bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
μ-Oxalato-bis[bis(triphenylphosphine)copper(I)] dichloromethane disolvate
Authors: Royappa Andrew D. , Golen James A. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Royappa A. Timothy
Published: January 2013

The dinuclear molecule of the title compound, [Cu2(C2O4)(C18H15P)4]·2CH2Cl2, lies across an inversion center with a strictly planar bridging oxalate ligand coordinating two CuIionsviatwo pairs of O atoms. Two triphenylphosphine ligands also coordinate each symmetry-related CuIion, resulting in a distorted tetrahedral geometry [O—Cu—O = 80.57 (5)° and P—Cu—P = 125.72 (2)°]. In the crystal, there are two dichloromethane solvent molecules for each dinuclear complex.
Na3Al(AsO4)2
Authors: Fakhar Bourguiba Noura , Zid Mohamed Faouzi , Driss Ahmed
Published: January 2013

The structure of the title compound trisodium aluminium bis(arsenate), Na3Al(AsO4)2, is built up from AlO4and AsO4corner-sharing tetrahedra, forming an undulating two-dimensional framework parallel to (100). The layers are constituted of large Al6As6O36rings made up from six AlO4and AsO4tetrahedra in which two sodium cations are situated, the third sodium cation being located in the interlayer space. The structural relationships between the title compound and Na3Fe(PO4)2, NaAlCo(PO4)2and Al5Co3(PO4)8are discussed.
Desoxyhemigossypol 6-methyl ether
Authors: Uzbekov Vyacheslav V. , Talipov Samat A. , Ibragimov Bakhtiyar T. , Stipanovic Robert D. , Liu Jinggao
Published: January 2013

The title sesquiterpene [systematic name: 6-methoxy-10-methyl-7-(propan-2-yl)-2-oxatricyclo[6.3.1.04,12]dodeca-1(11),4,6,8(12),9-pentaen-5-ol], C16H18O3, was isolated from pathogen-infected stele tissue ofGossypium barbadense. There are two molecules in the asymmetric unit and the dihedral angle between their naphthofuran systems is 86.48 (2)°. In the crystal, O—H...O hydrogen bonds between the hydroxy groups and etheric O atoms link the molecules into centrosymmetric tetramers. These tetramers are assembled into (010) layersviastacking interactions between the naphthofuran systems [interplanar distance 3.473 (3) Å] and short C—H...O contacts.
3β-Acetoxy-19-hydroxy-Δ5-pregnen-20-one
Authors: Meier zu Greffen Aike , Kranz Darius P. , Neudörfl Jörg-M. , Schmalz Hans-Günther
Published: January 2013

In the title compound, C23H34O4, theC/DandD/Erings aretransfused and theA/Bring possesses anantifusion. The two cyclohexane rings adopt a chair conformation while the cyclohexene ring exhibits a half-chair conformation. The cyclopentane ring displays an envelope conformation with the C atom bearing the methyl group as the flap. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains along thebaxis.
2-Hydroxy-3-methoxymethyl-5-methylbenzaldehyde
Authors: Gunasekaran B. , Jayamani A. , Sengottuvelan N. , Chakkaravarthi G.
Published: January 2013

In the title molecule, C10H12O3, all non-H atoms lie in a common plane (r.m.s deviation = 0.010 Å). The molecular conformation is stabilized by an intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond.
Observations from the Analyses of Magnetic Field and AC Loss Distributions in the NHMFL 32 T All-Superconducting Magnet HTS Insert
Authors: Gavrilin Andrew , Lu Jun , Bai Hongyu , Hilton David , Markiewicz W , Weijers Hubertus
Published: January 2013

A 17 T high-temperature superconducting two-coil magnet (insert) to be operated in a 15 T low-temperature superconducting multisection magnet (outsert) is the most demanding part of the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory all-superconducting 32 T magnet system. The HTS coils are of the pancake type and to be wound with REBCO coated conductors/tapes manufactured by SuperPower, Inc. The distribution of AC losses in the HTS windings during the magnet charging/discharging process are computed and analyzed with due regard for the AC loss density dependence on the magnetic field and the field angle. The calculations are based on the measured magnetization of a representative sample against magnetic field and field angle. The results enable determination of heat load on the magnet and its cryogenic system. Since the magnet is of the pool-cooled type, a related helium vapor bubble problem can develop owing to the high field and field gradients, and the diamagnetic susceptibility of helium.
A Framework for the Integrated Optimization of Charging and Power Management in Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Patil Rakesh , Kelly Jarod , Filipi Zoran , Fathy Hosam
Published: January 2013

