bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of Four Cranberry Varieties to Delayed Applications of Dichlobenil
Authors: Sandler Hilary A.
Published: March 2013

Field studies were conducted in 2009 and 2010 on established commercial cranberry farms in southeastern Massachusetts to evaluate cranberry vine injury and yield with two rates of dichlobenil (1.8 and 2.7 kg ai ha−1) applied at various growth stages starting in mid-May. Four varieties were evaluated: ‘Ben Lear', ‘Early Black', ‘Howes', and ‘Stevens'. Ben Lear vines exhibited leaf-stress symptoms in both years, and Howes and Stevens vines had leaf symptoms in 1 yr. Data indicated that applications made during periods of flower-part development and growth (jewel through bloom) had the highest injury ratings. Growth stage affected injury ratings by variety and dichlobenil rate in 1 out of 2 yr. In all cases, leaf symptoms abated by the end of the season. No effect on yield (wt of fruit per unit area) was detected for any treatment combination on any variety in either year. Data from the present study support pursuit of future studies and can guide management decisions for dodder control to a limited extent. Longer studies are needed to fully evaluate repeated, annual applications of dichlobenil dispensed during periods of rapid growth on cranberry vine development and yield. Further work is also needed to document the practical use of delayed applications of dichlobenil for dodder management.
Vapor Movement of Aminocyclopyrachlor, Aminopyralid, and Dicamba in the Field
Authors: Strachan Stephen D. , Ferry Nancy M. , Cooper Tracy L.
Published: March 2013

Vapor movement of synthetic auxin herbicides can injure desirable plants outside the treatment zone. Vapor movement of the synthetic auxin herbicides aminocyclopyrachlor and aminocyclopyrachlor methyl was compared with that of the relatively volatile herbicide dicamba and the low volatile herbicide aminopyralid with a soybean bioassay under greenhouse and field conditions. Soybean is very sensitive to these active ingredients. Under greenhouse conditions, 82 (61 to 104) mg ae ha−1of aminocyclopyrachlor, 26 (18 to 33) mg ae ha−1of aminocyclopyrachlor methyl, 82 (69 to 95) mg ae ha−1of aminopyralid, and 61 (47 to 75) mg ae ha−1of dicamba produced an estimated 25% visual soybean phytotoxicity response when soybean was treated POST at the V3 growth stage (GR25[95% confidence interval]). In field studies, aminocyclopyrachlor, aminocyclopyrachlor methyl, and aminopyralid were applied at 70 g ae ha−1and dicamba was applied at 560 g ae ha−1(labeled application rates) to soybean at the V3 growth stage. All herbicides were applied within an enclosed chamber (3 m by 3 m by 1 m) to mitigate movement of spray droplets. The enclosures were removed shortly after spray application and soybean response immediately surrounding the treated area was recorded in each of eight directions approximately 10 d after treatment. On the basis of bioassay responses, relative amount of vapor movement was dicamba > aminocyclopyrachlor methyl > aminopyralid ≈ aminocyclopyrachlor. Vapor movement of aminocyclopyrachlor was very low indicating that the risk of phytotoxic response of sensitive plants due to volatility of aminocyclopyrachlor is negligible.
Yellow Nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) Control with Methyl Iodide in Combination with Totally Impermeable Film
Authors: McAvoy Theodore P. , Freeman Joshua H.
Published: March 2013

Methyl bromide (MBr) has been an industry standard for soil fumigation in a multitude of crops for decades. However, it has been banned by the United Nations Environment Programme, and alternatives to MBr must be implemented to sustain productivity in many vegetable crops that depend on soil fumigation. One alternative that has been implemented in some areas is methyl iodide (MeI). Efficacy of MeI has been demonstrated on many pest species and has been generally similar to MBr. Methyl iodide is a costly material, which has likely limited its adoption. Virtually impermeable film (VIF) and totally impermeable film (TIF) provide greater fumigant retention than low-density and high-density polyethylene film, which can allow for reduced fumigant application rates while maintaining fumigant efficacy. The objectives of this research were to evaluate TIF with reduced rates of shank-applied MeI : chloropicrin (Pic) (50 : 50 w/w) for the control of yellow nutsedge in tomato. Treatments included a standard rate of MeI : Pic (93.3 L ha−1[178 kg ha−1broadcast]) under VIF and TIF, three reduced rates (37.3, 56, 74.6 L ha−1[71.2, 106.8, 142.5 kg ha−1broadcast, respectively]) under TIF, and a nontreated control under TIF. Results indicate fumigant use rates may be reduced from a standard 93.3 L ha−1under VIF to 37.3 L ha−1(60% reduction) under TIF while providing yellow nutsedge control and maintaining tomato yields.
Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri): A Review
Authors: Ward Sarah M. , Webster Theodore M. , Steckel Larry E.
Published: March 2013

