bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex‐biased transmission of a complex life‐cycle parasite: why males matter
Authors: Grear Daniel A. , Luong Lien T. , Hudson Peter J.
Published: April 2012

Male‐bias in parasite infection exists in a variety of host–parasite systems, but the epidemiological importance of males and, specifically, whether males are responsible for producing a disproportionate amount of onward transmission events (male‐biased transmission) has seldom been tested. The primary goal of our study was to experimentally test for male‐biased transmission in a system with no sex‐biased prevalence. We performed a longitudinal field experiment and continuously removed intestinal nematode parasites from either male or female white‐footed mice and recorded the subsequent transmission among the untreated sex. We predicted males are responsible for the majority of transmission and female mice would have lower infection prevalence under the male‐anthelmintic treatment than controls and that male mice would experience little or no change in infection prevalence under female‐anthelmintic treatment compared to controls. Our second goal was to evaluate physiological hypotheses relating to the mechanisms that could generate the observed transmission pattern. To that end, we examined a cross‐sectional sample of hosts to explicitly test for differences in parasite intensity, parasite egg shedding rate and reproductive output per parasite between male and female hosts. Removing parasites from male mice resulted in lower infection rates among female mice but, in contrast, there was no effect of female‐deworming on infection rates among male mice; providing evidence that males provide disproportionately greater numbers of transmission events than females. We found no difference in prevalence, intensity, or fecundity of parasites between sexes in the cross‐sectional sample of mice and rejected the mechanistic hypotheses. Without male‐biased prevalence, intensity, or parasite fecundity, we concluded that male‐biased transmission is unlikely to be created via physiological differences and the parsimonious explanation is that male behavior spreads infective stages in a more successful manner. We demonstrate that transmission heterogeneities can exist in the absence of individual heterogeneities in infection.
Neonates know better than their mothers when selecting a host plant
Authors: Soler Roxina , Pineda Ana , Li Yehua , Ponzio Camille , van Loon Joop J. A. , Weldegergis Berhane T. , Dicke Marcel
Published: April 2012

Evolutionary ecological theory predicts that among insect herbivores ‘mothers know best’ when selecting a plant to deposit their eggs. Host‐plant selection is usually studied for the adult stage exclusively, although mothers have not always been reported to know best. Here, we investigate the host‐plant selection behaviour of caterpillars, which are considered to be completely dependent on their mothers’ choices. We use a system that offers a biologically relevant framework to compare the degree of participation of adults and juveniles in host‐plant selection. Our results show that neonate Pieris brassicae caterpillars can actively discriminate between conspecific Brassica oleracea plants with or without aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae) infestation. The caterpillars prefer aphid‐infested plants on which their performance is significantly better, while their mothers, the female butterflies, did not discriminate. We compared caterpillar preferences of individuals released individually or in groups, because P. brassicae is a gregarious species. We found that the strength of the preference for aphid‐infested plants was not affected by the degree of grouping. Caterpillar choices were made before contact with the plants, indicating that plant odours were used for orientation. However, the composition of the volatile blends emitted by plants with and without aphids did not show strong differences. Similarly, like with aphid‐infested plants, plants treated with salicylic acid (SA) were also preferred by neonates over untreated control, indicating that the infestation by aphids may have rendered the plants more attractive to the neonates via changes related to interference with JA‐signaling. The main parasitoid of the caterpillars did not discriminate between plants with hosts in the presence or absence of aphids, showing that top–down forces do not influence the relative suitability of the different food sources for the caterpillars. These data are discussed in the context of mothers and offspring having both important, but different roles in the process of host‐plant selection. Butterflies may select the plant species patch, while their offspring adjust and/or update the choices of their mothers at the local scale, within the micro‐habitat selected by the adult.
Interactive effects of altered rainfall and simulated nitrogen deposition on seedling establishment in a global biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Standish R. J. , Fontaine J. B. , Harris R. J. , Stock W. D. , Hobbs R. J.
Published: April 2012

Understanding the interactive effects of global change drivers on vegetation is critical for ecosystem management and restoration, particularly in the Mediterranean‐climate biodiversity hotspots of the world. Climate change, habitat loss and nitrogen deposition have been identified as the key threats to biodiversity loss in these regions, yet their combined effects are poorly understood. We measured the interactive effects of rainfall manipulation (reduction, control, addition) and nitrogen deposition (N addition, N 1 P addition, and unfertilised) on the establishment of 19 Banksia‐woodland species planted at three sites in southwestern Australia. Seedling survival and aboveground biomass was increased with water addition but was not affected by rainfall reduction. N addition alone did not impact seedling survival and growth, but interacted with rainfall manipulation and site in unpredictable ways. Treatment effects were context dependent, which we attributed to historic nutrient enrichment and competitive exotic species that prevented seedling establishment. Plant species (n 5 6) varied greatly in their water‐use efficiency and nitrogen‐use efficiency responses to the imposed treatments, which underscores the difficulty of generalising results to larger numbers of species. Despite our finding that rainfall manipulation and nutrient addition have complex, and in some cases antagonistic effects on seedling survival and growth in Banksia woodlands, our results suggest that local context (i.e. invasive species, land‐use history) will have as much influence on seedling establishment as global changes in climate and nitrogen deposition. We call for more field experiments and predictive models to explore further the importance of ecological context in determining the interactive effects of multiple global change drivers on ecosystems. Finally, to realize effective biodiversity conservation, local management interventions that address invasive species and associated habitat degradation will be as critical in the future as they are now.
An N‐Terminal Dileucine Motif Directs Two‐Pore Channels to the Tonoplast of Plant Cells
Authors: Larisch Nina , Schulze Christina , Galione Antony , Dietrich Petra
Published: April 2012

