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Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A. Physicochemical characterisation of casings in relation to mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) cropping performance. Fungal Biol 2024; 128:1698-1704. [PMID: 38575243 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2024.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Peat-based casings have been used for button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) cultivation for decades but there is environmental pressure to find sustainable alternatives. This work aimed to characterise the physicochemical properties of peat and peat-substituted casings and to determine their influence on mushroom cropping to enable alternatives to be identified. British milled peat and German wet-dug peat casings produced smaller mushrooms than Irish wet-dug peat casing although yield was unaffected. Substitution of milled or wet-dug peat casings with 25% v/v bark, green waste compost or spent mushroom casing, except Irish wet-dug peat casing with spent peat mushroom casing, caused reductions in mushroom yield and/or size. These poorer results of casings compared with Irish wet-dug peat casing corresponded with lower water retention volumes at matric potential (Ψm) -15 kPa but not after drainage from saturation or at -1 kPa. Air-filled porosity (17-22% v/v), compacted bulk density after drainage (670-800 g L-1) and electrical conductivity (0.30-0.54 mS cm-1) of casings were unrelated to their mushroom cropping performance. In-situ casing measurements with electronic tensiometers confirmed laboratory casing physical analysis: at the same casing Ψm, Irish wet-dug peat casing had a higher water content than German wet-dug peat casing and produced larger mushrooms for the same yield. Solid-state foam-based tensiometers were more robust than water-filled tensiometers but they did not detect the full decrease in casing Ψm during a flush of mushrooms. The results indicate that if sustainable materials are to replace wet-dug peat casing with the same mushroom yield and size quality performance, they should have equivalent water retention volumes at Ψm -15 kPa. Measurement of casing Ψm with electronic tensiometers to control mushroom crop irrigation should assist in this transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Noble
- Microbiotech Ltd, Pershore College, Avonbank, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 3JP, UK.
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Noble R, Thai M, Kertesz MA. Nitrogen balance and supply in Australasian mushroom composts. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:151. [PMID: 38240861 PMCID: PMC10798912 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12933-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Mushrooms are an important source of protein in the human diet. They are increasingly viewed as a sustainable meat replacement in an era of growing populations, with button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) the most popular and economically important mushroom in Europe, Australia and North America. Button mushrooms are cultivated on a defined, straw-derived compost, and the nitrogen (N) required to grow these high-protein foods is provided mainly by the addition of poultry manure and horse manure. Using the correct balance of carbon (C) and N sources to produce mushroom compost is critically important in achieving maximum mushroom yields. Changes in the amount and form of N added, the rate and timing of N addition and the other compost components used can dramatically change the proportion of added N recovered in the mushroom caps, the yield and quality of the mushrooms and the loss of N as ammonia and nitrogen oxide gases during composting. This review examines how N supply for mushroom production can be optimised by the use of a broad range of inorganic and organic N sources for mushroom composting, together with the use of recycled compost leachate, gypsum and protein-rich supplements. Integrating this knowledge into our current molecular understanding of mushroom compost biology will provide a pathway for the development of sustainable solutions in mushroom production that will contribute strongly to the circular economy. KEY POINTS: • Nitrogen for production of mushroom compost can be provided as a much wider range of organic feedstocks or inorganic compounds than currently used • Most of the nitrogen used in production of mushroom compost is not recovered as protein in the mushroom crop • The sustainability of mushroom cropping would be increased through alternative nitrogen management during composting and cropping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Noble
- Microbiotech Ltd, Pershore Centre, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR103JP, UK
| | - Meghann Thai
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, LEES Building, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Michael A Kertesz
- Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, LEES Building, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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Wlodek E, Kirkpatrick RB, Andrews S, Noble R, Schroyer R, Scott J, Watson CJE, Clatworthy M, Harrison EM, Wigmore SJ, Stevenson K, Kingsmore D, Sheerin NS, Bestard O, Stirnadel-Farrant HA, Abberley L, Busz M, DeWall S, Birchler M, Krull D, Thorneloe KS, Weber A, Devey L. A pilot study evaluating GSK1070806 inhibition of interleukin-18 in renal transplant delayed graft function. