bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of production environment, genotype and process on the mineral content of native bitter potato cultivars converted into white chuño
Authors: de Haan Stef , Burgos Gabriela , Ccanto Raul , Arcos Jesus , Scurrah Maria , Salas Elisa , Bonierbale Merideth
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Variables and interaction effects affecting the mineral concentration of Andean bitter potatoes converted into so‐called white chuño are unknown. We report on the effect of three contrasting production environments (E) on the dry matter (DM), zinc, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and sodium concentration of four potato native bitter genotypes (G) processed (P) into two different ‘types’ of white chuño.

RESULTS: The DM content and iron, calcium, magnesium and sodium concentration of white chuño are significantly dependent on E, G, P, and E × G × P interaction (predominantly at P < 0.01). In particular, the DM content and calcium concentration are influenced by all variables and possible interaction effects. The zinc and potassium concentration are not significantly dependent on E × G, G × P or E × G × P interaction effects, while the phosphorus concentration is not significantly affected by the G × P or E × G × P interaction effect. Zinc, phosphorus and magnesium concentrations decrease in the ranges of 48.3–81.5%, 61.2–73.0% and 62.0–89.7% respectively. The decrease in potassium is particularly severe, with 122‐ to 330‐fold losses. Iron and calcium increase by 11.2–45.6% and 74.5–714.9% respectively.

CONCLUSION: E, G, P, and various interaction effects influence the mineral concentration of traditionally processed tubers. We speculate that mineral losses are caused by leaching, while increases of iron and calcium are a likely result of absorption. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Tumor spectrum in lynch syndrome, DNA mismatch repair system and endogenous carcinogens
Authors: Medina‐Arana Vicente , Delgado Luciano , Bravo Alberto , Martín Juana , Fernández‐Peralta Antonia M. , González‐Aguilera Juan J.
Published: January 2012

Inactivation of Mismatch Repair genes in Lynch Syndrome, caused by inherited mutations, decreases the ability to repair DNA errors throughout life. This deficit may allow the development of any tumor type. Nevertheless, the Syndrome develops a specific tumor spectrum associated with the disease. We think that such spectrum of tumors would be related to the action of certain endogenous carcinogens such as bile acids and estrogens that aggravate the inherited defect. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:10–16. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vivo analysis of laser preconditioning in incisional wound healing of wild‐type and HSP70 knockout mice with Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Makowski Alexander J. , Davidson Jeffrey M. , Mahadevan‐Jansen Anita , Jansen E. Duco
Published: January 2012

Background and Objective

Laser preconditioning augments incisional wound healing by reducing scar tissue and increasing maximum tensile load of the healed wound [Wilmink et al. (2009) J Invest Dermatol 129(1): 205–216]. Recent studies have optimized treatments or confirmed results using HSP70 as a biomarker. Under the hypothesis that HSP70 plays a role in reported results and to better understand the downstream effects of laser preconditioning, this study utilized a probe‐based Raman spectroscopy (RS) system to achieve an in vivo, spatio‐temporal biochemical profile of murine skin incisional wounds as a function of laser preconditioning and the presence of HSP70.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A total of 19 wild‐type (WT) and HSP70 knockout (HSP70−/−) C57BL/6 mice underwent normal and laser preconditioned incisional wounds. Laser thermal preconditioning was conducted via previously established protocol (λ = 1.85 µm, H0 = 7.64 mJ/cm2 per pulse, spot diameter = 5 mm, Rep. rate = 50 Hz, τp = 2 milliseconds, exposure time = 10 minutes) with an Aculight Renoir diode laser, with tissue temperature confirmed by real‐time infrared camera measurements. Wound‐healing progression was quantified by daily collection of a spatial distribution of Raman spectra. The results of RS findings were then qualified using standard histology and polarization microscopy.

Results

Raman spectra yielded significant differences (t‐test; α =0.05) in several known biochemical peaks between WT and HSP70 (−/−) mice on wounds and in adjacent tissue early in the wound‐healing process. Analysis of peak ratios implied (i) an increase in protein configuration in and surrounding the wound in WT mice, and (ii) an increased cellular trend in WT mice that was prolonged due to laser treatment. Polarization microscopy confirmed that laser treated WT mice showed increased heterogeneity in collagen orientation.

Conclusions

The data herein supports the theory that HSP70 is involved in normal skin protein configuration and the cellularity of early wound healing. Laser preconditioning extends cellular trends in the presence of HSP70. Despite study limitations, RS provided a non‐invasive method for quantifying temporal trends in altered wound healing, narrowing candidates and design for future studies with clinically applicable instrumentation. Lasers Surg. Med. 44:233–244, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low‐Level Laser Therapy for Closed‐Head Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice: Effect of Different Wavelengths
Authors: Wu Qiuhe , Xuan Weijun , Ando Takahiro , Xu Tao , Huang Liyi , Huang Ying‐Ying , Dai Tianghong , Dhital Saphala , Sharma Sulbha K. , Whalen Michael J. , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: January 2012

Background and Objectives

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects millions worldwide and is without effective treatment. One area that is attracting growing interest is the use of transcranial low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) to treat TBI. The fact that near‐infrared light can penetrate into the brain would allow non‐invasive treatment to be carried out with a low likelihood of treatment‐related adverse events. LLLT may treat TBI by increasing respiration in the mitochondria, causing activation of transcription factors, reducing inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress, and inhibiting apoptosis.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We tested LLLT in a mouse model of closed‐head TBI produced by a controlled weight drop onto the skull. Mice received a single treatment with continuous‐wave 665, 730, 810, or 980 nm lasers (36 J/cm2 delivered at 150 mW/cm2) 4‐hour post‐TBI and were followed up by neurological performance testing for 4 weeks.

