownership concentration hinder or promote firm innovation? Perspectives on this relationship are divergent. This study examines the link between ownership concentration and product innovation and further examines whether and how ownership influences firm innovation through organizational learning. The results suggest that ownership concentration has an inverse U-shaped relationship to product innovation and to learning orientation. In addition, learning orientation mediates the curvilinear relationship between ownership concentration and product innovation. We discuss the study's contributions, managerial implications and directions for future research.
Simultaneous improvement of catalytic activity and thermal stability of tyrosine phenol‐lyase by directed evolution
Authors: Rha Eugene , Kim Sujin , Choi Su‐Lim , Hong Seung‐Pyo , Sung Moon‐Hee , Song Jae J. , Lee Seung‐Goo
Published: September 2009

The tyrosine phenol‐lyase from Symbiobacterium toebii was engineered to improve both its stability and catalytic activity by the application of random mutagenesis and subsequent reassembly of the acquired mutations. Activity screening of the random library produced four mutants with a two‐fold improved activity, whereas parallel screening after heat treatment at 65 °C identified three mutants with half‐inactivation temperatures improved by up to 5.6 °C. The selected mutants were then reassembled using the staggered extension PCR method, and subsequent screening of the library produced seven mutants with up to three‐fold improved activity and half‐inactivation temperatures improved by up to 11.2 °C. Sequence analyses revealed that the stability‐improved hits included A13V, E83K and T407A mutations, whereas the activity‐improved hits included the additional T129I or T451A mutation. In particular, the A13V mutation was propagated in the hits with improved stability during the reassembly–screening process, indicating the critical nature of the N‐terminal moiety for enzyme stability. Furthermore, homology modeling of the enzyme structure revealed that most of the stability mutations were located around the dimer–dimer interface, including the N‐terminus, whereas the activity‐improving mutations were located further away, thereby minimizing any interference that would be detrimental to the co‐improvement of the stability and catalytic activity of the enzyme.
Structural and mutational analysis of TenA protein (HP1287) from the Helicobacter pylori thiamin salvage pathway – evidence of a different substrate specificity
Authors: Barison Nicola , Cendron Laura , Trento Alberto , Angelini Alessandro , Zanotti Giuseppe
Published: September 2009

HP1287 (tenA) from Helicobacter pylori is included among the genes that play a relevant role in bacterium colonization and persistence. The gene has been cloned and its product, protein TenA, has been expressed and purified. The crystal structures of the wild‐type protein and the mutant F47Y have been determined at resolutions of 2.7 and 2.4 Å, respectively. The molecular model, a homotetramer with 222 symmetry, shows that the H. pylori TenA structure belongs to the thiaminase II class of proteins. These enzymes were recently found to be involved in a salvage pathway for the synthesis of the thiamin precursor hydroxypyrimidine, which constitutes a building block in thiamin biosynthesis, in particular in bacteria living in the soil. By contrast, enzymatic measurements on TenA from H. pylori indicate that the activity on the putative substrate 4‐amino‐5‐aminomethyl‐2‐methylpyrimidine is very modest. Moreover, in the present study, we demonstrate that the mutation at residue 47, a position where a phenylalanine occurs in all the strains of H. pylori sequenced to date, is not sufficient to explain the very low catalytic activity toward the expected substrate. As a result of differences in the colonization environment of H. pylori as well as the TenA structural and catalytic peculiar features, we suggest a possible pivotal role for the H. pylori enzyme in the thiamin biosynthetic route, which is in agreement with the relevance of this protein in the stomach colonization process.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7260232: TenA (uniprotkb:O25874) and TenA (uniprotkb:O25874) bind (MI:0407) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
An engineered right‐handed coiled coil domain imparts extreme thermostability to the KcsA channel
Authors: Yuchi Zhiguang , Pau Victor P. T. , Lu Bridget X. , Junop Murray , Yang Daniel S. C.
Published: September 2009

KcsA, a potassium channel from Streptomyces lividans, was the first ion channel to have its transmembrane domain structure determined by crystallography. Previously we have shown that its C‐terminal cytoplasmic domain is crucial for the thermostability and the expression of the channel. Expression was almost abolished in its absence, but could be rescued by the presence of an artificial left‐handed coiled coil tetramerization domain GCN4. In this study, we noticed that the handedness of GCN4 is not the same as the bundle crossing of KcsA. Therefore, a compatible right‐handed coiled coil structure was identified from the Protein Data Bank and used to replace the C‐terminal domain of KcsA. The hybrid channel exhibited a higher expression level than the wild‐type and is extremely thermostable. Surprisingly, this stable hybrid channel is equally active as the wild‐type channel in conducting potassium ions through a lipid bilayer at an acidic pH. We suggest that a similar engineering strategy could be applied to other ion channels for both functional and structural studies.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7260032: kcsA (uniprotkb:P0A334) and kcsA (uniprotkb:P0A334) bind (MI:0407) by molecular sieving (MI:0071)