This paper develops a dynamic programming (DP)-based framework for simultaneously optimizing the charging and power management of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). These two optimal control problems relate to activities of the PHEV on the electric grid (i.e., charging) and on the road (i.e., power management). The proposed framework solves these two problems simultaneously to avoid loss of optimality resulting from solving them separately. The framework furnishes optimal trajectories of PHEV states and control inputs over a 24-h period. We demonstrate the framework for 24-h scenarios with two driving trips and different power grid generation mixes. The results show that addressing the aforementioned optimization problems simultaneously can elucidate valuable insights. For example, for the chosen daily driving scenario, grid generation mixes, and optimization objective, it is shown that it is not always optimal to completely charge a battery before each driving trip. In addition, reduction in CO2resulting from the synergistic interaction of PHEVs with an electric grid containing a significant amount of wind power is studied. The main contribution of this paper to the literature is a framework that makes it possible to evaluate tradeoffs between charging and on-road power management decisions.
A direct physiological trade‐off between personal and social immunity
Authors: Cotter Sheena C. , Littlefair Joanne E. , Grantham Peter J. , Kilner Rebecca M.
Published: January 2013

Recent work shows that organisms possess two strategies of immune response: personal immunity, which defends an individual, and social immunity, which protects other individuals, such as kin. However, it is unclear how individuals divide their limited resources between protecting themselves and protecting others.

Here, with experiments on female burying beetles, we challenged the personal immune system and measured subsequent investment in social immunity (antibacterial activity of the anal exudates).

Our results show that increased investment in one aspect of personal immunity (wound repair) causes a temporary decrease in one aspect of the social immune response.

Our experiments further show that by balancing investment in personal and social immunity in this way during one breeding attempt, females are able to defend their subsequent lifetime reproductive success.

We discuss the nature of the physiological trade‐off between personal and social immunity in species that differ in the degree of eusociality and coloniality, and suggest that it may also vary within species in relation to age and partner contributions to social immunity.
Effects of tree species richness and composition on moose winter browsing damage and foraging selectivity: an experimental study
Authors: Milligan Harriet T. , Koricheva Julia
Published: January 2013

The optimal foraging theory, the nutrient balance hypothesis, and the plant association theories predict that foraging decisions and resulting tree damage by large mammalian browsers may be influenced by the species richness and species composition of forest stands. This may lead to either associational susceptibility (increased damage on a focal plant in a mixed stand) or associational resistance (reduced damage in a mixed stand).

Better understanding of the mechanisms and the relative importance of tree species richness and composition effects on foraging by mammalian browsers is needed to support sustainable management of forests and mammal populations. However, existing knowledge of forest diversity effects on foraging by large mammalian browsers comes largely from observational studies while experimental evidence is limited.

We analysed winter browsing by moose (Alces alcesL.) in a long‐term, large‐scale experiment in Finland, which represents a tree species richness gradient from monocultures to 2‐, 3‐ and 5‐species mixtures composed of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestrisL.), Norway spruce (Picea abiesL.), Siberian larch (Larix sibiricaLedeb.), silver birch (Betula pendulaRoth.) and black alder (Alnus glutinosaL.).

The intensity of browsing per plot increased with tree species richness while browsing selectivity decreased with tree species being targeted more equally in species‐rich mixtures. Tree species composition of a plot was also an important determinant of intensity of browsing. The greatest browsing occurred in plots containing preferred species (pine and birch) while intermediate preference species (larch and alder) experienced associational susceptibility when growing with pine and birch compared with their monocultures or mixtures without pine and birch. In contrast, we found no evidence of associational resistance; the presence of a least preferred species (spruce) in a mixture had no significant effect on moose browsing on other tree species.

We demonstrate that the presence of alternative forage species allows moose to spend longer opportunistically foraging in a plot, resulting in increased level of damage in species‐rich stands and stands containing preferred tree species. Our results highlight the limitations of the optimal foraging theory in predicting browsing patterns and demonstrate the importance of associational effects within mixed stands.
Fearing the feline: domestic cats reduce avian fecundity through trait‐mediated indirect effects that increase nest predation by other species
Authors: Bonnington Colin , Gaston Kevin J. , Evans Karl L.
Published: January 2013

Urban areas contain high densities of non‐native species, which in the UK include the domestic cat Felis catus (Linnaeus 1758) and the grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis (Gmelin 1788). The direct predation effects of domestic cats on prey populations attract intense debate, and such influences of the nest‐predatory grey squirrel are receiving increasing attention. In contrast, theory predicts that sublethal and indirect effects are more important, but empirical evidence is currently lacking.

We conducted controlled model presentation experiments at active urban blackbird Turdus merula (Linnaeus 1758) nests to provide the first empirical evidence that quantifies the potential sublethal and indirect effects of predators (domestic cat and grey squirrel) on avian reproductive success.

Domestic cat models reduced subsequent parental provisioning rates, a strong indicator of sublethal effects, by one‐third relative to a nonpredatory rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus 1758) control. There was no compensatory increase in food load size. Previous experiments demonstrate that this magnitude of reduced food delivery will reduce nestling growth rates by c. 40%. The grey squirrel model induced similar but weaker effects.

Following the brief presence of the domestic cat model, subsequent daily nest predation rates, chiefly by corvids, increased by an order of magnitude relative to the squirrel and rabbit models. The intensity of parental nest defence elicited in response to model presentations predicts the probability of such third‐party predator predation events, and the domestic cat model generated significant increases in nest defence behaviour.