Results

Mice with moderate‐to‐severe TBI treated with 665 and 810 nm laser (but not with 730 or 980 nm) had a significant improvement in Neurological Severity Score that increased over the course of the follow‐up compared to sham‐treated controls. Morphometry of brain sections showed a reduction in small deficits in 665 and 810 nm laser treated mouse brains at 28 days.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of 810 nm agrees with previous publications, and together with the effectiveness of 660 nm and non‐effectiveness of 730 and 980 nm can be explained by the absorption spectrum of cytochrome oxidase, the candidate mitochondrial chromophore in transcranial LLLT. Lasers Surg. Med. 44:218–226, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigation of the Slow Crack Growth Behavior of Static and Cyclic Loaded Specimens of Polyethylene by 2D and 3D Optical Fracture Surface Analysis
Authors: Frank Andreas , Bruckmoser Katharina , Redhead Anita , Gruber Dieter P. , Pinter Gerald
Published: January 2012

Summary: A fracture surface investigation was conducted to study the applicability of cracked round bar (CRB) specimens for an accelerated extrapolation concept for a lifetime assessment of polyethylene (PE) pipes. Scanning electron microscopy and topography metrology with InfiniteFocus were used to study the slow crack growth behavior in CRB specimens at different loading conditions. The results confirm the compliance of the CRB test with the requirements of linear elastic fracture mechanics.
Modelling Monomer/Disc Composites Phase Behaviour
Authors: Torrens Francisco , Gómez Clara M. , Monzó Isidro S. , Abad Concepción , Campos Agustín
Published: January 2012

Summary: A model developed by Balazs' group to explain the phase behaviour of polymer/clay composites is extended to obtain an expression for the free energy of polymer/thin disc mixtures. Phase diagrams for monomer/disc mixtures are built by minimizing the free energy and calculating the chemical potentials of the three system components. Via the comparison of the diagrams, it is studied the effects of nanodisc size and interaction parameters on mixture stability and attained morphology. The performed predictions between monomers and discs give criteria that advance the properties of the mixture. Changes in monomer concentration and interaction parameters provide a means to prevent van der Waals‐induced agglomeration. The model takes into account, in only a rather approximate manner, the long‐range interactions between clay sheets.
Contributions to the Characterization of Chlorinated Polyisoprene Surfaces
Authors: Lenko Dietmar , Schlögl Sandra , Kramer Rebecca , Kern Wolfgang , Schaller Raimund , Holzner Armin
Published: January 2012

Summary: The present work is focused on the characterization of the surface properties and the mechanical properties of chlorinated polyisoprene films. Cross‐linked polyisoprene films were treated with acidified hypochlorite solution and the influence of the chlorination time on the surface properties was determined by spectroscopic techniques including FT‐IR spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The surface morphology was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy and contact angle measurements. In addition, the effect of the chlorination time on the tensile strength and ageing stability of natural rubber latex gloves was investigated.
The role of sodium channels in chronic pain
Authors: Levinson Simon R. , Luo Songjiang , Henry Michael A.
Published: January 2012

Here we review recent research into the mechanisms of chronic pain that has focused on neuronal sodium channels, a target of classic analgesic agents. We first discuss evidence that specific sodium channel isoforms are essential for the detection and conduction of normal acutely painful stimuli from nociceptors. We then review findings that show changes in sodium channel expression and localization in chronic inflammation and nerve injury in animal and human tissues. We conclude by discussing the role that myelination plays in organizing and maintaining sodium channel clusters at nodes of Ranvier in normal development and how inflammatory processes or nerve injury alter the characteristics of such clusters. Based on these findings, we suggest that chronic pain may in part result from partial demyelination of axons during chronic injury, which creates aberrant sodium channel clusters that serve as sites of ectopic sensitivity or spontaneous activity. Muscle Nerve 46: 155–165, 2012
Peripheral muscle weakness in RASopathies
Authors: Stevenson David A. , Allen Shawn , Tidyman William E. , Carey John C. , Viskochil David H. , Stevens Austin , Hanson Heather , Sheng Xiaoming , Thompson Brandi A. , J. Okumura Megumi , Reinker Kent , Johnson Barbara , Rauen Katherine A.
Published: January 2012

