bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of methanogens in the bovine rumen by polymerase chain reaction single‐strand conformation polymorphism
Authors: TATSUOKA Noriko , MOHAMMED Nazimuddin , MITSUMORI Makoto , TAJIMA Kiyoshi , HARA Kozo , KURIHARA Mitsunori , ITABASHI Hisao
Published: September 2007

The polymerase chain reaction single‐strand conformation polymorphism (PCR‐SSCP) method reported by Schwieger and Tebbe (1998) was used to analyze the diversity of methanogens inhabiting the rumen. Partial 16S rRNA gene fragments were amplified from DNA extracted from rumen contents by PCR with archaea‐specific primers, Ar1000F and Ar1500R, or methanogen‐specific primers, M301F and M915R, with one primer phosphorylated at the 5′ end. The amplified DNA fragments were analyzed by SSCP gel electrophoresis after the phosphorylated strands of the PCR products were digested with λ exonuclease. When we analyzed samples collected from the six Holstein cows used in a previous study, in which cows were given feed with or without α‐cyclodextrin‐horseradish oil complex (CD‐HR), nine and six bands were identified in the profiles generated by PCR products amplified with archaea‐specific and methanogen‐specific primers, respectively. While dendrogram analysis based on SSCP gel profiles found that the methanogens from each rumen showed a particular composition of methanogens, the profiles of the methanogens isolated from two of three cows fed with CD‐HR fell into the same branch in the dendrogram constructed from the profiles. Therefore, this study demonstrates the potential of the PCR‐SSCP method in the methanogenic community analysis of the rumen and in investigating changes in the methanogenic community due to the addition of CD‐HR to the rumen.
Season‐dependent effect of daily frequency of feed distribution on the rate of feed consumption and reproductive performance in sows during lactation
Authors: IMAEDA Noriaki , YOSHIOKA Gou
Published: September 2007

The effects of the daily frequency of feed distribution (once, One; twice, Two; and four times, Four,) on the rate of feed consumption (RFC) and reproductive performance were investigated in Large White sows farrowing in the hot season from June to September (H sows) and in the rest of the year (R sows). The RFC was greater in feeding treatmentFourthanTwo(P < 0.01) in H sows; however, bodyweight loss during lactation was not affected by the feeding treatment. No difference in effects of frequency of feed distribution for sows was observed on piglet growth. The survival rate of the piglets was not different between feeding treatments. The number of sows that came into estrus within 7 days post‐weaning was smaller in the feeding treatmentFourthanOne(P < 0.05) in H sows and those ofFourthanOne(P < 0.01) andTwo(P < 0.05) in R sows. These results suggest that in sows during lactation increasing the daily frequency of feed distribution may have a negative effect on reproductive performance.
Feeding the 1 to 7‐year‐old child. A support paper for the South African paediatric food‐based dietary guidelines
Authors: Bowley Nadia A. , Pentz‐Kluyts Megan A. , Bourne Lesley T. , Marino Louise V.
Published: September 2007

Young children embark on a transitional nutritional journey, progressing from total reliance on caregivers to independence, autonomy and self‐determination. Appropriate nutritional intake in young children is a diverse concept, incorporating suitable nutritional choices and feeding behaviours. Lessons learnt in childhood will have long‐term effects on the individual and society overall. Since South African children are raised in a country where under‐ and over‐nutrition exist simultaneously, a careful balance should be achieved in any national public health message. The South African paediatric food‐based dietary guidelines for children younger than 7 years strive to facilitate the education of carers of young children in the adoption of healthy eating practices. The guidelines address issues regarding variety in the diet that has been shown to improve both micro‐ and macronutrient intakes. Specific reference is made to starchy foods, vegetables, fruit and water along with protein sources, which should be consumed regularly. Milk, has been emphasised in these guidelines because of the poor calcium intake in South African children. The only guideline that limits intake is the sweet treats or drinks message, because of public health concerns such as obesity and dental caries. Other messages pertaining to eating habits take cognisance of the child's physiological limitations in gastric capacity and suggest small regular meals. Clean, safe drinking water is the beverage of choice. Non‐food‐based guidelines are also included, which recognize the importance of active play, for developmental and health purposes, as well as regular clinic attendance.
Metabolic pathways leading from amino acids to vitamin B12 in Propionibacterium shermanii, and the sources of the seven methyl carbons
Authors: Iida Katsumi , Kajiwara Masahiro
Published: September 2007