In little over 20 yr, Palmer amaranth has risen from relative obscurity to its current status as one of the most widespread, troublesome, and economically damaging agronomic weeds in the southeastern U.S. Numerous factors have enabled Palmer amaranth to become such a dominant and difficult-to-control weed, including its rapid growth rate, high fecundity, genetic diversity, ability to tolerate adverse conditions, and its facility for evolving herbicide resistance. It is both a serious threat to several U.S. cropping systems and a fascinating model weed. In this paper, we review the growing body of literature on Palmer amaranth to summarize the current state of knowledge on the biology, agricultural impacts, and management of this weed, and we suggest future directions for research.
Geographic coupling of juvenile and adult habitat shapes spatial population dynamics of a coral reef fish
Authors: Huijbers Chantal M. , Nagelkerken Ivan , Debrot Adolphe O. , Jongejans Eelke
Published: March 2013

Marine spatial population dynamics are often addressed with a focus on larval dispersal, without taking into account movement behavior of individuals in later life stages. Processes occurring during demersal life stages may also drive spatial population dynamics if habitat quality is perceived differently by animals belonging to different life stages. In this study, we used a dual approach to understand how stage‐structured habitat use and dispersal ability of adults shape the population of a marine fish species. Our study area and focal species provided us with the unique opportunity to study a closed island population. A spatial simulation model was used to estimate dispersal distances along a coral reef that surrounds the island, while contributions of different nursery bays were determined based on otolith stable isotope signatures of adult reef fish. The model showed that adult dispersal away from reef areas near nursery bays is limited. The results further show that different bays contributed unequally to the adult population on the coral reef, with productivity of juveniles in bay nursery habitat determining the degree of mixing among local populations on the reef and with one highly productive area contributing most to the island's reef fish population. The contribution of the coral reef as a nursery habitat was minimal, even though it had a much larger surface area. These findings indicate that the geographic distribution of nursery areas and their productivity are important drivers for the spatial distribution patterns of adults on coral reefs. We suggest that limited dispersal of adults on reefs can lead to a source–sink structure in the adult stage, where reefs close to nurseries replenish more isolated reef areas. Understanding these spatial population dynamics of the demersal phase of marine animals is of major importance for the design and placement of marine reserves, as nursery areas contribute differently to maintain adult populations.
Single polynomials that correspond to pairs of cyclotomic polynomials with interlacing zeros
Authors: McKee James , Smyth Chris
Published: March 2013

We give a complete classification of all pairs of cyclotomic polynomials whose zeros interlace on the unit circle, making explicit a result essentially contained in work of Beukers and Heckman. We show that each such pair corresponds to a single polynomial from a certain special class of integer polynomials, the 2-reciprocal discbionic polynomials. We also show that each such pair also corresponds (in four different ways) to a single Pisot polynomial from a certain restricted class, the cyclogenic Pisot polynomials. We investigate properties of this class of Pisot polynomials.
Singular open book structures from real mappings
Authors: Araújo dos Santos Raimundo , Chen Ying , Tibăr Mihai
Published: March 2013

We define open book structures with singular bindings. Starting with an extension of Milnor’s results on local fibrations for germs with nonisolated singularity, we find classes of genuine real analytic mappings which yield such open book structures.
Galois realizability of groups of orders p
5 and p
6
Authors: Michailov Ivo
Published: March 2013

Let p be an odd prime and k an arbitrary field of characteristic not p. We determine the obstructions for the realizability as Galois groups over k of all groups of orders p
5 and p
6 that have an abelian quotient obtained by factoring out central subgroups of order p or p
2. These obstructions are decomposed as products of p-cyclic algebras, provided that k contains certain roots of unity.
Reconstruction of the probability density function by means of the degree of polarization for one-photon mixed states
Authors: Michalik Lukasz , Domanski Andrzej
Published: March 2013

In this paper the authors discuss an alternative way for reconstructing one-photon mixed states of a partially polarized optical field. The task is to represent the probability density distribution describing these kind of states with the Stokes parameters which also characterize the effective state of polarization. These parameters can be measured by means of the degree of polarization with an experimental setup containing a rotating linear polarizer and a circular polarizer. A thought experiment is presented which assumes that the measurement is undertaken on an analyzed beam coupled with a reference beam containing photons polarized in a well-known way. The method discussed in the paper is an alternative for the most commonly used quantum tomography approach.
Synthesis of novel fluorene-functionalised nanoporous silica and its luminescence behaviour in acidic media
Authors: Yadavi Marzieh , Badiei Alireza , Ziarani Ghodsi , Abbasi Alireza
Published: March 2013

Fluorene-functionalised nanoporous silica (FL-NH2-SBA-15) was prepared using the post-synthesis grafting method of SBA-15. The material thus obtained was characterised by means of small- and wide-angle X-ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption-desorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and elemental analysis. The results showed that the organised structure is preserved after the post-grafting procedure. Surface area and pore-size decreased by attaching functional groups to the pore surface. In addition, the pore volume was reduced with functionalisation. The amount of fluorene grafted onto the surface of SBA-15 was 0.55 mmol with a yield of approximately 46 %. The emission spectra of FL-NH2-SBA-15 in acidic media were studied and are discussed in detail. The structural change between FL-NH2-SBA-15 and the protonated form might be an effective candidate for acid-dependent molecular-sensor models for advanced application in molecular sensors in the future.
Effective immobilisation of lipase to enhance esterification potential and reusability
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Sharma Vikrant , Sharma Prachi , Kanwar Shamsher
Published: March 2013