Introduction: RASopathies are a group of genetic conditions due to alterations of the Ras/MAPK pathway. Neurocutaneous findings are hallmark features of the RASopathies, but musculoskeletal abnormalities are also frequent. The objective was to evaluate handgrip strength in the RASopathies. Methods: Individuals with RASopathies (e.g., Noonan syndrome, Costello syndrome, cardio‐facio‐cutaneous [CFC] syndrome, and neurofibromatosis type 1 [NF1]) and healthy controls were evaluated. Two methods of handgrip strength were tested: GRIP‐D Takei Hand Grip Dynamometer and the Martin vigorimeter. A general linear model was fitted to compare average strength among the groups, controlling for confounders such as age, gender, height, and weight. Results: Takei dynamometer: handgrip strength was decreased in each of the syndromes compared with controls. Decreased handgrip strength compared with sibling controls was also seen with the Martin vigorimeter (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Handgrip strength is decreased in the RASopathies. The etiology of the reduced muscle force is unknown, but likely multifactorial. Muscle Nerve 46: 394–399, 2012
Nerve ultrasound follow‐up in a child with Guillain‐Barré syndrome
Authors: Almeida Vânia , Mariotti Paolo , Veltri Stefania , Erra Carmen , Padua Luca
Published: January 2012

Introduction: Nerve ultrasound has been used increasingly in neurophysiology laboratories, but data on Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) are still limited, and no follow‐up studies are available. Case report: An 8‐year‐old boy was admitted with severe demyelinating GBS. Serial neurophysiological evaluations were performed initially and in follow‐up. Ultrasound studies showed diffuse and heterogeneous nerve swelling and focal enlargement of single fascicles inside the nerve. Together with clinical and electrophysiological improvement, progressive normalization of ultrasound changes was seen. Conclusions: Ultrasound demonstrated structural nerve abnormalities in GBS. These changes normalized as the patient improved clinically and electrophysiologically. Further studies are needed to elucidate the diagnostic and prognostic value of ultrasound in GBS. Muscle Nerve 46: 270–275, 2012
Childhood muscle morphology and strength: Alterations over six months of growth
Authors: Pitcher Christian A. , Elliott Catherine M. , Williams Sîan A. , Licari Melissa K. , Kuenzel Alex , Shipman Peter J. , Valentine Jane P. , Reid Siobhán L.
Published: January 2012

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to establish the nature and stability of the strength‐size relationship for the knee flexors and extensors across a 6‐month period of childhood growth.

Methods:

Nineteen typically developing children aged 5–11 years underwent lower limb magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and dynamometry strength assessments on 2 occasions, 6 months apart. Muscle volume (MV) and maximum anatomical cross‐sectional area (aCSA) for the knee flexors and extensors were determined using MRI analysis software. Isokinetic dynamometry determined corresponding isometric and isokinetic strength.

Results:

Strong correlations were found between muscle size and strength for both the knee flexors and extensors (r = 0.84–0.90; P < 0.01). Furthermore, the ratio of strength to muscle size remained consistent across 6 months of prepubescent growth.

Conclusions:

Increases in thigh muscle strength were relative to those in muscle size, suggesting that muscle growth may play an important role in the development of strength during childhood. Muscle Nerve 46: 360–366, 2012
Cost‐effectiveness of involving nurse specialists for adult patients with urinary incontinence in primary care compared to care‐as‐usual: An economic evaluation alongside a pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Albers‐Heitner C.P. , Joore M.A. , Winkens R.A.G. , Lagro‐Janssen A.L.M. , Severens J.L. , Berghmans L.C.M.
Published: January 2012

Aims

To determine the 12‐month, societal cost‐effectiveness of involving urinary incontinence (UI) nurse specialists in primary care compared to care‐as‐usual by general practitioners (GPs).

Methods

From 2005 until 2008 an economic evaluation was performed alongside a pragmatic multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing UI patients receiving care by nurse specialists with patients receiving care‐as‐usual by GPs in the Netherlands. One hundred eighty‐six adult patients with stress, urgency, or mixed UI were randomly allocated to the intervention and 198 to care‐as‐usual; they were followed for 1 year. Main outcome measures were Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALYsocietal) based on societal preferences for health outcomes (EuroQol‐5D), QALYpatientbased on patient preferences for health outcomes (EuroQol VAS), and Incontinence Severity weighted Life Year (ISLY) based on patient‐reported severity and impact of UI (ICIQ‐UI SF). Health care resource use, patient and family costs, and productivity costs were assessed. Data were collected by three monthly questionnaires. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios were calculated. Uncertainty was assessed using bootstrap simulation, and the expected value of perfect information was calculated (EVPI).

Results

Compared to care‐as‐usual, nurse specialist involvement costs € 16,742/QALYsocietalgained. Both QALYpatientand ISLY yield slightly more favorable cost‐effectiveness results. At a threshold of € 40,000/QALYsocietal,the probability that the intervention is cost‐effective is 58%. The EVPI amounts to € 78 million.

Conclusions

Based on these results, we recommend adopting the nurse specialist intervention in primary care, while conducting more research through careful monitoring of the effectiveness and costs of the intervention in routine practice. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:526–534, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HUMAN NATURE AND MORALITY IN THE ANTI‐CORRUPTION DISCOURSE OF TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL
Authors: Gebel Anja C.
Published: January 2012

