bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Restoration of tree lines in an agricultural landscape: their effectiveness as a conservation management tool
Authors: Cottee‐Jones H. Eden W. 
Published: January 2013

SummaryAs remnant vegetation covers <15% of the Australian sheep‐wheat belt, it is important to identify conservation strategies suitable for use in agricultural landscapes. Tree lines are widespread ecological structures in rural areas, and are now the subject of government subsidy schemes in New South Wales. However, the contribution of tree lines to biodiversity conservation is poorly understood. To identify the conservation value of tree lines, the bird communities in 36 tree lines in Cowra Shire, New South Wales, were surveyed 4 times each. The results demonstrated that tree lines were used by a large number of species, six of which were threatened. Different taxa were associated with different physical tree line attributes, with tree line age an important predictor of species occurrence. While mature tree lines tended to support more species, as was reflected in higher Shannon Diversity Index scores, they also harboured relatively more introduced species and nest predators, while young tree lines provided the best habitat for threatened species. However, these tree lines will mature, and as they do so they will provide increasingly suitable habitat for the hyperaggressive native honeyeater, the Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala), and introduced species. Therefore, tree lines in agricultural landscapes may only be serving an important role for conservation on short time scales, and the suite of threatened species young tree lines currently support appear likely to decline further in the future.
A genetic assessment of a successful seagrass meadow (Posidonia australis) restoration trial
Authors: Sinclair Elizabeth A. , Verduin Jennifer , Krauss Siegfried L. , Hardinge Jethro , Anthony Janet , Kendrick Gary A. 
Published: January 2013

SummarySeagrass meadows are in decline globally. Although numerous experimental methods have been implemented to restore meadows, few have been successful in the long term. Poor decisions on the sourcing of transplants from donor sites, including poor genetic integration and/or low genetic diversity, may impact on restoration success. However, despite evidence to suggest a positive association between genetic diversity and ecological resilience, there is usually little or no input from genetic data to inform on the genetic management of ecological restoration. Cockburn Sound has seen a 77% decline in seagrass cover since 1967. A transplant trial was conducted between 2004 and 2008 with sprigs of Posidonia australis being planted into a bare sand area. Survival was monitored annually, and in 2012, we compared genetic diversity in this transplant area with the original donor site. Genetic diversity in the restored meadow was very high and comparable to the donor site, with no genetic differentiation detected. The high level of genetic diversity and choice of site may have played an important role in the success of this restoration trial. The observed natural recruits around the site after establishment of transplants suggest that local restoration efforts may improve seafloor habitat and facilitate natural expansion of the meadow.
Word‐finding difficulties confound performance on verbal cognitive measures in adults with intractable left temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Busch Robyn M. , Chapin Jessica S. , Haut Jennifer S. , Dulay Mario F. , Naugle Richard I. , Najm Imad 
Published: January 2013

SummaryThis study sought to determine if word‐finding difficulties (WFDs), which are common in adults with dominant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), are related to performance on verbal cognitive measures, including memory. One hundred six individuals with left TLE and pathologically confirmed mesial temporal sclerosis completed comprehensive preoperative neuropsychological evaluations. Patients were divided into two groups based on the degree of benefit received from phonemic cueing on a confrontation naming task. Cognitive performance was then compared between patients with greater and fewer WFDs. Patients with greater WFDs demonstrated poorer performance on many verbal cognitive measures compared to those with fewer WFDs. In contrast, there were no significant differences between groups on any of the nonverbal cognitive measures. Chi‐square analyses indicated that below average verbal memory performance occurred at a significantly higher rate for patients with greater WFDs (42–46%) as compared to patients with fewer WFDs (18–24%). Results showed that WFDs confound performance on verbal cognitive measures in adult patients with left TLE, particularly on measures with high demands for lexical retrieval. This suggests that when patients have word‐retrieval difficulties, measures of verbal memory and verbal intelligence may be underestimated and potentially lead to misinterpretation of test performance and misinformation regarding risk of declines after surgical resection.
Antiepileptic drug treatment in pregnancy: Changes in drug disposition and their clinical implications
Authors: Tomson Torbjörn , Landmark Cecilie Johannessen , Battino Dina 
Published: January 2013