A commercial lipase, “Lipolase T100”, was immobilised onto silica by means of physical adsorption. The silica-bound lipase was subsequently exposed to 1 vol. % glutaraldehyde (pentane-1,5-dial). The silica was loaded repeatedly with the Lipolase T100 in 0.05 M Tris buffer (pH 8.5) until saturation was achieved. During the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th cycles of loading of silica with the enzyme, the protein-binding on the silica achieved 51.73 %, 48.27 %, 26.92 %, 10.73 %, and 4.29 %, respectively. The synthesis of methyl salicylate (methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate) and linalyl ferulate (3,7-dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-yl 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamate) carried out at 45°C under shaking with mole ratios of 200 mM of acid and 500 mM alcohol in DMSO using 15 mg mL−1 of hyper-activated biocatalyst resulted in yield(s) of 77.2 % of methyl salicylate and 65.3 % of linalyl ferulate in the presence of molecular sieves. The hyper-activated biocatalyst was more efficient than the previously reported silica-bound lipase with minimum leaching of the enzyme from the reaction mixture. The K m and V max of the free (0.142 mM and 38.31 μmol min−1 mL−1, respectively) and silica-bound lipase (0.043 mM and 26.32 μmol min−1 mg−1, respectively) were determined for the hydrolysis of p-NPP. During repeated esterification studies using silica-bound lipase, yields of 50.1 % of methyl salicylate after the 5th cycle, and 53.9 % of linalyl ferulate after the 7th cycle of esterification were recorded. In the presence of molecular sieves (30 mg mL−1) in the reaction mixture, the maximum syntheses of methyl salicylate (77.2 %) and linalyl ferulate (65.3 %) were also observed. In a volumetric batch scale-up, when the reaction volume was increased to 50 mL, 44.9 % and 31.4 % yields of methyl salicylate and linalyl ferulate, respectively, were achieved.
Validity and Sensitivity to Change of Patient-Reported Pain and Disability Measures for Elbow Pathologies
Authors: Vincent Joshua I. , MacDermid Joy C. , King Graham J.W. , Grewal Ruby
Published: March 2013

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Objective

To evaluate the internal consistency, concurrent construct validity, longitudinal validity, sensitivity to change, and factor structure of the Patient-Rated Elbow Evaluation form (PREE), the patient-reported form of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Elbow Questionnaire (pASES-e), and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH) in a diverse group of patients who had surgery for various elbow pathologies.

Background

Measuring functional outcomes after surgical procedures of the elbow requires valid patient-reported pain and disability questionnaires. The PREE, the pASES-e, and the DASH are commonly used questionnaires. There is, however, insufficient evidence available concerning their validity and sensitivity to change.

Methods

Data were prospectively collected from 128 patients (mean ± SD age, 46.5 ± 12.8 years) post-elbow surgery. Patients completed the PREE, the pASES-e, the DASH, and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey at baseline (first visit after surgery) and 6 months postsurgery. Concurrent construct validity, longitudinal validity, sensitivity to change, and factor structure were analyzed.

Results

Concurrent construct validity was demonstrated by confirmation of expected relationships; the strongest correlations were observed between the PREE pain score, the PREE total score, the pASES-e pain score, and the DASH score (r = 0.73–0.87). The pASES-e function score correlated the least with other constructs. Longitudinal validity demonstrated similar findings: the pASES-e pain change score and PREE change score were most strongly correlated, and the pASES-e function change score and DASH change score were moderately to weakly correlated. All 3 patient-reported questionnaires demonstrated a large effect size and standardized response means greater than 1.0. Structural validity was supported for the PREE (R2 = 77.2%, 4 factors) and the pASES-e (R2 = 74.4%, 4 factors), but not for the DASH (R2 = 71.3%, 5 factors).

Conclusion

The PREE, the pASES-e, and the DASH have acceptable validity and sensitivity to change. The pASES-e function subscale is the least sensitive to change and is less correlated to other measures. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(4):263–274. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4029
Method for Assessing Brain Changes Associated With Gluteus Maximus Activation
Authors: Fisher Beth E. , Lee Ya-Yun , Pitsch Erica A. , Moore Brian , Southam Anna , Faw Timothy D. , Powers Christopher M.
Published: March 2013

Study Design

Reliability study.

Objectives

To determine the feasibility and reliability of using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to assess corticomotor excitability (CE) of the gluteus maximus.

Background

Sport-specific skill training targeting greater utilization of the gluteus maximus has been proposed as a method to reduce the incidence of noncontact knee injuries. The use of TMS to assess changes in CE may help to determine training-induced central mechanisms associated with gluteus maximus activation.

Methods

Within- and between-day reliability was measured in 10 healthy adults. The CE was measured by stimulating the gluteus maximus “hotspot” at 120% and 150% of motor threshold, while subjects performed a double-leg bridge. An intraclass correlation coefficient (model 2,1), standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change were calculated to determine the within- and between-day reliability for the following TMS variables: peak-to-peak motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitudes, cortical silent period, and MEP latency.

Results

It is feasible to measure the CE of the gluteus maximus with TMS. The intraclass correlation coefficients for all TMS outcome measures ranged from 0.73 to 0.97. The ranges of minimal detectable change, with respect to mean values for each TMS variable, were larger for MEP amplitude (304.7–585.4 µV) compared to those for cortical silent period duration (25.3–40.8 milliseconds) and MEP latency (1.1–2.1 milliseconds).