The metabolic pathways leading from l‐[2‐13C]aspartic acid, [2‐13C]glycine and l‐[methyl‐13C]methionine to vitamin B12 were investigated, focusing on the biosynthetic pathways leading to the aminopropanol moiety of vitamin B12 and on the role of the Shemin pathway leading to δ‐aminolevulinic acid (a biosynthetic intermediate of tetrapyrrole), by means of feeding experiments with Propionibacterium shermanii in combination with 13C‐NMR spectroscopy. The 13C‐methylene carbons of l‐[2‐13C]aspartic acid, which is transformed to [2‐13C]glycine via l‐[2‐13C]threonine, and [2‐13C]glycine added to the culture medium served mainly to enrich the seven methyl carbons of the corrin ring through C‐methylation by S‐adenosyl‐l‐[methyl‐13C]methionine derived from catabolically generated l‐[methyl‐13C]methionine in the presence of tetrahydrofolic acid. The results indicate that the catabolism of these amino acids predominates over pathways leading to (2R)‐1‐amino‐2‐propanol or δ‐aminolevulinic acid in P. shermanii. Feeding of l‐[methyl‐13C]methionine efficiently enriched all seven methyl carbons. In the cases of [2‐13C]glycine and l‐[methyl‐13C]methionine, the 13C‐enrichment ratio of the methyl carbon at C‐25 (the site of the first C‐methylation) was less than those of the other six methyl carbons, probably due to the influence of endogenous d‐glucose in P. shermanii. The almost identical 13C‐enrichment ratios of the other six methyl carbons indicated that these C‐methylations during vitamin B12 biosynthesis were completed before the amino acids were completely consumed. However, in the case of l‐[2‐13C]aspartic acid, the 13C‐enrichment ratios of five methyl carbons were low and similar, whereas the last two sites of C‐methylation (C‐53 and C‐35) were not labeled, presumably because of complete consumption of the smaller amount of added label. The ratios of 13C‐incorporation into the seven methyl carbons are influenced by the conditions of amino acid feeding experiments in a manner that is dependent upon the order of C‐methylation in the corrin ring of vitamin B12.
INTERACTION AND INTERSECTION: THE CONSTELLATION OF EMOTIONAL STABILITY AND EXTRAVERSION IN PREDICTING PERFORMANCE
Authors: JUDGE TIMOTHY A. , EREZ AMIR
Published: September 2007

This study investigated the constellation of 2 Big 5 traits—Emotional Stability and Extraversion—in predicting job performance. Two forms of the constellation, one indirect (a statistical interaction) and the other direct (a measure of the intersection between the traits from the Big 5 circumplex), were used to predict job performance. Data were collected from employees and their supervisors at a regional health and fitness center. Results indicated that both measures predicted performance, even when controlling for the “main effects” of Emotional Stability and Extraversion, as well as 2 other relevant Big 5 traits (Agreeableness and Conscientiousness). These results suggest that the combination of Emotional Stability and Extraversion—reflecting a “happy” or “buoyant” personality—may be more important to performance than either trait in isolation.
Pollen Morphology of Acinos Miller Species Growing in Turkey
Authors: Kaya Ayla , Kutluk Hatice
Published: September 2007

The pollen morphology of six taxa of the genus Acinos Miller has been examined under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a description of each taxon has been given. Acinos pollen is stephanocolpate (hexacolpate). Two main exine sculpturing types, foveolate‐reticulate (only in subspecies of A. troodi) and reticulate, have been defined. The dimension for the polar length ranges between 25.8–47.4 μm, equatorial width 24.5–34.4 μm, colpus length 20.0–40.5 μm and colpus width 1.2–2.5 μm. The shape is mostly subprolate to prolate, seldomly prolate‐spheroidal. The results reveal rather uniform morphological features, however fine details are characteristic to differentiate the pollen taxa. Acinos pollen also share some common morphological features with the other Lamiaceae pollen.
Effects of Elevated Carbon Dioxide on the Growth and Foliar Chemistry of Transgenic Bt Cotton
Authors: Wu Gang , Chen Fa‐Jun , Ge Feng , Sun Yu‐Cheng
Published: September 2007

A field study was carried out to quantify plant growth and the foliar chemistry of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton (cv. GK‐12) exposed to ambient CO2 and elevated (double‐ambient) CO2 for different lengths of time (1, 2 and 3 months) in 2004 and 2005. The results indicated that CO2 levels significantly affected plant height, leaf area per plant and leaf chemistry of transgenic Bt cotton. Significantly, higher plant height and leaf area per plant were observed after cotton plants that were grown in elevated CO2 were compared with plants grown in ambient CO2 for 1, 2 and 3 months in the investigation. Simultaneously, significant interaction between CO2 level × investigating year was observed in leaf area per plant.
Moreover, foliar total amino acids were increased by 14%, 13%, 11% and 12%, 14%, 10% in transgenic Bt cotton after exposed to elevated CO2 for 1, 2 or 3 months compared with ambient CO2 in 2004 and 2005, respectively. Condensed tannin occurrence increased by 17%, 11%, 9% in 2004 and 12%, 11%, 9% in 2005 in transgenic Bt cotton after being exposed to elevated CO2 for 1, 2 or 3 months compared with ambient CO2 for the same time. However, Bt toxin decreased by 3.0%, 2.9%, 3.1% and 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.9% in transgenic Bt cotton after exposed to elevated CO2 for 1, 2 or 3 months compared with ambient CO2 for same time in 2004 and 2005, respectively. Furthermore, there was prominent interaction on the foliar total amino acids between the CO2 level and the time of cotton plant being exposed to elevated CO2. It is presumed that elevated CO2 can alter the plant growth and hence ultimately the phenotype allocation to foliar chemistical components of transgenic Bt cotton, which may in turn, affect the plant‐herbivore interactions.
Purification and Characterization of a New Ribosome Inactivating Protein from Cinchonaglycoside C‐treated Tobacco Leaves
Authors: Li Yanmei , Jia Yantao , Zhang Zhongkai , Chen Xiaoying , He Hongping , Fang Rongxiang , Hao Xiaojiang
Published: September 2007

