bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of small-molecule inhibitors of the JIP–JNK interaction
Authors: Chen Tracy , Kablaoui Natasha , Little Jeremy , Timofeevski Sergei , Tschantz William R. , Chen Ping , Feng Junli , Charlton Maura , Stanton Robert , Bauer Paul 
Published: February 2009

JNK1 (c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1) plays a crucial role in the regulation of obesity-induced insulin resistance and is implicated in the pathology of Type 2 diabetes. Its partner, JIP1 (JNK-interacting protein 1), serves a scaffolding function that facilitates JNK1 activation by MKK4 [MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) kinase 4] and MKK7 (MAPK kinase 7). For example, reduced insulin resistance and JNK activation are observed in JIP1-deficient mice. On the basis of the in vivo efficacy of a cell-permeable JIP peptide, the JIP–JNK interaction appears to be a potential target for JNK inhibition. The goal of the present study was to identify small-molecule inhibitors that disrupt the JIP–JNK interaction to provide an alternative approach for JNK inhibition to ATP-competitive inhibitors. High-throughput screening was performed by utilizing a fluorescence polarization assay that measured the binding of JNK1 to the JIP peptide. Multiple chemical series were identified, revealing two categories of JIP/JNK inhibitors: ‘dual inhibitors’ that are ATP competitive and probably inhibit JIP–JNK binding allosterically, and ‘JIP-site binders’ that block binding through interaction with the JIP site. A series of polychloropyrimidines from the second category was characterized by biochemical methods and explored through medicinal-chemistry efforts. As predicted, these inhibitors also inhibited full-length JIP–JNK binding and were selective against a panel of 34 representative kinases, including ones in the MAPK family. Overall, this work demonstrates that small molecules can inhibit protein–protein interactions in vitro in the MAPK family effectively and provides strategies for similar approaches within other target families.
Impact of climate-change-enhanced salinity stress on rice and maintaining productivity in the future.
Authors: Suja George Suja George , Ajay Parida Ajay Parida 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
The earth is experiencing a faster change in climate in the twenty-first century than it has in the past. The global average temperature has increased over recent years and if the temperature prediction models are anything to go by, the earth's future is going to be hotter. The increasing temperature is accompanied by increased events of flooding, drought and both decreased and increased rainfall and evaporation rate in different parts of the world. A secondary effect of these extreme weather events is changes in water and soil salinity. Salinity patterns under future climate change scenarios (CCSs) have indicated that as the CCSs become more severe, the soil area under higher salinity category will increase. Rice, a primary source of food for more than half the world's population, is a salt-sensitive crop. So far rice productivity has kept pace with the increasing world population, thanks to the 'Green Revolution' and existing farming practices. The world population is still increasing, whereas the gains in agricultural output provided by the 'Green Revolution' have reached a plateau. Recent statistics reveal that rice production and productivity need to be increased by 40% and from the current 4.5 tonnes/ha to 7.5 tonnes/ha, respectively, by 2030 to satisfy the growing demand without affecting the resource base adversely. A considerable portion of the world's cultivated land is affected by salinity, which limits its productivity potential. Cleaning up of salt from these lands is uneconomical and impractical on a large scale, whereas improvement of rice germplasm for salinity tolerance is a feasible and promising alternative for maintaining stable global food production.
The antioxidant potential of parsley and its constituents.
Authors: Elisia I. , Kitts D. D. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract

The use of parsley as a meaningful source of dietary antioxidants has been overlooked due to the more common practice of using this herb as a garnish for improving the organoleptic qualities of foods. Notwithstanding this however, is the fact that parsley is comprised of a unique makeup of bioactive flavonoids, which includes both flavones (e.g. apigenin) and essential oil components (e.g. myristicin and apiol). Information on the antioxidant activity of parsley has been evaluated using a variety of chemical and cell-based antioxidant assays, and on a variety of parsley samples derived from different solvent extracts and originating from different anatomic parts of the herb. Studies have shown parsley to contain both bioactive phytochemical constituents that possess antioxidant activity, while also containing other components that have a carryover effect that yields defined chemopreventative activity in cell systems that are exposed to oxidative stress. For example, apigenin, the primary flavone characteristic to parsley exhibits weak reducing and free-radical scavenging activity, albeit that it also has a strong affinity to sequester free metal ions that otherwise could be involved in Fenton-reaction-induced free-radical generation. Alternatively, this flavone can stimulate the induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while concomitantly inducing apoptosis in cultured cancer cell lines, thereby suggesting a strong chemoprevention activity rather than acting purely as an antioxidant. On the other hand, essential oil recovered from parsley leaves exhibits notable antioxidant capacity in assays designed to measure reducing power and free-radical scavenging activity. Apiol is a stronger antioxidant than myristicin, and a primary contributor to the antioxidant activity found in parsley essential oil. The objective of this review is to assess the data derived from
in vitro
-chemical- and cell-based and
in vivo
studies that have shown potential antioxidant activity of parsley and its constituents; relevant to both improving food quality as well as having a carryover effect that can enhance human health.
Impacts of avian influenza virus on animal production in developing countries.
Authors: Otte J. , Hinrichs J. , Rushton J. , Roland-Holst D. , Zilberman D. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
This paper reviews the (predominantly grey) literature on impacts of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain H5N1 and control responses on the livestock sector and associated industries in developing countries. The authors distinguish between impacts that arise directly through HPAI-related morbidity and mortality, those that are a consequence of public intervention to control or eradicate HPAI, and impacts that are mediated through market reactions. The paper further considers how these impacts propagate up- and downstream through related supply and distribution networks, how short-term reactions are followed by longer-term adjustments, how impacts include direct cost elements and foregone income, and why losses to the poultry sector will, at least to some extent, be 'passed on' on the one hand, for example through compensation, and, on the other hand, be compensated for by gains in other livestock subsectors. Differences in methodology applied in the reviewed reports result in a lack of comparability of estimates for HPAI 'costs/impacts' across countries and even within countries and are compounded by information deficits. Despite these shortcomings, the literature permits some significant conclusions to be drawn on the relative importance of direct and indirect impacts and on their distribution across different types of poultry producers. The paper ends by outlining directions of future research that combine epidemiology and economics to provide a framework for disease control decision-making.
Outdoor recreation planning: a comprehensive approach to understanding use interaction.
Authors: Marcouiller D. W. , Scott I. , Prey J. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Growing demands for outdoor recreation have led to increased levels of crowding, displacement, competition and antagonism among alternative recreational uses. Recreational activities interact with differing degrees of compatibility resulting in various outcomes. In this review, we critique the relevant literature on recreation conflict, use compatibility and additivity with a focus on the interaction that takes place among alternative recreational uses. Results suggest that the literature is replete with theoretical and empirical studies focused on recreational conflict, while more comprehensive interaction types remain less studied and, in general, lacking overarching conceptual and analytical approaches. Further, there exists a need to link comprehensive approaches that address recreational use interaction with empirical analyses and management-specific strategies that allow for proactive planned outcomes that are positive-sum. We forward an approach to recreation planning that focuses on managing for relative compatibilities that involves maximizing those uses thought to be complementary and supplementary, while segregating and/or regulating those uses that are competitive and antagonistic.
The impact of genistein on osteoporosis.
Authors: Horiuchi T. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract

Genistein, one of the isoflavones, has an activity in terms of affinity to oestrogen receptor α (ERα) and oestrogen receptor β (ERβ) and a biological activity similar to oestrogen. The serum concentrations of genistein in Japanese people range from nanomolar to millimolar levels, since soya proteins are absorbed in the gut and conjugated and metabolized by intestinal microflora in humans.
In vivo
studies demonstrated that genistein acts on bone as an agonist. The lower doses of genistein associated with soya foods were expected to act similarly to oestrogens, with a beneficial effect on bone tissue.
In vitro
studies demonstrated that genistein increased osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA levels and protein production in primary lumbar trabecular osteoblasts. However, recent studies have indicated that oestrogens induce apoptosis of osteoclasts through ERα in the osteoclasts. Genistein might be same or different from oestrogen action in terms of protection from bone loss. Further studies should be performed to examine the effect of genistein on the prevention of fractures and on increase of bone mineral density (BMD).
Communicable diseases in occupational settings.
Authors: Phoon WaiOn Phoon WaiOn 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
In the past few years, there has been a renewed emphasis on the importance of communicable diseases in the occupational setting. The dramatic but evanescent outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is described in some detail. The recent upsurge in human cases of avian influenza, which to date has afflicted mainly poultry-handlers and their families in Asia, is also described. Recent trends in well-known communicable diseases, including acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), malaria, brucellosis and viral hepatitis, are also mentioned, with particular emphasis on the social and epidemiological aspects relating to occupational activities. Emphasis is laid on the effects of transmigration of labour and globalization, and the effects of air travel on the rapidity of transmission of these diseases. The review concludes with the need for continuing vigilance to identify and control new communicable diseases, such as SARS, and to watch for new patterns of distribution or manifestations of already well-known infections.
Technological tools to address the food crises.
Authors: Asenso-Okyere K. , Babu S. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Many causes have been proposed for the recent food crises that are currently afflicting the world, especially the developing countries. These causes include both the demand- and supply-side factors. One major cause identified was low productivity of agriculture, which has led to the inability of the sector to satisfy traditional and new demands for food. Yet, the food crisis offers an opportunity to revive food and agricultural systems and improve their productivity. This paper identifies various technological tools and options for addressing the food crisis through increased agricultural productivity. The present paper concludes that in order to tackle the problems of low productivity, effective organization, and management of national agricultural research and innovation systems is imperative. Equally important are the institutional innovations that will help close the food demand-supply gaps.
Understanding the function of the corpus luteum and the onset of puberty in buffalo.
Authors: Campanile G. , Vecchio D. , Baruselli P. S. , Palo R. di , Neglia G. , D'Occhio M. J. , Zicarelli L. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
This review aims to clarify some aspects of early buffalo reproduction and ovarian activity with special regard to corpus luteum (CL) activity. Puberty has been regarded as a complex event that is signalled by the first cyclic progesterone secretion at >1 ng/ml, in tight relation to other hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and growth hormone (GH). CL activity has been described in relation to the peculiarities of the oestrus cycle of the species, such as seasonal reproductive aptitude and the bull effect. The importance of the CL in pregnancy establishment and maintenance has also been revised in the light of the results of the latest research about embryo mortality in buffalo.
The need for epidural analgesia is related to birthweight – a population‐based register study
Authors: EKÉUS CECILIA , HJERN ANDERS , HJELMSTEDT ANNA 
Published: February 2009