Two‐pore channels (TPCs) constitute a family of endolysosomal cation channels with functions in Ca2+ signaling. We used a mutational analysis to investigate the role of channel domains for the trafficking of the Arabidopsis TPC1 to the tonoplast, a process that is generally not well understood in plants. The results show that the soluble C‐terminus was not essential for targeting but for channel function, while further C‐terminal truncations of two or more transmembrane domains impaired protein trafficking. An N‐terminal dileucine motif (EDPLI) proved to be critical for vacuolar targeting of TPC1, which was independent of the adaptor protein AP‐3. Deletion or mutation of this sorting motif, which is conserved among TPCs caused redirection of the protein transport to the plasma membrane. An N‐terminal region with a predicted α‐helical structure was shown to support efficient vacuolar trafficking and was essential for TPC1 function. Similar to their localization in mammalian endosomes and lysosomes, MmTPC1 and MmTPC2 were targeted to small organelles and the membrane of the lytic vacuole, respectively, when expressed in plant cells. These results shed new light on the largely uncharacterized sorting signals of plant tonoplast proteins and reveal similarities between the targeting machinery of plants and mammals.
Evaluation of satisfaction with masticatory efficiency of new conventional complete dentures in edentulous patients ‐ a survey
Authors: Bajoria Atul A. , Saldanha Sharon , Shenoy Vidya K.
Published: April 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00634.x

Evaluation of satisfaction with Masticatory efficiency of new conventional complete dentures in edentulous patients. A survey

Background:  Knowing how patients really feel after treatment is, very often, as relevant as the success rate of the conventional dentures and it can even be the measurement of masticatory function.

Aim and objectives:  This questionnaire survey aimed to analyse the satisfaction level and masticatory efficiency of patients treated with conventional complete dentures.

Design and setting:  Thirty edentulous patients were considered in the study. Satisfaction level and masticatory efficiency were analysed based on specific questionnaires for edentulous patients and by a likert rating scale from 0 to 5, at three moments: Prior to treatment (edentulous period), after the insertion of the new dentures and at 30–45 days follow‐up.

Materials and methods:  Thirty patients including 12 male and 18 female patients (mean age 65 years), who voluntarily came for the services. T‐test was applied at three different levels.

Results:  The rehabilitation with conventional complete dentures produced an improvement (p < 0.05) in satisfaction level and masticatory efficiency.

Conclusion:  Thus, those patients who were edentulous previously and dissatisfied with their masticatory ability showed improvement after receiving a new set of conventional complete dentures.
Monochorionic twin fetus with VACTERL association after intracytoplasmic sperm injection
Authors: Kanasugi Tomonobu , Kikuchi Akihiko , Matsumoto Atsushi , Terata Miyuki , Isurugi Chizuko , Oyama Rie , Fukushima Akimune , Sugiyama Toru
Published: April 2012

We report a rare case of a monochorionic twin gestation after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in which one of the fetuses had VACTERL association. A 27‐year‐old woman became pregnant by ICSI and was found to have monochorionic twin fetuses. One fetus was noted to have the following anomalies: a multicystic, dysplastic left kidney with a hydroureter, and a dilated colon. A normal‐sized stomach and normal amount of amniotic fluid were observed during the prenatal period with no other anomalies. The postnatal examination revealed hypospadias, and anal, esophageal, and duodenal atresia; thus, a diagnosis of VACTERL association was established. Although the prenatal diagnosis of this disorder is a challenge, even in a singleton, some of the characteristic features observed during antepartum ultrasonography may be a clue to the diagnosis, especially in a twin pregnancy after ICSI.
Interventions for Shared Decision‐Making About Life Support in the Intensive Care Unit: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kryworuchko Jennifer , Hill Elina , Murray Mary Ann , Stacey Dawn , Fergusson Dean A.
Published: April 2012

Background

Healthcare professionals and families make decisions about the use of life support for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), including decisions to withhold or withdraw life support at the end‐of‐life. Best practice guidelines recommend using a shared decision‐making (SDM) approach to improve the quality of end‐of‐life decision‐making but do not describe how this should be done in practice.

Aims

To know what elements of SDM had been tested to improve communication between healthcare professionals, patients, and their family about the decision. Trials relevant to our review assessed whether these interventions were more effective than usual care.

Methods

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials of SDM interventions for the decision about using life support, limiting the use of life support, or withdrawing life support for hospitalized patients. We searched databases from inception to January 2011.