A new ribosome‐inactivating protein (RIP) with a molecular weight of 31 kDa induced by Cinchonaglycoside C (1) designated CIP31, was isolated from tobacco leaves. Analysis of this protein sequence indicated that it belongs to the RIP family and it was distinct from the other plant RIPs reported previously at its N‐terminal amino acid sequence. CIP31 can directly impair synthesis of coat protein (CP) of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), which resulted in inhibition of TMV long distance movement and multiplication in tobacco plants at concentrations of ng/mL. Furthermore, no toxicity was shown to the growth and fertility of the plants. CIP31 was synthesized only in the presence of Cinchonaglycoside C (1) and was independent of the salicylic acid (SA) signal pathway. We provided evidence for the SA‐independent biological induction of resistance.
Construction of a Plant Transformation‐ready Expression cDNA Library for Thellungiella halophila Using Recombination Cloning
Authors: Ni Wan‐Song , Lei Zhi‐Yong , Chen Xi , Oliver David J. , Xiang Cheng‐Bin
Published: September 2007

Salt cress (Thellungiella halophila), a close relative of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana L., is an extremophile that is adapted to harsh saline environments. To mine salt‐tolerance genes from this species, we constructed an entry cDNA library from the salt cress plant treated with salt‐stress by using a modified cDNA synthesis and an improved recombination‐assisted cDNA library construction method that is completely free of manipulations involving restriction enzymes and DNA ligase. This cDNA library construction procedure is significantly simplified and the quality of the cDNA library is improved. This entry cDNA library was subsequently shuttled into the destination binary vector pCB406 designed for plant transformation and expression via recombination‐assisted cloning. The library is plant transformation ready and is used to transform Arabidopsis on a large scale in order to create a large collection of transgenic lines for functional gene mining.
Effects of Enhanced UV‐B Radiation on the Activity and Expression of Alternative Oxidase in Red Kidney Bean Leaves
Authors: Zhao Ming‐Guang , Liu Ying‐Gao , Zhang Li‐Xin , Zheng Lin , Bi Yu‐Rong
Published: September 2007

An increase in ultraviolet (UV) B radiation on the earth's surface is a feature of current global climate changes. It has been reported that alternative oxidase (AOX) may have a protective role against oxidative stress induced by environmental stresses, such as UV‐B. To better understand the characteristic tolerance of plants to UV‐B radiation, the effects of enhanced UV‐B radiation on the activity and expression of AOX in red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) leaves were investigated in the present study. The results show that the total respiration rate and AOX activity in red kidney bean leaves increased significantly during treatment with enhanced UV‐B. However, cytochrome oxidase (COX) activity did not change significantly. The H2O2 content was also markedly increased and reached a maximum of 4.45 mmol·L−1·g−1 DW (dry weight) at 24 h of UV‐B treatment, before dropping rapidly. Both alternative pathway content and alternative pathway activity were increased in the presence of exogenous H2O2. Immunoblotting analysis with anti‐AOX monoclonal antibody revealed that expression of the AOX protein increased in red kidney bean leaves under enhanced UV‐B radiation, reaching a peak at 72 h. In addition, AOX expression in red kidney bean leaves was induced by exogenous H2O2. These data indicate that the increase in AOX activity in red kidney bean leaves under enhanced UV‐B radiation was mainly due to H2O2‐induced AOX expression.
The COI1 and DFR Genes are Essential for Regulation of Jasmonate‐Induced Anthocyanin Accumulation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Qin‐Fang , Dai Liang‐Ying , Xiao Shi , Wang Yun‐Sheng , Liu Xiong‐Lun , Wang Guo‐Liang
Published: September 2007

Jasmonates (JAs) are a class of plant hormones that play important roles in the regulation of plant development and plant defense. It has been shown that Arabidopsis plants produce much higher levels of anthocyanins when treated exogenously with methyl jasmonate (MeJA). However, a molecular link between the JA response and anthocyanin production has not been determined. The CORONATINE INSENTITIVE1 (COI1) gene is a key player in the regulation of many JA‐related responses. In the present study, we demonstrate that the COI1 gene is also required for the JA‐induced accumulation of anthocyanins in Arabidopsis. Furthermore, the MeJA‐inducible expression of DIHYDROFLAVONOL REDUCTASE (DFR), an essential component in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, was completely eliminated in the coi1 mutant. Jasmonate‐induced anthocyanin accumulation was found to be independent of auxin signaling. The present results indicate that the expression of both COI1 and DFR genes is required for the regulation of JA‐induced anthocyanin accumulation and that DFR may be a key downstream regulator for this process.
Biological Cycles of Mineral Elements in a Young Mixed Stand in Abandoned Mining Soils
Authors: Tian Da‐Lun , Xiang Wen‐Hua , Yan Wen‐De , Kang Wen‐Xing , Deng Xiang‐Wen , Fan Zhu
Published: September 2007

Phytoremediation as a sustainable and inexpensive technology based on the removal of pollutants from the environment by plants is becoming an increasingly important objective in plant research. In this study, biological cycles of five nutrient elements (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg) and eight heavy metal elements (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Cd, Ni, Pb and Co) were examined in young paniculed goldraintree (Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm) and common elaeocarpus (Elaeocarpus decipens) mixed stands in an abandoned mining area. We found that after vegetation restoration in abandoned mining areas, the organic matter and concentrations of nutrient elements were significantly increased and the heavy metal elements were significantly decreased, the annual retention, uptake and return were 75.0, 115.4, and 40.3 kg/hm2 for nutrient elements, and 1 878.0, 3 231.0 and 1 353.0 g/hm2 for heavy metal elements, respectively, with the utilization coefficient, cycling coefficient and turnover rate of 0.92, 0.35 and 0.32 for nutrient elements, and 1.24, 0.42 and 1.92 for heavy metal elements, respectively. Our results suggested that the vegetation restoration in abandoned mining areas had significant effects in improving environmental conditions, enhancing soil available nutrients, and ensuring human health.
Current Status and Future Strategies for Development of Transgenic Plants in China
Authors: Wang De‐Ping
Published: September 2007