Against the background of failing anti‐corruption programmes, this article examines the discourse of the anti‐corruption international non‐governmental organisation Transparency International (TI), thereby focussing on the organisation's use of the concepts of integrity and ethics. Their meaning and significance is explored by looking at policy measures advocated by TI and particularly at the conception of human nature underlying the organisation's discourse. On the basis of TI documents and interviews with TI staff, the article argues that there is dominance within TI discourse of a mechanistic conception of human nature as rational and self‐interested. This leads to an over‐emphasis on institutional engineering and the strengthening of oversight and control (to set ‘disincentives’ for corruption), while neglecting the social–moral components of human behaviour as well as the political processes of their generation. This conception of human behaviour makes concepts such as ‘ethics’ mean not much more than ‘rules’, ‘integrity’ mean no more than ‘rule‐conforming behaviour’ and ‘prevention’ mean no more than ‘control’. While discussing some of the difficulties involved in addressing morals, the article argues that without reconsidering its conception of human nature, it will be difficult for TI to re‐orient and improve its approach. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
INTRODUCTION TO THE SPECIAL ISSUE: THE GLOBAL ANTI‐CORRUPTION DISCOURSE—TOWARDS INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT?
Authors: Collins Paul D.
Published: January 2012

In introducing the special issue, this essay draws together international experiences by way of examples that have appeared in the Public Administration and Development journal over recent decades. What has worked in global anti‐corruption? What has not? And is there a need for a more holistic approach to global anti‐corruption in terms of integrity management, given that the nature of public sector corruption is changing and boundaries between public and private sectors have become politically blurred?

Against the background of key concepts, what have been the trends and issues of corruption and integrity in the public/civil services and honest government at national and international levels? The range of approaches and strategies are outlined, followed by selected national cases across the regions. Second, the essay assesses the major institutional approaches and their shortcomings and presents elements of an alternative approach on the basis of civic education and the nurturing of reflexivity. Citizens are central to this thinking in terms of sensitising them to public ethics. (Re)orienting public officials towards becoming reflective public officials, that is, why they are public officials and who is the public, could not be more pertinent to recent revolutionary events in much of the Arab world. The debate continues. Recent developments such as political corruption and corruption at the sectoral (e.g. water and education), decentralised, local government and city levels are discussed. Although we cannot switch entirely to personal values, the technical solutions by themselves have not proved as successful as their proponents had hoped, and other approaches are essential to replace and/or complement them.1

Finally, the focus of the special issue is outlined, with its stress on providing perspectives that not only add to the discourse on global anti‐corruption but provide practitioners with policy‐relevant guidance. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
When are amniotic fluid viral PCR studies indicated in prenatal diagnosis?
Authors: Adams L. L. , Gungor S. , Turan S. , Kopelman J. N. , Harman C. R. , Baschat A. A.
Published: January 2012

Objective

To determine which prenatal ultrasound findings indicate the need to also obtain PCR studies for viral genome in women undergoing midtrimester amniocentesis.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study on women that underwent amniotic fluid karyotyping and viral PCR testing for history or ultrasound based indication. Amniotic fluid was tested for adenovirus, cytomegalovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, enterovirus, Epstein–Barr virus, and parvovirus B19 using multiplex PCR study with multiple appropriate controls. Ultrasound findings were coded as normal or abnormal with 34 categories of ultrasound abnormality stratified into 18 subgroups. Relationships between these subgroups and karyotype/PCR results were tested by Pearson chi‐square method or Fisher's exact test and overall logistic regression analysis.

Results

Amniotic fluid samples from 1191 patients were obtained for the study. Abnormal karyotype was detected in 5.4% of cases (64/1191), and PCR was positive in 6.5% of cases (77/1191). Abnormal fetal ultrasonographic findings were observed in 28.4% of cases (338/1191). There was an association between intrauterine growth restriction, nonimmune hydrops fetalis, hand/foot anomalies or neural tube defects (NTDs), and PCR positivity. NTDs were associated with PCR positivity in fetuses with normal karyotype and nuchal thickening, cardiac or ventral wall defects were specifically associated with aneuploidy.

Conclusion

Amniotic fluid viral PCR testing should be considered for fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction, nonimmune hydrops fetalis, hand/foot anomalies, or NTDs. After aneuploidy is excluded, NTDs are associated with PCR positivity. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymer dynamics with inertia
Authors: Deutsch J. M.
Published: January 2012

Some important recent advances in polymer science involve situations where molecular inertia plays an important role, for example, in the mass spectroscopy of large macromolecules. Only recently have we begun to understand how to analyze dynamics in such situations and what effects inertia has. In this review, we describe what is known about such effects and how nonlinearity plays a crucial role in generating damping, which is of a very different nature than is normally assumed. Not only is such analysis important in understanding polymers in low density environments but also in understanding the internal friction of a polymer chain in solution. The understanding of such situations is still in its infancy and we close by propounding a set of diverse questions for further study. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Quantitative structure–activity relationships of monoterpenoid binding activities to the housefly GABA receptor
Authors: Tong Fan , Coats Joel R
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Monoterpenoids are a large group of plant secondary metabolites. Many of these naturally occurring compounds have shown good insecticidal potency on pest insects. Previous studies in this laboratory have indicated that some monoterpenoids have positive modulatory effects on insect GABA receptors. In this study, the key properties of monoterpenoids involved in monoterpenoid binding activity at the housefly GABA receptor were determined by developing quantitative structure‐activity relationship (QSAR) models, and the relationship between the toxicities of these monoterpenoids and their GABA receptor binding activities was evaluated.

RESULTS: Two QSAR models were determined for nine monoterpenoids showing significant effects on [3H]‐TBOB binding and for nine p‐menthane analogs with at least one oxygen atom attached to the ring. The Mulliken charges on certain carbon atoms, the log P value and the total energy showed significant relationships with binding activities to the housefly GABA receptor in these two QSAR models.