Results

Of 3,162 publications, four unique trials were conducted between 1992 and 2005. Of four trials, three interventions were evaluated. Two studies of interventions including three of nine elements of SDM did not report improvements in communication. Two studies of the same ethics consultation, which included eight of nine elements of SDM, did not evaluate the benefit to communication. The interventions were not harmful; they decreased family member anxiety and distress, shortened intensive care unit stay, but did not affect patient mortality.

Implications for Research and Practice

Few studies have evaluated interventions to improve communication between healthcare professionals and patients/families when facing the decision about whether or not to use life support in the ICU. Interventions that include essential elements of SDM need to be more thoroughly evaluated in order to determine their effectiveness and health impact and to guide clinical practice.
WNT2 Locus is Involved in Genetic Susceptibility of Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Dolmans Guido H. , Werker Paul M. , de Jong Igle J. , Nijman Rien J. , LifeLines Cohort Study  , Wijmenga Cisca , Ophoff Roel A.
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a fibromatosis of the penis, with a pathology very similar to what is seen in the hand (palmar fascia) in Dupuytren’s disease (DD). Recently, we performed a genome-wide association study and identified nine genetic loci containing common variants associated with DD. Seven of these loci mapped within or near genes of the canonical WNT pathway and each locus yielded relatively large odds ratios (ORs) for DD disease status.

Aim

Given the clinical overlap between PD and DD, we examined whether the nine DD susceptibility loci are also involved in PD.

Methods

An association study was performed using a case/control design. From 2007 to 2010, we prospectively included 111 men who had been clinically diagnosed with PD. Control subjects (N = 490 males) were randomly drawn from a population-based cohort from the same region of the Netherlands. Allele frequencies in the 111 PD cases and 490 controls were compared using a 1-degree-of-freedom basic chi-square test. A P value < 0.05 after Bonferroni correction for the nine tested single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was considered statistically significant (i.e., P < 0.0056).

Main Outcome Measure

Association of genetic markers (SNPs) with PD.

Results

We observed significant association with SNP rs4730775 at the wingless-type MMTV integration site family member 2 (WNT2) locus on chromosome 7 (P = 0.0015, OR 0.61), but found no evidence for the other eight loci being involved with PD despite the large effect size seen for some of these variants in DD. The WNT2 association was even more significant after we removed 15 patients with comorbid DD.

Conclusions

WNT2 is a susceptibility locus for PD and our finding provides evidence for a partly shared genetic susceptibility between PD and DD.
The Somatic and Autonomic Innervation of the Clitoris; Preliminary Evidence of Sexual Dysfunction After Minimally Invasive Slings
Authors: Bekker Milou D. , Hogewoning Cornelis R.C. , Wallner Chris , Elzevier Henk W. , DeRuiter Marco C.
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Vaginal sling procedures may have a negative effect on sexual function due to damage to vascular and/or neural genital structures. Even though autonomic innervation of the clitoris plays an important role in female sexual function, most studies on the neuroanatomy of the clitoris focus on the sensory function of the dorsal nerve of the clitoris (DNC). The autonomic and somatic pathways in relationship to sling surgery have up to the present not been described in detail.

Aim

The aim of this study is to reinvestigate and describe the neuroanatomy of the clitoris, both somatic and autonomic, in relation to vaginal sling procedures for stress urinary incontinence.

Method

Serially sectioned and histochemically stained pelves from 11 female fetuses (10–27 weeks of gestation) were studied, and three-dimensional reconstructions of the neuroanatomy of the clitoris were prepared. Fourteen adult female hemipelves were dissected, after a tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) (7) or tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O) (7) procedure had been performed.

Main Outcome Measures

Three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction and measured distance between the clitoral nerve systems and TVT/TVT-O.

Results

The DNC originates from the pudendal nerve in the Alcock’s canal and ascends to the clitoral bodies. In the dissected adult pelves, the distance of the TVT-O to the DNC had a mean of 9 mm. The cavernous nerves originate from the vaginal nervous plexus and travel the 5 and 7 o’clock positions along the urethra. There, the autonomic nerves were found to be pierced by the TVT needle. At the hilum of the clitoral bodies, the branches of the cavernous nerves medially pass/cross the DNC and travel further alongside it. Just before hooking over the glans of the clitoris, they merge with DNC.