In this review, the author summarized the current status, challenges, and strategies in China in the development of transgenic plants and its commercialization. Based on sets of successful examples and data achieved from execution of the National Special Project for Transgenic Plant Research and Commercialization in the last five years, the priorities and key directions were put forward for the future development of transgenic plants in China.
Blood Flow Analysis of the Head and Lower Limbs by the Laser Doppler Blood Flowmeter During LDL Apheresis
Authors: Ebihara Itaru , Sato Takashi , Hirayama Kouichi , Seki Masanori , Enami Terukazu , Kawahara Hirohisa , Niwayama Jun , Miyahara Takaaki , Shibata Masamichi , Maeda Nobuki , Kurosawa Takesi , Yamagata Kunihiro , Sanaka Tsutomu
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The presence of peripheral arterial disease substantially increases the risk for both morbidity and mortality among end‐stage renal disease patients. Low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) apheresis has been also applied for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease to reduce LDL levels, resulting in the improvement of the blood flow to the ischemic limbs. In this study, we investigated the continuous changes of the tissue blood flows in the lower limbs and head during LDL‐apheresis treatment by a non‐invasive method (the non‐invasive continuous monitoring method (NICOMM) system). In this study, the tissue blood flow in both the head and lower limbs showed a significantly enhancement from before to after treatment. The tissue blood flow in the lower limbs showed a significantly larger improvement than that in the head. The short‐term effects of LDL apheresis were confirmed by using the NICOMM system; thus, this system will be useful for the determination of the appropriate schedule of LDL apheresis for long‐term effectiveness.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura‐like Thrombocytopenia Closely Related to Uremia: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Nakamura Hironori , Mukai Masanori , Honda Hirokazu , Akizawa Tadao
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Idiopathic thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) was suspected in two cases with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) before initiating dialysis based on both the clinical course and the initial laboratory findings. After three plasma exchanges and four sessions of hemodialysis, the thrombocytopenia improved to the normal range. However, the level of haptoglobin remained low after the recovery of platelet count. The low activity of ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin‐like and metalloprotease with thrombospodin type 1 repeats) was not observed and the inhibitor was negative in these two cases. Therefore, thrombocytopenia was not attributable to TTP and other factors might therefore be involved in its pathogenesis. Some investigators have reported that a uremic state may possibly be involved in thrombocytopenia in both animals and humans. In the present cases, no apparent cause other than uremia was found because, after initiating hemodialysis, the thrombocytopenia rapidly improved. In conclusion, TTP‐like thrombocytopenia can be caused by uremia and the influence of uremia should be considered in the pathogenesis of ESRD patients with TTP‐like manifestations.
Insulinoma in a cat
Authors: Greene S. N , Bright R. M
Published: September 2007

A 14‐year‐old domestic shorthair cat was presented with hypoglycaemia and seizures of several weeks duration. Bloodwork revealed hypoglycaemia (1·83 mmol/l; reference range 4·22‐8·05 mmol/l) with concurrent normal insulin levels (171 pmol/l; reference range 72‐583 pmol/l). An insulinoma was suspected and medical and dietary management were attempted with minimal success. An exploratory laparotomy was performed and a single, well‐defined mass was found within the left lobe of the pancreas. The mass was removed and histologically classified as an islet cell carcinoma, consistent with an insulinoma. The cat had an episode of presumed postoperative pancreatitits, but recovered with appropriate treatment. The cat has had no clinical signs of recurrence of greater than 32 months postsurgery. There are only four cases of insulinoma in cats reported in the literature. All prior insulionomas reported were in older cats and were malignant in character, which is similar to the reports in the dog. This case is unique because of the apparent lack of local recurrence and development of metastatic disease, leading to the prolonged survival.
Gender and Archaeology in Israelite Religion
Authors: Nakhai Beth Alpert
Published: September 2007

This article1investigates the roles played by women within the religion of Iron Age II Israel (1000–587bce). That little is presently known about this important topic can be attributed to the androcentric perspective of the Hebrew Bible and to gender bias within the modern academy. Recent scholarship has begun to turn the tide, and this article shows the many ways in which women contributed to – and were an integral part of – the religion of ancient Israel.
HIF Activation and VEGF Overexpression are Coupled with ZO‐1 Up‐phosphorylation in the Brain of Dystrophic MDX Mouse
Authors: Nico Beatrice , Mangieri Domenica , Crivellato Enrico , Longo Vito , De Giorgis Michela , Capobianco Carmen , Corsi Patrizia , Benagiano Vincenzo , Roncali Luisa , Ribatti Domenico
Published: September 2007