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247972. [PMID: 33684160 PMCID: PMC7939287 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Delayed graft function (DGF) following renal transplantation is a manifestation of acute kidney injury (AKI) leading to poor long-term outcome. Current treatments have limited effectiveness in preventing DGF. Interleukin-18 (IL18), a biomarker of AKI, induces interferon-γ expression and immune activation. GSK1070806, an anti-IL18 monoclonal antibody, neutralizes activated (mature) IL18 released from damaged cells following inflammasome activation. This phase IIa, single-arm trial assessed the effect of a single dose of GSK1070806 on DGF occurrence post donation after circulatory death (DCD) kidney transplantation. METHODS The 3 mg/kg intravenous dose was selected based on prior studies and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, indicating the high likelihood of a rapid and high level of IL18 target engagement when administered prior to kidney allograft reperfusion. Utilization of a Bayesian sequential design with a background standard-of-care DGF rate of 50% based on literature, and confirmed via extensive registry data analyses, enabled a statistical efficacy assessment with a minimal sample size. The primary endpoint was DGF frequency, defined as dialysis requirement ≤7 days post transplantation (except for hyperkalemia). Secondary endpoints included safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic biomarkers. RESULTS GSK1070806 administration was associated with IL18-GSK1070806 complex detection and increased total serum IL18 levels due to IL18 half-life prolongation induced by GSK1070806 binding. Interferon-γ-induced chemokine levels declined or remained unchanged in most patients. Although the study was concluded prior to the Bayesian-defined stopping point, 4/7 enrolled patients (57%) had DGF, exceeding the 50% standard-of-care rate, and an additional two patients, although not reaching the protocol-defined DGF definition, demonstrated poor graft function. Six of seven patients experienced serious adverse events (SAEs), including two treatment-related SAEs. CONCLUSION Overall, using a Bayesian design and extensive PBPK dose modeling with only a small sample size, it was deemed unlikely that GSK1070806 would be efficacious in preventing DGF in the enrolled DCD transplant population. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02723786.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Wlodek
- GlaxoSmithKline, Clinical Unit Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - R. B. Kirkpatrick
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - S. Andrews
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - R. Noble
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - R. Schroyer
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - J. Scott
- JMS Statistics Ltd, Pinner, United Kingdom
| | - C. J. E. Watson
- University of Cambridge and the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre and the NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Organ Donation and Transplantation at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - M. Clatworthy
- University of Cambridge and the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre and the NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Organ Donation and Transplantation at the University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - S. J. Wigmore
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - K. Stevenson
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - D. Kingsmore
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - N. S. Sheerin
- Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre and the NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Organ Donation and Transplantation, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - O. Bestard
- L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Bellvitge University Hospital, Kidney Transplant Unit, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - L. Abberley
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - M. Busz
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - S. DeWall
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - M. Birchler
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - D. Krull
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - K. S. Thorneloe
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - A. Weber
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - L. Devey
- GlaxoSmithKline, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Taparia T, Krijger M, Haynes E, Elphinstone JG, Noble R, van der Wolf J. Molecular characterization of Pseudomonas from Agaricus bisporus caps reveal novel blotch pathogens in Western Europe. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:505. [PMID: 32698767 PMCID: PMC7374911 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-06905-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bacterial blotch is a group of economically important diseases affecting the cultivation of common button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus. Despite being studied for more than a century, the identity and nomenclature of blotch-causing Pseudomonas species is still unclear. This study aims to molecularly characterize the phylogenetic and phenotypic diversity of blotch pathogens in Western Europe. Methods In this study, blotched mushrooms were sampled from farms across the Netherlands, United Kingdom and Belgium. Bacteria were isolated from symptomatic cap tissue and tested in pathogenicity assays on fresh caps and in pots. Whole genome sequences of pathogenic and non-pathogenic isolates were used to establish phylogeny via multi-locus sequence alignment (MLSA), average nucleotide identity (ANI) and in-silico DNA:DNA hybridization (DDH) analyses. Results The known pathogens “Pseudomonas gingeri”, P. tolaasii, “P. reactans” and P. costantinii were recovered from blotched mushroom caps. Seven novel pathogens were also identified, namely, P. yamanorum, P. edaphica, P. salomonii and strains that clustered with Pseudomonas sp. NC02 in one genomic species, and three non-pseudomonads, i.e. Serratia liquefaciens, S. proteamaculans and a Pantoea sp. Insights on the pathogenicity and symptom severity of these blotch pathogens were also generated. Conclusion A detailed overview of genetic and regional diversity and the virulence of blotch pathogens in Western Europe, was obtained via the phylogenetic and phenotypic analyses. This information has implications in the study of symptomatic disease expression, development of diagnostic tools and design of localized strategies for disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi Taparia
- Biointeractions and Plant Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands. .,Department of Microbial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology, Wageningen, Netherlands.
| | - Marjon Krijger
- Biointeractions and Plant Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Edward Haynes
- Department of Plant Protection, Fera Science Limited, York, UK
| | | | - Ralph Noble
- Pershore College, Warwickshire College Group, Worcestershire, UK
| | - Jan van der Wolf
- Biointeractions and Plant Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands.