Synthesis and applications. The brief presence of a domestic cat at avian nest sites reduces subsequent provisioning rates and induces lethal trait‐mediated indirect effects. We provide the first robust evidence for these latter effects in any avian predator–prey system, although they are likely to be common in many avian assemblages with high predator densities. It is imperative that future assessments of the impact of predatory species on avian prey species take lethal trait‐mediated indirect effects into account, as so doing will prevent biased estimates of predator effects and facilitate the design of more effective control strategies. Full mitigation of the sublethal and indirect effects of domestic cats would problematically require permanent indoor housing.
Social exchange and vegetative propagation: An untold story of British potted plants (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Ellen Roy , Komáromi Réka
Published: January 2013

Using data collected in Kent as part of the ‘British Homegardens Project’, we show how mode of reproduction in houseplants serves to increase biological fitness through selection and distribution through informal human social networks, and how those same modes lend themselves to the articulation and maintenance of social networks, instantiating memories and meanings, and providing opportunities for plant‐based narratives
Deliberative Pragmatic Equilibrium Review: A Framework for Comparing Institutional Devices and Their Enactment of Deliberative Democracy in the UK
Authors: Elstub Stephen
Published: January 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

This article:

Presents a framework for comparing institutions and their ability to enact various norms of deliberative democracy across various stages of the policy process and different levels of governance. Specifically contextualises this framework for application in the UK.

A range of institutional mechanisms have been advocated to ensure the practical application of deliberative democracy, and these are now being employed in practice throughout the UK. However, different institutional mechanisms will be suited to the enactment of variant democratic principles and will be able to adapt to some features of complexity and not others. This means certain institutional devices will be able to operate effectively at different levels of governance, but not at others, and contribute to some, but not all, stages of a decision-making sequence, within different political systems. A comprehensive and systematic comparison of the relationship these institutions have to deliberative democracy is therefore required so that these institutions can be effectively sequenced to ensure all the key elements of deliberative democracy are enacted in the UK political system, at each level of governance and stage of decision-making. This article therefore develops the ‘Deliberative Pragmatic Equilibrium Review’ (DePER) framework to enable such a comparison of institutional mechanisms, with respect to how they enact key principles of deliberative democracy, by combining normative and empirical analysis through the employment of Fung's ‘pragmatic equilibrium’ approach. The framework is applicable to all political systems, but is here tailored specifically for institutional comparison in the UK, although it is not applied to concrete cases in this article.
Prudence, Principle and Minimal Heuristics: British Public Opinion toward the Use of Military Force in Afghanistan and Libya
Authors: Reifler Jason , Clarke Harold D. , Scotto Thomas J. , Sanders David , Stewart Marianne C. , Whiteley Paul
Published: January 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

This article shows:

Clear pluralities of British survey respondents opposed their nation's military interventions in Afghanistan and Libya. Opposition to involvement in the conflicts mostly a function of the costs the missions would impose on the nation and concerns about the morality of the missions. Attitudes towards the parties and their leaders are weak predictors of the respondents' attitudes towards involving the nation's military in the conflict. Survey experiment reveals the positions leaders and parties took on sending additional British troops into Afghanistan did not prime support or opposition to such a ‘surge’.

Scholarship is divided on the primary drivers of public support for the use of military force. This article addresses this controversy by comparing three competing models of British public opinion towards the use of military force in Afghanistan and Libya. Analyses of national survey data demonstrate that cost-benefit calculations and normative considerations have sizable effects, but leader images and other heuristics have very limited explanatory power. These results are buttressed by experimental evidence showing that leader cues have negligible impacts on attitudes towards participation in a military ‘surge’ in Afghanistan. The minimal role heuristics played in motivating citizen support and opposition to the conflicts in these two countries contrast with their significant relationship to citizen attitudes towards the British intervention in Iraq. These conflicting results suggest that the strength of leader and partisan cues may be animated by the intensity of inter-elite conflict over British involvement in military interventions.
Changes in glutathione redox cycle during diapause determination and termination in the bivoltine silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Zhao Lin‐Chuan , Hou Yi‐Sheng , Sima Yang‐Hu
Published: January 2013

To explore whether glutathione regulates diapause determination and termination in the bivoltine silkworm Bombyx mori, we monitored the changes in glutathione redox cycle in the ovary of both diapause‐ and nondiapause‐egg producers, as well as those in diapause eggs incubated at different temperatures. The activity of thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) was detected in ovaries but not in eggs, while neither ovaries nor eggs showed activity of glutathione peroxidase. A lower reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio was observed in the ovary of diapause‐egg producers, due to weaker reduction of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) to the reduced glutathione (GSH) catalyzed by glutathione reductase (GR) and TrxR. This indicates an oxidative shift in the glutathione redox cycle during diapause determination. Compared with the 25°C‐treated diapause eggs, the 5°C‐treated diapause eggs showed lower GSH/GSSG ratio, a result of stronger oxidation of GSH catalyzed by thioredoxin peroxidase and weaker reduction of GSSG catalyzed by GR. Our study demonstrated the important regulatory role of glutathione in diapause determination and termination of the bivoltine silkworm.
Consumers' (in)ability to estimate the energy content of unhealthy foods
Authors: Pettigrew Simone , Rosenberg Michael , Ferguson Renee
Published: January 2013

Aim

To assess consumers' ability to estimate the energy content of fast foods purchased at a community event.