Conclusions

The DNC is located inferior of the pubic ramus and was not disturbed during the placement of the TVT-O. However, the autonomic innervation of the vaginal wall was disrupted by the TVT procedure, which could lead to altered lubrication-swelling response.
Relative expression of γδ T‐cell receptor gene families detected by RT–PCR and capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Tesarova L. , Koutna I. , Dvorakova M. , Klabusay M.
Published: April 2012

γδ T cells are intensively studied because their function in infection, allergy, autoimmune disease, cancer and post‐transplant period is not yet fully understood. PCR‐based techniques were established to study the γ variable (Vγ) and δ variable (Vδ) gene families. PCR product evaluation is routinely carried out by Southern blot analysis or the third complementarity‐determining region spectratyping, but a fast and simple assessment of Vγ and Vδ gene family expression is missing. The aim of our study was to test capillary electrophoresis as a potential method for evaluating the composition of the γδ T‐cell population. This report provides optimized PCR conditions for γδ T‐cell receptor amplification. Further, it describes the utilization of capillary electrophoresis in the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer to evaluate the relative expression of Vγ and Vδ gene families after their amplification. An application of the methodology to peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples from patients during haemato‐oncological treatment is shown. The described methodology is fast and simple to operate and is therefore suitable as a first screening of the γδ T‐cell population composition in tissues of interest.
Analysis of KIR gene frequencies and HLA class I genotypes in prostate cancer and control group
Authors: Portela P. , Jobim L. F. , Salim P. H. , Koff W. J. , Wilson T. J. , Jobim M. R. , Schwartsmann G. , Roesler R. , Jobim M.
Published: April 2012

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, with a significant increase in incidence and mortality in men over 50 years of age. Natural killer cells (NK) are part of the innate immune system recognizing class I HLA molecules on target cells through their membrane receptors, called killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR). The aim of our study is to evaluate the association between the KIR genes and HLA alleles in patients with prostate cancer and healthy controls. Two hundred patients with prostate cancer and 185 healthy controls were typed for HLA class I and KIR genes by PCR‐SSP. When both groups were compared, no significant differences were found for HLA‐C group 1 and group 2, HLA‐Bw4, HLA‐A3 and A11. No difference was seen either in KIR frequency between patients with prostate cancer and controls. In conclusion, our data suggest no potential role for the KIR gene system in prostate cancer.
Identification and characterisation of differentially expressed leaf proteins among Vitis species
Authors: Katam R. , Basha S.M. , Parks C. , Sakata K. , Latinwo L.M.
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Grapes are commercially grown worldwide for fresh fruit and wine. They are mainly classified into bunch and muscadine grapes. These species differ in their sugar content and composition, photosynthetic efficiency and tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses. Grape berry relies on carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis to support its development and composition. In view of the unique physiology and genetic make‐up of muscadine grape, a proteomics study was performed to increase our knowledge of Vitis leaf proteome in order to improve enological and disease tolerance characteristics of grape species. A high throughput two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) was conducted on muscadine, bunch and hybrid bunch leaf proteins. The differentially expressed proteins were excised from 2‐DE gels, subjected to in‐gel trypsin digestion, and analysed in MALDI/TOF mass spectrometer. The mass spectra were collected and protein identification was performed by searching against Viridiplantae database using Matrix Science algorithm. Proteins were mapped to universal protein resource to study gene ontology. We have discovered >255 proteins with pIs between 3.5 and 8.0 and molecular weight between 12 and 100 kDa among the Vitis species. Comparative analysis of leaf proteome showed that 54 polypeptides varied qualitatively and quantitatively among the three Vitis species studied. Of these, seven proteins were unique to muscadine, two proteins were present in both muscadine and bunch, while 28 proteins were common to all the three species. Bioinformatic analysis of these proteins showed that they are involved in signal transduction pathway, transport of metabolites, energy metabolism, protein trafficking, photosynthesis and defence. We have also identified proteins unique to muscadine grape that are involved in defence and stress tolerance. In addition, photosynthesis‐related proteins were found to be more abundant in Vitis vinifera grape compared to other Vitis species.
Genetic diversity of maize landraces from lowland and highland agro‐ecosystems of Southern South America: implications for the conservation of native resources
Authors: Bracco M. , Lia V.V. , Hernández J.C. , Poggio L. , Gottlieb A.M.
Published: April 2012

The North of Argentina is one of the southernmost areas of maize landrace cultivation. Two distinct centres of diversity have been distinguished within this region: Northwestern Argentina (NWA), and Northeastern Argentina (NEA). Nowadays, maize landraces from this area are faced with two main risks. On the one hand, significant structural and functional changes have modified the rural environment with the boundaries of cropland areas experiencing a rapid expansion at the expense of northern natural forests and rangelands; and on the other, native gene pools are increasingly threatened by hybrids and commercial varieties which are more attractive relative to landraces. The first step towards any conservational action is the acquisition of an inclusive knowledge of the biological resources. For this purpose, our study assesses the genetic diversity and population dynamics of maize landraces from Northern Argentina using microsatellite markers. The Northeastern lowland region (NEA) was represented by 12 landraces (19 populations). In addition, six landraces (eight populations) from the Northwestern highland region (NWA) were used for comparison. For the NEA data set, a total of 126 alleles were found, with an average of 10.5 alleles per locus. Mean Ho, He and Rs were 0.350, 0.467 and 2.72, respectively. Global fit to Hardy–Weinberg proportions was observed in 7 of 19 populations. Global estimates of FST revealed significant differentiation among populations. Bayesian analyses of population structure allowed the recognition of two main gene pools (popcorns versus floury landraces). When NWA was added to the analysis, three clusters were distinguished: NEA popcorns, NEA flours and NWA racial complexes. Additional information on the relationships among these groups was retrieved from cluster analyses. This study shows that lowland landraces from Northern Argentina harbour considerable levels of genetic diversity, with contributions from different gene pools. Further studies encompassing a larger number of populations from the NEA region will certainly help to detect additional genetic variation, which may prove highly valuable in germplasm conservation and management. Future conservation efforts should focus on preserving NEA popcorns, NEA floury and NWA racial complexes as different management units.
Polymorphisms in salivary‐gland transcripts of Russian wheat aphid biotypes 1 and 2
Authors: Cui Feng , Michael Smith C. , Reese John , Edwards Owain , Reeck Gerald
Published: April 2012

