bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Genetic Bottleneck Testing to the Investigation of Amphibian Declines: a Case Study with Natterjack Toads
Authors: Beebee Trevor , Rowe Graham
Published: September 2009

Abstract: Declines of amphibians are causing widespread concern and in some cases have been explained by factors such as climate change and the spread of microbial pathogens. A problem remains, however, in the unequivocal demonstration of decline in situations where populations may be undergoing natural fluctuations in abundance. We describe the application of a genetic test for bottlenecks (Cornuet & Luikart 1996) that should distinguish between natural oscillations and true population declines. British natterjack toads (  Bufo calamita ) provide examples of populations that have not declined in recent decades, populations that have declined, and populations in which trends are unclear. Microsatellite allele frequency data from these populations were tested for heterozygote excess and shifts in allele frequency distributions, and inferences from these computations about bottlenecks (i.e., persistently smaller population sizes than the recent means) were compared with demographic information. The genetic test correctly identified bottlenecks and should therefore prove useful in demonstrating whether amphibian declines have occurred where long‐term demographic time series are not available.
Cytologic and Histopathologic Evaluation of Extruded Canine Degenerate Disks
Authors: ROYAL ANGELA B. , CHIGERWE MUNASHE , COATES JOAN R. , WIEDMEYER CHARLES E. , BERENT LINDA M.
Published: September 2009

Objective— To describe the cytologic and histopathologic appearance of degenerate disk material in dogs with Hansen type I intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).

Study Design— Case series.

Animals— Dogs (n=45) that had surgical intervention for Hansen type I IVDD (January–November 2007).

Methods— Impression smears and histopathologic sections were prepared from surgically removed degenerate disk material. All slides were evaluated for overall cellularity, quantity and attributes of extracellular matrix, types of cells present, and their cytomorphology. Histopathologic sections were also examined for presence of neovascularization and hemorrhage.

Results— Cytologically, 11 of 45 samples consisted of only extracellular matrix, 30 had evidence of inflammation, and 20 contained dysplastic spindloid cells. Histologically, hyaline cartilage predominated in 35 of 45 samples, fibrocartilage in 4, and spindloid cells in 6; 37 of 45 were inflamed, 37 were hemorrhagic, and 13 had neovascularization.

Conclusions— The cytologic and histopathologic appearance of extruded degenerate disk material in dogs is variable and can include dysplastic spindloid cells.

Clinical Relevance— The variability in cytologic findings and frequent presence of dysplastic spindloid cells suggest that cytology alone may not be a reliable tool to differentiate degenerate canine disk material from a mesenchymal neoplasm.
The Effect of Laparoscopic Versus Open Ovariectomy on Postsurgical Activity in Small Dogs
Authors: CULP WILLIAM T. N. , MAYHEW PHILIPP D. , BROWN DOROTHY C.
Published: September 2009

Objective— To describe a technique for laparoscopic ovariectomy (LapOVE) in small dogs, and compare the surgical time, complications, and postoperative activity of dogs undergoing LapOVE to those undergoing conventional traditional open ovariectomy (OOVE).

Study Design— A randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Animals— Intact small breed (<10 kg) female dogs (n=20).

Methods— Ventral median celiotomy was performed for OOVE. A 2‐midline portal technique using a 3.5 mm laparoscope port and a 6 mm instrument portal was used for LapOVE. An accelerometer was attached to the collar of each dog to record 24‐hour preoperative and 48‐hour postoperative activity. Total activity counts recorded before surgery were compared with total counts recorded after surgery. The percent change in counts after surgery was compared between OOVE‐ and LapOVE‐treated dogs.

Results— No major complications occurred and surgical time for LapOVE was significantly longer than for OOVE cases (P=.005). Dogs in the LapOVE group had a 25% decrease in total activity counts after surgery (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11–38%), whereas dogs in the OOVE group had a 62% decrease in total activity counts after surgery (95% CI: 48–76%).

Conclusions— Both procedures were performed with reasonable surgical times and without major complication. Postoperative activity, as measured by accelerometry, was significantly different between the 2 groups.

Clinical Relevance— Laparoscopy is a safe method for ovariectomy in small dogs and results in increased postoperative activity counts when compared with an open technique.
A novel association of acquired ADAMTS13 inhibitor and acute dengue virus infection
Authors: Rossi Fernanda C. , Angerami Rodrigo N. , De Paula Erich V. , Orsi Fernanda L. , Shang Dezhi , Del Guercio Vânia M. , Resende Mariângela R. , Annichino‐Bizzacchi Joyce M. , Da Silva Luiz J. , Zheng X. Long , Castro Vagner
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: Dengue is a mosquito‐borne viral disease with an increasing incidence worldwide. Thrombocytopenia is a common finding in dengue virus (DV) infection; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

CASE REPORT: Here we provide the first evidence of a case of antibody formation against ADAMTS13 (ADAMTS13 inhibitor) in the course of a severe acute DV infection resulting in thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). The patient presented with classical dengue symptoms (positive epidemiology, high fever, myalgia, predominantly in the lower limbs and lumbar region for 1 week) and, after 11 days of initial symptoms, developed TMA. Clinical and laboratorial investigation of dengue and TMA was performed.