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated a feasible method for using TMS to measure CE of the gluteus maximus. Small minimal detectable change values for the cortical silent period and MEP latency provide a references for future studies. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(4):214–221. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4188
The Feasibility of a 3-Month Active Rehabilitation Program for Patients With Knee Full-Thickness Articular Cartilage Lesions: The Oslo Cartilage Active Rehabilitation and Education Study
Authors: Wondrasch Barbara , Årøen Asbjørn , Røtterud Jan Harald , Høysveen Turid , Bølstad Kristin , Risberg May Arna
Published: March 2013

Study Design

Case series.

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of an active rehabilitation program for patients with knee full-thickness articular cartilage lesions.

Background

No studies have yet evaluated the effect of active rehabilitation in patients with knee full-thickness articular cartilage lesions or compared the effects of active rehabilitation to those of surgical interventions. As an initial step, the feasibility of such a program needs to be described.

Methods

Forty-eight patients with a knee full-thickness articular cartilage lesion and a Lysholm score below 75 participated in a 3-month active rehabilitation program consisting of cardiovascular training, knee and hip progressive resistance training, and neuromuscular training. Feasibility was determined by monitoring adherence to the program, clinical changes in knee function, load progression, and adverse events. Patients were tested before and after completing the rehabilitation program by using patient-reported outcomes (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form 2000) and isokinetic muscle strength and hop tests. To monitor adherence, load progression, and adverse events, patients responded to an online survey and kept training diaries.

Results

The average adherence rate to the rehabilitation program was 83%. Four patients (9%) showed adverse events, as they could not perform the exercises due to pain and effusion. Significant and clinically meaningful improvement was found, based on changes on the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form 2000, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score quality of life subscale, isokinetic muscle strength, and hop performance (P<.05), with small to large effect sizes (standardized response mean, 0.3–1.22).

Conclusion

The combination of a high adherence rate, clinically meaningful changes, and positive load progression and the occurrence of only a few adverse events support the potential usefulness of this program for patients with knee full-thickness cartilage lesions. This study was registered with the public trial registry Clinical Trials.gov (NCT00885729).

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(5):310–324. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4354
Characterization of dissolved organic matter from a Greenland ice core by nanospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Marsh Joshua J.S. , Boschi Vanessa L. , Sleighter Rachel L. , Grannas Amanda M. , Hatcher Patrick G.
Published: March 2013

Nanospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry was developed as a tool for examining the dissolved organic matter (DOM) present in ice cores, significantly reducing the sample volume required for extraction compared with previous studies. Using smaller sample volumes is important for resolving temporal changes in ice-core DOM. We demonstrate that a small volume of ice-core meltwater can be extracted and analyzed with sufficient mass spectral sensitivity to describe the molecular composition of the DOM. Two different solid-phase extraction resins (PPL and C18) were compared to examine potential fractionation of the DOM. Over 2500 unique molecular formulas isolated from two different Greenland ice-core samples, dated to approximately AD 1660 and AD 1360, were obtained from the analyses. Method and sensitivity improvements provide an opportunity for organic matter characterization at higher temporal resolution than our previous analyses afforded and allows for examination of ice cores containing low levels of organic carbon.
Algorithms for Non-Negatively Constrained Maximum Penalized Likelihood Reconstruction in Tomographic Imaging
Authors: Ma Jun
Published: March 2013

Image reconstruction is a key component in many medical imaging modalities. The problem of image reconstruction can be viewed as a special inverse problem where the unknown image pixel intensities are estimated from the observed measurements. Since the measurements are usually noise contaminated, statistical reconstruction methods are preferred. In this paper we review some non-negatively constrained simultaneous iterative algorithms for maximum penalized likelihood reconstructions, where all measurements are used to estimate all pixel intensities in each iteration.
Batch and Continuous Ultrasound Assisted Extraction of Boldo Leaves (Peumus boldus Mol.)
Authors: Petigny Loïc , Périno-Issartier Sandrine , Wajsman Joël , Chemat Farid
Published: March 2013

Vegetal extracts are widely used as primary ingredients for various products from creams to perfumes in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutic and cosmetic industries. Having concentrated and active extract is essential, as the process must extract as much soluble material as possible in a minimum time, using the least possible volume of solvent. The boldo leaves extract is of great interest for the industry as it holds a great anti-oxidant activity due to high levels of flavonoids and alkaloids such as boldine. Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE) has been used to improve the efficiency of the plant extraction, reducing extraction time, increasing the concentration of the extract with the same amount of solvent and plant material. After a preliminary study, a response surface method has been used to optimize the extraction of soluble material from the plant. The results provided by the statistical analysis revealed that the optimized conditions were: sonication power 23 W/cm2 for 40 min and a temperature of 36 °C. The optimized parameters of the UAE provide a better extraction compared to a conventional maceration in terms of process time (30 min instead of 120 min), higher yield, more energy saving, cleanliness, safety and product quality.
Quick, Selective and Reversible Photocrosslinking Reaction between 5-Methylcytosine and 3-Cyanovinylcarbazole in DNA Double Strand
Authors: Fujimo Kenzo , Konishi-Hiratsuka Kaoru , Sakamoto Takashi
Published: March 2013