Abstract  The Russian wheat aphid (RWA), Diuraphis noxia (Mordvilko) (Homoptera: Aphididae), is a major pest of small grains. As with plant‐feeding aphids in general, the interaction between RWA and host plants is governed, on the insect side, by proteins and enzymes in saliva. In this work, we examined sequence variations in transcripts encoding proteins and enzymes of RWA salivary glands. We conducted reverse transcription – polymerase chain reaction in RWA biotypes 1 and 2 using primers derived from pea aphid orthologs, and cloned regions of 17 putative salivary gland transcripts. For four of the transcripts, we observed no difference in sequences between the two biotypes. For the other 13 transcripts, for example, the transcripts encoding sucrase, trehalase and protein C002, large amount of variations, both within each biotype and between the two biotypes, were observed. Usually the two biotypes shared only one variant, which was typically the most common variant in both biotypes. Most of the transcripts had more non‐synonymous than synonymous codon changes among their variants. Our results offer possible molecular markers for distinguishing the two biotypes and insights into their evolution.
Variability and stability of tea weevil‐induced volatile emissions from tea plants with different weevil densities, photoperiod and infestation duration
Authors: Cai Xiao‐Ming , Sun Xiao‐Ling , Dong Wen‐Xia , Wang Guo‐Chang , Chen Zong‐Mao
Published: April 2012

Abstract  After herbivore attack, many plants emit herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs). HIPVs can attract carnivores and/or repel herbivores, thereby mediating tritrophic plant–herbivore–carnivore interactions. HIPVs act as chemical information between organisms; hence, their variability and stability are vital. In the present study, variations in the volatile emissions, from the tea plant Camellia sinensis (O. Ktze) damaged by the tea weevil Myllocerinus aurolineatus (Voss) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), with weevil densities, photoperiod and infestation duration, were investigated. The volatiles induced by high‐density weevils were more abundant in composition and amount than those induced by low‐density weevils, whether at noon, night or after weevil removal. The induced volatile emissions were similar on the second and third day after infestation, and the emissions of the major induced compounds displayed diurnal cycles. Linalool, (E,E)‐α‐farnesene, and benzyl nitrile were emitted mainly at noon, whereas 1,3,8‐p‐menthatriene and (E)‐β‐ocimene were maximally emitted at night. Given the different emission dynamics, significant differences were found between noon‐ and night‐induced volatiles. In summary, tea plants damaged by different weevil densities emitted a relatively stable signal at a particular time. This stability could be attributed to the similarities under the two densities of the main induced volatile compounds, their relative ratios and the emission dynamics of the induced volatiles.
Estimating temperature‐dependent developmental rates of potato tuberworm, Phthorimaea operculella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Golizadeh Ali , Zalucki Myron P.
Published: April 2012

Abstract  The potato tuberworm, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is the most destructive pest of potato, Solanum tuberosum L. (Solanaceae), in tropical and subtropical regions in both field and storeroom situations. The modeling of temperature‐dependent development can be useful in forecasting occurrence and population dynamics of the pests. Published developmental parameters for this pest vary greatly for many reasons. We determined temperature‐dependent development of P. operculella at seven constant temperatures (16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 34 and 36 °C). Developmental period of whole immature stage (egg to the end of the pupal stage) varied from 75.5  days at 16 °C to 17 days at 32 °C. The population failed to survive at 36 °C. The observed data was modeled to determine mathematical functions for simulating P. operculella development in each stage of development and overall. Two linear models, ordinary linear regression and the Ikemoto linear model were used to describe the relationship between temperature and development rate of the different stages of P. operculella and estimating the thermal constant and lower temperature threshold. The lower temperature threshold (t) and thermal constant (k) of whole immature stage were estimated to be 11.6 °C and 338.5 DD by Ikemoto linear model, and the estimated parameters were not substantially different with those estimated by ordinary linear models. Different models provided a better fit to the various developmental stages. Of the eleven nonlinear models fitted, the Beriere‐1, Logan‐6 and Lactin‐1 model was found to be the best for modeling development rate of egg, larva and pupa of P. operculella, respectively. Phenological models based on these findings can be part of a decision‐support tool to improve the efficiency of pest management programs.
Effect of signalment on the presentation of canine patients suffering from cranial cruciate ligament disease
Authors: Guthrie J. W. , Keeley B. J. , Maddock E. , Bright S. R. , May C.
Published: April 2012

Objective: To determine the effect of signalment on the incidence and presentation of patients suffering from cranial cruciate ligament disease.