SummaryPregnancy is a state where pharmacokinetic changes are more pronounced and more rapid than during any other period of life. The consequences of such changes can be far reaching, not least in the management of epilepsy where the risks with uncontrolled seizures during pregnancy need to be balanced against potential teratogenic effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). This article aims to review the literature on gestational effects on the pharmacokinetics of older and newer generation AEDs and discuss the implications for the treatment of epilepsy in women during pregnancy. Pregnancy can affect the pharmacokinetics of AEDs at any level from absorption, distribution, metabolism, to elimination. The effect varies depending on the type of AED. The most pronounced decline in serum concentrations is seen for AEDs that are eliminated by glucuronidation (UGT), in particular lamotrigine where the effect may be profound. Serum concentrations of AEDs that are cleared mainly through the kidneys, for example, levetiracetam, can also decline significantly. Some AEDs, such as carbamazepine seem to be affected only marginally by pregnancy. Data on pharmacokinetics during pregnancy are lacking completely for some of the newer generation AEDs: pregabalin, lacosamide, retigabine, and eslicarbazepine acetate. Where data are available, the effects of pregnancy on serum concentrations seem to vary considerably individually and are thus difficult to predict. Although large‐scale systematic studies of the clinical relevance of the pharmacokinetic alterations are lacking, prospective and retrospective case series have reported an association between declining serum concentrations and deterioration in seizures control. The usefulness of routine monitoring of AED serum concentrations in pregnancy and of dose adjustments based on falling levels, are discussed in this review. We suggest that monitoring could be important, in particular when women have been titrated to the lowest effective AED dose and serum concentration before pregnancy, and when that individual optimal concentration can be used as reference.
Heritability estimates of tarsocrural osteochondrosis and palmar/plantar first phalanx osteochondral fragments inStandardbred trotters
Authors: Lykkjen S. , Olsen H. F. , Dolvik N. I. , Grøndahl A. M. , Røed K. H. , Klemetsdal G. 
Published: January 2013

SummaryReasons for performing studyThe pathogenesis of osteochondrosis (OC) and palmar/plantar first phalanx osteochondral fragments (POFs) is multifactorial, but specific knowledge of heritability is limited.ObjectivesTo improve the precision of heritability estimates and to estimate the genetic correlation between tarsocruralOCandPOFsin Standardbred trotters. Further aims were to examine whether the prevalence ofOC/POFswas different in theAmerican andFrench lineages that have contributed to theNorwegian population, and if the prevalence was affected by heterozygosity.Study designRetrospective cohort study.MethodsCategorical data on tarsocruralOCandPOFsfrom 2 radiographic studies performed in 1989 and 2007/2008 (n = 1217) were analysed with sire threshold models that included 230 sires.ResultsHeritability ofOCat the distal intermediate ridge of the tibia and/or the lateral trochlear ridge of the talus was estimated at 0.29 ± 0.15. ForOCat the distal intermediate ridge of the tibia only, the estimate was 0.40 ± 0.17. Heritability ofPOFsin all 4 limbs was estimated at 0.23 ± 0.13; for metatarsophalangealPOFsthis was 0.26 ± 0.13 and for medial metatarsophalangealPOFs0.32 ± 0.14. Estimates of genetic correlation betweenOCandPOFsranged from 0.68 ± 0.27 to 0.73 ± 0.28 but were not significantly different from a zero‐genetic correlation. Effects of lineages or heterozygosity were not observed.Conclusions and potential relevanceThis study confirmed a moderate to high heritability of tarsocruralOCandPOF, providing further evidence of the heritable nature of these diseases. Examination of specific lesions yielded the highest heritability; therefore, breeding programmes and future genome‐analysis studies should focus on predilection sites rather than the entire disease complex.
Global conservation status and research needs for tarpons (Megalopidae), ladyfishes (Elopidae) and bonefishes (Albulidae)
Authors: Adams Aaron J , Horodysky Andrij Z , McBride Richard S , Guindon Kathryn , Shenker Jonathan , MacDonald Timothy C , Harwell Heather D , Ward Rocky , Carpenter Kent 
Published: January 2013

AbstractWe assessed the taxonomic diversity, geographic distributions, life history, ecology and fisheries of tarpons, ladyfishes and bonefishes (members of the subdivision Elopomorpha), which share many life history and habitat use characteristics that make them vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic stresses in coastal environments. This assessment of Red List status for the International Union for the Conservation of Nature reveals three species considered near threatened or vulnerable, three species of least concern, and 11 data‐deficient species. Although the taxonomy of tarpons appears stable, it is less so for ladyfishes and bonefishes. In aggregate, these species are distributed circumtropically and foray into temperate zones. Although they spawn in marine habitats, larvae of many species disperse into estuarine habitats, which are declining in area or degrading in quality. Several species support high‐value recreational fisheries, or culturally important small‐scale commercial and artisanal fisheries. Nonetheless, no formal stock assessment exists for any species, so improved data collection, information sharing and assessment techniques should facilitate socio‐economic development of individual fisheries. Catch‐and‐release recreational fisheries that promote conservation of tarpon and bonefishes in some regions are promising models to improve the conservation status of these fishes elsewhere, as well as the economic development of these fishing communities. Most tarpons, ladyfishes and bonefishes likely face significant challenges from anthropogenically mediated habitat loss and alteration, and several are vulnerable to both habitat degradation and overfishing. Broader protection and enhancements to fisheries habitat in all regions will benefit these as well as many other coastal fishery species.
Improved Efficacy of Proton Pump Inhibitor – Amoxicillin – Clarithromycin Triple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Eradication in Low Clarithromycin Resistance Areas or for Tailored Therapy
Authors: Prasertpetmanee Sanchai , Mahachai Varocha , Vilaichone Ratha‐korn 
Published: January 2013