Selective photocrosslinking reaction between 3-cyanovinylcarbazole nucleoside (CNVK) and 5-methylcytosine (mC), which is known as epigenetic modification in genomic DNA, was developed. The reaction was completely finished within 5 s of 366 nm irradiation, and the rate of this photocrosslinking reaction was ca. 30-fold higher than that in the case of unmodified normal cytosine. There were no significant differences in the thermodynamic parameters and the kinetics of hybrid formation of oligonucleotide (ODN) containing CNVK and its complementary ODN containing C or mC at the photocrosslinking site, and suggesting that the quick and selective photoreaction has potential for the selective detection of mC in the DNA strand via the photocrosslinking reaction.
Exploiting BSA to Inhibit the Fibrous Aggregation of Magnetic Nanoparticles under an Alternating Magnetic Field
Authors: Sun Jian , Liu Xuan , Chen Yuan , Zhang Yu , Gu Ning
Published: March 2013

The alternating magnetic field was discovered to be capable of inducing the fibrous aggregation of magnetic nanoparticles. However, this anisotropic aggregation may be unfavorable for practical applications. Here, we reported that the adsorption of BSA (bovine serum albumin) on the surfaces of magnetic nanoparticles can effectively make the fibrous aggregation of γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles turn into a more isotropic aggregation in the presence of the alternating magnetic field. Also, the heating curves with and without BSA adsorption under different pH conditions were measured to show the influence of the colloidal aggregation states on the collective calorific behavior of magnetic nanoparticles.
Preclinical Activity of Simvastatin Induces Cell Cycle Arrest in G1 via Blockade of Cyclin D-Cdk4 Expression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Liang Yu-Wei , Chang Chi-Chang , Hung Chao-Ming , Chen Tzu-Yu , Huang Tzuu-Yuan , Hsu Yi-Chiang
Published: March 2013

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death. Nonetheless, a decrease in overall incidence and mortality has been observed in the last 30 years due to prevention strategies and improvements in the use of chemotherapeutic agents. In recent studies, Simvastatin (SIM) has demonstrated anti-tumor activity, as well as potent chemopreventive action. As an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA), SIM has been shown to stimulate apoptotic cell death. In this study, an MTT assay revealed the cytotoxic activity of SIM against human large cell lung cancer (Non-small cell lung cancer; NSCLC) cells (NCI-H460); however, induced apoptosis was not observed in NCI-H460 cells. Protein expression levels of cell cycle regulating proteins Cdk4, Cyclin D1, p16 and p27 were markedly altered by SIM. Collectively, our results indicate that SIM inhibits cell proliferation and arrests NCI-H460 cell cycle progression via inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases and cyclins and the enhancement of CDK inhibitors p16 and p27. Our findings suggest that, in addition to the known effects on hypercholesterolemia therapy, SIM may also provide antitumor activity in established NSCLC.
Chronobiology of Melatonin beyond the Feedback to the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus—Consequences to Melatonin Dysfunction
Authors: Hardeland Rüdiger
Published: March 2013

The mammalian circadian system is composed of numerous oscillators, which gradually differ with regard to their dependence on the pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Actions of melatonin on extra-SCN oscillators represent an emerging field. Melatonin receptors are widely expressed in numerous peripheral and central nervous tissues. Therefore, the circadian rhythm of circulating, pineal-derived melatonin can have profound consequences for the temporal organization of almost all organs, without necessarily involving the melatonin feedback to the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Experiments with melatonin-deficient mouse strains, pinealectomized animals and melatonin receptor knockouts, as well as phase-shifting experiments with explants, reveal a chronobiological role of melatonin in various tissues. In addition to directly steering melatonin-regulated gene expression, the pineal hormone is required for the rhythmic expression of circadian oscillator genes in peripheral organs and to enhance the coupling of parallel oscillators within the same tissue. It exerts additional effects by modulating the secretion of other hormones. The importance of melatonin for numerous organs is underlined by the association of various diseases with gene polymorphisms concerning melatonin receptors and the melatonin biosynthetic pathway. The possibilities and limits of melatonergic treatment are discussed with regard to reductions of melatonin during aging and in various diseases.
Effect of Different Phospholipids on α-Secretase Activity in the Non-Amyloidogenic Pathway of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Grimm Marcus , Haupenthal Viola , Rothhaar Tatjana , Zimmer Valerie , Grösgen Sven , Hundsdörfer Benjamin , Lehmann Johannes , Grimm Heike , Hartmann Tobias
Published: March 2013