Methods: Data relating to 426 dogs (44 breeds) that met specific selection criteria were obtained from the hospital archive (2002 to 2008). Cases were followed up for 2 years.

Results: The breeds most commonly presented with cranial cruciate ligament disease were Labrador retriever (16%), Rottweiler (15%), golden retriever (12%) and boxer (9%). Rottweilers were significantly more likely (69%; P=0·05) to develop and present with (50%; P=0·03) bilateral cranial cruciate ligament disease. Rottweilers presenting with cranial cruciate ligament disease were significantly younger (median 977 days; P<0·0001) than other breeds; golden retrievers being significantly older at presentation (median 1994 days; P=0·004). Neither sex nor neutered status significantly affected the incidence of developing (P=0·77 and P=0·30, respectively) or presenting with (P=0·62 and P=0·35, respectively) bilateral cranial cruciate ligament disease. Entire dogs were significantly younger than neutered dogs at presentation (P=0·0004). Entire female dogs presented significantly younger than neutered females (P=0·0002), entire males (P=0·01) and neutered males (P=0·0001).

ClinicalSignificance: Breed affects the incidence of developing and presenting with bilateral cranial cruciate ligament disease. Breed and sex both affect the age that patients present with cranial cruciate ligament disease.
Insecticidal activities ofGinkgo bilobaseed coat extracts againstSpodoptera exigua(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: SO Sang‐Sup , HWANG Tae‐Hwan , AKRAM Waseem , CHOI Jhong‐Kyung , LEE Jong‐Jin
Published: April 2012

The present study relates to a methanol extract of the seed coat ofGinkgo biloba, and tested particularly on the third instar larvae ofSpodoptera exigua. The extract was found to have an inhibitory effect on the growth of the larvae besides bringing a change in the nutrient reserves in the body of the insect. Topical application of five different doses of the methanol extract resulted in a mortal effect to third instar larvae ofS. exiguathat is very much dependent on the dose as well as duration of exposure. Lower doses revealed lower mortality after 24 h of application. At doses of 1.00, 2.00, 4.00, 8.00 and 16.00 ng/larva, mortalities were 9.25, 26.07, 50.32, 56.28 and 92.44%, respectively. The dose for 50% mortality (LD50) of methanol extracts by applied by a topical method with 1 µL of acetone solution was 1.92 ng/larva. Nutrient reserves like protein, glycogen and lipid are known to regulate pupation and adult emergence. These reserves have been found to be lower in treated larvae, indicating the insecticidal role of methanol extracts fromG. bilobaagainst third instar larvae ofS. exigua.
Enhanced Competitive Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay for the Trace Detection of Insecticide Triazophos
Authors: Jin Maojun , Shao Hua , Jin Fen , Gui Wenjun , Shi Xiaomei , Wang Jing , Zhu Guonian
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  A direct competitive chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) for triazophos was developed, which was based on the anti‐THHe IgG monoclonal antibody and a heterogeneous enzyme tracer (THHu‐HRP). Several components of chemiluminescent enhanced solution (CES) were optimized. The results showed that 1 mM of p‐iodo‐phenol, 0.625 mM of luminol, and 4 mM of H2O2 had the best performance. Based on the study of CES, the influence of several factors (assay buffer, blocking substance, and solvent) on the immunoassay was investigated. The sensitivity for detection, IC50 value was 0.87 ng/mL at a practical working concentration range between 0.04 ng/mL and 5 ng/mL and the limit of detection for triazophos was 0.063 ng/mL. The average recovery of triazophos added to lettuce, carrot, apple, water, and soil were 78.71%, 67.52%, 118.3%, 117.2%, and 122.0%, respectively. Finally, comparison between the methods of CLEIA and high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrum (HPLC‐MS/MS) was performed. The results obtained from CLEIA were in agreement with those of HPLC‐MS/MS.

Practical Application:  The method developed in the paper could take positive or negative test of vegetable, fruit, and environmental samples for triazophos with high sensitivity and efficiency.
Comparison of the Frying Performance of Olive Oil and Palm Superolein
Authors: Romano Raffaele , Giordano Anella , Vitiello Simona , Grottaglie Laura Le , Musso Salvatore Spagna
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Deep‐fat frying is an important method of food preparation in which foods are immersed in hot oil. Repeated use of frying oils is a common practice, and in the presence of atmospheric oxygen it produces various undesirable reactions in used oils. Stable frying oils usually require low linolenic acid (LnA < 3%), increased oleic acid (OA > 40%), and decreased linoleic acid (LA < 50%). The aim of this study was to establish the behavior of palm superolein (PSO) (OA 45%; LA 12.5%; LnA 0.2%) and olive oil (OO) during repeated, discontinuous deep frying of French fries. The behavior of the oils under controlled heating conditions was also studied by maintaining all of the process variables the same as those in deep frying, except that there was no food in the oil. The PSO selected to be tested in this study may represent an alternative to OO as a frying medium. Although PSO presented a faster increase in some oxidation indices, such as free fatty acid and total polar compounds, for other indicators, PSO showed better behavior than OO (less formation of C8:0 and lower peroxide value).