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Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Shaw B, Buss DS, Cross JV, Fountain MT. Fermentation for Disinfesting Fruit Waste From Drosophila Species (Diptera: Drosophilidae). Environ Entomol 2017; 46:939-945. [PMID: 28881957 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvx107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Economic losses in a range of fruit crops due to the Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) have become severe. Removal and treatment of fruit waste, which may harbor D. suzukii, is a key step in preventing reinfestation of fruit production. Natural fermentation for disinfesting fruit wastes from D. suzukii was examined at ambient air temperatures of 12-20 °C. Soft and stone fruit wastes infested with eggs, larvae, and pupae of Drosophila melanogaster (Meigen) or D. suzukii were placed in sealed vessels containing fruit wastes, and samples were retrieved at intervals and tested for the emergence of adults. Mean temperatures of the fruit waste in the sealed vessels during fermentation were 15-23 °C. Fermentation for 3 d was effective in disinfesting waste from different life stages of D. suzukii. Treatment for 4 d also ensured that the waste was free of viable life stages of D. melanogaster, which could be used as an indicator species for disinfestation of waste from D. suzukii owing to its greater tolerance of fermentation. The O2 concentration of the headspace air in the vessels became undetectable after 13-16 h, with a corresponding increase in CO2 concentration, which exceeded 80% vol/vol. The resulting hypoxia and hypercapnia may explain the efficacy of the fermentation treatment in disinfesting the waste. Fermented fruit remained attractive to D. suzukii and retained its capacity to rear a life cycle. Covering or mixing fermented fruit with a sufficient depth (0.1 m) or volume (×9) of soil or coir prevented the reinfestation of treated waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- NIAB EMR, East Malling, Kent, ME19?6BJ, United Kingdom
| | | | - B Shaw
- NIAB EMR, East Malling, Kent, ME19?6BJ, United Kingdom
| | - D S Buss
- NIAB EMR, East Malling, Kent, ME19?6BJ, United Kingdom
| | - J V Cross
- NIAB EMR, East Malling, Kent, ME19?6BJ, United Kingdom
| | - M T Fountain
- NIAB EMR, East Malling, Kent, ME19?6BJ, United Kingdom
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Salih Z, Conway A, Papaxoinis G, Patrao A, Fletcher K, Noble R, Owen-Holt V, Mansoor W. Prognostic significance of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients (pts) with resectable gastric/gastroesophageal junction (GOJ) adenocarcinoma undergoing perioperative chemotherapy. Ann Oncol 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdw371.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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McGuinness C, Barani I, Noble R, Ng J. TH-AB-304-09: A Patient-Specific Heterogeneous Radiobiological Model for Glioblastoma Multiforme. Med Phys 2015. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4926124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Kranke P, Thompson JP, Dalby PL, Eberhart LH, Novikova E, Johnson BM, Russ SF, Noble R, Brigandi RA. Comparison of vestipitant with ondansetron for the treatment of breakthrough postoperative nausea and vomiting after failed prophylaxis with ondansetron. Br J Anaesth 2014; 114:423-9. [PMID: 25488303 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aeu376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is common; ondansetron is often used as prophylaxis or for breakthrough episodes. Vestipitant is a neurokinin 1 (NK-1) receptor antagonist that is effective for prophylaxis, but its efficacy for treating established PONV is unknown. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vestipitant, compared with ondansetron for the treatment of breakthrough PONV in patients who had already received prophylactic ondansetron before surgery. METHODS A multicentre, randomized, single-blind (sponsor-open), parallel group study. Of 527 surgical patients, 130 (25%) had breakthrough PONV and were equally randomized to one of six i.v. doses of vestipitant (4-36 mg) or ondansetron 4 mg. The primary endpoint was the rate of patients exhibiting complete response, defined as no emesis and no further rescue medication from 10 min after infusion up to 24 h after surgery or hospital discharge. RESULTS All doses of vestipitant were non-inferior to ondansetron in treating PONV after failed prophylaxis with ondansetron. However, vestipitant was superior to ondansetron in decreasing episodes of postoperative emesis and retching. The complete response rate analysis using Bayesian model averaging indicated that no vestipitant dose was superior to ondansetron. Nausea numerical rating scale scores and the times-to-PONV or discharge were similar between the vestipitant and ondansetron treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS Although overall efficacy was non-inferior between vestipitant and ondansetron, the rate of emesis was lower with vestipitant. These data suggest that vestipitant may be a useful agent for the management of PONV, similar to other NK-1 antagonists. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01507194.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kranke
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University Hospitals of Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Str. 6, D-97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - J P Thompson
- Department of Anaesthetics, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - P L Dalby
- Department of Anesthesia, Magee-Women's Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - L H Eberhart
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - E Novikova
- Department of Gynecology, Moscow Herzen Oncology Institute, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - B M Johnson
- GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - S F Russ
- GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Noble R, Friedlaender G, Cuthbertson B, Gray A. ACUTE ALLERGY AND ANAPHYLAXIS IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT–A REVIEW OF 1 YEAR'S PATIENT PRESENTATIONS. Arch Emerg Med 2013. [DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2013-203113.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Eastwood DC, Herman B, Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Sreenivasaprasad S, Burton KS. Environmental regulation of reproductive phase change in Agaricus bisporus by 1-octen-3-ol, temperature and CO₂. Fungal Genet Biol 2013; 55:54-66. [PMID: 23354075 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2013.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive phase change from vegetative mycelium to the initiation of fruiting in Agaricus bisporus is regulated in large part by the sensing of environmental conditions. A model is proposed in which three separate environmental factors exert control at different stages of the reproductive developmental process change. The eight carbon volatile 1-octen-3-ol controls the early differentiation from vegetative hyphae to multicellular knots; temperature reduction is essential for the later differentiation of primodia; and carbon dioxide level exerts quantitative control on the number of fruiting bodies developed. Analysis of transcriptomic changes during the reproductive phase change was carried out with initiation-specific microarrays, and the newly published A. bisporus genome was used to analyse the promoter regions of differentially regulated genes. Our studies have shown there to be both early and late initiation responses relating to sensing of eight carbon volatiles and temperature respectively. A subset of 45 genes was transcriptionally regulated during the reproductive phase change which exhibited a range of functions including cell structure, nitrogen and carbon metabolism, and sensing and signalling. Three gene clusters linking increased transcription with developmental stage were identified. Analysis of promoter regions revealed cluster-specific conserved motifs indicative of co-ordinated regulation of transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Eastwood
- Department of Bioscience, University of Swansea, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, United Kingdom.