CONCLUSIONS: From the QSAR models, some chemical and structural parameters, including the electronic properties, hydrophobicity and stability of monoterpenoid molecules, were suggested to be strongly involved in binding activities to the housefly GABA receptor. These findings will help to understand the mode of action of these natural insecticides, and provide guidance to predict more monoterpenoid insecticides. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Can rodent outbreaks be driven by major climatic events? Evidence from cyclone Nargis in the Ayeyawady Delta, Myanmar
Authors: Htwe Nyo Me , Singleton Grant R , Nelson Andrew D
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Massive rodent population outbreaks occurred in the Ayeyarwady Delta, Myanmar, in July 2009, 15 months after cyclone Nargis. Satellite imagery with high temporal frequency was used to identify the area and planting time of rice at a landscape scale of > 80 000 ha, and household surveys of farmers were conducted to validate the mapping and to quantify losses.

RESULTS: Farmers did not have problems with rodents in 2007–2008; rodents were the principal problem in the 2009 summer and monsoon rice crops. The landscape scale modeling indicated that high rodent densities in 2009 were associated with extended or delayed cropping and harvesting time because of asynchronous planting, and with an increase in the amount of abandoned agricultural land after cyclone Nargis.

CONCLUSION: Asynchronous planting following cyclone Nargis provided abundant high‐quality food for an extended period, which in turn led to a lengthened breeding season of rodents. The outbreak of populations 15 months after cyclone Nargis is consistent with the time it would take rodent populations to build from a low base after a major flooding event. To prevent rodent outbreaks effectively, synchronous planting, use of rice varieties with a similar maturation date and good field sanitation are important actions for subsequent rice crops after a major weather event. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Structural and elastic properties of InN nanowires
Authors: Quddus Ehtesham B. , Wilson Alina , Liu Jie , Cai Zhihua , Veereddy Deepak , Tao Xinyong , Li Xiaodong , Webb Richard A. , Koley Goutam
Published: January 2012

Structural and elastic properties of InN nanowires (NWs) have been investigated. It was observed that the NWs bend spontaneously or upon meeting an obstacle in their growth path at angles that are multiples of 30°. Lithographically patterned trenches and barriers were found to influence the growth direction of the NWs, which depending on the angle of incidence, grew along the barrier or got deflected from it. Young's modulus of InN NWs, measured by three point bending method using a NW suspended across a trench, was found to be 266 GPa, which is in between the moduli of bulk and thin film InN. Overall, the InN NW properties were found to be very suitable for applications in nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) and sensors.
Effect of Pomegranate Juice on Intestinal Transport and Pharmacokinetics of Nitrendipine in Rats
Authors: Voruganti Swathi , Yamsani Shravan Kumar , Ravula Shiva Kumar , Gannu Ramesh , Yamsani Madhusudan Rao
Published: January 2012

Pomegranate juice (PJ) is known to be a potent inhibitor of human cytochromes (CYP), particularly CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of oral PJ on the pharmacokinetics of nitrendipine (10 mg/kg) in rats. The effect of PJ was also investigated on the absorption kinetics of nitrendipine in rats using a single‐pass intestinal perfusion model. There was a significant increase in effective permeability, absorption rate constant and fraction of drug absorbed in the pretreated group when compared with the control group, probably due to inhibition of the P‐glycoprotein‐mediated efflux of the drug by PJ. In comparison with control, PJ treatment significantly increased the area under the concentration–time curve of oral nitrendipine. The peak plasma concentration of nitrendipine was also significantly increased by PJ. However, elimination half‐life of nitrendipine was not altered significantly in both PJ co‐administered and pretreated groups. These results suggest that PJ inhibits the intestinal metabolism of nitrendipine without inhibiting the hepatic metabolism in rats. Therefore, the concomitant use of PJ, as food supplement, and nitrendipine should be avoided, although further clinical studies need to be undertaken in order to confirm this finding. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antihepatoma Activity of the Acid and Neutral Components from Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Lu Hui , Song Jie , Jia Xiao‐Bin , Feng Liang
Published: January 2012

Ganoderma lucidum extracts or isolated components have been shown previously to acquire many potential biochemical and pharmacological activities, including cancer preventive or antitumor effects. The supercritical fluid extracts of Ganoderma lucidum (total component, TC) and its acid component (AC) and neutral component (NC), were evaluated in vitro and in vivo for their antihepatoma activities. The NC showed a conspicuous inhibitory effect on tumor growth of Heps‐bearing mice, whereas AC was less effective. The TC, NC and AC all inhibited the proliferation of BEL‐7402 cells through apoptosis pathway and cell cycle arrest. Additionally, the NC and TC induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, but the AC resulted in a marked increase in the percentage of cells at G1 phase by flow cytometry. It is suggested that NC is an indispensable effective component in terms of antihepatoma activity and its constituents need to be investigated in detail. It was found that the NC, which was detected by GC‐MS, contained fatty acids and steroids; hence, it is proposed that some compounds such as long‐chain fatty acids and steroids in the NC might also contribute to the antihepatoma activity, although the anticancer activities of G. lucidum traditionally have been considered to be associated with triterpenoids. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An alkaline-active and alkali-stable pectate lyase from Streptomyces sp. S27 with potential in textile industry
Authors: Yuan Peng , Meng Kun , Shi Pengjun , Luo Huiying , Huang Huoqing , Tu Tao , Yang Peilong , Yao Bin
Published: January 2012

