bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cosmology Under Milne's Shadow
Authors: Chodorowski Michał J. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractBased on the magnitude–redshift diagram for the sample of supernovae Ia analyzed by Perlmutter et al. (1999), Davis & Lineweaver (2004) ruled out the special relativistic interpretation of cosmological redshifts at a confidence level of 23σ. Here, we critically reassess this result. Special relativity is known to describe the dynamics of an empty universe, by means of the Milne kinematic model. Applying only special relativistic concepts, we derive the angular diameter distance and the luminosity distance in the Milne model. In particular, in this model we do not use the underlying metric in its Robertson–Walker form, so our exposition is useful for readers without any knowledge of general relativity. We do however, explicitly use the special relativistic Doppler formula for redshift. We apply the derived luminosity distance to the magnitude–redshift diagram for supernovae Ia of Perlmutter et al. (1999) and show that special relativity fits the data much better than that claimed by Davis & Lineweaver. Specifically,using these data alone, the Milne model is ruled out only at a 2σ level. Alhough not a viable cosmological model, in the context of current research on supernovae Ia it remains a useful reference model when comparing predictions of various cosmological models.
Second Data Release of the 6dF Galaxy Survey
Authors: Jones D. Heath , Saunders Will , Read Michael , Colless Matthew 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThe 6dF Galaxy Survey is measuring around 150 000 redshifts and 15 000 peculiar velocities from galaxies over the southern sky at |b| > 10°. When complete, it will be the largest survey of its kind by more than an order of magnitude. Here we describe the characteristics of the Second Incremental Data Release and provide an update of the survey. This follows earlier data made public in 2002 December and 2004 March. A total of 83 014 sources now have their spectra, redshifts, and near-infrared and optical photometry available online and searchable through an Structured Query Language database at www-wfau.roe.ac.uk/6dFGS/.
Ethnoveterinary plant preparations as livestock dewormers: practices, popular beliefs, pitfalls and prospects for the future
Authors: Githiori John B. , Höglund Johan , Waller Peter J. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractEthnomedicine is an integral part of traditional medical practices in many countries of the developing world. A large proportion of the population uses this form of treatment for primary health care and for the treatment of ailments in their livestock. Livestock is a major asset for resource-poor smallholder farmers and pastoralists throughout the world and internal parasites are recognized by these communities as having an impact on livestock health. Parasitic infections are among those infections that traditional healers confidently treat and against which an enormous variety of remedies exist. Many of these are based on the use of plant preparations. Although various methods have been used for the validation of traditional phytomedical preparations, there is a lack of standardization of these procedures. The present study is aimed at providing an overview of ethnoveterinary deworming preparations, the various methods that have been used in their validation and the future prospects for their use against helminth parasites of ruminant livestock in developing countries, with an emphasis on nematode parasites. Recommendations are made on the procedures that should be followed to conductin vivoandin vitroassays. Fostering better interaction between traditional healers and scientists is advocated to prevent harmful overexploitation, both of local knowledge and of plant species that may have effects against nematode parasites.
Biology and epidemiology ofToxoplasma gondiiin man and animals
Authors: Hill Dolores E. , Chirukandoth Sreekumar , Dubey J. P. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractToxoplasma gondiiis a coccidian parasite which utilizes felids as definitive hosts, and which has an unusually wide intermediate host range. The parasite was initially described by Nicolle and Manceaux in 1908 from the rodent,Ctenodactylus gundi. Infection withT. gondiiis one of the most common parasitic infections of man and other warm-blooded animals. It has been found worldwide from Alaska to Australia. Nearly one-third of humanity has been exposed to this parasite; serologic surveys indicate thatT. gondiiinfections are common in wild carnivores, including pigs, bears, felids, fox, raccoons, and skunks. Clinical and subclinical toxoplasmosis has been reported from wild cervids, ungulates, marsupials, monkeys, and marine mammals. Southern sea otter populations have been severely impacted byToxoplasmainfections.