MINT‐7260022: kcsA (uniprotkb:P0A334) and kcsA (uniprotkb:P0A334) bind (MI:0407) by circular dichroism (MI:0016)
The Distribution of Japonica Rice Cultivars in the Lower Region of the Yangtze River Valley is Determined by Its Photoperiod‐sensitivity and Heading Date Genotypes
Authors: Wei Xiang‐Jin , Jiang Ling , Xu Jun‐Feng , Liu Xi , Liu Shi‐Jia , Zhai Hu‐Qu , Wan Jian‐Min
Published: September 2009

There are generally four recognized classes of japonica rice cultivars grown in the lower region of the Yangtze River valley. The geographical distribution of the four classes is latitude‐dependent. Variation for heading date (HD) among 29 japonica rice cultivars grown in the lower region of the Yangtze River valley and belonging to the four classes was characterized, and their sensitivity to variations in photoperiod and temperature was analyzed. All of the cultivars were sensitive to both photoperiod and temperature. A regression analysis showed that HD is closely correlated with photoperiod sensitivity (PS). The PS of the four classes increased gradually from the medium maturing middle (MMM) types, through the late maturing middle (LMM) and early maturing late (EML) types to the medium maturing late (MML) types. Crosses with tester lines established that almost all of the cultivars carry the dominant early‐heading allele at Ef‐1, the photoperiod insensitive allele e2 and the PS alleles E1 or E1t. Most of the MMM, LMM and MML types carry the insensitive allele e3, while EML types have either E3 or E3t. At Se‐1, MMM and LMM types have Se‐1e, some EML types have Se‐1e and others Se‐1n, while the MML types are mostly Se‐1n. The PS of some MMM, LMM and EML types is reduced by the presence of hd2. These results show that the distribution of the four rice cultivar classes from high latitude to low latitude regions depended on a gradual increase in PS, which is mainly determined by its HD genotypes.
INFLUENCE OF WATER ACTIVITY, pH, HEAT TREATMENT AND PRESERVATIVE ON CHEMICAL CHANGES IN CANNED INDIAN COTTAGE CHEESE (PANEER) DURING STORAGE
Authors: RAO KULKARNI JAYARAJ , PATIL GIRIDHARI R.
Published: September 2009

Influence of water activity (Aw), pH and heat treatment on the chemical changes such as Maillard browning, oxidation and lipolysis in canned paneer has been studied by response surface methodology. Browning in canned paneer in terms of hydroxymethylfurfural content increased during storage; however, it was pH dependent. At pH above 5.0, the rate of browning decreased as Aw increased from 0.90 to 0.98. At pH below 5.0, the rate increased with increased Aw from 0.90 to 0.98. Maximum browning rates were observed at pH 5.2–5.6, low Aw values (0.90–0.92) and high heat treatment levels (up to F value 0.8). At all pH levels, increased Aw increased the oxidation rate, more so at low pH levels. Up to an F value of 0.3, heat treatment seemed to have aided the oxidation rate, but higher F values retarded the oxidation rate, more so at low Aw. Lipolysis occurred during storage, but pH had little effect on the rate of lipolysis. High Aw supported high lipolysis rates.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Raw paneer (Indian cottage cheese), popular with people in Indian subcontinent and with Indian diasporas scattered in several countries, has a shelf life of less than a day at ambient temperatures. Several attempts are being made by workers to improve the shelf life of paneer by canning process so that its market within the country and abroad improves. However, canning at usual canning time–temperatures is leading to intense chemical changes in paneer, which is not being accepted by consumers. Authors have tried to obviate such unacceptable chemical changes by reducing the intensity of canning process by adjusting so called “hurdles” of the product by hurdle technology. The present paper is a part of that attempt describing the chemical changes in paneer subjected to low heat intensity canning process with altered “hurdles.” Because the chemical changes occurring in a food product are a function of various parameters called “hurdles” like pH, water activity, heat treatment, etc., the present work attempted to identify the combination of the “hurdles” at which chemical changes are the slowest, which may find better acceptance with consumers.
EFFECT OF DIRECT APPLICATIONS OF SAGE (SALVIA OFFICINALIS L.) LEAVES ON OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF SUNFLOWER OIL DURING ACCELERATED STORAGE
Authors: ÇALIKOĞLU EDA , KIRALAN MUSTAFA , BAYRAK ALİ
Published: September 2009