Methods

Patrons (n = 179; 59 male, 120 female) attending the Perth Royal Show in Western Australia in October 2011 estimated the energy content of three popular Show foods—a regular serve of hot chips, a Dagwood Dog (battered sausage) and a can of regular soft drink. Respondents were shown images of the three products to ensure they understood the items in question. They were able to respond in the energy measure of their choice (kilojoules or calories). Age, gender and postcode data were collected.

Results

Average estimates for the three products were very high, ranging from 72% overestimation for the hot chips to 203% overestimation for the soft drink. There were few significant differences in error rates by age, gender or socioeconomic status.

Conclusions

The results suggest substantial knowledge deficits relating to the energy content of fast foods and indicate the need for community education about the nature of food energy and its relationship to healthy food choices.
Amount of sugar in Australian breakfast cereals is not associated with energy density or glycaemic index: Results of a systematic survey
Authors: Shrapnel Bill
Published: January 2013

Aim

It has been suggested that sugar intake may be linked to the risk for obesity and, although the mechanisms remain unclear, energy density and glycaemic index (GI) may be relevant. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between sugar content, energy density and GI in Australian breakfast cereals.

Methods

A systematic survey of all breakfast cereals available for sale in Sydney, Australia, was conducted. A dietitian purchased samples of every complying cereal available for sale in supermarkets in the Sydney area. Data on total sugars were drawn from Nutrition Information Panels, and GI data were obtained from the Glycemic Index Database and on‐pack information. Cereals were grouped into ‘all cereals’ and ‘ready‐to‐eat cereals’. Regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationships between total sugars and energy density and between total sugars and GI.

Results

A total of 312 breakfast cereals were collected, of which 167 were ready‐to‐eat cereals. There was no relationship between sugar content and energy density in either group of cereals. GI information was available for 43 products, of which 32 were ready‐to‐eat cereals. There was no association between sugar content and GI in either cereal group.

Conclusions

The sugar content of breakfast cereals is a poor indicator of energy density and GI. The continued focus on sugar in dietary guidelines and nutrition advice may need to be reconsidered, at least in relation to solid foods.
Working profile of Australian private practice Accredited Practising Dietitians
Authors: Ball Lauren , Larsson Rachel , Gerathy Rachel , Hood Peta , Lowe Catherine
Published: January 2013

Aim

To describe the demographic, operational and financial working profile of private practice dietitians in Australia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey examined the demographics, business structure, key services and fees, marketing strategies, financial welfare, professional support and motivation for dietitians working in the private practice sector in Australia. A link to the survey was posted on the Dietitians Association of Australia, Dietitians In the Private Sector Interest Group national list serve, from September to October 2011 (potential reach of 1222 members). Reminder emails were posted every seven days; data collection ceased after 28 days.

Results

A total of 156 dietitians completed the online survey, representing a response rate of 13%. The majority were female, aged 20–30 years. Seventy‐four per cent of the dietitians identified themselves as the proprietor of the business in which they worked. Eighty‐four per cent of the respondents had prior dietetic experience before entering private practice, mainly in the hospital/clinical setting. Most dietitians conducted <20 consultations per week, with the main source of referrals being general practitioners. Initial consultations were on average 52 ± 13 minutes in length (range 30–120 minutes) and incurred a fee of $99 ± 22 (range $60–$195). For dietitians renumerated on a ‘per‐hour’ basis (41%), the gross hourly rate was $71 ± $35 (range $20–$135). For those renumerated on a ‘percentage of income generated’ basis (44%), the rate was 52 ± 23% (range 15–89%).

Conclusions

The present study provides valuable data on the working profile of private practice dietitians in Australia, which will inform support and advocacy for this working group.
Food choices that achieve calcium adequacy in older women
Authors: Booth Alison , Nowson Caryl
Published: January 2013

Aim

In a sample of older women, we assessed the proportion who met the estimated average requirement (1100 mg/day) for calcium and the dietary food choices that achieved calcium adequacy. We also assessed if the diets adequate in dietary calcium were consistent with the other dietary recommendations for health.

Methods

Baseline data from women aged 50+ years who were recruited for dietary intervention studies were included as a proxy for usual intake. Analyses of usual food and nutrient intake were derived from two 24‐hour recalls.

Results

Women (n = 145) aged 50+ years (mean age 59.3 (SD5.5) years, mean calcium intake of 815 (323) mg calcium/day) participated. Approximately one‐fifth met the estimated average requirement for calcium (21%, n = 31); among this group, dairy products contributed to 61% of calcium intake (mean 2.8 (SD1.0) servings/day). Milk contributed 33% (425 mg) of total dietary calcium. Three per cent consumed skim milk only. Both groups (calcium adequate/inadequate) exceeded the suggested dietary target (≤10%) recommended for percent energy from saturated fat, 13.4% (3.7%) and 11.7% (3.5%), respectively. In the adequate group, if skim milk replaced full‐fat and reduced‐fat milk, then percent energy from saturated fat would fall by 3% (from 13.4% of energy to 10.4% of energy).