RESULTS: The patient presented with ADAMTS13 inhibitor (IgG) during the acute phase of the disease, without anti‐platelet antibodies detectable. Dengue infection had laboratorial confirmation. There were excellent clinical and laboratory responses to 11 serial plasma exchanges. Anti‐ADAMTS13 inhibitor disappeared after remission of TMA and dengue resolution. No recurrence of TMA symptoms was observed after 2‐year follow‐up.

CONCLUSIONS: Although the real incidence of dengue‐related TMA is unknown, this case provides the basis for future epidemiologic studies on acquired ADAMTS13 deficiency in DV infection. The prompt clinical recognition of this complication and early installment of specific therapy with plasma exchange are likely to improve the outcome of severe cases of dengue.
Pharmacokinetic analysis of human plasma–derived pasteurized C1‐inhibitor concentrate in adults and children with hereditary angioedema: a prospective study
Authors: Martinez‐Saguer Inmaculada , Rusicke Eva , Aygören‐Pürsün Emel , Von Hentig Nils , Klingebiel Thomas , Kreuz Wolfhart
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare and potentially life‐threatening disease presenting with acute edema of subcutaneous tissues and/or mucous membranes. Patients with HAE have abnormally low or dysfunctional C1‐inhibitor (C1‐INH). Preventing the progression of acute attacks is the main goal of C1‐INH replacement therapy; knowledge of the C1‐INH concentrate half‐life is of crucial importance. This pharmacokinetic study was conducted to investigate the pharmacokinetics of pasteurized human plasma–derived C1‐INH concentrate (pC1‐INH).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a prospective, single‐center study of six children and 34 adults with an established diagnosis of HAE. On‐demand treatment with pC1‐INH was administered to all children, whereas adults received either pC1‐INH on‐demand treatment or individual replacement therapy (IRT). Functional C1‐INH plasma levels were fitted to a single‐compartment model with nonlinear regression, and the area under the curve was standardized to a dose equivalent of 15 U/kg body weight of pC1‐INH concentrate.

RESULTS: The median half‐life of functional C1‐INH plasma levels in pediatric patients receiving on‐demand therapy was 32.9 hours (mean, 31.5 hr). In adults, the median half‐lives of functional C1‐INH plasma levels after on‐demand therapy were 39.1 hours (mean, 47.8 hr) and 30.9 hours (mean 33.3 hr) for patients on IRT. The median times to achieve maximum plasma activity after administration were 0.6 hour for children, 1.0 hour for adults receiving on‐demand treatment, and 0.5 hour for adults on IRT.

CONCLUSIONS: pC1‐INH concentrate has a long median terminal elimination half‐life and rapidly reaches maximum plasma concentrations. This rapid onset of clinical efficacy is essential in patients suffering from HAE.
Mechanical Properties of Metallic Perovskite Mn3Cu0.5Ge0.5N:High‐Stiffness Isotropic Negative Thermal Expansion Material
Authors: Nakamura Yoshinobu , Takenaka Koshi , Kishimoto Akira , Takagi Hidenori
Published: September 2009

The basic mechanical properties of antiperovskite manganese nitride, Mn3Cu1−xGexN, known as an isotropic negative thermal expansion (NTE), have been evaluated. The mother material, Mn3CuN, was a soft and ductile intermetallic compound with a positive linear thermal expansion coefficient (α=+20 × 10−6 K−1) at room temperature. The thermal expansion properties of Mn3CuN were dramatically changed by Ge doping, resulting in an extremely large NTE material (α=−12.5 × 10−6 K−1) by 50% substitution of Cu with Ge. Associate with this, the mechanical properties were found to be strongly modified by Ge doping, and both the stiffness and the hardness of Mn3Cu1−xGexN increased with increasing the Ge content, x. The NTE material, Mn3Cu0.5Ge0.5N, had an enhanced hardness of 570–620 Hv and an exceptionally large Young's modulus of 211–320 GPa. The giant, isotropic NTE compatible with the enhanced value of Young's modulus enables us to fabricate extremely stiff, stable, and lightweight zero thermal expansion composites for the use in many fields of industries.
Giant Dielectric‐Permittivity Phenomena of Compositionally and Structurally CaCu3Ti4O12‐Like Oxide Ceramics
Authors: Hao Wentao , Zhang Jialiang , Tan Yongqiang , Su Wenbin
Published: September 2009

SrCu3Ti4O12, La2/3Cu3Ti4O12, and Bi2/3Cu3Ti4O12 ceramics were representatively investigated to obtain a systematical understanding about the dielectric behaviors of the compositionally and structurally CaCu3Ti4O12‐like oxides and the underlying related mechanism. In opposite to the literature results, giant dielectric‐permittivity phenomena with low‐frequency ɛ′ larger than 1.5 × 104 have been observed in all of these ceramics. Furthermore, the existence of CuO secondary phase has been confirmed in them. In general, the results can be explained by the similar mechanism of internal barrier layer capacitance effect formerly proposed for CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics and indicate that the giant‐ɛ′ phenomena should be quite common in the large family of compositionally and structurally CaCu3Ti4O12‐like oxide ceramics.
Nanostructuring HfO2 Thin Films as Antireflection Coatings
Authors: Ni Jie , Zhu Yu , Wang Sihong , Li Zhengcao , Zhang Zhengjun , Wei Bingqing
Published: September 2009