Practical Application:  The super palm olein selected for use in this study can be suggested as a suitable replacement for olive oil for frying and cooking purposes because it provides higher oxidative stability besides the beneficial effects of olive oil on human health. In fact, several studies have indicated that palm oil exhibits similar frying performance to high‐oleic oils, with the advantages of greater availability in the market and a lower price.
Determination of Tricyclazole Content in Paddy Rice by Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Tang Huirong , Fang Dongmei , Li Qingqing , Cao Peng , Geng Jinpei , Sui Tao , Wang Xuan , Iqbal Jibran , Du Yiping
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  An ultrasensitive method based on Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has been developed to determine content of a pesticide which is tricyclazole in paddy rice using sliver colloid as a substrate and pyridine as an internal standard. The peaks at 424 and 1035 cm−1 in a SERS spectrum were selected as analytic and internal peaks, respectively, and their intensity ratio It/Ip was used to calculate the regression concentration of tricyclazole. The correlation between It/Ip and concentration showed significant linear relationship with a correlation coefficient of R2= 0.995 in a concentration range of 0.05 to 0.70 mg/L and the tricyclazole solution can be detected to be low as 0.002 mg/L by SERS. The method was applied to determine tricyclazole contents of 3 real rice samples with a standard addition method in order to eliminate interference of matrix. The errors of SERS measurements for the 3 samples were 0.0008 to 0.0246, 0.0013 to 0.0028, and 0.0129 to 0.0304 mg/kg, respectively, compared with the results obtained by high performance liquid chromatography method. This also showed a good reproducibility with low values of relative standard deviation (n= 3) for the 3 samples ranged from 3.63% to 4.64%.

Practical Application:  SERS is a simple, rapid, and sensitive method to detect pesticides residue in agricultural food. Our results demonstrate that coupled with silver colloid, SERS is able to rapidly determine tricyclazole residue in paddy rice, indicating that SERS can provide rapid, accurate, and reproducible results for tricyclazole determination at trace level in paddy rice.
New Highly Stable Dimeric 3‐Deoxyanthocyanidin Pigments from Sorghum bicolor Leaf Sheath
Authors: Geera Bhimalingeswarappa , Ojwang Leonnard O. , Awika Joseph M.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The growing interest in natural alternatives to synthetic petroleum‐based dyes for food applications necessitates looking at nontraditional sources of natural colors. Certain sorghum varieties accumulate large amounts of poorly characterized pigments in their nongrain tissue. We used High Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Tandem Mass Spectroscopy to characterize sorghum leaf sheath pigments and measured the stability of isolated pigments in the presence of bisulfite at pH 1.0 to 7.0 over a 4‐wk period. Two new 3‐deoxyanthocyanidin compounds were identified: apigeninidin‐flavene dimer and apigenin‐7‐O‐methylflavene dimer. The dimeric molecules had near identical UV‐Vis absorbance profiles at pH 1.0 to 7.0, with no obvious sign of chalcone or quinoidal base formation even at the neutral pH, indicating unusually strong resistance to hydrophilic attack. The dimeric 3‐deoxyanthocyanidins were also highly resistant to nucleophilic attack by SO2; for example, apigeninidin‐flavene dimer lost less than 20% of absorbance, compared to apigeninidin monomer, which lost more than 80% of absorbance at λmax within 1 h in the presence of SO2. The increased molecular complexity of the dimeric 3‐deoxyanthocyanidins compared to their monomers may be responsible for their unusual stability in the presence of bisulfite; these compounds present new interesting opportunities for food applications.

Practical Application:  Natural dimeric pigments concentrated in sorghum sheath retain their hue properties and stability over a wide pH range and should be explored for potential use in mildly acidic to neutral food applications.
E: Food Engineering & Physical Properties. Effect of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Pasteurization on Natural Microbiota, Texture, and Microstructure of Fresh‐Cut Coconut
Authors: Ferrentino Giovanna , Balzan Sara , Dorigato Andrea , Pegoretti Alessandro , Spilimbergo Sara
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The objective of the present study was the evaluation of the effectiveness of supercritical carbon dioxide (SC‐CO2) as a nonthermal technology for the pasteurization of fresh‐cut coconut, as an example of ready‐to‐eat and minimally processed food. First, the inactivation kinetics of microbiota on coconut were determined using SC‐CO2 treatments (pressures at 8 and 12 MPa, temperatures from 24 to 45 °C, treatment times from 5 to 60 min). Second, the effects of SC‐CO2 on the hardness and microstructure of fresh‐cut coconut processed at the optimal conditions for microbial reduction were investigated. SC‐CO2 treatment of 15 min at 45 °C and 12 MPa induced 4 log CFU/g reductions of mesophilic microorganisms, lactic acid bacteria, total coliforms, and yeasts and molds. The hardness of coconut was not affected by the treatment but the samples developed an irregular and disorderly microstructure. Results suggested the potential of SC‐CO2 in preserving fresh‐cut fruits and ready‐to‐eat products.