Conclusions

Consumption of at least 2.8 servings/day of dairy products is likely to ensure an adequate calcium intake (>1100 mg) in women over 50 years. However, to ensure saturated fat remains at recommended levels, usual consumption of full‐fat and reduced‐fat milk should be replaced with skim milk.
Fish consumption and use of omega 3 supplements in a sample of older Australians
Authors: Grieger Jessica Anne , Miller Michelle , Cobiac Lynne
Published: January 2013

Aim

Despite the established health benefits of fish, particularly long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids, data on fish intake and the use of fish oil supplements in adult Australian is not well documented. In a sample of Australian adults aged ≥51 years, the aims were to determine: (i) the current intake of finfish/seafood and long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids; (ii) the percentage meeting current Heart Foundation recommendations for long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acid intakes; and (iii) the percentage consuming omega 3 supplements.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional survey. Eight hundred and fifty‐four Australians aged ≥51 years completed the survey online or by computer‐assisted telephone interview. The survey included the quantitative fish frequency questionnaire and open‐ and closed‐ended survey questions on demographics and supplement usage.

Results

The mean frequency of finfish/seafood consumption was 1.7 times per week (median intake 173 g). Thirteen per cent (n = 112) consumed finfish/seafood never/<1 per month and were considered ‘low consumers’; 34% ate any type of finfish/seafood ≥2 times per week. Excluding the low consumers, the mean (±standard deviation) daily intake of long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids was 508 ± 855 mg and 28% consumed the recommended intake of 500 mg/day from finfish/seafood alone. Forty‐three per cent consumed omega 3 supplements.

Conclusions

Current fish consumption in older Australians is low and many do not meet the current recommendations. A further understanding of why many older adults consume low amounts of finfish/seafood is necessary. Strategies to enhance intake to meet dietary recommendations in this older age group are required.
Traditional Indian breakfast (Idli and Dosa) with enhanced nutritional content using millets
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Srinivasan , Kunjithapatham Singaravadivel , Manickam Loganathan
Published: January 2013

Aim

To formulate ready‐to‐make millet mix Idli and Dosa, and to compare the chemical and sensory qualities of those with pure rice mix Idli and Dosa.

Methods

Germinated powders of high‐quality millets were mixed and incorporated with other basic traditional ingredients like rice powder and de‐husked black gram powder in formulated proportions. Nutritional and sensory qualities were assessed after fermentation and cooking of the mix to make Idli and Dosa.

Results

The millet‐based Idli contained high proportions of protein (15–18%), fat (5.0–6.2%) and carbohydrate (72–74%) compared to the rice‐based Idli. The ash content was in the range of 1–2% and crude fibre (3.0–4.9%). The millet‐based Dosa contained high proportions of protein (15–18%), fat (8.5–9.8%) and carbohydrate (69–72%) compared to the rice‐based Dosa. Also the processing steps like decortications, germination and fermentation significantly reduced the phytic acids (69%) and tannin (78%) content in millet‐based foods. The sensory evaluation results showed that the overall acceptability of millet based product is ‘Like moderately’ with score of 7.7 ± 0.5

Conclusion

The results indicated that the nutritional content of millet‐incorporated Idli and Dosa was comparable with the standard recommended dietary values, and the processing techniques not only decrease the antinutrients but also enhance the essential nutrients. Emerging research on millet‐based food is one of the strategies for alleviating malnutrition.
Comparing the Effects of Ultra‐High‐Pressure Homogenization and Conventional Thermal Treatments on the Microbiological, Physical, and Chemical Quality of Almond Beverages
Authors: Valencia‐Flores Dora C. , Hernández‐Herrero Manuela , Guamis Buenaventura , Ferragut Victoria
Published: January 2013

The effects of ultra‐high‐pressure homogenization (UHPH) at 200 and 300 MPa, in combination with different inlet temperatures (55, 65, and 75 °C) on almond beverages with lecithin (AML) and without lecithin (AM), were studied. UHPH‐treated samples were compared with the base product (untreated), pasteurized (90 °C, 90 s), and ultra‐high‐temperature (UHT, 142 °C, 6 s) samples. Microbiological analysis, physical (dispersion stability, particle size distribution, and hydrophobicity), and chemical (hydroperoxide index) parameters of special relevance in almond beverages were studied. Microbiological results showed that pressure and inlet temperature combination had a significant impact on the lethal effect of UHPH treatment. While most UHPH treatments applied produced a higher quality of almond beverage than the pasteurized samples, the combination of 300 MPa and 65 and/or 75 °C corresponded to a maximum temperature after high pressure valve of 127.7 ± 9.7 and 129.3 ± 12.6 °C, respectively. This temperature acted during less than 0.7 s and produced no bacterial growth in almond beverages after incubation at 30 °C for 20 d. UHPH treatments of AML samples caused a significant decrease in particle size, resulting in a high physical stability of products compared to conventional heat treatments. UHPH treatment produced higher values of hydroperoxide index at day 1 of production than heat‐treated almond beverage. Hydrophobicity increased in AML‐UHPH‐treated samples compared to AM and conventional treatments.