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Noble R, Fermor TR, Lincoln S, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Evered C, Mead A, Li R. Primordia initiation of mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) strains on axenic casing materials. Mycologia 2012; 95:620-9. [PMID: 21148971 DOI: 10.1080/15572536.2004.11833066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) has a requirement for a "casing layer" that has specific physical, chemical and microbiological properties which stimulate and promote the initiation of primordia. Some of these primordia then may develop further into sporophores, involving differentiation of tissue. Wild and commercial strains of A. bisporus were cultured in axenic and nonaxenic microcosms, using a rye grain substrate covered by a range of organic and inorganic casing materials. In axenic culture, A. bisporus (commercial strain A15) was capable of producing primordia and mature sporophores on charcoal (wood and activated), anthracite coal, lignite and zeolite, but not on bark, coir, peat, rockwool, silica or vermiculite. Of six strains tested, only the developmental variant mutant, B430, produced rudimentary primordia on axenic peat-based casing material. However, none of these rudimentary primordia developed differentiated tissues or beyond 4 mm diameter, either on axenic casing material in the microcosms or in larger-scale culture. In larger-scale, nonaxenic culture, strain B430 produced severely malformed but mature sporophores in similar numbers to those of other strains. Typically, 3-6% of primordia developed into mature sporophores, but significant differences in this proportion, as well as in the numbers of primordia produced, were recorded between 12 A. bisporus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Horticulture Research International, Wellesbourne, Warwick, CV35 9EF, United Kingdom
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Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Pietravalle S, Weekes R, Henry CM. Indicator organisms for assessing sanitization during composting of plant wastes. Waste Manag 2011; 31:1711-1719. [PMID: 21546235 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2011.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2010] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The potential for using plant pathogens and seeds as indicator organisms for assessing sanitization of plant wastes during composting was tested in bench-scale flask and large-scale systems. Plasmodiophora brassicae was unsuitable due to high temperature tolerance in dry to moist composts, and detection of viable inoculum post-composting using bioassay plants not corresponding with that using TaqMan® PCR, possibly due to preservation of nucleic acids at elevated temperatures. Several other plant pathogens (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Microdochium nivale, Phytophthora cinnamomi and Phytophthora nicotianae) were unsuitable due their low temperature tolerance. Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cepae and f.sp. radicis-lycopersici chlamydospores and tomato seeds were suitable indicators due to their moderate temperature tolerance and ease of viability testing post-composting. Abutilon seeds were more tolerant than tomato seeds of compost temperatures ≥52°C but more prone to degradation at lower temperatures and therefore less suitable as indicators. Relationships between compost temperature during exposures of 2-10 days and subsequent viability of the above chlamydospores or seeds enabled the sanitizing effect of composting processes to be predicted within 2-6 days. Plant waste type (woody or vegetable) had a small but significant effect on the relationship for tomato seeds but not for F. oxysporum chlamydospores.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Warwick HRI, University of Warwick, Wellesbourne, Warwick CV35 9EF, UK.
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Edwards C, Noble R, Handley J. 1437 poster EVALUATION OF THE ARCCHECK 4D QA SYSTEM FOR THE VERIFICATION OF ARC THERAPY TREATMENT. Radiother Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(11)71559-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Noble R, Edwards C, Handley JC. Evaluation of the Use of ArcCHECK™ for RapidArc® Quality Assurance. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2011.01.461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Hobbs PJ, Pederby J, Rodger A. Volatile C8 compounds and pseudomonads influence primordium formation of Agaricus bisporus. Mycologia 2009; 101:583-91. [PMID: 19750937 DOI: 10.3852/07-194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Primordium formation of Agaricus bisporus depends on the presence of a casing layer containing stimulatory bacteria and on sufficient air exchange. The influence of specific pseudomonad populations and volatile organic compounds (VOC) on primordium formation of A. bisporus was studied in microcosm cultures. VOC produced by A. bisporus mycelium were predominantly C8 compounds, some of which could inhibit primordium formation, with 1-octen-3-ol being most inhibitory. A VOC produced by the rye grain substrate, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, on which A. bisporus was grown also inhibited primordium formation. 2-Ethyl-1-hexanol and 1-octen-3-ol were metabolized by pseudomonad populations and adsorbed by activated charcoal, with both modes of removal enabling primordium formation in the casing. Removal of VOC by ventilation also enabled primordium formation to occur under axenic conditions. The presence of 2-ethyl-1-hexanol and 1-octen-3-ol in the microcosms resulted in higher total bacterial and pseudomonad populations in the casing. The stimulatory effects of the casing and its microbiota and air exchange on primordium formation of A. bisporus at least partly are due to the removal of inhibitory C8 compounds produced by the mycelium and its substrate. Monitoring and controlling the levels of these inhibitory VOC in mushroom culture should enable primordium formation of A. bisporus to be more efficiently and precisely controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Noble
- Warwick HRI, University of Warwick, Wellesbourne, Warwick, United Kingdom.