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) metabolic and structural alterations of the central nervous system are described. Here, we investigated in the brain of 10 mdx mice and in five control ones, the expression of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and we correlated it with the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) and of the endothelial tight junction proteins zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) and claudin‐1. Results showed an activation of mRNA HIF‐1α by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and a strong HIF1‐α labeling of perivascular glial cells and cortical neurons by immunohistochemistry, in mdx mouse. Moreover, overexpression of VEGF and VEGFR‐2, respectively, in neurons and in endothelial cells coupled with changes to endothelial ZO‐1 and claudin‐1 expression in the latter were detected by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry, in the mdx brain. Furthermore, by immunoprecipitation, an up‐phosphorylation of ZO‐1 was demonstrated in mdx endothelial cells in parallel with the reduction in ZO‐1 protein content. These data suggest that the activation of HIF‐1α in the brain of dystrophic mice coupled with VEGF and VEGFR‐2 up‐regulation and ZO‐1 and claudin‐1 rearrangement might contribute to both blood–brain barrier opening and increased angiogenesis.
The Development of a Screening Tool for the Adult Children of Alcoholics Traits (STACAT)
Authors: Park Hyunsun
Published: September 2007

In order to develop a valid tool for screening the traits of adult children of alcoholics (ACOA), this study focused on finding common characteristics among ACOA and developing a tool based on those characteristics. An item pool was generated targeting three distinct characteristics discussed in the alcohol literature related to ACOA, and the items were reviewed by a panel of experts. Using data from the sample, a confirmatory factor analysis, t‐test and correlation analysis were conducted to gather various validity evidences for the screening tool. Cronbach’s coefficient alpha test was used to check the internal consistency of the tool. The evidence of the reliability and validity for the ACOA traits screening tool provide the social work practice with an empirically validated method of measuring these traits in the children of alcoholics.
Social Welfare Reform Since the 1997 Economic Crisis in Korea: Achievement, Limits, and Future Prospects
Authors: Ku Inhoe
Published: September 2007

Social welfare reform has been implemented in Korea since the 1997 financial crisis. A dominant concern of the reform was on equality and social solidarity. A major means to this end was establishing universalistic social insurance programs like those in developed welfare states. The reform efforts produced some positive results but were not greatly successful. Income polarization and the deteriorating economic status of low‐income families have become big social issues. Many low‐income families have not gained many benefits from the reformed social security system. The rapid aging of the population is creating an exploding demand for social spending, risking the fiscal sustainability of major social insurance programs. The reform experience suggests that a social welfare system based on western‐style universal social insurance may be too expensive to sustain and not very effective in protecting disadvantaged families in Korea. More attention is being paid to expenditure control and efficiency. Social insurance programs may need to be leaner than those in traditional welfare states. Targeted programs, such as the “making work pay” policy, are likely to be expanded more broadly to low‐income families. The future of the Korean welfare state may hinge on successful employment support for working families and extensive investment in their human capital.
Intravenous iron as a transfusion alternative
Authors: MANIATIS ALICE
Published: September 2007

Intravenous iron has been used extensively in nephrology for decades. However, the rare but serious reactions associated with high‐molecular‐weight iron dextran administration have resulted in largely unjustified fears over its use, thus limiting its application in other indications. In Europe, and more recently in the USA, the availability of several iron formulations that are safe and effective – iron sucrose, ferric gluconate and low‐molecular‐weight iron dextran – has extended the use of intravenous iron to a number of medical settings. Although oral iron continues to be widely used in the correction of iron‐deficiency anemia, it cannot cover the needs of all patients. It is slow‐acting and not always well absorbed or well tolerated because of gastrointestinal disturbances. It takes weeks for oral iron to raise the hemoglobin level and months to replenish iron stores. Intravenous iron given to anemic iron‐deficient patients can raise the hemoglobin level in a few days and can replenish iron stores in a few weeks. Furthermore, it has been shown to correct the anemia of chronic disease when used in combination with exogenous erythropoietin. With some preparations, the total iron deficit can be corrected with one infusion, making the treatment more cost‐effective by eliminating repeat visits. Intravenous iron has contributed to decreasing the need for transfusions and to reducing the doses of erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents necessary to correct anemia in nephrology, in obstetrics and gynecology, in patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, and in surgery and orthopedics. The safety and ease of administration of the new iron preparations continues to expand the application of intravenous iron to new areas.
The passive, human calf muscles in relation to standing: the short range stiffness lies in the contractile component
Authors: Loram Ian D. , Maganaris Constantinos N. , Lakie Martin
Published: September 2007

Using short duration perturbations, previous attempts to measure the intrinsic ankle stiffness during human standing have revealed a substantial stabilizing contribution (65–90% normalized to load stiffness ‘mgh’). Others regard this method as unsuitable for the low‐frequency conditions of quiet standing and believe the passive contribution to be small (10–15%). This latter view, consistent with a linear Hill‐type model, argues that during standing, the contractile portion of the muscle is much less stiff than the tendon. Here, for upright subjects, we settle this issue by measuring the stiffness of the contractile portion of the passive calf muscles using low‐frequency ankle rotations. Using ultrasound we tracked the changes in muscle contractile length and partitioned the ankle rotation into contractile and extra‐contractile (series elastic) portions. Small ankle rotations of 0.15 and 0.4 deg show a contractile to series elastic stiffness ratio (Kce/Kse) of 12 ± 9 and 6.3 ± 10, respectively, with both elements displaying predominantly elastic behaviour. Larger, 7 deg rotations reveal the range of this ratio. It declines in a non‐linear way from a high value (Kce/Kse= 18 ± 11) to a low value (Kce/Kse= 1 ± 0.4) as rotation increases from 0.1 to 7 deg. There is a marked transition at around 0.5 deg. The series elastic stiffness (Kse/mgh) remains largely constant (77 ± 13%) demonstrating the contractile component origin of passive, short range stiffness. The linear Hill‐type model does not describe the range‐related stiffness relevant to the progression from quiet standing to perturbed balance and movement and can lead to inaccurate predictions regarding human balance.
Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species activate the slow force response to stretch in feline myocardium
Authors: Caldiz Claudia I. , Garciarena Carolina D. , Dulce Raúl A. , Novaretto Leonardo P. , Yeves Alejandra M. , Ennis Irene L. , Cingolani Horacio E. , Chiappe de Cingolani Gladys , Pérez Néstor G.
Published: September 2007