Practical Application: Ultra‐high‐pressure‐homogenization (UHPH) is an emerging technology, a potential alternative to conventional heat treatments. It is a simple process consisting of single step. When liquid food (almond beverage in this study) passes through the high‐pressure valve, a very good stability and reduction of microorganisms is achieved, both effects due to the particle breakdown. Specific UHPH conditions could produce commercial sterilization of almond beverage.
An effort‐based index of beta diversity
Authors: Lazarina Maria , Sgardeli Vasiliki , Kallimanis Athanasios S. , Sgardelis Stefanos P.
Published: January 2013

Beta diversity provides a link between species diversity in a region to species diversity within sites. Many metrics have been proposed for its estimation each reflecting a different aspect of the phenomenon. Many of them are more informative of the variation in alpha diversity among samples and the sampling effort (number of sampling units) rather than of the species assemblage differentiation. Here, we propose an index based on the sampling effort needed to fulfil a certain criterion and accounts for the relationship between the initial slope of the species accumulation curve and mean alpha diversity.

For defining the index, we consider a set of n samples with S(n) species among R(n) total occurrences. The shared species occurrences are I(n) = R(n) − S(n). The proposed new index (N*) is defined as the point, in terms of n, where I(n) crosses S(n). Samples taken beyond that point (N*) contribute, cumulatively, more to the shared occurrences rather than to new species. For the estimation of N*, we provide the R function ‘Nstar’ based on the specaccum function in the vegan package.

We tested the properties of N* on simulated datasets with known community assembly patterns and on a dataset of plant diversity of Greek Natura 2000 protected areas.

N* is not mathematically confounded with alpha or gamma diversity. It depends on the relationship between gamma and alpha (Whittaker's index) but, furthermore, it reflects the variation in species occupancies. Thus, if a number of random samples, sufficient for the reliable estimation of mean alpha diversity and the species accumulation curve, is collected, N* converges to a value that does not change by the inclusion of more samples from the same region. N* depends primarily on the proportion of new species expected in each next sample.

N* declines with nestedness in community structure, while it increases with species turnover. This holds for plant diversity of Greek Natura 2000, where N* exhibited lower values in island compared to continental regions reflecting the increased nestedness of island communities.
Stimulating the discussion on saliva substitutes: a clinical perspective
Authors: Dost F , Farah CS
Published: January 2013

Xerostomia is a significant problem commonly faced by patients and oral health practitioners. There is no cure for this condition, which commonly manifests as a side effect of medications, head and neck irradiation and other systemic conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome and type 2 diabetes. It may also arise idiopathically. Therefore, treatment is palliative and takes the form of oral lubricants and saliva substitutes which aim to reduce symptoms associated with xerostomia as well as prevent oral disease secondary to it. Recently there has been an expansion of the number and range of products available in Australia for the palliative management of xerostomia. It is imperative then that oral health professionals have a sound understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of using such products as patients tend to be well informed about new products which are commercially available. This article discusses some of the most commonly available products used for the symptomatic relief and preventive management of xerostomia. Amongst the plethora of products available to the patient suffering from xerostomia, no single product or product range adequately reproduces the properties of natural saliva and therefore consideration of patients' concerns, needs and oral health state should be taken into account when formulating a home care regime. With Australia's ageing population and its heavier reliance on medications and treatments which may induce xerostomia, oral health professionals are likely to encounter this condition more than ever before and therefore an understanding of xerostomia and its management is essential to patient care.
Oral conditions and their social impact among HIV dental patients, 18 years on
Authors: Liberali SA , Coates EA , Freeman AD , Logan RM , Jamieson L , Mejia G
Published: January 2013

Background

A study undertaken in 1992–1993 identified that HIV‐infected dental patients were substantially disadvantaged with regard to the social impact of their oral disease. The oral pain experienced by HIV‐positive patients prior to the introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) was attributable to specific features of HIV‐related periodontal disease and other oral manifestations of HIV such as candida infections and xerostomia. A repeat of this study in 2009–2010 provided additional information in the post‐cART era.

Methods

Data were collected from three sources: the 2009–2010 HIV‐positive sample, the National Survey of Adult Oral Health (NSAOH) and the original 1992–1993 study. Collation of data was by clinical and radiographic oral examination. Information about the social impact of oral conditions was obtained from the Oral Health Impact Profile.

Results

The caries experience of the 2009–2010 HIV‐positive sample was improved with statistical significance for both mean DMFT and mean DT, while the presence of HIV‐related periodontal disease still occurs. Statistically significant improvements were achieved for prevalence and severity of oral health related quality of life.

Conclusions

The need for timely access to oral health care with a focus on prevention is essential for HIV‐positive individuals whose health is impacted by chronic disease, smoking and salivary hypofunction.
An in vitro study of silver and fluoride ions on remineralization of demineralized enamel and dentine
Authors: Zhi QH , Lo ECM , Kwok ACY
Published: January 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of silver fluoride, silver nitrate and potassium fluoride on remineralization of demineralized enamel and dentine in vitro.