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Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Wright C, Hobbs PJ, Williams J. Aerating recycled water on mushroom composting sites affects its chemical analysis and the characteristics of odor emissions. J Environ Qual 2009; 38:1493-1500. [PMID: 19465725 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2008.0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Recycled water (RW) containing compost leachate can be a potent source of foul odor on mushroom composting sites. Samples of RW were repeatedly collected from storage tanks and pits of 14 mushroom composting sites in England and Ireland. Relationships between the effects of submerged aeration of the RW, the chemical and microbial characteristics of the RW, and the odors emitted were investigated. Recycled water samples were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), redox potential, and dissolved oxygen concentration after 7 to 14 d cold storage. Freeze-dried material from the RW samples was chemically profiled by pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the content of odor precursor compounds was determined by the ninhydrin colorimetric method. The headspace air of containerized RW samples was analyzed by thermal desorption GC-MS and with gas detection tubes and assessed for odor intensity (OI) and concentration by panelists and serial dilution olfactometry. The predominant odorants in the headspace and freeze-dried residues of RW samples were volatile sulfur-containing compounds and carboxylic acids. The headspace OI, EC, dry matter content, and redox potential of RW were interrelated. The headspace OI and combined concentration of hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) + dimethyl sulfide of RW were correlated (R(2) = 0.635; P < 0.001). Prediction of the OI of RW by measuring RW EC and the concentration of headspace sulfides using gas detector tubes enables rapid and low-cost monitoring of RW from mushroom composting sites. Submerged aeration of RW in storage tanks or pits reduced the RW headspace air OI and the combined H(2)S + dimethyl sulfide concentration by 88%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Noble
- Univ. of Warwick, Wellesbourne, Warwick, CV35 9EF, UK.
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Noble R, Elphinstone JG, Sansford CE, Budge GE, Henry CM. Management of plant health risks associated with processing of plant-based wastes: a review. Bioresour Technol 2009; 100:3431-3446. [PMID: 19329302 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2009.01.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2008] [Revised: 01/27/2009] [Accepted: 01/28/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The rise in international trade of plants and plant products has increased the risk of introduction and spread of plant pathogens and pests. In addition, new risks are arising from the implementation of more environmentally friendly methods of biodegradable waste disposal, such as composting and anaerobic digestion. As these disposal methods do not involve sterilisation, there is good evidence that certain plant pathogens and pests can survive these processes. The temperature/time profile of the disposal process is the most significant and easily defined factor in controlling plant pathogens and pests. In this review, the current evidence for temperature/time effects on plant pathogens and pests is summarised. The advantages and disadvantages of direct and indirect process validation for the verification of composting processes, to determine their efficacy in destroying plant pathogens and pests in biowaste, are discussed. The availability of detection technology and its appropriateness for assessing the survival of quarantine organisms is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Warwick HRI, University of Warwick, Wellesbourne, Warwick CV35 9EF, UK
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Sultan H, SenGupta S, Noble R, Harper JC. Islamic ethical and legal framework and current practice of PGD/PGS and PND in Saudi Arabia. Reprod Biomed Online 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61264-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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20
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Bahadur G, Iqbal M, Malik S, Sanyal A, Wafa R, Noble R. Admixed human embryos and stem cells: legislative, ethical and scientific advances. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 17 Suppl 1:25-32. [PMID: 18644220 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60187-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines the regulatory framework currently governing the creation of animal-human hybrids and chimera embryos in stem cell research, and some of the ethical implications of such research. It discusses the findings of a recent government select committee that considered the topic. It considers the debate around the precise definition of a human embryo, and whether such hybrids therefore fall within the remit of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. It outlines the advantages of such hybrids, in lessening the need for human egg donors, as well as the moral objections to species boundary violation. It calls for an examination of the scientific benefits of such research to inform debate on the question, and argues for the need to take genuine account of the public's views on this matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bahadur
- Fertility and Reproductive Medicine Laboratories, UCL Institute for Women's Health, University College London/University College Hospitals Trust, Rosenheim Building, 25 Grafton Way, London WC1E 6DB, UK.
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Lyons G, Kilpatrick M, Sharma HSS, Noble R, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Hobbs P, Andrews F, Carmichael E. Characterization of recycled mushroom compost leachate by chemical analysis and thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry. J Agric Food Chem 2008; 56:6488-6497. [PMID: 18593181 DOI: 10.1021/jf800487e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Recycled compost leachate (RCL or euphemistically named "goody water") can be a potent source of foul odor on mushroom substrate production sites and contributes to composting smells. A complex mixture of sulfur compounds, fatty acids, and nitrogen containing compounds is responsible for odor production. Fifty samples, collected from 14 compost production sites in Ireland and the U.K. over a 2 year period, were analyzed for chemical properties and by thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry (TG-MS) for compositional differences. Results indicated that aerated samples had lower values of electrical conductivity, redox potential, and dry matter content than nonaerated samples and that the higher thermal stability of aerated samples measured by TGA could be attributed to greater mineralization of the substrate due to aerobic processes. The lower temperatures noted for peak evolution of methane, water, and carbon dioxide from TG-MS analysis suggested that a more energetic process had occurred in aerated RCL storage facilities, producing greater decomposition of macromolecules that volatilized at lower temperatures. Chemical composition, thermal stability of the freeze-dried leachate, pyrolysis profiles, and relative amounts of pyrolysis products were all markers of as to how effective control measures could influence RCL quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Lyons
- Applied Plant Science Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX, United Kingdom.