In this study, various sage applications were examined on oxidative stability of sunflower oil during accelerated storage. There are three applications: (1) direct sage leaves (S); (2) deodorized sage leaves (DeS); and (3) essential oil of sage leaves. The main compounds of essential oil were identified asα‐thujone (35.87%),β‐thujone (14.41%), 1,8‐cineol (10.59%) and camphor (10.09%). Oxidative stability of these three applications was tested by Schall Oven test at 60C applying peroxide value and conjugated dienes, and Rancimat at 110C. Whereas the highest antioxidants activity was found for 2% S followed by 0.5% S and 2% DeS, all sage treatments statistically retarded the oxidation compared with the control sample. The most appealing result was that the residue can be used as a natural antioxidants. That means the reuse of residue may decrease economic losses and health risk in comparison with synthetic antioxidants and extracts because it is completely natural and contains no residual solvent.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

While almost all of previous studies were concentrated on the use of herb extracts, our study investigates the results of direct application of sage on oxidation. Especially with this study, we have evaluated a possible application area for sage residue leftover after the deodorization process.
QUALITY CHANGES IN FRESH CHIVES (ALLIUM SCHOENOPRASUM L.) DURING REFRIGERATED STORAGE
Authors: VIÑA SONIA Z. , CERIMELE ELSA L.
Published: September 2009

This study investigates quality changes in fresh chives stored at 0 and 4C during 21 and 14 days, respectively. The product was packaged in trays and covered with polyvinyl chloride films. Weight loss, surface color, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, reducing sugars and browning potential were evaluated in order to determine shelf life at each temperature. In addition, internal atmosphere composition, total phenolics, radical scavenging activity and ascorbic acid content were measured for samples stored at 0C. Results showed that surface color change and losses of green pigments and reducing sugar content could be delayed for a week by storing fresh chives at 0C. The increase in browning potential was of lower magnitude at 0C than at 4C. High quality levels and marketability of fresh chives could be maintained for 2 weeks at 0C.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The marketing of packaged and refrigerated, value‐added culinary herbs is a choice of increasing interest for vegetables processors. However, data on changes in the chemical composition and antioxidative properties of fresh herbs during storage are scarce. This study provides information on how quality attributes of fresh chives are affected under different conditions of postharvest handling and storage.
ESTIMATION OF AN EQUIVALENT SHALINESS PARAMETER USING RESISTIVITY AND SPECTROSCOPY LOGS: A TOTAL EXPANSIBLE CLAY APPROACH
Authors: Ugbo J. O. , Kelly B. F. J. , Ward C. R.
Published: September 2009

We develop a method for estimating the degree of saturation in shaly sand formations based on an equivalent shaliness parameter. In shaly sands, the measured electrical conductivity is influenced by the clay content because of the charge deficit associated with the clay particles. This deficit is offset by counter‐ions in a double layer whose contribution to total charge transfer is dominated by the total expansible clays. We derive an approximation for clay content and cation exchange capacity (CEC) from a linear relationship between the CEC and the total expansible clay (TEC) content of a reservoir rock. By combining mineralogy from quantitative X‐ray diffraction (XRD) with wet chemistry CEC data, an expression for the counter‐ions in the double layer as a function of the total expansible clays is derived. The analytical expression obtained is coupled with well‐log data and compared to existing models. For determining surface conductivity, the new methodology eliminates the need for performing core measurements, subjective selection of CEC values from existing data, or the use of log‐based volume‐porosity translations. We show that existing popular industry models, and effective medium and electrochemical models of rock electrical conductivity can be adapted to use the new methodology. The results demonstrate a strong correlation between the estimated and measured bulk conductivity, and also resolve the scatter in estimated bulk conductivity often observed under low pore‐water salinity conditions, where the ratio of surface to electrolyte conductivity approaches unity. The methodology has been applied to water saturation estimation in two Australian petroleum wells, Yolla‐4 and Cliff Head‐4. The results demonstrate that this technique provides better estimates of water saturation in both low conductivity contrast pays and tight pays compared to existing approaches.
Buck‐Passing Accounts of Value
Authors: Suikkanen Jussi
Published: September 2009

This paper explores the so‐called buck‐passing accounts of value. These views attempt to use normative notions, such asreasonsandoughtto explain evaluative notions, such asgoodnessandvalue. Thus, according to Scanlon’s well‐known view, the property of being good is the formal, higher‐order property of having some more basic properties that provide reasons to have certain kind of valuing attitudes towards the objects. I begin by tracing some of the long history of such accounts. I then describe the arguments which are typically used to motivate these views. The rest of this article investigates how some of the central details of the buck‐passing accounts should be specified, and what kind of problems these views face.