Methods

Forty premolars were cut into cuboidal blocks. Acid‐resistant varnish was painted onto each block to cover all surfaces, except two windows, one in enamel and one in dentine. The tooth blocks were placed in demineralizing solution for 96 hours. They were then randomly divided into four groups of 10 blocks each and immersed in solutions of AgF, AgNO3, KF or water for 3 minutes. Afterwards, they were immersed in a remineralizing solution for 108 hours. Micro CT scanning was conducted before and after remineralization.

Results

The increase in linear attentuation coefficient (LAC) for the enamel lesions after remineralization was 1.08/cm, 0.95/cm, 0.86/cm and 0.60/cm in the AgF, AgNO3, KF and control groups, respectively (ANOVA, p < 0.001; AgF, AgNO3, KF > control; AgF > KF). The increase in LAC for the dentine lesions was 1.01/cm, 0.92/cm, 0.88/cm and 0.53/cm, respectively (ANOVA, p < 0.001; AgF, AgNO3, KF > control).

Conclusions

Topical application of silver or fluoride ions can increase the mineral density of demineralized enamel and dentine lesions during remineralization. The synergistic effect of silver and fluoride ions is relatively small.
Initial Assessment of the Pathogenic Mechanisms of the Recently Identified Alzheimer Risk Loci
Authors: Holton Patrick , Ryten Mina , Nalls Michael , Trabzuni Daniah , Weale Michael E. , Hernandez Dena , Crehan Helen , Gibbs J. Raphael , Mayeux Richard , Haines Jonathan L. , Farrer Lindsay A. , Pericak‐Vance Margaret A. , Schellenberg Gerard D. ,   The Alzheimer's Disease Genetics Consortium, Ramirez‐Restrepo Manuel , Engel Anzhelika , Myers Amanda J. , Corneveaux Jason J. , Huentelman Matthew J. , Dillman Allissa , Cookson Mark R. , Reiman Eric M. , Singleton Andrew , Hardy John , Guerreiro Rita
Published: January 2013

Recent genome wide association studies have identified CLU, CR1, ABCA7 BIN1, PICALM and MS4A6A/MS4A6E in addition to the long established APOE, as loci for Alzheimer's disease. We have systematically examined each of these loci to assess whether common coding variability contributes to the risk of disease. We have also assessed the regional expression of all the genes in the brain and whether there is evidence of an eQTL explaining the risk. In agreement with other studies we find that coding variability may explain the ABCA7 association, but common coding variability does not explain any of the other loci. We were not able to show that any of the loci had eQTLs within the power of this study. Furthermore the regional expression of each of the loci did not match the pattern of brain regional distribution in Alzheimer pathology. Although these results are mainly negative, they allow us to start defining more realistic alternative approaches to determine the role of all the genetic loci involved in Alzheimer's disease.
Randomized, blinded study to assess the effect of povidone‐iodine on the groin wound of patients undergoing primary varicose vein surgery
Authors: Walker Stuart R. , Smith Anne
Published: January 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of povidone‐iodine on the groin wounds of patients undergoing primary varicose vein surgery.

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized, blinded, controlled study on patients undergoing primary saphenofemoral ligation. Patients were randomized to a povidone‐iodine (Betadine; Pfizer, West Ryde, Australia)‐soaked surgical gauze placed in the open wound or a saline‐soaked gauze placed in the wound. Patients were then followed up weekly for 6 weeks to observe for signs of wound infection.

Results

Sixty‐eight legs in 49 patients were recruited. Thirty‐seven groin wounds were randomized to saline and 32 to Betadine. There was a reduced incidence of groin wound infections in those randomized to Betadine (3 versus 1), but this was not statistically significant (P = 0.4).

Conclusion

Although there may be a trend towards a lower wound infection rate when povidone‐iodine is use in surgical wounds, this is not significant for varicose vein surgery.
Change in risk status during labor in a large Norwegian obstetric department: a prospective study
Authors: Lippert Tonje , Nesje Ellen , Koss Karen Sofie , Øian Pål
Published: January 2013

Objective

This study aimed to observe risk status on admission to hospital and change in risk status during labor.

Design

A prospective observational study allocating all women into low‐risk and high‐risk groups on admittance to hospital and during labor based on prespecified risk criteria.

Setting

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in a district hospital.

Population

All 6406 deliveries from 2 May 2004 to 30 September 2006.

Methods

A special form was filled out for all women admitted to the department in labor classifying them as either low or high risk. A change in risk status during labor was also recorded.

Main outcome measures

Risk status (low and high risk) on admittance to hospital and change in risk status during first stage of labor.

Results

On admittance, 67% of women with an intended vaginal delivery were low risk. During the first stage of labor, 41% of the low‐risk women changed risk status. Use of epidural anesthesia gave rise to 73% of the risk changes during the first stage of labor and use of oxytocin caused 12%.