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Slocum DW, Conway B, Hodgman M, Kuchel K, Moronsk M, Noble R, Webber K, Duraj S, Siegel A, Owen DA. The Potential of π-Bonded Organometallic Polymers in Catalyst Design. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/00222338108082056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. W. Slocum
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - B. Conway
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - M. Hodgman
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - K. Kuchel
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - M. Moronsk
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - R. Noble
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - K. Webber
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - S. Duraj
- a Neckers Laboratory Southern Illinois University , Carbondale , IL , 62901
| | - A. Siegel
- b Department of Chemistry , Indiana State University Terre , Haute , IN , 47809
| | - D. A. Owen
- c Department of Chemistry , Murray State University , Murray , KY , 42071
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Coventry E, Noble R, Mead A, Marin FR, Perez JA, Whipps JM. Allium White Rot Suppression with Composts and Trichoderma viride in Relation to Sclerotia Viability. Phytopathology 2006; 96:1009-1020. [PMID: 18944057 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-96-1009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Allium white rot (AWR) is a serious disease of Allium spp. caused by the sclerotium-forming fungus Sclerotium cepivorum. This work has examined the effects of onion waste compost (OWC) and spent mushroom compost (SMC), with and without Trichoderma viride S17A, on sclerotia viability and AWR in glasshouse and field experiments. Incorporation of OWC into soil reduced the viability of sclerotia and the incidence of AWR on onion plants in glasshouse pot bioassays, whereas SMC or T. viride S17A only reduced incidence of AWR. In two field trials, OWC reduced sclerotia viability and was as effective in reducing AWR as a fungicide (Folicur, a.i. tebuconazole). Field application of SMC had no effect on sclerotia viability and did not control AWR. However, the addition of T. viride S17A to SMC facilitated proliferation of T. viride S17A in the soil and increased the healthy onion bulb yield. The results indicate two mechanisms for the suppression of AWR: (i) reduction in the soil population of viable sclerotia, which may be due to volatile sulfur compounds detected in OWC but absent in SMC, and (ii) prevention of infection of onion plants from sclerotia following amendment of soil with OWC, SMC, or T. viride S17A.
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Noble R, Coventry E. Suppression of soil-borne plant diseases with composts: A review. Biocontrol Science and Technology 2005; 15:3-20. [PMID: 0 DOI: 10.1080/09583150400015904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
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Abstract
Egg yolks are commonly used in diluents in order to improve the freezability of semen. Two aspects of the role of lipids in boar semen freezability are reported in this article. The first one concerns the eventual exchanges of lipid components between the spermatozoa and the yolk-based diluent during cryopreservation. Two types of yolk have been considered as ingredients in diluents for cryopreservation: yolks with a standard fatty acid composition and yolks enriched in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The relation between lipid exchanges and the quality of fresh semen is considered. The other aspect concerns the possibility to enhance the freezability of boar spermatozoa by altering the plasma membranes under the influence of dietary fatty acids. Spermatozoa were damaged significantly by the cryopreservation cycle in all experiments. Spermatozoa with the best fresh quality had accumulated the largest quantity of lipids upon thawing. A general decrease in the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids was observed after thawing. The yolks enriched in n-3 fatty acids failed to improve the quality of sperm following cryopreservation. The proportion of DHA was significantly higher in spermatozoan phospholipids from thawed cells that had been in contact with n-3 yolks. A significant reduction in cholesterol was observed in spermatozoa after the cryopreservation cycle, which correlated with an increased number of acrosome-reacted cells and changes in the parameters of motility. The addition of 3% fish oil to the daily boar ration significantly increased the content of DHA (from 33 to 45% of the total fatty acids) in the spermatozoa. Ejaculate concentrations were significantly increased in the experimental group. DHA-enriched semen did not show improved freezability, at least not as assessed by in vitro parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Maldjian
- Bio-Innovations, Southburn, East Yorkshire, YO25 9ED, UK.
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Noble R, Fermor TR, Lincoln S, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Evered C, Mead A, Li R. Primordia Initiation of Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) Strains on Axenic Casing Materials. Mycologia 2003. [DOI: 10.2307/3761938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Noble R, Hobbs PJ, Mead A, Dobrovin-Pennington A. Influence of straw types and nitrogen sources on mushroom composting emissions and compost productivity. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2003; 29:99-110. [PMID: 12242630 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jim.7000292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2002] [Accepted: 06/20/2002] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The effects of different straw types and organic and inorganic nitrogen (N) sources on the chemical composition and odor concentration (OC) of mushroom composting emissions, compost parameters, and mushroom yield were examined using bench-scale and large-scale (windrows and aerated tunnels) composting systems. There were close correlations between the butanol or combined H(2)S+dimethyl sulfide (DMS) concentration and OC of air samples taken from different composting ingredients (r=0.83 and 0.76-0.87, P<0.01, for log(e)-transformed data). Differences in N availability, in terms of NH(3) and N losses during composting, were found between different N sources. Materials in which the N was less available (chipboard and digester wastes, cocoa shells, ammonium sulfate) produced lower mushroom yields than materials in which the N was more readily available (poultry manure, urea, brewers' grains, hop and molasses wastes, cocoa meal). Replacement of poultry manure with the other N sources at 50-100% or wheat straw with rape, bean, or linseed straw in aerated tunnel or windrow composts reduced the OC and emissions of odorous sulfur-containing compounds, but also reduced yield. Urea and cocoa meal may be suitable for "low odor" prewetting of straw, with addition of poultry manure immediately before aerated tunnel composting. Rape straw in compost reduces the formation of anaerobic zones and resulting odorous emissions, since it maintains its structure and porosity better than wheat straw.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Horticulture Research International, Wellesbourne, Warwick, CV35 9EF, UK