A pectate lyase gene (pl-str) was cloned from Streptomyces sp. S27 and expressed in Escherichia coli Rosetta. The full-length pl-str consists of 972 bp and encodes for a protein of 323 amino acids without signal peptide that belongs to family PF00544. The recombinant enzyme (r-PL-STR) was purified to electrophoretic homogeneity using Ni2+–NTA chromatography and showed apparent molecular mass of ~35 kDa. The pH optimum of r-PL-STR was found to be 10.0, and it exhibited >70% of the maximal activity at pH 12.0. After incubation at 37°C for 1 h without substrate, the enzyme retained more than 55% activity at pH 7.0–12.0. Compared with the commercial complex enzyme Scourzyme@301L from Novozymes, purified r-PL-STR showed similar efficacy in reducing the intrinsic viscosity of polygalacturonic acid (49.0 vs. 49.7%). When combined with cellulase and α-amylase, r-PL-STR had comparable performance in bioscouring of jute fabric (22.39 vs. 22.99%). Thus, r-PL-STR might represent a good candidate for use in alkaline industries such as textile.
Religion, Social Capital, and Health
Authors: Yeary Karen Hye-cheon Kim , Ounpraseuth Songthip , Moore Page , Bursac Zoran , Greene Paul
Published: January 2012

Religion's association with better physical health has been partially explained by health behaviors, psychosocial variables, and biological factors; but these factors do not fully explain the religion–health connection. In concert with the religion and health literature, a burgeoning literature has linked social capital with salubrious health outcomes. Religious organizations are recognized in the social capital literature as producers and facilitators of social capital. However, few studies have examined the potential mediating role of social capital in the religion–health relationship. Thus data from the 2006 Social Capital Community Benchmark Survey were analyzed for 10,828 adults. The composite unstandardized indirect effect from religion to social capital onto health was significant (β = 0.098; p < 0.001). The unstandardized direct pathway from religion to self-reported health (β = 0.015; p = 0.336) indicated that social capital is a mediator in the religion–health relationship. Among the demographic variables investigated, only age and income had a significant direct effect on self-reported health.
Identity development as a buffer of adolescent risk behaviors in the context of peer group pressure and control
Authors: Dumas Tara M. , Ellis Wendy E. , Wolfe David A.
Published: January 2012

We examined identity development as a moderator of the relation between peer group pressure and control and adolescents’ engagement in risk behaviors. Participants (n = 1070; Mage = 15.45 years) completed a self‐report measure of identity exploration, the degree to which they have explored a variety of self‐relevant values, beliefs and goals, and identity commitment, the degree to which they have secured a personal identity. Participants further reported on their frequency of risk behaviors (substance use and general deviancy) and experienced peer group pressure and control. Results confirmed that identity commitment was a buffer of substance use and identity exploration was a buffer of general deviancy in more pressuring peer groups. In more controlling peer groups, teens with greater identity commitment engaged in less risk behavior than teens with low‐identity commitment. Thus, identity development may be a suitable target to deter negative effects of peer pressure in high‐risk adolescents.
Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Diagnosis of Liver Fibrosis and Inflammation in Chronic Viral Hepatitis: The Performance of Low or High b Values and Small or Large Regions of Interest
Authors: Vaziri-Bozorg Seyed M. , Ghasemi-Esfe Ahmad R. , Khalilzadeh Omid , Mazloumi Mehdi , Nassiri-Toosi Mohsen , Ghanaati Hossein , Rokni-Yazdi Hadi
Published: January 2012

Objective

To investigate the performance of different b values and regions of interest (ROI) for diagnosing liver fibrosis in patients with chronic viral hepatitis by using diffusion-weighted (DW) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Eleven healthy participants and 33 patients with viral hepatitis B or C were enrolled. The stage of liver fibrosis and the grade of necroinflammation were determined by using a histologic activity index. Single-shot spin-echo echo-planar DW-MRI was performed in all participants at b values of 0-500, 0-700, and 0-1000 s/mm2 by using 2 circular small and large ROIs of 100 and 200 mm2. To evaluate the performance of different b values for determining cirrhosis, the receiver-operating characteristic curves were depicted, and the areas under the curves were compared.

Results

The average values of apparent diffusion coefficients significantly decreased with increasing stage or grade categories at all the 3 b values and for both small and large ROIs. The performance at b = 500 s/mm2 was significantly better than b = 1000 s/mm2 for determining cirrhosis or bridging fibrosis. The cut point of 153.4 for apparent diffusion coefficient (×10−5 mm2/s) at b = 500 s/mm2 could determine cirrhosis or bridging fibrosis with a sensitivity of 96% and specificity of 82%. No difference was found between the average apparent diffusion coefficient values of large or small ROIs. Also, there was no difference in performance of large or small ROIs in the diagnosis of liver fibrosis.