AbstractObjective. To investigate the relation between use of epidural analgesia (EDA) and maternal and fetal characteristics. Design. Population‐based register study. Setting. Nationwide study in Sweden. Population. All 106,775 primiparous women who in 2002–2005 delivered a singleton infant vaginally at term. Methods. Register study with data from the Medical Birth Registry and the Swedish Register of Education. Main outcome measure. Use of EDA during vaginal delivery. Results. A total of 47,810 women (45%) received EDA during labor. EDA was used more often in women who were either young or short, had a high body mass index or a short education, or gave birth to an infant with high birthweight. After adjustment, the positive correlation with birthweight persisted. The use of EDA was twice as high in women with infant birthweight >4,500 g, 60% higher in those with infants weighing between 4,000 and 4,500 g and 25% lower when infants weighed <3,000 g, when compared to those with newborns weighing between 3,000 and 3,500 g. Conclusion. The woman's need for EDA is strongly related to birthweight. Prolonged duration of labor and instrumental delivery usually ascribed to EDA may be due to large infants.
Epidemiology of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital
Authors: Walkey Allan J. , Reardon Christine Campbell , Sulis Carol A. , Nace R. Nicholas , Joyce-Brady Martin 
Published: February 2009

Objective.To characterize the epidemiology and microbiology of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in a long-term acute care hospital (LTACH).Design.Retrospective study of prospectively identified cases of VAP.Setting.Single-center, 207-bed LTACH with the capacity to house 42 patients requiring mechanical ventilation, evaluated from April 1, 2006, through January 31, 2008.Methods.Data on the occurrence of VAP were collected prospectively as part of routine infection surveillance at Radius Specialty Hospital. After March 2006, Radius Specialty Hospital implemented a bundle of interventions for the prevention of VAP (hereafter referred to as the VAP-bundle approach). A case of VAP was defined as a patient who required mechanical ventilation at Radius Specialty Hospital for at least 48 hours before any symptoms of pneumonia appeared and who met the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for VAP. Sputum samples were collected from a tracheal aspirate if there was clinical suspicion of VAP, and these samples were semi-quantitatively cultured.Results.During the 22-month study period, 23 cases of VAP involving 19 patients were associated with 157 LTACH admissions (infection rate, 14.6%), corresponding to a rate of 1.67 cases per 1,000 ventilator-days, which is a 56% reduction from the VAP rate of 3.8 cases per 1,000 ventilator-days reported before the implementation of the VAP-bundle approach (P<.001). Microbiological data were available for 21 (91%) of 23 cases of VAP. Cases of VAP in the LTACH were frequently polymicrobial (mean number ± SD, 1.78 ± 1.0 pathogens per case of VAP), and 20 (95%) of 21 cases of VAP had at least 1 pathogen (Pseudomonas species, Acinetobacter species, gram-negative bacilli resistant to more than 3 antibiotics, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) cultured from a sputum sample. LTACH patients with VAP were more likely to have a neurological reason for ventilator dependence, compared with LTACH patients without VAP (69.6% of cases of VAP vs 39% of cases of respiratory failure; P = .014). In addition, patients with VAP had a longer length of LTACH stay, compared with patients without VAP (median length of stay, 131 days vs 39 days; P = .002). In 6 (26%) of 23 cases of VAP, the patient was eventually weaned from use of mechanical ventilation. Of the 19 patients with VAP, 1 (5%) did not survive the LTACH stay.Conclusions.The VAP rate in the LTACH is lower than the VAP rate reported in acute care hospitals. Cases of VAP in the LTACH were frequently polymicrobial and were associated with multidrug-resistant pathogens and increased length of stay. The guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that are aimed at reducing cases of VAP appear to be effective if applied in the LTACH setting.
From Emblems to Diagrams: Kepler's New Pictorial Language of Scientific Representation
Authors: Chen-Morris Raz 
Published: February 2009