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by extracellular accumulation of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), generated by proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by β- and γ-secretase. Aβ generation is inhibited when the initial ectodomain shedding is caused by α-secretase, cleaving APP within the Aβ domain. Therefore, an increase in α-secretase activity is an attractive therapeutic target for AD treatment. APP and the APP-cleaving secretases are all transmembrane proteins, thus local membrane lipid composition is proposed to influence APP processing. Although several studies have focused on γ-secretase, the effect of the membrane lipid microenvironment on α-secretase is poorly understood. In the present study, we systematically investigated the effect of fatty acid (FA) acyl chain length (10:0, 12:0, 14:0, 16:0, 18:0, 20:0, 22:0, 24:0), membrane polar lipid headgroup (phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine), saturation grade and the FA double-bond position on α-secretase activity. We found that α-secretase activity is significantly elevated in the presence of FAs with short chain length and in the presence of polyunsaturated FAs, whereas variations in the phospholipid headgroups, as well as the double-bond position, have little or no effect on α-secretase activity. Overall, our study shows that local lipid membrane composition can influence α-secretase activity and might have beneficial effects for AD.
Microorganism Response to Stressed Terrestrial Environments: A Raman Spectroscopic Perspective of Extremophilic Life Strategies
Authors: Jorge-Villar Susana , Edwards Howell
Published: March 2013

Raman spectroscopy is a valuable analytical technique for the identification of biomolecules and minerals in natural samples, which involves little or minimal sample manipulation. In this paper, we evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of this technique applied to the study of extremophiles. Furthermore, we provide a review of the results published, up to the present point in time, of the bio- and geo-strategies adopted by different types of extremophile colonies of microorganisms. We also show the characteristic Raman signatures for the identification of pigments and minerals, which appear in those complex samples.
Cytotoxic and Anti-Inflammatory Eunicellin-Based Diterpenoids from the Soft Coral Cladiella krempfi
Authors: Tai Chi-Jen , Su Jui-Hsin , Huang Chiung-Yao , Huang Ming-Shyan , Wen Zhi-Hong , Dai Chang-Feng , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: March 2013

Five new eunicellin-based diterpenoids, krempfielins E–I (1–5) and seven known compounds (6–12) were isolated from the organic extract of a Taiwanese soft coral Cladiella krempfi. The structures of the new metabolites were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. Metabolites 5, 6, 10 and 12 were shown to exhibit cytotoxicity against a limited panel of cancer cell lines. Furthermore, compounds 6 and 10 could potently inhibit the accumulation of the pro-inflammatory iNOS protein, and 6 and 12 could significantly reduce the expression of COX-2 protein in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells.
The Protection of Polysaccharide from the Brown Seaweed Sargassum graminifolium against Ethylene Glycol-Induced Mitochondrial Damage
Authors: Zhang Chao-Yan , Kong Ting , Wu Wen-Hui , Lan Min-Bo
Published: March 2013

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the protective effect of polysaccharide from the Brown Seaweed Sargassum graminifolium (SGP) on ethylene glycol-induced kidney damage and the mechanism of SGP-mediated protection. Mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial swelling, the activity of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), ATPases and mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes was observed in hyperoxaluric rats. Administration of SGP (25, 100 and 400 mg·kg−1, intragastrically) increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, SDH and Na+/K+-ATPases, Ca2+-ATPases, Mg2+-ATPases, also decreased mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial swelling. SGP exhibited a protective effect by improving antioxidant enzymes and restoring mitochondrial dysfunction in the kidney of hyperoxaluric rats. It may be used as a promising therapeutic agent to provide superior renal protection.
Click-to-Chelate: Development of Technetium and Rhenium-Tricarbonyl Labeled Radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Kluba Christiane , Mindt Thomas
Published: March 2013

The Click-to-Chelate approach is a highly efficient strategy for the radiolabeling of molecules of medicinal interest with technetium and rhenium-tricarbonyl cores. Reaction of azide-functionalized molecules with alkyne prochelators by the Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC; click reaction) enables the simultaneous synthesis and conjugation of tridentate chelating systems for the stable complexation of the radiometals. In many cases, the functionalization of (bio)molecules with the ligand system and radiolabeling can be achieved by convenient one-pot procedures. Since its first report in 2006, Click-to-Chelate has been applied to the development of numerous novel radiotracers with promising potential for translation into the clinic. This review summarizes the use of the Click-to-Chelate approach in radiopharmaceutical sciences and provides a perspective for future applications.
Selenium in the Environment, Metabolism and Involvement in Body Functions
Authors: Mehdi Youcef , Hornick Jean-Luc , Istasse Louis , Dufrasne Isabelle
Published: March 2013

Selenium (Se34 79) is a metalloid which is close to sulfur (S) in terms of properties. The Se concentration in soil varies with type, texture and organic matter content of the soil and with rainfall. Its assimilation by plants is influenced by the physico-chemical properties of the soil (redox status, pH and microbial activity). The presence of Se in the atmosphere is linked to natural and anthropogenic activities. Selenoproteins, in which selenium is present as selenocysteine, present an important role in many body functions, such as antioxidant defense and the formation of thyroid hormones. Some selenoprotein metabolites play a role in cancer prevention. In the immune system, selenium stimulates antibody formation and activity of helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells and Natural Killer (NK) cells. The mechanisms of intestinal absorption of selenium differ depending on the chemical form of the element. Selenium is mainly absorbed in the duodenum and caecum by active transport through a sodium pump. The recommended daily intake of selenium varies from 60 μg/day for women, to 70 μg/day for men. In growing ruminants the requirements are estimated at 100 μg/kg dry matter and 200 μg/Kg for pregnant or lactating females. A deficiency can cause reproductive disorders in humans and animals.
Assessing Eating Disorder Risk: The Pivotal Role of Achievement Anxiety, Depression and Female Gender in Non-Clinical Samples
Authors: Fragkos Konstantinos , Frangos Christos
Published: March 2013