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Ng JS, Chen P, Baldis H, Bolton P, Cline D, Craddock W, Crawford C, Decker FJ, Field C, Fukui Y, Kumar V, Iverson R, King F, Kirby RE, Nakajima K, Noble R, Ogata A, Raimondi P, Walz D, Weidemann AW. Observation of plasma focusing of a 28.5 GeV positron beam. Phys Rev Lett 2001; 87:244801. [PMID: 11736507 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.87.244801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2001] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The observation of plasma focusing of a 28.5 GeV positron beam is reported. The plasma was formed by ionizing a nitrogen jet only 3 mm thick. Simultaneous focusing in both transverse dimensions was observed with effective focusing strengths of order tesla per micron. The minimum area of the beam spot was reduced by a factor of 2.0+/-0.3 by the plasma. The longitudinal beam envelope was measured and compared with numerical calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Ng
- Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, P.O. Box 4349, Stanford, California 94309, USA
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Jage CR, Zipper CE, Noble R. Factors affecting alkalinity generation by successive alkalinity-producing systems: regression analysis. J Environ Qual 2001; 30:1015-1022. [PMID: 11401248 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2001.3031015x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Use of successive alkalinity-producing systems (SAPS) for treatment of acidic mine drainage (AMD) has grown in recent years. However, inconsistent performance has hampered widespread acceptance of this technology. This research was conducted to determine the influence of system design and influent AMD chemistry on net alkalinity generation by SAPS. Monthly observations were obtained from eight SAPS cells in southern West Virginia and southwestern Virginia. Analysis of these data revealed strong, positive correlations between net alkalinity generation and three variables: the natural log of limestone residence time, influent dissolved Fe concentration, and influent non-Mn acidity. A statistical model was constructed to describe SAPS performance. Subsequent analysis of data obtained from five systems in western Pennsylvania (calibration data set) was used to reevaluate the model form, and the statistical model was adjusted using the combined data sets. Limestone residence time exhibited a strong, positive logarithmic correlation with net alkalinity generation, indicating net alkalinity generation occurs most rapidly within the first few hours of AMD-limestone contact and additional residence time yields diminishing gains in treatment. Influent Fe and non-Mn acidity concentrations both show strong positive linear relationships with net alkalinity generation, reflecting the increased solubility of limestone under acidic conditions. These relationships were present in the original and the calibration data sets, separately, and in the statistical model derived from the combined data set. In the combined data set, these three factors accounted for 68% of the variability in SAPS systems performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Jage
- Regional Land Trust Representative, New Jersey Conservation Foundation, Far Hills 07931, USA
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Noble R, Hobbs PJ, Dobrovin-Pennington A, Misselbrook TH, Mead A. Olfactory response to mushroom composting emissions as a function of chemical concentration. J Environ Qual 2001; 30:760-767. [PMID: 11401265 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2001.303760x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Odor pollution is a major problem facing mushroom [Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach] compost production. Techniques for quantifying mushroom composting odors are needed to assess the effectiveness of odor control measures. Odor samples were obtained in nalophane bags from 11 mushroom composting sites. Samples were collected 0.2 m downwind from the pre-wetting heaps (aerated or unaerated) of raw composting ingredients (wheat straw, poultry and horse manures, and gypsum) and subsequent Phase I composting windrows or aerated tunnels. The odor concentrations (OCs) of the samples were assessed using serial dilution olfactometry and the chemical composition of the samples was determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), both 24 h after sampling. Gas detector tubes were used for on-site measurement of gaseous compounds. Odorants that exceeded their published olfactory detection thresholds by the greatest order of magnitude, in decreasing order, were: H2S, dimethyl sulfide (DMS), butanoic acid, methanethiol, and trimethylamine. Concentrations of NH3 were not significantly correlated with OC, and they were not significantly affected by the use of aeration. Aeration reduced the OC and the combined H2S + DMS concentrations by 87 and 92%, respectively. There was a very close correlation (r = 0.948, P < 0.001) between the OC of bag samples and the combined H2S + DMS concentrations, measured on-site with detector tubes. This relationship was unaffected by the NH3 concentration or the type of compost: aerated or unaerated, pre-wet or Phase I, poultry manure-based or horse and poultry manure-based compost. Prediction of the OC will enable rapid and low-cost identification of odor sources on mushroom composting sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Dep of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Horticulture Research International, Wellesbourne, Warwick, UK.
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Abstract
A nested-PCR method was used to detect the occurrence of human adenovirus in coastal waters of Southern California. Twenty- to forty-liter water samples were collected from 12 beach locations from Malibu to the border of Mexico between February and March 1999. All sampling sites were located at mouths of major rivers and creeks. Two ultrafiltration concentration methods, tangential flow filtration (TFF) and vortex flow filtration (VFF), were compared using six environmental samples. Human adenoviruses were detected in 4 of the 12 samples tested after nucleic acid extraction of VFF concentrates. The most probable number of adenoviral genomes ranged from 880 to 7,500 per liter of water. Coliphages were detected at all sites, with the concentration varying from 5.3 to 3332 PFU/liter of water. F-specific coliphages were found at 5 of the 12 sites, with the concentration ranging from 5.5 to 300 PFU/liter. The presence of human adenovirus was not significantly correlated with the concentration of coliphage (r = 0.32) but was significantly correlated (r = 0.99) with F-specific coliphage. The bacterial indicators (total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and enterococci) were found to exceed California recreational water quality daily limits at 5 of the 12 sites. However, this excess of bacterial indicators did not correlate with the presence of human adenoviruses in coastal waters. The results of this study call for both a reevaluation of our current recreational water quality standards to reflect the viral quality of recreational waters and monitoring of recreational waters for human viruses on a regular basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Jiang
- Department of Environmental Analysis and Design, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA.