Avian influenza virus: prospects for prevention and control by vaccination
Authors: Lee Chang-Won , Suarez David L. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractAlthough vaccination does not always prevent infection of avian influenza (AI) virus, the clear benefit of vaccination is in its ability to prevent disease and to reduce the amount of virus in circulation. Thus, judicious use of vaccination can be an important component of an AI control program. However, the long-term use of vaccination without eradication may result in the selection of the antigenically divergent strains, which compromises the value of vaccination. In this review, the effectiveness of currently available and future AI vaccines is discussed with suggestions for the ideal use of vaccination even with antigenic drift of the virus.
Genetic diversity ofAnaplasmaspecies major surface proteins and implications for anaplasmosis serodiagnosis and vaccine development
Authors: de la Fuente José , Lew Ala , Lutz Hans , Meli Marina L. , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Shkap Varda , Molad Thea , Mangold Atilio J. , Almazán Consuelo , Naranjo Victoria , Gortázar Christian , Torina Alessandra , Caracappa Santo , García-Pérez Ana L. , Barral Marta , Oporto Beatriz , Ceci Luigi , Carelli Grazia , Blouin Edmour F. , Kocan Katherine M. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThe genusAnaplasma(Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) includes several pathogens of veterinary and human medical importance. An understanding of the diversity ofAnaplasmamajor surface proteins (MSPs), including those MSPs that modulate infection, development of persistent infections, and transmission of pathogens by ticks, is derived in part, by characterization and phylogenetic analyses of geographic strains. Information concerning the genetic diversity ofAnaplasmaspp. MSPs will likely influence the development of serodiagnostic assays and vaccine strategies for the control of anaplasmosis.
Escherichia coliin postweaning diarrhea in pigs: an update on bacterial types, pathogenesis, and prevention strategies
Authors: Fairbrother John M. , Nadeau Éric , Gyles Carlton L. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractEscherichia coliis one of the most important causes of postweaning diarrhea in pigs. This diarrhea is responsible for economic losses due to mortality, morbidity, decreased growth rate, and cost of medication. TheE. colicausing postweaning diarrhea mostly carry the F4 (K88) or the F18 adhesin. Recently, an increase in incidence of outbreaks of severeE. coli-associated diarrhea has been observed worldwide. The factors contributing to the increased number of outbreaks of this more severe form ofE. coli-associated diarrhea are not yet fully understood. These could include the emergence of more virulentE. coliclones, such as the O149:LT:STa:STb:EAST1:F4ac, or recent changes in the management of pigs. Development of multiple bacterial resistance to a wide range of commonly used antibiotics and a recent increase in the prevalence and severity of the postweaning syndromes will necessitate the use of alternative measures for their control. New vaccination strategies include the oral immunization of piglets with live avirulentE. colistrains carrying the fimbrial adhesins or oral administration of purified F4 (K88) fimbriae. Other approaches to control this disease include supplementation of the feed with egg yolk antibodies from chickens immunized with F4 or F18 adhesins, breeding of F18- and F4-resistant animals, supplementation with zinc and/or spray-dried plasma, dietary acidification, phage therapy, or the use of probiotics. To date, not a single strategy has proved to be totally effective and it is probable that the most successful approach on a particular farm will involve a combination of diet modification and other preventive measures.
Improved manure management and utilization: A systems approach
Authors: McCann Laura , Abdalla Charles , Jenner Mark , Massey Ray 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThe manure issue is complex and inherently interdisciplinary but, more fundamentally, it requires systems thinking. Current policies, technologies, infrastructure, incentives and modes of thinking about the problem fail to consider the system-wide implications, and thus fail to foster the creation of new and innovative solutions. At the farm level, complexity, uncertainty and lack of compatibility with the current farming system need to be addressed in order to promote better manure management. Production facilities, feed management and waste treatment systems (including centralized treatment plants) need to be designed to allow for beneficial use of manure components. At the industry level, changes in the poultry, swine and beef industries have resulted in concentration, both in terms of decision-making and geography. This currently limits the ability of these farmers to take a systems approach to livestock production. Environmental policies thus need to take account and advantage of this new reality. At the economy-wide level, factors affecting the demand and supply for alternative manure products need to be considered. A number of innovative uses are being developed in the private sector, but there are constraints as far as technology, institutions and infrastructure are concerned. A systems perspective will allow the design of policies and technologies that reduce environmental problems associated with manure, while promoting efficient utilization of the resource.