When the length of the myocardium is increased, a biphasic response to stretch occurs involving an initial rapid increase in force followed by a delayed slow increase called the slow force response (SFR). Confirming previous findings involving angiotensin II in the SFR, it was blunted by AT1 receptor blockade (losartan). The SFR was accompanied by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) of ∼30% and in intracellular Na+ concentration ([Na+]i) of ∼2.5 mmol l−1 over basal detected by H2DCFDA and SBFI fluorescence, respectively. Abolition of ROS by 2‐mercapto‐propionyl‐glycine (MPG) and EUK8 suppressed the increase in [Na+]i and the SFR, which were also blunted by Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE‐1) inhibition (HOE642). NADPH oxidase inhibition (apocynin or DPI) or blockade of the ATP‐sensitive mitochondrial potassium channels (5HD or glybenclamide) suppressed both the SFR and the increase in [Na+]i after stretch, suggesting that endogenous angiotensin II activated NADPH oxidase leading to ROS release by the ATP‐sensitive mitochondrial potassium channels, which promoted NHE‐1 activation. Supporting the notion of ROS‐mediated NHE‐1 activation, stretch increased the ERK1/2 and p90rsk kinases phosphorylation, effect that was cancelled by losartan. In agreement, the SFR was cancelled by inhibiting the ERK1/2 signalling pathway with PD98059. Angiotensin II at a dose that mimics the SFR (1 nmol l−1) induced an increase in ·O2− production of ∼30–40% detected by lucigenin in cardiac slices, an effect that was blunted by losartan, MPG, apocynin, 5HD and glybenclamide. Taken together the data suggest a pivotal role of mitochondrial ROS in the genesis of the SFR to stretch.
Laterally resolved ion-distribution functions at the substrate position during magnetron sputtering of indium-tin oxide films
Authors: Plagemann A. , Ellmer K. , Wiesemann K.
Published: September 2007

During the magnetron sputtering from an indium-tin oxide (ITO) target (76mm diameter) we measured the ion-distribution functions (IDFs) of energetic ions (argon, indium, and oxygen ions) at the substrate surface using a combination of a quadrupole mass spectrometer and an electrostatic energy analyzer. We obtained the IDFs for argon sputtering pressures in the range from 0.08to2Pa and for dc as well as rf (13.56MHz) plasma excitation with powers from 10to100W. The IDF measurements were performed both over the target center at a target-to-substrate distance of 65mm and at different positions along the target radius in order to scan the erosion track of the target. The mean kinetic energies of argon ions calculated from the IDFs in the dc plasma decreased from about 30to15eV, when the argon pressure increased from 0.08to2Pa, which is caused by a decrease of the electron temperature also by a factor of 2. Indium atoms exhibit higher mean energies due to their additional energy from the sputtering process. The total metal ion flux turns out to be proportional to the discharge power and the pressure, the latter dependence being due to Penning ionization of the metal atoms (In and Sn). From the scans across the target surface the lateral distributions of metal, oxygen, and argon ions were derived. In the dc discharge the position of the erosion track is reproduced by increased ion intensities, while it is not the case for the rf excited plasma. The lateral variations of the observed species do not influence the lateral resistivity distributions of the deposited ITO films.
Deposition of TiN and HfO2 in a commercial 200mm remote plasma atomic layer deposition reactor
Authors: Heil S. B. S. , van Hemmen J. L. , Hodson C. J. , Singh N. , Klootwijk J. H. , Roozeboom F. , van de Sanden M. C. M. , Kessels W. M. M.
Published: September 2007

The authors describe a remote plasma atomic layer deposition reactor (Oxford Instruments FlexAL™) that includes an inductively coupled plasma source and a load lock capable of handling substrates up to 200mm in diameter. The deposition of titanium nitride (TiN) and hafnium oxide (HfO2) is described for the combination of the metal-halide precursor TiCl4 and H2–N2 plasma and the combination of the metallorganic precursor Hf[N(CH3)(C2H5)]4 and O2 plasma, respectively. The influence of the plasma exposure time and substrate temperature has been studied and compositional, structural, and electrical properties are reported. TiN films with a low Cl impurity content were obtained at 350°C at a growth rate of 0.35Å∕cycle with an electrical resistivity as low as 150μΩcm. Carbon-free (detection limit <2at.%) HfO2 films were obtained at a growth rate of 1.0Å∕cycle at 290°C. The thickness and resisitivity nonuniformity was <5% for the TiN and the thickness uniformality was <2% for the HfO2 films as determined over 200mm wafers.
Cr N x and Cr1−xAlxN as template films for the growth of α-alumina using ac reactive magnetron sputtering
Authors: Pulugurtha S. R. , Bhat D. G. , Gordon M. H.
Published: September 2007