Practical Application:    The effectiveness of SC‐CO2 as a nonthermal technology for the pasteurization of fresh‐cut coconut was studied. The results demonstrated the possibility to apply the treatment as a method to induce the inactivation of the natural microorganisms, preventing the microbial spoilage and, at the same time, preserving the hardness of the product. The available data will give a valuable input to the fresh‐cut fruits industry.
A Cultural‐Asset Framework for Investigating Successful Adaptation to Stress in African American Youth
Authors: Gaylord‐Harden Noni K. , Burrow Anthony L. , Cunningham Jamila A.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this article is to present a culturally situated, asset‐based developmental framework for understanding successful adaptation to stress. Making use of theory and research on differential exposure and reactivity to racial discrimination, it introduces a framework that can be used to investigate positive development in the context of other stressors. Toward this goal, the article highlights research related to the roles of racial socialization messages, racial identity, stress appraisals, and unique coping in influencing responses to racial discrimination. By integrating these themes, the article presents an asset‐based framework for understanding how these components influence one another and can function together to promote positive youth development in the context of racial discrimination. Ultimately, it also illustrates how the framework can be applied to other stressors that are experienced by African American youth and offers examples of how cultural assets work to promote positive youth development.
Aided Symbol‐Infused Joint Engagement
Authors: Benigno Joann P. , McCarthy John W.
Published: April 2012

When characterizing the social communication skills of children with developmental and physical disabilities, researchers may need to account for special considerations, particularly if the children have severe communication disabilities. These children may require means other than spoken language to communicate their needs and thoughts to others if their communication needs are unmet through natural speech production. These means or forms of communication are known as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This article discusses aided symbol‐infused joint engagement, a form of joint attention that might be useful when characterizing the joint engagement states of children with communication difficulties who require the use of AAC. The theoretical, empirical, and clinical implications of aided symbol‐infused joint engagement are discussed.
Intergenerational Patterns of Maltreatment in Families at Risk for Foster Care
Authors: McWey Lenore M. , Pazdera Andrea L. , Vennum Amber , Wojciak Armeda S.
Published: April 2012

Few qualitative studies have investigated the process of parental efforts to break intergenerational patterns of maltreatment. A grounded theory approach was used to understand how 24 parents who had been identified by CPS as being at‐risk of having their children removed from their homes due to allegations of abuse and/or neglect, perceived and connected their own experiences of childhood abuse in light of their experiences as alleged perpetrators of child maltreatment. Three major categories were identified: patterns, beliefs, and behaviors. A majority of the parents stated that they recognized intergenerational patterns, most expressed that they wanted to be different from their own parents, yet many described parenting actions that were “destructive.” We suggest that it is the interrelationship amongst patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that may offer opportunities for parents and therapists to enact change.
‘Moving On’: The Politics of Shared Society in Northern Ireland
Authors: McGrattan Cillian
Published: April 2012

Debates over the direction of the Northern Irish peace process have moved from decommissioning and all‐party inclusion to community relations and whether society is becoming more or less integrated and shared. This article contends that what is missing from this debate is consideration of the fact that a process of de‐politicisation is occurring – specifically, inspired by a progressivist imperative, political discourse and engagement are increasingly moving from the public sphere to more privatised concerns. I argue that that vision does not speak to the trauma of the past and that the silencings, limitations, and dilemmas it leads to are most lucidly seen in recent Northern Irish drama productions. I conclude by sketching an alternative ethical vision based on an attachment to remembering historical injustices and a repudiation of the social pressure to draw a line under the past.
Bound from Head to Toe: The Sari as an Expression of Gendered National Identity
Authors: Wilton Shauna
Published: April 2012

This article explores the clothing choices of Indian women and the relationship between clothing and the construction of the nation in contemporary India. Building on the existing literature on nationalism, combined with feminist and cultural studies approaches, the article uses interviews with young Indian women as an entry point into exploring the symbolic role of women and the sari within Indian nationalism. In doing so, this article questions to what extent choosing what to wear is an example of choosing the nation, whether it is a free and conscious choice, and whether it is appropriate to see these choices as constitutive of national identity or merely ornamental. In conclusion, I argue that something as ordinary as choosing what to wear has the potential to undermine dominant discourses surrounding the nation. While choosing to wear the sari does not always reflect a conscious choosing of the Indian nation, the clothing choices of Indian women do allow them to navigate complex social and cultural identities in their everyday lives and reflect the importance of the ‘everyday’ within theorising and explaining the construction and maintenance of nations.
Moving the Nation: Taking the Smithsonian to Scotland
Authors: Bucciantini Alima
Published: April 2012

Temporary exhibitions in national museums provide a window into the ways in which national identity is performed. When one national museum is presented in the space of another nation, the changes of narrative and performance are even more vivid. Looking at a 1984 exhibition of American artefacts in Scotland, Treasures from the Smithsonian Institution at the Royal Scottish Museum, this article examines how material culture can hold ever‐changing narratives of nation and identity, and how they alter to suit new contexts and spaces.