Consumer perceptions and demand for organic food in Australia: Focus group discussions
Authors: Chang Hui-Shung , Zepeda Lydia 
Published: August 2005

AbstractIn Australia, the retail value of organic food production was estimated at A$250 million, with farm-gate value at around A$90 million and exports at around A$40 million, in 2002. The current share of organic sales in total food sales in Australia is about 1%. The growth rate in organic production was forecast to continue at 10–30% per annum. Despite the positive outlook, there are consumer concerns about product recognition and product integrity. To understand how demand for organic products is changing, it is important to investigate consumer attitudes and knowledge about these issues. The objective of this study was to identify issues that may hinder or promote demand. Given the qualitative nature of these issues, we used a focus group study to probe consumers. While focus group results are a qualitative approach and not intended to be generalizable, the results suggest directions for future research. The participants raised concerns about the use of chemicals, the treatment of farm animals and the environmental impact of food production. Organic food consumers were found to be more knowledgeable about organic foods, as well as being more tolerant of higher prices and inaccessibility. The results also suggest that increasing consumers' awareness of organic farming and certification, as well as the availability of organic foods, may be the most effective way of moving organic foods into mainstream.
Priority setting in agricultural land-use types for sustainable development
Authors: Akpinar Nevin , Talay Ilkden , Gun Sema 
Published: August 2005

AbstractEven in developing countries that are faced with ecological and socio-economic problems, agricultural areas are constrained by land-use laws to be developed in particular ways. This being the case, the major issues in these areas are a better quality of life and sustainable use of the limited resources. This necessitates planning for sustainable development and evaluating various qualitative and quantitative data in a single framework. Multicriteria or multipurpose decision analysis methods are appropriate for this purpose. Using these methods, physical, economical and social data, as well as planning goals, can be combined and evaluated in the context of sustainable development. These multicriteria methods have been documented widely in a variety of problem areas, but two multicriteria methods, namely AHP (analytic hierarchy process) and ELECTRE II (elimination and choice translating reality), have not been used extensively in agricultural land-use decisions in developing countries. However, in situations where decision-making criteria are non-commensurable, non-comparable or non-countable, and when it is necessary to evaluate the criteria together, as in agricultural land-use decisions, AHP and ELECTRE II methods are warranted. This study reviews these methods briefly and suggests their potential application in the agricultural land-use decision process in a developing country. For this purpose, these methods were sampled in Ziyaret Stream Basin in Adiyaman, which is part of the Güneydoğu Anadolu Projesi (GAP) (South-eastern Anatolian Project) in the Republic of Turkey. The area could be characterized by its rural and agricultural features, although it is under the pressure of Adiyaman urban development. This study shows that both AHP and ELECTRE II methods can be applied successfully for the determination of agricultural land-use priorities, which are an essential part of the quality of life and of sustainable land-use studies.