Crystalline alumina thin films were deposited on WC–Co substrates using a reactive inverted cylindrical ac magnetron sputtering technique with a chromium oxide prelayer. The interfacial prelayer of chromium oxide was prepared by controlled oxidation of CrNx and Cr1−xAlxN films deposited previously using the same ac reactive magnetron configured with one Cr and Al target. The oxidation was carried out by annealing CrNx and Cr1−xAlxN films in air at 973 and 1373K, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray microanalysis were carried out to investigate the thin film surface morphology and composition. The alumina coatings obtained on oxidized CrNx films (templates) were smooth and consisted primarily of κ and α phases. The diffraction peaks from the γ phase were not observed in any of the alumina coatings. The morphology and phase composition of the alumina coatings on the oxidized Cr1−xAlxN films (templates) were strongly dependent on the aluminum content in the films.
In situ attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of hafnium (IV) tert butoxide adsorption onto hydrogen terminated Si (100) and Si (111)
Authors: Li K. , Dubey S. , Bhandari H. B. , Hu Z. , Turner C. H. , Klein T. M.
Published: September 2007

Hafnium oxide ultra thin films on Si are being developed to replace thermally grown SiO2 gates in complementary metal-oxide semiconductor devices. In this work, a specially designed attenuated total reflectance (ATR) Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reaction cell has been developed to observe adsorption of hafnium (IV) t-butoxide (HtB) onto a Si (100), Si (111), and Ge ATR crystal heated to temperatures between 60 and 250°C and under 0.4torr of vacuum allowing the observation of initial reaction pathways in real time. Spectra generated by density functional theory calculations of monodentate and bridging adsorbed precursors as well as a spectrum of an applied liquid drop of HtB precursor were used to identify the chemisorbed species. Two symmetric O–tBu umbrella modes from bridged Si–O–Hf(O–tBu)2–O–Si located at 1226 and 1016cm−1 present in the chemisorbed spectra show the precursor dissociates and is present as a bridging ligand on both Si(100) and Si(111). Surface concentration of the chemisorbed species was dependent on the substrate temperature allowing for determination of adsorption activation energies of 11 (±2)kJ∕mol for HtB on Si (100) for the temperature range of 110–185°C and 1 (±0.1)kJ∕mol on Si(100) and Si(111) at temperatures between 60 and 110°C. Precursor decomposition on the surface is observed at temperatures above 185°C.
The Productivity of Prediction and Explanation
Authors: Jones Matthew L.
Published: September 2007

The Intelligibility of Nature
. How Science Makes Sense of the World.
By Peter Dear
. University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 2006. 254 pp. $27.50, £17.50. ISBN 9780226139487. Science.Culture.

In this consideration of the evolution of science, Dear emphasizes a tension between two distinct but frequently conflated ends: doing and knowing.
Maternally determined adaptation to acidity inRana arvalis: Are laboratory and field estimates of embryonic stress tolerance congruent?
Authors: Persson M. , Räsänen K. , Laurila A. , Merilä J.
Published: September 2007

Geographic variation indicating local adaptation, as well as its quantitative genetic basis, is commonly investigated in common garden experiments in the laboratory. However, the applicability of laboratory results to the complex conditions experienced by populations in the wild may be limited. Our previous laboratory experiments showed maternally determined local adaptation in embryonic acid-stress tolerance (viz. survival) of the moor frog, Rana arvalis Nilsson, 1842. Here we tested whether this laboratory finding holds even when embryos are exposed to acid stress in the wild. We conducted reciprocal crosses between an acid-origin population and a neutral-origin population of R. arvalis and transplanted the embryos to an acid site (pH ~4) in the field. Embryonic survival was much lower in the field experiment than in previous laboratory experiments, but, consistent with laboratory work, embryos from acid-origin females had threefold higher survival than embryos from neutral-origin females. These results suggest that laboratory tests can provide appropriate estimates of among population variation, as well as the quantitative genetic basis of acid-stress tolerance in amphibians.
Chronic Proteasome Inhibition Contributes to Coronary Atherosclerosis
Authors: Herrmann Joerg , Saguner Ardan M. , Versari Daniele , Peterson Timothy E. , Chade Alejandro , Olson Monica , Lerman Lilach O. , Lerman Amir
Published: September 2007