Hafnium dioxide (HfO2) films deposited on silicon substrates can be nanostructured by the glancing angle deposition technique into various porous morphologies, leading to a variation of the refractive index in a range of 1.94–1.16. This makes HfO2 thin films effective antireflection coatings on many substrates. For example, a 160‐nm‐thick HfO2 film of an appropriate refractive index can cut more than half the reflection of visible light off the surface of SiC or Al2O3 substrates. This study provides an easy way to design, prepare, and optimize the performance of antireflection coatings on different substrates.
Intragranular Voids and dc Degradation in (CaO+MgO) Codoped BaTiO3Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
Authors: Lee Hwan‐Wen , Chu Mike S. H. , Lu Hong‐Yang
Published: September 2009

The microstructure of multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) based on BaTiO3and nickel electrode, have been analyzed using the scanning and the transmission electron microscopy. In order to investigate how MgO improves MLCC against dc degradation, both CaO doped and (CaO+MgO) codoped chips, pristine as well as highly accelerated life‐tested, are studied. BaTiO3grains are characterized by both the types I and II core shell structure, which is typical of MLCC exhibiting the X7R dielectric behavior. Intragranular voids are found in BaTiO3grains in the vicinity of the electrode–dielectric interface. Void‐containing grains are more frequently observed and voids are more abundant in (CaO+MgO) codoped chips than in CaO doped ones. Higher concentration of oxygen vacanciesis induced extrinsically from both MgO codoping and Ni diffusion into BaTiO3grains along the electrode–dielectric interface during sintering. Such oxygen vacancies have reacted with both cation vacanciesandby an inverse Schottky defect reaction and condensed to form voids. This reaction requiring cation and oxygen vacancies in the stoichiometric BaTiO3composition of 1:1:3 has significantly decreased the randomly distributed mobile oxygen vacancies, and contributes to improve against dc degradation.
Fabrication of Transparent Lanthanum‐Doped Yttria Ceramics by Combination of Two‐Step Sintering and Vacuum Sintering
Authors: Huang Yihua , Jiang Dongliang , Zhang Jingxian , Lin Qingling
Published: September 2009

A new strategy for the sintering of transparent lanthanum‐doped yttrium oxide was presented. This method is the extension of the well‐accepted two‐step sintering process for the densification of nanomaterials. The samples were firstly sintered at an intermediate temperature T1 (1450°C) in air. Then the temperature decreased quickly to a lower point T2 (900°–1100°C) in air and held for more than 20 h in order to facilitate densification with limited grain growth. Nanocrystalline yttria ceramic with a high relative density was then obtained, which can be further densified at higher temperature T3 (>1700°C) in vacuum. After sintering, transparent yttria doped with 10% lanthanum ceramic was obtained with the grain size around 25 μm without annealing. The samples were densified mainly in air at low temperature, it is more easy for operation. The transmittance at 580 nm is 77%, which was equal or better than that from other sintering method for transparent yttria ceramics.
Oviposition preference in the oligophagous tomato fruit fly, Neoceratitis cyanescens
Authors: Brévault T. , Quilici S.
Published: September 2009

We assessed the role of visual and olfactory cues on oviposition preference in the oligophagous tomato fruit fly, Neoceratitis cyanescens (Bezzi) (Diptera: Tephritidae). In a field survey, we evaluated the stage of susceptibility of field‐grown tomatoes by monitoring N. cyanescens infestations from fruit‐setting up to harvest, in relation to post‐flowering time, size, and visual properties of fruit. In two‐choice laboratory experiments, we tested the degree to which females use visual and olfactory cues to select their host plant for oviposition. In addition, we investigated the ability of flies to avoid fruit already infested by conspecific eggs or larvae, and the influence of natal host fruit on oviposition preference. Neoceratitis cyanescens females preferentially lay their eggs in small yellow‐green unripe fruit (2–3.5 cm diameter, 10–21 days post‐flowering). Damage to fruit was significantly affected by brightness and size properties. In laboratory experiments, females chose to lay their eggs in bright orange rather than yellow domes. On the sole basis of olfactory stimuli, females showed a significant preference for unripe vs. ripe host fruit, for unripe fruit vs. flowers or leaves, and for host vs. non‐host fruit (or control). However, colour interacted with odour as females dispatched their eggs equally between the yellow dome and the bright orange dome when unripe fruit of tomato was placed under the yellow dome vs. ripe fruit under the bright orange dome. When offered real ripe and unripe tomatoes, females preferred unripe tomatoes. Females significantly chose to lay eggs in non‐infested fruit when they were given the choice between these or fruit infested with larvae. In contrast, recent stings containing eggs did not deter females from laying eggs. Rather, they could have an attractive effect when deposited within <1 h. Regardless of their natal host plant, tomato or bugweed, N. cyanescens females laid significantly more eggs in a dome containing bugweed fruit. However, 15% of females originating from tomato laid eggs exclusively in the dome with tomato, against 3% of females originating from bugweed.
Maternal resource variation across the laying sequence in Canada geese Branta canadensis maxima
Authors: Boonstra Todd A. , Clark Mark E. , Reed Wendy L.
Published: September 2009