Proposal for a more efficient subsidy system for organic farming: Potential use of the tax system within the European Union
Authors: Bahrs Enno 
Published: August 2005

AbstractAgricultural enterprises that are run on ecological principles receive, in some countries, higher levels of financial support from the European Union (EU) than other agricultural businesses. The aim is to provide an incentive for businesses to adopt organic farming systems, a change desired by both politicians and society. However, with a fixed system of support payments based on land area, increasing the proportion of farms being run organically leads directly to higher costs of subsidies for the EU and the individual countries. This becomes especially true if enterprises with large land areas, high turnover and high income are converted to organic farming methods. Because financial resources within the member states are in very short supply, a modification of the current system of subsidies would seem to be necessary in the near future. The aim of any new system should be to reduce profit windfalls without making a drastic reduction in the incentive effect of the current system. At the same time, businesses that can run along these lines on a sustainable basis should be especially supported. This requires an increased level of individual assessment of the potential of the subsidized enterprises in relation to their cost–performance ratio for organic agricultural production. In this connection, a partial change to profit-based tax systems can be used as an effective instrument for co-financing. The method used to calculate profits for tax purposes, which varies from state to state, can be used to assess the performance and success of the organic farmer. Tax-free allowances or reductions in tax rates could be used to provide a selective subsidy method. The ability to relate subsidies to performance, thereby reducing windfall profits, is not the only advantage of using the tax system for this purpose. Another advantage is the low transaction costs. Using the example of the offsetting of profits between time periods, it will be shown here that the tax system can be used as an additional instrument for subsidization. The existing methods of subsidy can only be supported in this way, not completely substituted.
Comorbidities Associated with Constipation in Children Referred for Colon Manometry May Mask Functional Diagnoses
Authors: Gertken J T , Cocjin Jose , Pehlivanov Nonko , Danda Caroline , Hyman Paul E 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACTBackground:In children with prolonged constipation of unclear pathogenesis or unresponsive to treatment, colon manometry can discriminate between functional fecal retention (FFR) and colon neuromuscular diseases.Aim:To identify the clinical features precipitating referral for colon manometry in children with functional constipation.Method:Retrospective medical record review of 173 constipated children (116 male, mean age 6.9 years, range 1‐17 years) referred for colon manometry.Results:Manometry was normal in 121 (70%). In those with normal manometry, FFR was identified in 96, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in 10, and functional constipation in 15. Of the 96 children FFR, 72 (76%) had comorbid conditions that might have interfered with the clinician's ability to diagnose FFR. Of 52 children with colon neuromuscular disease, only 12 (23%) had comorbid conditions (P < 0.001 compared with FFR). Of children more than 4 years, those with FFR were more likely to have fecal incontinence (44 of 62; 71%) than those with other functional disorders (2 of 19; 10%; P < 0.001) or neuromuscular disease (6 of 23; 26%; P < 0.001).Conclusions:Two thirds of children referred for colon manometry had normal studies and met criteria for a functional diagnosis. Three quarters of those with functional constipation had a comorbid condition that might alter the history sufficiently to obscure the diagnosis.
Diagnosing Functional Abdominal Pain with the Rome II Criteria: Parent, Child, and Clinician Agreement
Authors: Schurman Jennifer Verrill , Friesen Craig A , Danda Caroline Elder , Andre Linda , Welchert Elly , Lavenbarg Teri , Cocjin Jose T , Hyman Paul E 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACTObjectives:To compare the Rome II diagnoses made in children with recurrent abdominal pain by physicians and by parent and child responses on the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms. Rates of diagnostic agreement and reasons for disagreement were examined to determine whether changes to the Rome II criteria are needed to improve diagnostic classification.Methods:One hundred and forty‐eight children and their parents or guardians completed the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms during their first visit to a pediatric gastroenterology clinic. Parent‐ and child‐report Rome II diagnoses were based on Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms scoring criteria, whereas the physician's Rome II diagnosis was based on clinical impression from history and physical examination completed at this visit. Statistical comparisons involved Pearson χ2 tests and Fisher exact tests. Kappa and weighted kappa measured agreement rates.Results:Most children met the criteria for a functional gastrointestinal disorder based on the Rome II criteria. Functional dyspepsia was the most common diagnosis made by all three sources. The percentage of children classified as “no diagnosis” was small and was often a function of symptom duration (especially when diagnosis rested on the child self‐report). Diagnostic agreement was fair to moderate. Diagnoses based on parent and child questionnaires agreed more often on functional dyspepsia than irritable bowel syndrome. Diagnostic disagreement was most likely to result from parent and child disagreement on defecation symptoms.Conclusions:The Rome II classification system shows promise for improving diagnosis, study and treatment of children with recurrent abdominal pain. However, further refinement and clarification of the Rome II criteria for symptom duration and frequency may be needed to improve diagnostic agreement.