Conclusions

This study provided beneficial data for clinical utilisation of DW-MRI in diagnosing liver fibrosis: b = 500 s/mm2 is better in performance than b = 1000 s/mm2, and a small ROI of 100 mm2 is sufficient for determining cirrhosis or bridging fibrosis.
MIZ1, an essential protein for root hydrotropism, is associated with the cytoplasmic face of the endoplasmic reticulum membrane in Arabidopsis root cells
Authors: Yamazaki Tomokazu , Miyazawa Yutaka , Kobayashi Akie , Moriwaki Teppei , Fujii Nobuharu , Takahashi Hideyuki
Published: January 2012

MIZ1 is encoded by a gene essential for root hydrotropism in Arabidopsis. To characterize the property of MIZ1, we used transgenic plants expressing GFP‐tagged MIZ1 (MIZ1‐GFP) and mutant MIZ1 (MIZ1G235E‐GFP) in a miz1‐1 mutant. Although both chimeric genes were transcribed, the translational products of MIZ1G235E‐GFP did not accumulate in roots. Moreover, MIZ1‐GFP complemented the mutant phenotype but not MIZ1G235E‐GFP. The signal corresponding to MIZ1‐GFP was detected at high levels in cortical cells and lateral root cap cells and accumulated in compartments in cortical cells. MIZ1‐GFP was fractionated into a soluble protein fraction and an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane fraction, where it was bound to the surface of the ER membrane at the cytosolic side.
The Mesolithic–Neolithic transition in southern Iberia
Authors: Cortés Sánchez Miguel , Jiménez Espejo Francisco J. , Simón Vallejo María D. , Gibaja Bao Juan F. , Carvalho António Faustino , Martinez-Ruiz Francisca , Gamiz Marta Rodrigo , Flores José-Abel , Paytan Adina , López Sáez José A. , Peña-Chocarro Leonor , Carrión José S. , Muñiz Arturo Morales , Izquierdo Eufrasia Roselló , Riquelme Cantal José A. , Dean Rebecca M. , Salgueiro Emília , Martínez Sánchez Rafael M. , De la Rubia de Gracia Juan J. , Lozano Francisco María C. , Vera Peláez José L. , Rodríguez Laura Llorente , Bicho Nuno F.
Published: January 2012

New data and a review of historiographic information from Neolithic sites of the Malaga and Algarve coasts (southern Iberian Peninsula) and from the Maghreb (North Africa) reveal the existence of a Neolithic settlement at least from 7.5 cal ka BP. The agricultural and pastoralist food producing economy of that population rapidly replaced the coastal economies of the Mesolithic populations. The timing of this population and economic turnover coincided with major changes in the continental and marine ecosystems, including upwelling intensity, sea-level changes and increased aridity in the Sahara and along the Iberian coast. These changes likely impacted the subsistence strategies of the Mesolithic populations along the Iberian seascapes and resulted in abandonments manifested as sedimentary hiatuses in some areas during the Mesolithic–Neolithic transition. The rapid expansion and area of dispersal of the early Neolithic traits suggest the use of marine technology. Different evidences for a Maghrebian origin for the first colonists have been summarized. The recognition of an early North-African Neolithic influence in Southern Iberia and the Maghreb is vital for understanding the appearance and development of the Neolithic in Western Europe. Our review suggests links between climate change, resource allocation, and population turnover.
Malnutrition and intestinal helminth infections in schoolchildren from Dibanda, Cameroon
Authors: Mbuh J.V. , Nembu N.E.
Published: January 2012

Intestinal helminth infections and malnutrition constitute a major health burden in developing countries, with infants and children being the most vulnerable groups. The extent of the burden of intestinal helminth infections and malnutrition was investigated in a cross-sectional study involving 265 children aged between 4 and 14 years residing in Dibanda, a semi-rural area located in Buea, South West Region, Cameroon. The prevalence of intestinal helminth infections was determined microscopically after faecal samples were prepared by the formol-ether sedimentation concentration technique of stool analysis. Nutritional status was determined using age and the anthropometric parameters of weight and height. Standard deviation (SD) or Z scores of height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ) and weight-for-height (WHZ) were computed based on the World Health Organization 2006 growth reference curves. Anaemia was assessed by packed cell volume (PCV). The prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in the study population was 47.2% (125/265). All infections were of low intensity, withAscarisrecording the highest geometric mean egg count (GMEC) ±  SEM of 363.51 ± 60.35 (egg count range: 76–3000 eggs/gram of stool). Overall, 42.3% of children had PCV < 31%. Also, 47.2% of those with intestinal helminth infections also had PCV < 31%. The prevalence of malnutrition was 30.2% (80/265). Of 80 malnourished children, 5.3% were wasted ( < − 2SD weight-for-height Z-score), 7.2% underweight ( < − 2SD weight-for-age Z score) and 24.2% stunted ( < − 2SD height-for-age Z score). The mean values of all the anthropometric indices were lower in helminth-infected children. Findings from this study are strongly suggestive that intestinal helminth infections and malnutrition exist in children residing in Dibanda and constitute a major health problem that needs to be addressed immediately to reduce morbidity and mortality.
XXII.—On the Early Charters of the Borough of Newport in Wentloog
Authors: Morgan Octavius , Milman Henry Salusbury
Published: January 2012