The proteasome is responsible for the degradation of oxidized proteins, and proteasome inhibition has been shown to generate oxidative stress in vitro. Atherosclerosis is thought to be initiated as a consequence of increased endogenous oxidative stress. The current study was designed to assess whether chronic proteasome inhibition is associated with early coronary atherosclerosis. Female pigs, 3 months of age, were randomized to a normal (N) or high-cholesterol (HC) diet (2% cholesterol, 15% lard) without or with twice weekly subcutaneous injections of the proteasome inhibitor (PSI) MLN-273 (0.08 mg/kg, N+PSI and HC+PSI) for a period of 12 weeks (n=5 per group). Coronary vasorelaxation to bradykinin (10−10.5to 10−6.5mol/L) and sodium nitroprusside (10−9to 10−5mol/L) was assessed by in vitro organ chamber experiments, intima–media ratio by morphometric analysis of Elastica–van Gieson–stained slides, and intima superoxide production by dihydroethidium fluorescence. Vasorelaxation to 10−6.5mol/L bradykinin was reduced in HC compared with N (69±7 versus 90±2%,P<0.05) and further reduced in N+PSI and HC+PSI (57±6 and 48±13%,P<0.05 versus N and HC for each). Compared with N (0.03±0.01), intima–media ratio was higher in N+PSI (0.09±0.04,P<0.01) and HC+PSI (0.15±0.06,P<0.05). Compared with N (0.6±0.9% of intima area), dihydroethidium fluorescence was higher in HC, N+PSI, and HC+PSI (8.9±1.6, 6.0±3.5, and 7.2±3.9% of intima area,P<0.05 for all). Thus, chronic proteasome inhibition is associated with increased coronary artery oxidative stress and early atherosclerosis. These findings support the significance of the proteasome and related protein quality control for vascular biology and pathology.
Enhanced Detection of Thromboemboli With the Use of Targeted Microbubbles
Authors: Martin Matthew J. , Chung Emma M.L. , Goodall Alison H. , Martina Alberto Della , Ramnarine Kumar V. , Fan Lingke , Hainsworth Sarah V. , Naylor A. Ross , Evans David H.
Published: September 2007

Background and Purpose—

Targeted ultrasound contrast agents have recently been developed to adhere selectively to specific pathogenic materials such as plaque or thrombus. Administration of such microbubbles has potential to aid transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) detection of emboli and to act as markers for distinguishing one embolic material from another. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether TCD detection of circulating thrombus emboli would be enhanced by the addition of targeted microbubbles.

Methods—

Binding of microbubbles to the surface of the thrombus was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. Targeted and control bubbles were then introduced to thrombus and tissue-mimicking material circulated under pulsatile-flow conditions in an in vitro flow rig. Embolic signal intensities before and after introduction of the bubbles were measured by TCD.

Results—

Targeted microbubbles enhanced TCD signal intensities from thrombus emboli by up to 13 dB. The bubbles were capable of binding to moving thrombus when injected into the flow circuit in low concentrations (≈36 bubbles per 100 mL) and were retained on the thrombus under pulsatile-flow conditions. Signal intensities from similarly sized pieces of tissue-mimicking material were not enhanced by injection of targeted bubbles.

Conclusions—

Injection of appropriately targeted microbubbles significantly enhances TCD detection of circulating thrombus emboli in vitro.
Mexican-Hispanic Self-Employment Entry: The Role of Business Start-Up Constraints
Authors: Lofstrom Magnus , Wang Chunbei
Published: September 2007

This article examines causes of the low self-employment rates among Mexican-Hispanics by studying self-employment entry using the 1996 panel of the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP). The data show that Mexican-Hispanics are less likely to be self-employed or enter self-employment, relative to non-Hispanic whites. The authors analyze self-employment by recognizing heterogeneity in business ownership across industries and show that a classification of firms by human and financial capital “intensiveness,” or entry barriers, is effective in explaining differences in entrepreneurship across ethnic groups. The authors show that the lower self-employment entry rates among Mexican-Hispanics are due to lower entry rates into business ownership of firms in relatively high-barrier industries. In fact, Hispanics are more likely to start up a business in a low-barrier industry than whites.
Micro-Macro Linking Using System Dynamics Modeling: An Examination of Eco-Labeling Effects for Farmed Shrimp
Authors: Arquitt Steven P. , Cornwell T. Bettina
Published: September 2007

Eco-labeling has been heralded as a market-based approach useful in addressing environmental issues. While a growing number of eco-labeling projects are found in nations around the world, most models examining eco-labeling effects tend to be focused either on environmental impacts or consumer adoption of eco-labeled goods and do not attempt to link consumer behavior to environmental impact. The current article offers a somewhat different approach by using system dynamics modeling to capture both consumer adoption and environmental conservation for a case example of farmed shrimp. Policy analyses conducted via simulations suggest that consumers' willingness to pay for eco-labeled products is influential on the success of eco-labeling initiatives. Raising willingness to pay by appealing to personal health issues through promoting organic products may be an effective policy lever to lessen environmental impacts at production sites.
Voluntary Codes of Ethical Conduct: Group Membership Salience and Globally Integrated Marketing Communications Perspectives
Authors: Grein Andreas F. , Gould Stephen J.
Published: September 2007

Multinational corporations' and global institutions' codes of conduct are criticized as being ineffective, often because they are not able to accommodate local ethical perspectives. This article identifies two key marketing aspects for addressing this issue: group membership salience which recognizes local identity factors and globally integrated marketing communications which deals with how firms integrate global/local messages. Building on these two aspects, a model of levels of identity is developed, research propositions are generated, and four prominent codes are examined using textual analysis. Various gaps in these codes are identified and on that basis implications for the further development of codes are drawn.
Volunteer Dedication: Understanding the Role of Identity Importance on Participation Frequency
Authors: Laverie Debra A. , McDonald Robert E.
Published: September 2007

The nonprofit sector is an important part of the economic system, one that relies heavily on volunteer labor. Understanding higher participation levels among volunteers, particularly volunteering marketing professionals, not only affects the performance of individual nonprofit organizations but also has profound impact on the entire nonprofit sector of the economy. Using identity theory adapted from the consumer behavior literature, the authors investigate the motivation of dedicated volunteers. Results suggest that organizational attachment, involvement, emotions, and identity importance are useful for understanding volunteers' dedication. In this context, devoted volunteers make a significant impact on societal welfare.