An extensive thermodynamic characterization of the dimerization domain of the HIV‐1 capsid protein
Authors: Lidón‐Moya María C. , Barrera Francisco N. , Bueno Marta , Pérez‐Jiménez Raúl , Sancho Javier , Mateu Mauricio G. , Neira José L. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThe type 1 human immunodeficiency virus presents a conical capsid formed by several hundred units of the capsid protein, CA. Homodimerization of CA occurs via its C‐terminal domain, CA‐C. This self‐association process, which is thought to be pH‐dependent, seems to constitute a key step in virus assembly. CA‐C isolated in solution is able to dimerize. An extensive thermodynamic characterization of the dimeric and monomeric species of CA‐C at different pHs has been carried out by using fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD), absorbance, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). Thermal and chemical denaturation allowed the determination of the thermodynamic parameters describing the unfolding of both CA‐C species. Three reversible thermal transitions were observed, depending on the technique employed. The first one was protein concentration‐dependent; it was observed by FTIR and NMR, and consisted of a broad transition occurring between 290 and 315 K; this transition involves dimer dissociation. The second transition (Tm∼ 325 K) was observed by ANS‐binding experiments, fluorescence anisotropy, and near‐UV CD; it involves partial unfolding of the monomeric species. Finally, absorbance, far‐UV CD, and NMR revealed a third transition occurring atTm∼ 333 K, which involves global unfolding of the monomeric species. Thus, dimer dissociation and monomer unfolding were not coupled. At low pH, CA‐C underwent a conformational transition, leading to a species displaying ANS binding, a low CD signal, a red‐shifted fluorescence spectrum, and a change in compactness. These features are characteristic of molten globule‐like conformations, and they resemble the properties of the second species observed in thermal unfolding.
Characterization of N‐linked oligosaccharides in chorion peroxidase of Aedes aegypti mosquito
Authors: Li Junsuo S. , Li Jianyong 
Published: August 2005

AbstractA peroxidase is present in the chorion of Aedes aegypti eggs and catalyzes chorion protein cross‐linking during chorion hardening, which is critical for egg survival in the environment. The unique chorion peroxidase (CPO) is a glycoprotein. This study deals with the N‐glycosylation site, structures, and profile of CPO‐associated oligosaccharides using mass spectrometric techniques and enzymatic digestion. CPO was isolated from chorion by solubilization and several chromatographic methods. Mono‐saccharide composition was analyzed by HPLC with fluorescent detection. Our data revealed that carbohydrate (D‐mannose, N‐acetyl D‐glucosamine, D‐arabinose, N‐acetyl D‐galactosamine, and L‐fucose) accounted for 2.24% of the CPO molecular weight. A single N‐glycosylation site (Asn328‐Cys‐ Thr) was identified by tryptic peptide mapping and de novo sequencing of native and PNGase A‐deglycosylated CPO using matrix‐assisted laser/desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI/TOF/MS) and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). The Asn328 was proven to be a major fully glycosylated site. Potential tryptic glycopeptides and profile were first assessed by MALDI/TOF/MS and then by precursor ion scanning during LC/MS/MS. The structures of N‐linked oligosaccharides were elucidated from the MS/MS spectra of glycopeptides and exoglycosidase sequencing of PNGase A‐released oligosaccharides. These CPO‐associated oligosaccharides had dominant Man3GlcNAc2 and Man3 (Fuc) GlcNAc2 and high mannose‐type structures (Man4–8GlcNAc2). The truncated structures, Man2GlcNAc2 and Man2 (Fuc) GlcNAc2, were also identified. Comparison of CPO activity and Stokes radius between native and deglycosylated CPO suggests that the N‐linked oligosaccharides influence the enzyme activity by stabilizing its folded state.