AbstractKepler's treatise on optics of 1604 furnished, along with technical solutions to problems in medieval perspective, a new mathematically-based visual language for the observation of nature. This language, based on Kepler's theory of retinal pictures, ascribed a new role to geometrical diagrams. This paper examines Kepler's pictorial language against the backdrop of alchemical emblems that flourished in and around the court of Rudolf II in Prague. It highlights the cultural context in which Kepler's optics was immersed, and the way in which Kepler attempted to demarcate his new science from other modes of the investigation of nature.
Structural and thermal properties of the monoclinic Lu2SiO5single crystal: evaluation as a new laser matrix
Authors: Cong Hengjiang , Zhang Huaijin , Wang Jiyang , Yu Wentao , Fan Jiandong , Cheng Xiufeng , Sun Shangqian , Zhang Jian , Lu Qingming , Jiang Chunjian , Boughton Robert I. 
Published: February 2009

The crystal structure of monoclinic Lu2SiO5(LSO) crystals, grown by the Czochralski method, was determined at room temperature by X-ray diffraction. The unit-cell parameters area= 10.2550 (2),b= 6.6465 (2),c= 12.3626 (4) Å, β = 102.422 (1)° in space groupI2/a. The linear thermal expansion tensor was determined along thea,b,candc* directions over the temperature range from 303.15 to 768.15 K, and the principal coefficients of the thermal expansion tensor are found to be αI= −1.0235 × 10−6 K, αII= 4.9119 × 10−6 K and αIII= 10.1105 × 10−6 K. The temperature dependence of the cell volume and monoclinic angle were also evaluated. In addition, the specific heat and the thermal diffusivity were measured over the temperature ranges from 293.15 to 673.15 K and from 303.15 to 572.45 K, respectively. As a result, the anisotropic thermal conductivity could be calculated and is reported for the first time, to the best of the authors' knowledge. The specific heat capacity of LSO is 139.54 J mol−1 K−1, and the principal components of the thermal conductivity arekI= 2.26 W m−1 K−1,kII= 3.14 W m−1 K−1andkII= 3.67 W m−1 K−1at 303.15 K. A new structure model was proposed to better understand the relationships between the crystal structure and anisotropic thermal properties. In comparison with other laser matrix crystals, it is found that LSO possesses relatively large anisotropic thermal properties, and owing to its small heat capacity it has a moderate thermal conductivity, which is similar to those of the tungstates but lower than those of the vanadates.
Development of taxon‐specific sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers based on actin sequences and DNA amplification fingerprinting (DAF): a case study in the Phoma exigua species complex
Authors: AVESKAMP MAIKEL M. , WOUDENBERG JOYCE H.C. , DE GRUYTER JOHANNES , TURCO ELENA , GROENEWALD JOHANNES Z. , CROUS PEDRO W. 
Published: February 2009

SUMMARY Phoma exigua is considered to be an assemblage of at least nine varieties that are mainly distinguished on the basis of host specificity and pathogenicity. However, these varieties are also reported to be weak pathogens and secondary invaders on non‐host tissue. In practice, it is difficult to distinguish P. exigua from its close relatives and to correctly identify isolates up to the variety level, because of their low genetic variation and high morphological similarity. Because of quarantine issues and phytosanitary measures, a robust DNA‐based tool is required for accurate and rapid identification of the separate taxa in this species complex. The present study therefore aims to develop such a tool based on unique nucleotide sequence identifiers. More than 60 strains of P. exigua and related species were compared in terms of partial actin gene sequences, or analysed using DNA amplification fingerprinting (DAF) with short, arbitrary, mini‐hairpin primers. Fragments in the fingerprint unique to a single taxon were identified, purified and sequenced. Alignment of the sequence data and subsequent primer trials led to the identification of taxon‐specific sequence characterized amplified regions (SCARs), and to a set of specific oligonucleotide combinations that can be used to identify these organisms in plant quarantine inspections.