Variation in maternal investments to offspring presumably reflects an optimization of resource allocation such that a female's fitness is maximized. In birds, both egg size and yolk constituents are examples of resources that can vary among offspring within a clutch. Egg size and maternally‐derived steroid hormone concentrations present in yolk have been characterized for many species that lay small clutches or have altricial young, but little information is available for species that lay moderate to large clutches of precocial young. In this study, we recorded laying position, measured fresh egg mass and determined maternally‐derived testosterone and estradiol concentrations present in yolks for whole clutches of free‐living Canada geese Branta canadensis maxima to assess variation in maternal resources within clutches. We found that egg size varied non‐linearly across the laying sequence such that first laid eggs were small, the largest eggs in the clutch occurred in the second and third positions, and size declined in eggs laid in subsequent positions. Concentration of testosterone in the yolk followed a pattern in which the first and second laid eggs have the highest concentrations within a clutch and declining concentrations in subsequently laid eggs. In contrast, maternally‐derived yolk estradiol concentrations (measured in a subset of clutches) did not change across the laying sequence.
Extrapair paternity in a flock‐living passerine, the vinous‐throated parrotbill Paradoxornis webbianus
Authors: Lee Jin‐Won , Kim Myun‐Sik , Burke Terry , Hatchwell Ben J.
Published: September 2009

Understanding the factors that affect the occurrence of extrapair paternity (EPP) is one of the central issues in sexual selection. We investigated genetic parentage and the ecological factors affecting patterns of EPP in the vinous‐throated parrotbill, Paradoxornis webbianus, a flock‐living species with double broods. Using microsatellite DNA fingerprinting, we determined parentage of 246 offspring in 50 broods over two years (2005 and 2006). Nineteen offspring (8%) from 13 broods (26%) were sired by extrapair males and one offspring (0.4%) was probably the result of intraspecific brood parasitism. The prevalence of EPP varied significantly through the breeding season: 95% of broods with EPP (12/13) occurred in the first of two laying peaks. Parentage assignment revealed that half of extrapair males (6/12) were adjacent neighbours. The distribution of EPP was not significantly related to the ecological factors including breeding density and breeding synchrony. Instead, we suggest that social characteristics such as flocking and weak territoriality may determine the observed pattern of EPP in this study.
Health‐related quality of life in health care workers with work‐related skin diseases
Authors: Matterne Uwe , Apfelbacher Christian Joachim , Soder Stefanie , Diepgen Thomas Ludwig , Weisshaar Elke
Published: September 2009

Background: Occupational skin diseases (OSDs) are common among health care workers (HCWs). Little is known about how OSD impacts on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in HCWs with suspected OSD and associated factors.

Objectives: To describe HRQoL in 278 HCWs with suspected OSD, compare data with the general and populations with skin diseases and analyse HRQoL's associations with clinical and demographic variables.

Methods: HCWs with suspected OSD completed a generic (SF‐36) and specific (Skindex‐29) instrument.

Results: Seven of 8 SF‐36 dimensions were significantly lower in HCWs than the general population. Compared with norms for patients with skin disease and cleaning and kitchen employees (CKEs) with suspected OSD, physical functioning (PF) and general health perception were less impaired in HCWs. Skindex‐29 scores were similar to CKEs' while they appeared better than patients' norms. Multivariate analysis found severity unrelated to SF‐36, apart from pain but associated with all Skindex‐29 scales.

Conclusions: Although HCWs with suspected OSD display considerable HRQoL impairments, (general) PF and general health perception appear less affected than expected. Severity appears to affect specific and to a lesser extent general HRQoL. Clinical and demographic variables contributed moderately to the prediction of specific and little to the prediction of general HRQoL.
Delayed hypersensitivity to corticosteroids in a series of 315 patients: clinical data and patch test results
Authors: Baeck Marie , Chemelle Julie‐Anne , Terreux Raphaël , Drieghe Jacques , Goossens An
Published: September 2009

Background: Corticosteroids may cause immediate or delayed hypersensitivity. In 1989, based on structural and clinical characteristics, we put forward a classification of corticosteroids into four cross‐reacting groups, namely group A, B, C, and D, the latter later subdivided into two subgroups, i.e. D1 and D2. The constituents on the D‐ring of the corticosteroid‐molecule are considered to have a central role for binding to skin proteins and for cross‐reactions patterns; however, halogenation of the molecules is also interfering.

Objective: To study the clinical data and analyse simultaneous positive reactions obtained in a large group of corticosteroid‐allergic patients.

Methods: Patch tests were performed with the baseline series, to which hydrocortisone butyrate and prednisolone caproate were added, as well as with the corticosteroids to which the patients had been exposed. Three hundred and forty subjects with a presumed or proven corticosteroid allergy were further investigated with an extended series containing 72 molecules.

Results: Out of 11 596 patients investigated, 315 subjects reacted positively to at least 1 corticosteroid‐molecule, with most of them presenting with multiple positive reactions.