ObjectiveStandard triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication is no longer effective as an empiric choice in most areas. Even in low clarithromycin resistance areas, results ≥95% are infrequently achieved. This study was designed to search for a version of standard triple therapy for use low prevalence areas or as tailored therapy that is highly effective irrespective of CYP2C19 genotype.DesignTwo prospective pilot single center studies were performed in Thailand. H. pylori‐infected subjects were randomized to 7‐ or 14‐day regimens using a high‐dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) triple therapy consisting of lansoprazole (60 mg) twice daily, amoxicillin 1 g twice daily, and long‐acting clarithromycin MR 1 g once daily. H. pylori was defined as positive H. pylori culture; or two positive tests (rapid urease test and histology); CYP2C19 genotyping was performed. H. pylori eradication was evaluated by 13C‐UBT 4 or more weeks after treatment.ResultsHundred and ten subjects were enrolled (55 each to the 7‐ and 14‐day regimens). Antibiotic susceptibility testing (25 strains) showed 40% metronidazole resistance but no clarithromycin resistance. CYP2C19 genotyping (64 subjects) revealed 56.3% rapid metabolizer, 29.7% intermediate metabolizer, and 14% poor metabolizer. The eradication rate with the 14‐day regimen was 100% (95% CI = 93.5–100%) and 92.7% (95% CI = 82–97%) with the 7‐day regimen. The difference was related to improved eradication at 14 days in rapid metabolizers (i.e. 100 vs 88.2%).ConclusionTriple therapy using a 14‐day high‐dose PPI and long‐acting clarithromycin provided an excellent cure rate (100%) regardless of the CYP2C19 genotype.
Direct renin inhibitor, aliskiren, attenuates the progression of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in the rat model
Authors: Aihara Yosuke , Yoshiji Hitoshi , Noguchi Ryuichi , Kaji Kosuke , Namisaki Tadashi , Shirai Yusaku , Douhara Akitoshi , Moriya Kei , Kawaratani Hideto , Fukui Hiroshi 
Published: January 2013

AimRenin is a rate‐limiting enzyme of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), and several reports have shown that renin plays an important role in several pathological processes. Although RAS is known to play a pivotal role in the progression of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the role of renin is still obscure. The aim of the current study was to examine the effect of the clinically used direct renin inhibitor (DRI), aliskiren, on the progression of NASH in a rat model.MethodsThe effects of DRI on the choline‐deficient L‐amino acid‐defined (CDAA) diet‐induced rat NASH model was examined in conjunction with the activated hepatic stellate cells (Ac‐HSC) and neovascularization, both of which are known to play important roles in liver fibrosis development and hepatocarcinogenesis, respectively.ResultsDRI exerted a marked inhibitory effect against liver fibrosis development and glutathione‐S‐transferase placental form (GST‐P) positive preneoplastic lesions along with suppression of the Ac‐HSC and neovascularization in a dose‐dependent manner. DRI also inhibited the hepatic expressions of transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐beta 1), angiotensin‐II (AT‐II) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These results indicated that renin played a pivotal role in the liver fibrosis development and hepatocarcinogenesis of NASH.ConclusionBecause DRI is already widely used in the clinical practice with safety, this drug may represent a potential new strategy against the progression of NASH in the future.
Ready‐to‐eat snack products: the role of extrusion technology in developing consumer acceptable and nutritious snacks
Authors: Brennan Margaret A. , Derbyshire Emma , Tiwari Brijesh K. , Brennan Charles S. 
Published: January 2013

SummaryConsumer appeal for ready‐to‐eat (RTE) products is forecast to grow rapidly over the next 5 years as consumers demand convenient snacks with exciting sensory and textural properties. Extrusion technology has been used extensively in the production of cereal RTE snacks due to its ease of operation and ability to produce a variety of textures and shapes which appeal to consumers. Many of the existing RTE products are relatively high in sugar and salt, thus being regarded as energy dense but nutritionally poor foods. However, there exists a potential to manipulate the nutritional status of extruded RTEs by altering the digestion potentials of starch and protein, and by the incorporation of bioactive components such as dietary fibre. The review article explores some of the recent research in this field and illustrates opportunities by which the global food industry could react to consumers' requirements for healthful RTE snack products in the coming years.
Rheological, thermal and sensory properties of whey protein concentrate/pectin‐fortified mashed potatoes made from dehydrated flakes
Authors: Conforti Paula A. , Lupano Cecilia E. , Yamul Diego K. 
Published: January 2013