The Lordship of Wentllwch, sometimes called the Lordship of Newport, is of considerable extent. It lies on the shore of the Bristol Channel, by which it is bounded on the south. On the west it is bounded by the river Rumney, which separates it from Glamorganshire, and on the east by the river Usk.
VII.—Second Report of Researches in a Cemetery of the Anglo-Saxon period at Brighthampton, Oxon. Addressed to the Earl Stanhope, President
Authors: Akerman John Yonge
Published: January 2012

I have the honour to report to the Society of Antiquaries the result of renewed researches during the present autumn in the Anglo-Saxon Cemetery at Brighthampton. The reliques on the table are evidence that on the former occasion this ancient burialplace was but partially explored. I have now the gratification of exhibiting a series of ancient remains inferior in interest to none that research or accident has brought to light in this country.
XXXI. On Sir Nicholas Bacon, Lord Keeper; with extracts from some of his unprinted Papers and Speeches
Authors: Collier John Payne
Published: January 2012

A manuscript volume in my possession, which formerly belonged to Sir Christopher Hatton, as testified by his own handwriting upon it, supplies some additional information respecting Sir Nicholas Bacon, Lord Keeper and father of Lord Chancellor Bacon, a notice of which seems not unsuited to the purposes of this Society. Sir Nicholas was a very unpretending man, as regards authorship: he published little or nothing in his lifetime; and perhaps the difficulties in which he was involved by, at least, assisting Hales, in his treatise on the title of the Scottish Queen, served as a warning to him how he again gave adversaries an advantage over him by printing a book. That book was the means of excluding him from the Privy Council, after he had been several years in possession of the Great Seal; and, owing to the animosity of the Earl of Leicester, he did not for some time re-establish himself in the favour of the Queen.
V.—The Ancient Charters of Winchester
Authors: Kirby Thomas Frederick
Published: January 2012

It was in the month of March 1884, I think, that the May or of Winchester, Mr. Thomas Stopher, asked me to look at some ancient documents which had been found put away in a garret over a solicitor's office in Winchester. The documents, when I went to the place, proved to be the long-lost Charters of the City. The discovery was one of some interest just then, when we citizens were all thinking of the approaching celebration of the seven-hundredth anniversary of the mayoralty, in the following month of July. The discovery, too, gave us a nearly complete series of charters from Henry II. to Henry VIII. inclusive, whereas the earliest charter previously known to be in existence was that of Queen Elizabeth, now exhibited in our museum.
XXIV.—On the Identification of the Roman Portus Lemanis
Authors: Black William Henry
Published: January 2012

On the 23rd of November last, I took occasion, in the course of some remarks on Dr. Thurnam's paper on the Wiltshire Long Barrows, to mention the titles of some papers which I had in my mind to communicate to this Society in the course of the present session; one of them was, “On the Roman Ports in Kent and Sussex.” Immediately afterward I was surprised by a discourse, pronounced in your hearing, by Mr. Lewin, who undertook to identify Hythe with the “Portus Lemanis.” My own views of the subject being quite at variance with the theory of that learned gentleman, I would have delivered myself, on the spot, of the sentiments which I entertained respecting his communication, while it was fresh before us; but the time was then too far advanced to permit a discussion, and the present date was therefore assigned to me as a peremptory term for answering the case set up by the learned advocate of Hythe.
XXIX. The Burning and Burial of the Dead
Authors: Wylie William Michael
Published: January 2012

Archæology, at the present day, is no longer the ill-appreciated amusement of the few. Its study is widely spread, while its importance is generally admitted, even by those whose inclination does not lead them to pursue it as a study.

No branch of archaeology appears to excite more general interest than sepulchral research in our own land, or in those foreign lands whose early inhabitants were, so to speak, kinsmen of our forefathers. This widely-diffused interest of our day happily differs altogether from the indiscriminate curiosity of a preceding age. And if science ventures to pass the sacred threshold of the tomb, it is solely because the early domestic history of our race is only to be found recorded in the tablets of the dead.
XVII.—Notes on the “Bacini,” or Dishes of Enamelled Earthenware, introduced as Ornaments to the Architecture of some of the Churches in Italy, &c. &c
Authors: Fortnum C. Drury
Published: January 2012

All writers on the history of pottery have more or less alluded to the Bacini, or deep howl-shaped dishes of various sizes and colours, which are to be seen on the exterior of several churches in different parts of Italy. More particular allusion has been made to those found on the churches of Pisa, and various theories have been raised to account for their origin. It is particularly stated by Sismondi, in the “History of the Italian Republics” (i. 354), that the Pisans made great exertions to rid the Tyrrhenian Sea of the Moorish pirates, which had so often destroyed their vessels and ravaged their coasts. Their efforts were specially directed against a certain King Nazaredeck of Majorca, whose cruel acts of piracy had spread terror in the coast towns of Italy and Southern France.
XXI.—.Researches and Excavations carried on in an ancient Cemetery at Frilford, near Abingdon, Berks, in the years 1867–1868
Authors: Rolleston George
Published: January 2012

The paper which I have the honour of laying before the Society of Antiquaries was drawn up by me at the suggestion of J. Y. Akerman, Esq. F.S.A. and in the hope that it might serve as a continuation of his “Report of Excavations in an ancient Cemetery at Frilford, near Abingdon, Berks,” which may be found in the Society's Proceedings for May 25, 1865.