Conclusion: A prevalence of corticosteroid allergy of 2.7% was found. Despite validity of the ABCD (sub)classification in many cases, possible adjustments may have to be considered.
Disorders of Pigmentation
Authors: Fistarol Susanna K. , Itin Peter H.
Published: September 2009

Skin color is highly individual and the variations are controlled by numerous genes. The different skin colors result from the size and number of melanosomes and do not mirror the amount of melanocytes. Disorders of pigmentation can result from migration abnormalities of melanocytes from the neural crest to the skin during embryogenesis. In addition, impairment of melanosome transfer to the surrounding keratinocytes, an alteration in melanin synthesis and a defective degradation or removal of melanin may lead to abnormal skin pigmentation. Immunologic or toxic mediated destructions of melanocytes can end in pigmentation disorders. Disorders of pigmentation are classified in hypo‐ or hyperpigmentation which can occur as a genetic or acquired disease. They can manifest locally or diffuse. Congenital hypopigmentation can be restricted to the skin as in piebaldism or they represent a systemic disease as in Menkes disease or phenylketonuria. Localized hypo‐ or hyperpigmentation in children may serve as markers for systemic diseases. Ash‐leaf hypopigmentation are characteristic for tuberous sclerosis and more than 5 café‐au‐lait spots suggest neurofibromatosis 1 (von Recklinghausen disease). The most common autoimmune‐induced depigmentation is vitiligo. Generalized hyperpigmentation only rarely reflects a primary genetic disorder but is most often from acquired diseases as in Addison disease, secondary hemochromatosis or primary biliary cirrhosis. Treatment of pigmentation disorders are based on a diagnosis which sometimes allow a specific intervention. Cosmetically acceptable results are difficult to obtain.
Emotional reactivity in infants with congenital heart defects: findings from a large case‐cohort study in Norway
Authors: Stene‐Larsen K , Brandlistuen RE , Holmstrøm H , Landolt MA , Eskedal LT , Vollrath ME
Published: September 2009

Aim:  Advances in medical treatment in recent years have led to dramatically improved survival rates of children with severe congenital heart defects (CHD). However, very little is known about the psychological consequences for these children, particularly during and after the early period of invasive treatment. In this study, we investigated the extent to which the severity of the CHD affects the child’s emotional reactivity at 6 months of age.

Method:  We linked prospective data from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study, conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health with a nationwide medical CHD registry and identified 212 infants with CHD in a cohort of 61 299 infants. Mothers reported on their child’s emotional reactivity at age 6 months by means of a standardized questionnaire.

Results:  Infants with severe to moderate CHD had 60% higher odds for severe emotional reactivity (cut‐off at the 85 percentile) compared with healthy infants, after controlling for important maternal and child confounders.

Conclusion:  Our study is the first to show elevated emotional reactivity in children with moderate to severe CHD, suggesting a need for special parental attention to soothe their distress. Follow‐up studies will show whether this emotional reactivity is transient or an early marker of continuing emotional or behavioural problems.
IGF‐I, leptin and active ghrelin levels in very low birth weight infants during the first 8 weeks of life
Authors: Ohkawa N , Shoji H , Kitamura T , Suganuma H , Yoshikawa N , Suzuki M , Lee T , Hisata K , Shimizu T
Published: September 2009

Aim:  We investigated the relationship between plasma insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I), leptin, active ghrelin levels, and postnatal growth in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.

Method:  Plasma IGF‐I, leptin, and active ghrelin levels were measured at birth and at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after birth in 61 VLBW infants, including 31 appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age (AGA) and 30 small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) infants.

Results:  Insulin‐like growth factor I levels were the lowest at birth, but increased gradually over the first 8 weeks of life. IGF‐I was positively correlated with body weight, body length and body mass index at all time points. Leptin levels did not change over the study period. Ghrelin levels were significantly lower at birth; however, there were no significant differences between the levels after 2 weeks of age. Leptin and ghrelin levels were not correlated with anthropometrical measures. IGF‐I levels at birth were significantly lower in SGA than in AGA infants, but the leptin and ghrelin levels were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion:  Insulin‐like growth factor I is related to length and weight gain in the prenatal and the early postnatal periods in VLBW infants, but this does not appear to be the case for leptin and ghrelin.
Breastfeeding practice in mothers with eating disorders
Authors: Torgersen Leila , Ystrom Eivind , Haugen Margaretha , Meltzer Helle M. , Von Holle Ann , Berg Cecilie Knoph , Reichborn‐Kjennerud Ted , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: September 2009

The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of breastfeeding in women with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and eating disorders not otherwise specified – purging subtype, with mothers with no eating disorders during the first 6 months after birth. The study is based on the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study conducted at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. Questionnaire‐based information on eating disorder diagnoses and breastfeeding in 39 355 women was used to estimate the risk of cessation of breastfeeding with Cox proportional hazards regression. Almost all women (98%) initially breastfeed their infants, with no statistically significant difference between the eating disorders subgroups and women with no eating disorders. However, the risk of early cessation before 6 months post‐partum increased for all subgroups of mothers with eating disorders, compared with mothers with no eating disorders. After adjusting for maternal body mass index, age, education, birthweight and pre‐term birth, only mothers with anorexia nervosa [hazard ratios (HR), 2.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22–4.53] and eating disorder not otherwise specified‐purging subtype (HR, 1.95; 95% CI 1.08–3.53) had increased risk for cessation of breastfeeding There were no differences in the risk of cessation of exclusive breastfeeding. These results show that some eating disorders may influence mothers' early feeding practices and indicate that additional support may be necessary to assist women with anorexia nervosa in maintaining breastfeeding.
Oral health‐related quality of life in patients receiving home‐care nursing: associations with aspects of dental status and xerostomia
Authors: Willumsen Tiril , Fjaera Brit , Eide Hilde
Published: September 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00344.x
 