Conclusions

Two‐thirds of the women were low risk before labor, and 39% of these remained low‐risk at the end of the first stage of labor. The main reason for a change of risk status in the obstetric department was the use of epidural anesthesia.
Differential developmental programming by early protein restriction of rat skeletal muscle according to its fibre‐type composition
Authors: da Silva Aragão R. , Guzmán‐Quevedo O. , Pérez‐García G. , Toscano A. E. , Gois Leandro C. , Manhães‐de‐Castro R. , Bolaños‐Jiménez F.
Published: January 2013

Aims

Differences in fibre‐type composition of skeletal muscle have been associated with obesity and insulin resistance. As a poor nutrient environment early in life is a predisposing factor for the development of obesity and related metabolic diseases at adulthood, this study aimed at determining the long‐term consequences of maternal undernutrition on the structural and metabolic properties of two skeletal muscles characterized by their different fibre‐type composition and metabolic properties.

Methods

The fibre‐type composition and enzymatic activities of hexokinase (HK), beta‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (β‐HAD) and citrate synthase (CS) were measured in soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles from adult rats born to dams fed a control (17% protein) or a low‐protein [8% protein (PR)] diet throughout pregnancy and lactation. In addition, the expression levels of several genes regulating glycolysis, fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial biogenesis were determined by real‐time PCR.

Results

Protein rats exhibited enhanced density of type II fibres along with decreased rate of fatty acid oxidation and glycolysis in soleus but not EDL. Malnourished rats exhibited also a different gene expression profile in soleus and EDL. Altogether, these alterations correspond to a state of energy deficiency and are present in animals which do not show yet any sign of obesity or glucose intolerance.

Conclusion

We conclude that maternal protein restriction alters in the long term the structural and enzymatic properties of offspring skeletal muscle in a fibre‐type‐dependent manner. These alterations might have a causative role in the development of obesity and related metabolic disorders later in life.
Use of ultrasound‐guided autologous bone marrow transfer for treatment of suspensory ligament desmitis in 30 race horses (2003–2010)
Authors: Hall MS , Vasey JR , Russell JW , Russell T
Published: January 2013

Objective

To evaluate the racing performance of horses that underwent ultrasound‐guided intralesional injection of autologous bone marrow aspirate for treatment of selected forelimb suspensory ligament (body or branch) core lesions.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of 13 Standardbred and 17 Thoroughbred race horses.

Methods

Autologous bone marrow aspirated from the sternebrae was injected, under ultrasound guidance, into suspensory ligament core lesions (body or branch). Racing records were reviewed for a comparison of performance before and after surgery.

Results

Of the 13 Standardbreds, 9 (69%) had one or more starts within the follow‐up period and 9 (69%) had five or more starts. Of the 17 Thoroughbreds, 15 (88%) had one or more starts within the follow‐up period and 12 (71%) had five or more starts. Eight Standardbred horses had at least one start both before and after surgery. Earnings per start did not differ significantly between the three starts immediately after surgery compared with the three starts immediately prior to surgery. Thirteen Thoroughbred horses had at least one start both before and after surgery. Earnings per start were less for the three starts immediately after surgery compared with the three starts immediately prior to surgery.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

A horse with a core lesion in the branch or body of the suspensory ligament has a good prognosis for return to racing after treatment with intralesional injection of bone marrow aspirate.
Gene expression alterations in bipolar disorder postmortem brains
Authors: Chen Haiming , Wang Nulang , Zhao Xin , Ross Christopher A , O’Shea K Sue , McInnis Melvin G
Published: January 2013

Objectives:  Bipolar disorder (BD) is a mental illness of unknown neuropathology and has several genetic associations. Antipsychotics are effective for the treatment of acute mania, psychosis, or mixed states in individuals with BD. We aimed to identify gene transcripts differentially expressed in postmortem brains from antipsychotics‐exposed individuals with BD (hereafter the ‘exposed’ group), non‐exposed individuals with BD (hereafter the ‘non‐exposed’ group), and controls.

Methods:  We quantified the abundance of gene transcripts in postmortem brains from seven exposed individuals, seven non‐exposed individuals, and 12 controls with the Affymetrix U133P2 GeneChip microarrays and technologies. We applied a q‐value of ≤0.005 to identify statistically significant transcripts with mean abundance differences between the exposed, non‐exposed and control groups.

Results:  We identified 2191 unique genes with significantly altered expression levels in non‐exposed brains compared to those in the control and exposed groups. The expression levels of these genes were not significantly different between exposed brains and controls, suggesting a normalization effect of antipsychotics on the expression of these genes. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed significant (Bonferroni p ≤ 0.05) clustering of subgroups of the 2191 genes under many GO terms; notably, the protein products of genes enriched are critical to the function of synapses, affecting, for example, intracellular trafficking and synaptic vesicle biogenesis, transport, release and recycling, as well as organization and stabilization of the node of Ranvier.

Conclusions:  These results support a hypothesis of synaptic and intercellular communication impairment in BD. The apparent normalization of expression patterns with exposure to antipsychotic medication may represent a physiological process that relates both to etiology and improvement patterns of the disorder.