SummaryThe effect of different amounts of whey protein concentrate (50–150 g kg−1), low and high methoxyl pectin (5–15 g kg−1) on the rheological, thermal, structural properties and sensory quality of mashed potatoes prepared from dried mashed potatoes flakes was investigated. The response surface technique was used to analyse the effects of whey protein concentrate and pectin simultaneously on the consistency index, flow behaviour index, apparent viscosity and Casson plastic viscosity. Both whey protein concentrate and pectin decreased the consistency of the mashed potatoes weakening its structure in all concentrations assayed. Results suggest that whey protein concentrate interacts with high methoxyl pectin through non‐covalent interactions. Based on the sensory evaluation results, up to 100 g kg−1 whey protein concentrate with 15 g kg−1 of low methoxyl pectin and 15 g kg−1 of high methxyl pectin could be incorporated to dried mashed potatoes flakes without losing significantly the sensory quality of the product.
IUFoST's strategy to strengthen food security in rural areas of developing countries
Authors: Spiess Walter E.L. , Lund Daryl B. , Mercer Donald G. 
Published: January 2013

SummaryOne sixth of the world's population is food insecure with many of these people living in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Food insecurity, hunger and malnutrition have multiple reasons, many of which are beyond the reach and capacity of the food science community to remediate. Knowledge of food science and technology can dramatically improve the situation wherever food insecurity exists. This knowledge can increase our understanding of the conditions under which agricultural produce has to be handled, processed and distributed after harvesting. To develop practical measures, the Food Security Task Force of the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) is developing a strategy to expand and broaden the Food Science/Technology knowledge base in neglected geographical areas. Specifically, IUFoST is offering Food Science/Technology training material for non‐academic food industry entrepreneurs utilising distance education technology. Part of IUFoST's effort is the transfer of appropriate technologies for pilot‐scale processes which foster linkages between farmers and food industries and stimulate growing high value crops.
Preparation and functional characterisation of fish skin gelatin and comparison with commercial gelatin
Authors: Rawdkuen Saroat , Thitipramote Natthawut , Benjakul Soottawat 
Published: January 2013

SummaryGelatin was extracted from the skin of farmed giant catfish (GC) and tilapia (TP) at a yield of 19.50% and 23.34% (wet wt). It was high in protein (84–88%) but low in fat (0.09–1.24%) and ash content (0.15–0.17%). The GC exhibited lower emulsifying activity (24–35%), but greater foam ability (98–110%), water holding capacity (477–844%) and fat binding capacity (2541–3314%) than commercial beef skin gelatin (BF) (P < 0.05). GC and TP showed comparable functional properties to BF. SDS‐PAGE patterns of TP gelatin showed high band intensity for the α‐ and β‐components, while the lowest band intensity of the major component was found in the BF. From the study, it can be concluded that the farmed freshwater fish skin GC and TP is a prospective source for producing a significant gelatin yield with desirable functionalities. Because of these, fish skin gelatin could be more effectively and widely used in food industries as a good food ingredient.
The anus as a second mouth: anal suspension feeding by an oral deposit‐feeding sea cucumber
Authors: Jaeckle William. B. , Strathmann Richard. R. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractRespiratory trees of holothurians are blind‐ended evaginations of the posterior digestive system that are rhythmically inflated with seawater via the anus, and are considered to have respiratory and excretory functions. We tested the assimilatory capability of the respiratory tree epithelium by exposing adults of the oral deposit‐feeding aspidochirotid sea cucumber Parastichopus californicus to (1) 14C‐labeled unicellular algae and (2) iron‐containing macromolecules, and then following the distribution of the labels in various body regions. The abundance of the 14C (nmol 14C g wet weight−1) varied among body regions. The majority of the label was associated with the respiratory trees. The next greatest concentration was in the rete mirabile of the hemal system. The amount of 14C within samples of the anterior digestive system, posterior digestive system, and body wall muscle at each sampling time was lower than that of the respiratory trees. The presence and abundance of the 14C label in samples of the hemal system and the physical association between the respiratory tree and the rete mirabile suggest initial uptake by the respiratory tree and subsequent transfer to the hemal system. The iron label from the protein ferritin and the polysaccharide iron dextran entered cells of the respiratory tree luminal epithelium. The presence of the iron label in mesenchyme cells within the connective tissue compartment of the respiratory trees exposed to ferritin further suggests directional transfer of materials. Holothurians with respiratory trees are nutritionally bipolar; the anus serves as a second mouth.