Oral health‐related quality of life in patients receiving home‐care nursing: associations with aspects of dental status and xerostomia

Objective:  To explore the differences in oral status, dental attendance and dry mouth problems between patients with long‐term disease with high and low scores on Oral Health Impact Profile 14 (OHIP 14) and how patients cope with oral problems such as xerostomia and a reduced ability to brush their teeth.

Background:  There has been a lack of studies of oral health and oral health‐related quality of life in the frail elderly within the community services.

Materials and methods:  A cross‐sectional questionnaire study was conducted with 137 patients receiving home‐care nursing. Structured interviews were conducted by student nurses using OHIP‐14, items from the Xerostomia Inventory and questions concerning dental visit habits, brushing of teeth and data from medical records.

Results:  Eighty‐three per cent of patients had natural teeth and 60% had only natural teeth. ‘Natural teeth only’ indicated a low score on OHIP‐14. Problems with brushing and items concerning xerostomia indicated a high score on OHIP‐14. Contrasts in the assessments concerning brushing of teeth and xerostomia indicated low priority from the patients themselves and the nursing staff.

Conclusion:  Community health services should focus upon oral health. Both patients and nurses should assess the need for regular brushing of teeth carried out by home‐care nurses. Assessment and treatment of dry mouth problems should have higher priority.
After the Baby: Work‐Family Conflict and Working Mothers' Psychological Health
Authors: Marshall Nancy L. , Tracy Allison J.
Published: September 2009

This study examines work and family characteristics and depressive symptomatology among over 700 working mothers of infants. Working mothers in poorer quality jobs, as well as working mothers who were single or whose infant's health was poorer than that of other infants, reported greater depressive symptomatology. The effect of job quality on depressive symptomatology was mediated by work‐family conflict, whereas infant health and marital status had direct effects on depressive symptomatology.
Work Separation Demands and Spouse Psychological Well‐Being
Authors: Orthner Dennis K. , Rose Roderick
Published: September 2009

Using family resilience and ecological theories, we examine the relationship between partner work‐required travel separations and spouse psychological well‐being. The study examines the role of work‐organization‐provided supports for families and of informal support networks, including marital satisfaction, as factors that can reduce the risks for indicators of poor well‐being. The data come from a probability sample survey of 8,056 female spouses of U.S. Army personnel, with considerable variation in the amount of travel‐related separations. Findings indicate risks for poor psychological well‐being are greater for spouses who experience more frequent work‐related separations. Findings also indicate that both work organization support and informal support network connections are significant protective factors for spouses experiencing these separations.
Using Community‐Based Participatory Research (CBPR) to Target Health Disparities in Families
Authors: Berge Jerica M. , Mendenhall Tai J. , Doherty William J.
Published: September 2009

Community‐based participatory research (CBPR) is an action research approach that emphasizes collaborative partnerships between community members, community organizations, health care providers, and researchers to generate knowledge and solve local problems. Although relatively new to the field of family social science, family and health researchers have been using CBPR for over a decade. This paper introduces CBPR methods, illustrates the usefulness of CBPR methods in families and health research, describes two CBPR projects related to diabetes, and concludes with lessons learned and strengths and weaknesses of CBPR.
The potassium channel subunit Kvβ3 interacts with pannexin 1 and attenuates its sensitivity to changes in redox potentials
Authors: Bunse Stefanie , Locovei Silviu , Schmidt Matthias , Qiu Feng , Zoidl Georg , Dahl Gerhard , Dermietzel Rolf
Published: September 2009

Pannexin 1 (Panx1), a member of the second gap junction protein family identified in vertebrates, appears to preferentially form non‐junctional membrane channels. A candidate regulatory protein of Panx1 is the potassium channel subunit Kvβ3, previously identified by bacterial two‐hybrid strategies. Here, we report on the physical association of Panx1 with Kvβ3 by immunoprecipitation when co‐expressed in a neuroblastoma cell line (Neuro2A). Furthermore, in vivo co‐expression of Panx1 and Kvβ3 was shown to occur in murine hippocampus and cerebellum. Kvβ3 is known to accelerate inactivation of otherwise slowly inactivating potassium channels under reducing conditions. We subsequently found that Panx1 channel currents exhibit a significant reduction when exposed to reducing agents, and that this effect is attenuated in the presence of Kvβ3. Apparently, Kvβ3 is involved in regulating the susceptibility of Panx1 channels to redox potential. Furthermore, the Panx1 channel blockers carbenoxolone and Probenecid were less effective in inhibiting Panx1 currents when Kvβ3 was co‐expressed. The influence of Kvβ3 on Panx1 is the first example of modulation of Panx1 channel function(s) by interacting proteins, and suggests the physiological importance of sensing changes in redox potentials.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7260843, MINT‐7260856: Panx1 (uniprotkb:Q9JIP4) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Kvβ3 (uniprotkb:P97382) by anti‐tag co‐immunoprecipitation (MI:0007)
Colonisation of barley roots by endophytic Fusarium equiseti and Pochonia chlamydosporia: Effects on plant growth and disease
Authors: Maciá‐Vicente J.G. , Rosso L.C. , Ciancio A. , Jansson H.‐B. , Lopez‐Llorca L.V.
Published: September 2009