The objective of the present study was to assess factors predicting eating disorder risk in a sample of undergraduate students. A structured questionnaire was employed on a random sample (n = 1865) consisting of the following sections: demographics, SCOFF (Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food) questionnaire for screening eating disorders and the Achievement Anxiety Test and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. The students at risk for eating disorders (SCOFF score ≥2) were 39.7%. Eating disorder risk was more frequent in females, students with divorced parents, students who lived alone, students who were seeking a romantic relationship or were married, students who were at a post-secondary vocational institute/college (private-public) educational level and who were more likely to have marks under merit level. Also, the mean scores for the psychological factors of depression, stress and anxiety were higher in students with eating disorder risk. A logistic regression model was produced depicting that depression, stress, female gender, being married and searching for a romantic relationship were risk factors of having an eating disorder risk. The suggested psychological model examined with structural equation modelling signified the role of academic anxiety as an immediate precursor of general anxiety. Hence, college populations in Greece need organized infrastructures of nutrition health services and campaigns to assist in reducing the risk of eating disorders.
Pathology of Bursae of Fabricius in Methionine-Deficient Broiler Chickens
Authors: Wu Bangyuan , Cui Hengmin , Peng Xi , Fang Jing , Cui Wei , Liu Xiaodong
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this 42-day study was to investigate the effects of methionine (Met) deficiency on immune function by determining the relative weight, morphological and ultrastructural changes of bursae of Fabricius, cell cycle, and apoptosis of bursa cells. One hundred and twenty one-day-old avian broilers were randomly divided into two groups and fed on a control diet (starter diet, Met 0.50%; grower diet, Met 0.40%) and Met-deficient diet (starter diet, Met 0.26%; grower diet, Met 0.28%) for six weeks. The relative weight of bursae was decreased with Met deficiency when compared to that of the control group. Lesions were also observed in the Met-deficient group. Histopathologically, the numbers of lymphocytes in the follicles were decreased. Ultrastructurally, the mitochondria of lymphocytes were swollen in the Met-deficient group. As measured by flow cytometry, bursal cells in the G0G1 phase were significantly higher (P < 0.01), and bursal cells in the S, G2M phases and proliferating index were obviously lower (P < 0.01) with Met deficiency than in the control group. Moreover, the percentage of apoptotic cells in the bursae were significantly increased in Met-deficient birds (P < 0.01). It was concluded that Met deficiency restrained the development of the bursae of Fabricius and affected the humoral immunity of the chickens.
Ultrasound Indoor Positioning System Based on a Low-Power Wireless Sensor Network Providing Sub-Centimeter Accuracy
Authors: Medina Carlos , Segura José , De la Torre Ángel
Published: March 2013

This paper describes the TELIAMADE system, a new indoor positioning system based on time-of-flight (TOF) of ultrasonic signal to estimate the distance between a receiver node and a transmitter node. TELIAMADE system consists of a set of wireless nodes equipped with a radio module for communication and a module for the transmission and reception of ultrasound. The access to the ultrasonic channel is managed by applying a synchronization algorithm based on a time-division multiplexing (TDMA) scheme. The ultrasonic signal is transmitted using a carrier frequency of 40 kHz and the TOF measurement is estimated by applying a quadrature detector to the signal obtained at the A/D converter output. Low sampling frequencies of 17.78 kHz or even 12.31 kHz are possible using quadrature sampling in order to optimize memory requirements and to reduce the computational cost in signal processing. The distance is calculated from the TOF taking into account the speed of sound. An excellent accuracy in the estimation of the TOF is achieved using parabolic interpolation to detect of maximum of the signal envelope at the matched filter output. The signal phase information is also used for enhancing the TOF measurement accuracy. Experimental results show a root mean square error (rmse) less than 2 mm and a standard deviation less than 0.3 mm for pseudorange measurements in the range of distances between 2 and 6 m. The system location accuracy is also evaluated by applying multilateration. A sub-centimeter location accuracy is achieved with an average rmse of 9.6 mm.
Comments and Reply to: Foot Plantar Pressure Measurement System: A Review. Sensors 2012, 12, 9884-9912
Authors: Chockalingam Nachiappan , Healy Aoife , Naemi Roozbeh , Burgess-Walker Philip , Razak Abdul , Zayegh Aladin , Begg Rezaul , Wahab Yufridin
Published: March 2013

We would like to comment on a recent review article published in Sensors by Razak et al. [1]. The authors provided a review of plantar pressure measurement systems which included the discussion of the recently developed WalkinSense® system. While the authors correctly identified that our group completed research using this system [2], they have inaccurately reported the manufacturer of the system and our research findings.
Comparative Assessment of Stormwater and Nonpoint Source Pollution Best Management Practices in Suburban Watershed Management
Authors: Qiu Zeyuan
Published: March 2013