Colonisation of plant roots by endophytic fungi may confer benefits to the host such as protection against abiotic or biotic stresses or plant growth promotion. The exploitation of these properties is of great relevance at an applied level, either to increase yields of agricultural crops or in reforestation activities. Fusarium equiseti is a naturally occurring endophyte in vegetation under stress in Mediterranean ecosystems. Pochonia chlamydosporia is a nematode egg‐parasitic fungus with a worldwide distribution. Both fungi have the capacity to colonise roots of non‐host plants endophytically and to protect them against phytopathogenic fungi under laboratory conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the root population dynamics of these fungi under non‐axenic practical conditions. Both fungal species were inoculated into barley roots. Their presence in roots and effects on plant growth and incidence of disease caused by the pathogen Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici were monitored periodically. Both fungi colonised barley roots endophytically over the duration of the experiment and competed with other existing fungal root colonisers. Furthermore, colonisation of roots by P. chlamydosporia promoted plant growth. Although a clear suppressive effect on disease could not be detected, F. equiseti isolates reduced the mean root lesion length caused by the pathogen. Results of this work suggest that both F. equiseti and P. chlamydosporia are long‐term root endophytes that confer beneficial effects to the host plant.
Key phenological events in globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var.scolymus) development
Authors: Virdis A. , Motzo R. , Giunta F.
Published: September 2009

A priority for the field vegetable grower is to be able to schedule a regular supply of product throughout the growing season. This requires a predictive framework, based on the identification of key developmental events of the crop, and an understanding of how genotypic and environmental factors interact to determine plant development. Four globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) cultivars, representing the existing phenological range, were grown in a field experiment, and a range of environmental conditions was imposed by varying both the timing of the first irrigation (which determines the initiation of regrowth) and by repeating the experiment across two locations and 2 years. The timing of the appearance of the main stem capitulum was sensitive to both the growing environment and the cultivar. These differences persisted till flowering and were correlated with final leaf number. As the plant developed, the phyllochron decreased, resulting in three values of phyllochron, each of which was responsive to genotype, and hardly to environment. The timing of the first change in phyllochron was associated with the final leaf number and the appearance of the capitulum. For all the cultivars, the rate of development fell and the final leaf number increased as the length of the photoperiod increased. The later flowering cultivars shared a similar vernalisation requirement, but ‘Spinoso sardo’ did not require a cold period to flower. Leaf length reached a peak before the beginning of stem elongation, and maximum leaf length was correlated with final leaf number. The sensitiveness of the phyllochron to the genotype, and of the number of leaves and the timing of the appearance of the capitulum to both genotype and environment makes them suitable as variables in developmental models. The importance of the final number of leaves is not only because of its phenological significance, but also because of its effect on the ability of the canopy to intercept radiation.
EFFECT OF PRETREATMENTS ON AIR‐DRYING PATTERN AND COLOR OF DRIED PUMPKIN (CUCURBITA MAXIMA) SLICES
Authors: FALADE KOLAWOLE O. , SHOGAOLU OLUFEMI T.
Published: September 2009

Effect of pretreatments on air‐drying pattern and color of pumpkin slices was investigated. Fresh, sulfited (1,000 ppm), blanched (100C for 3 min) and osmotically pretreated pumpkins (40, 50 and 60 °Brix) were air dried at 50–80C. Moisture transfer from fresh and pretreated pumpkin was modeled using Fick's diffusion model, and effective moisture diffusivity (m2/s) was calculated. Moisture ratio decreased with increased drying temperature and time. No constant drying rate period was observed in the drying process. Pre‐osmosed pumpkin recorded lower moisture contents and drying rate. Effective moisture diffusivity was in the range of 6.50 E‐10–2.45 E‐09 m2/s. Arrhenius relation with activation energy for moisture diffusion of 24.49–43.27 kJ/mol expressed the effect of temperature on moisture diffusivity. L*, a*, b*, color intensity (ΔE) and chroma (ΔC) values of dried pumpkin increased with increase in drying temperature from 50 to 60C.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Pumpkin is usually sun dried during the season of production, packaged and rehydrated in water prior to use. However, some problems are associated with the drying of the commodity. Use of pretreatments such as blanching, sulfiting and osmotic dehydration (OD) prior to forced convection air drying would result in minimal quality degradation, savings in energy and, in the case of OD, the production of eat‐out‐of‐hand snack items. The effects of the pretreatment are mainly related to the improvement of some nutritional, organoleptic and functional properties of the product. Also, pretreatments aid the inhibition of enzymatic browning, provide an adjustment of water activity and the achievement of structural, textural and sensory, and other functionalproperties. These properties are obtained with a reduced energy input over traditional drying processes. Air drying following the pretreatment could be adopted for the production of shelf‐stable dried fruit and vegetable commodities with acceptable quality attributes.
VISCOELASTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF KPEJIGAOU: A GRIDDLED COWPEA FOOD
Authors: AMONSOU E.O. , SAALIA F.K. , SAKYI‐DAWSON E. , SEFA‐DEDEH S. , ABBEY L.D.
Published: September 2009