Nonpoint source pollution control and stormwater management are two objectives in managing mixed land use watersheds like those in New Jersey. Various best management practices (BMPs) have been developed and implemented to achieve both objectives. This study assesses the cost-effectiveness of selected BMPs for agricultural nonpoint source pollution control and stormwater management in the Neshanic River watershed, a typical mixed land use watershed in central New Jersey, USA. The selected BMPs for nonpoint source pollution control include cover crops, prescribed grazing, livestock access control, contour farming, nutrient management, and conservation buffers. The selected BMPs for stormwater management are rain gardens, roadside ditch retrofitting, and detention basin retrofitting. Cost-effectiveness is measured by the reduction in pollutant loads in total suspended solids and total phosphorus relative to the total costs of implementing the selected BMPs. The pollution load reductions for these BMPs are based on the total pollutant loads in the watershed simulated by the Soil and Water Assessment Tool and achievable pollutant reduction rates. The total implementation cost includes BMP installation and maintenance costs. The assessment results indicate that the BMPs for the nonpoint source pollution control are generally much more cost-effective in improving water quality than the BMPs for stormwater management.
Évaluation de la mémoire encyclopédique chez 30 000 élèves de 6e du collège français
Authors: Lieury Alain , Lorant Sonia , Le Cam Marion , Rocher Thierry
Published: March 2013

Des expériences précédentes ont montré que les performances scolaires dépendent fortement de la mémoire à long terme des connaissances scolaires (histoire, biologie, maths...), appelée mémoire encyclopédique. À partir de ces études, un test appelé Lexis a été construit afin de servir d’épreuve d’évaluation pour 31 142 élèves du collège français (DEPP, Ministère de l’Éducation nationale). Les résultats montrent des corrélations importantes avec un test de raisonnement (.47) et surtout avec les tests scolaires, compréhension (.67) et mathématiques (.66). Le test est très lié à plusieurs caractéristiques des élèves, comme le retard scolaire, l’environnement linguistique et le statut socio-économique du père.
Motivation et sentiment d'efficacité personnelle chez 30 000 élèves de 6e du collège français
Authors: Blanchard Serge , Lieury Alain , Le Cam Marion , Rocher Thierry
Published: March 2013

Deux tests, sous forme de questionnaires, ont été présentés, dans le cadre d’une évaluation du ministère de l’Éducation nationale (DEPP), sur un panel de 31 120 élèves de 6 e de collège (11,6 ans) : un questionnaire sur le Sentiment d’efficacité personnelle (SEP) et un questionnaire de motivation, d’après la théorie de l’autodétermination de Deci et Ryan. Une analyse en composantes principales (ACP), sur le questionnaire de SEP scolaire, confirme les trois facteurs principaux du SEP : scolaire, d’autorégulation et le SEP social. Quant à la motivation, une ACP révèle trois facteurs, correspondant à la motivation intrinsèque, la motivation extrinsèque et la démotivation (ou amotivation). Les corrélations montrent un rapprochement entre la théorie de Bandura (SEP) et celle de Deci et Ryan (compétence perçue), car le SEP scolaire est corrélé, selon un continuum, avec les formes de motivations (y compris l’amotivation). La compétence perçue (SEP scolaire) est la dimension la plus prédictive des scores aux tests cognitifs/scolaires. Parmi les formes de motivation, la démotivation est associée à des scores plus faibles dans toutes les épreuves.
Les symptômes médicalement inexpliqués : précisions terminologiques, données épidémiologiques chez l'adulte et l'enfant, aperçu des contre-attitudes
Authors: Docquir Camille
Published: March 2013

Les symptômes médicalement inexpliqués demeurent, en dépit de leur grande fréquence, assez mal connus ; cette méconnaissance met les soignants en difficulté et compromet la prise en charge des patients qui présentent ce type de troubles. Cet article, fondé sur une revue de la littérature, rassemble des informations essentielles sur le sujet, afin de dresser un tableau synthétique de ces troubles. Il présente successivement : les différentes terminologies employées pour les désigner, des données épidémiologiques (incluant des données spécifiques à l’enfant et l’adolescent), et des informations relatives aux contre-attitudes des soignants à l’égard de ces troubles. En favorisant une meilleure connaissance de ce sujet, cet article a pour objectif d’aider à l’amélioration de la prise en charge des patients.
Psychologues en service d'éveil de coma : complexité et diversité des missions
Authors: Mimouni Arnaud , Scelles Régine
Published: March 2013

Les services de médecine physique et de réadaptation prennent en charge les patients cérébro-lésés, à des phases de plus en plus en plus précoces. La conférence de consensus de Bordeaux, en 2001 (Les traumatisés crâniens adultes en médecine et réadaptation : du coma à l’éveil), soulignait la nécessité de penser une étape spécifique entre la réanimation et la rééducation. Cet article, s’appuyant sur une réflexion et une expérience clinique de psychologue, depuis 9 ans, dans une unité d’éveil de coma, tente de définir plus précisément quelles peuvent être les missions du psychologue dans ces unités de soins. Le psychologue, comme spécialiste de la subjectivité et des relations intersubjectives, a un rôle particulier au sein du triangle patient-proches-soignants. En effet, il peut intervenir au niveau des difficultés des soignants, face à la souffrance des patients et des proches, au niveau de la famille des patients, avec leurs souffrances spécifiques à cette clinique, sans demande exprimée, et au niveau du patient dans la complexe compréhension du vécu de ce sujet en situation de « précarité subjective ».