The viscoelastic properties of kpejigaou were evaluated, with the goal of standardizing the process. A factorial design with temperature (130, 200 and 270C) and time (5, 7.5 and 10 min) was followed to process kpejigaou. Griddled samples were subjected to compression–relaxation tests using a TA‐XT2 Texture Analyzer. Kpejigaou exhibited the properties of viscoelastic solid material at all griddling conditions. The generalized Maxwell and Peleg–Normand models showed the most satisfactory fit (R2 > 98%) to stress data. Products made at higher griddling temperatures for longer times experienced higher moisture loss, were more rigid and dissipated energy at a faster rate. The stress–relaxation time was inversely correlated with moisture loss (r = −0.91, P < 0.05) and viscosity (r = −0.85, P < 0.01). The viscoelastic behavior of kpejigaou could be related to the spongy and porous structure of kpejigaou, starch gelatinization and the rate of moisture loss during griddling. Griddling temperature of 170C for 6 min could be recommended for the production of firm and spongy kpejigaou acceptable to the consumers.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Viscoelastic properties provide information that directly relate to textural and mechanical, or deformability characteristics of the product. By their nature, they are fundamental to consumer acceptability of the product. The findings in this study show that the process variables (of heating time and temperature) are directly related to the viscoelastic properties and acceptability of kpejigaou. This provides a basis from which to begin efforts to standardize the kpejigaou process in order to limit batch to batch or processor to processor variation in product quality and acceptability. The findings also provide clues for scale‐up criteria for both medium‐ and large‐scale production of kpejigaou.
MODELING OF THE GERMINATION OF SPORES FROM CLOSTRIDIUM PERFRINGENS FOOD POISONING ISOLATES
Authors: PAREDES‐SABJA DANIEL , TORRES J. ANTONIO
Published: September 2009

Clostridium perfringens type A isolates carrying a chromosomal gene for enterotoxin production (chromosomal c. perfringens enterotoxin [C‐cpe]strains) are frequent causative agents of food poisoning. Predictive models for their growth in meat products have been published; however, the development of germination models needs further research. In this study, the Weibull function was used to describe the germination of C‐cpe food poisoning strains in phosphate and Tris–HCl buffer as affected by pH (5.8–8.5), germinant concentration (1–100 mM KCl) and germination temperature (23–60C). As indicated by estimators of model accuracy and bias, an empirical model for spore germination as a function of germination temperature only, predicted accurately the germination potential of 4 C‐cpe food poisoning strains in buffer and in laboratory media in the 23–50C range.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Thermal processing models based on the inactivation of a heat‐resistant spore ignore the potential germination and outgrowth of spore survivors as recommended by new food safety guidelines. Germination models for spore survivors to be used in conjunction with outgrowth models should be developed using as samples the product of interest because the bioavailability and concentration of germinants such as ions and free amino acids vary with the product and its manufacturing process. Another germination model application is in conjunction with new processing technologies such as high pressure processing (HPP). The inactivation of bacterial spores has been a major challenge to HPP process developers. Since germinated spores are sensitive to pressure, germination models would be useful to design combined strategies of food thermal treatment and HPP.
DEVELOPMENT OF A MECHANICAL TEXTURE TEST TO EVALUATE THE RIPENING PROCESS OF CABERNET FRANC GRAPES
Authors: MAURY CHANTAL , MADIETA EMMANUEL , LE MOIGNE MARINE , MEHINAGIC EMIRA , SIRET RENE , JOURJON FREDERIQUE
Published: September 2009

There is scant literature on the assessment and validation of methods for monitoring grape texture during ripening. There is a distinct lack of information from published work on the correct procedures to set up texture method. If the measurement of grape texture is to be used for assessing ripeness and further extended to the assessment of polyphenol extractability potential, the relationship between physicochemical parameters and sensory descriptors should be evaluated as a matter of importance. In this work, the physical properties of grape texture during ripening were addressed by an assessment of the relationship between the methods of double compression and puncture tests. The second part of the study reported here applied the methods developed in the first year to grapes sampled in the following year. The results showed that the mechanical texture measurements were able to discriminate grapes coming from different parcels and correlations were found between texture parameters and sensory descriptors.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This paper defines the measurement conditions for monitoring grape texture, particularly during ripening. These established methodologies provide enologists with the tools to monitor the progress of grape maturity, and these mechanical methods compare favorably with the expensive and time‐consuming classical methods. These established methodologies could also be used to highlight important information on grape evolution during ripening and help to provide better insight on the choice of the preferred/ideal harvest date. These tools, providing enologists with data on the evolution of fruit texture, could be used to help select more suitable winemaking processes as well, as the extractability of compounds present in the fruit is probably linked to its texture.