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Lawrence G, Chan K, Schriber S, Wangler T, Allen M, Funk W, Meyer T, Noble R, Shepard K, Shipler D, Wanderer P, Ward T. ATW accelerator technology in US roadmap. Progress in Nuclear Energy 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s0149-1970(00)00095-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Surai P, Noble R, Sparks N, Speake B. Effect of long-term supplementation with arachidonic or docosahexaenoic acids on sperm production in the broiler chicken. Reproduction 2000. [DOI: 10.1530/jrf.0.1200257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
The changes in viability, susceptibility to peroxidation and fatty acid composition of total phospholipid were studied in boar spermatozoa during 5 day liquid storage in a standard or alpha-tocopherol (alphaT) enriched diluent. The sperm rich fraction of the ejaculates was collected from 6-month old boars. Sperm viability progressively decreased during storage and alphaT inclusion into the diluent significantly inhibited this trend. alphaT inclusion also decreased significantly peroxidation (TBARS production of spermatozoa). Spermatozoa stored in the treatment diluent became rapidly enriched in alphaT with a concomitant decrease of alphaT content in the medium. The proportion of polyunsaturates, mainly 22:6n-3, decreased with a complementary increase in the content of the saturates, mainly 18:0. The inclusion of alphaT into the diluent was effective in totally preventing the significant decrease of 22:6n-3 observed in sperm phospholipid in the control samples during the storage period. It is concluded that the alphaT inclusion in the boar semen diluent increased cell viability through its prevention of an oxidative reduction in the levels of the major polyunsaturated fatty acids, namely 22:6n-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Cerolini
- Istituto di. Zootecnica Veterinaria, via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
Twelve wild collections and one commercial strain were used to characterize breeding systems and to develop molecular identities in the Arvenses section of the genus Agaricus, which includes the "horse mushroom" A. arvensis. Two morphotypes were identified based on macro- and micromorphological features. However, not all collections could be delimited by conventional taxonomic characters. Sequencing of the small subunit intergenic spacer (ITS) region (368 to 370 bp) of the rRNA genes clearly resolved the 13 collections into two clusters consistent with the identified morphotypes. Single-spore progenies and mating type testers were established and used to test intra- and interstock compatibility. The two compatibility groups identified were consistent with ITS clusters. Compatibility group I stocks readily interbred within the constraints of a unifactorial heterothallic system with a multiallelic mating type factor. Compatibility group II had a more restricted breeding pattern, and interactions were difficult to predict on the basis of mating type. Morphological data, ITS sequences, and the ability to interbreed suggest that these collections are part of a complex of interrelated species. Single-spore, homokaryotic isolates from both compatibility groups were able to fruit in compost culture, and two of the collections may represent natural homokaryotic fruiting. We conclude that species from the section Arvenses have versatile unifactorial heterothallic life cycles that permit both interbreeding and homokaryotic fruiting.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Calvo-Bado
- Horticulture Research International, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire CV35 9EF, United Kingdom
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Noble R. Older babies who bite at the breast. Breastfeed Rev 1999; 7:25-6. [PMID: 10453709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Bovey A, Noble R, Noble M. Orofacial exercises for babies with breastfeeding problems? Breastfeed Rev 1999; 7:23-8. [PMID: 10197368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Young babies occasionally have aberrant orofacial movements that may appear to be the cause of their breastfeeding difficulties. There has been a trend to treat this by introducing corrective exercises for the affected muscle(s). Such treatments have had their bases in therapeutic measures that were originally designed for severely neurologically impaired babies. In fact, most babies with breastfeeding problems are neurologically intact, with many needing only minimal but specific interventions predominantly involving the gape response, attachment and positioning. If the baby's gape response is poor, a minimal amount of breast tissue is taken into the baby's mouth, and abnormal orofacial movements during breastfeeds are the automatic result. This paper re-examines the use of orofacial exercises--often called "suck training"--for babies with breastfeeding problems. There can be negative results from using specific orofacial exercises in an arbitrary or generalised manner. Precautions and guidelines for appropriate corrective measures are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bovey
- Bayside Breastfeeding Clinic, Qld
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Noble R, Bovey A. Therapeutic teat use for babies who breastfeed poorly. Breastfeed Rev 1998; 5:37-42. [PMID: 9699472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Much has been written about suck confusion due to a baby's oral experience with objects other than the breast--but how much difference is there in the relative impacts on a baby's ineffective suck if a teat is used instead of other currently accepted techniques such as cup and finger feeding? Mothers who seek the help of a lactation consultant will commonly already be using bottles and teats as part of their management regime for a difficult situation. Especially if the problems are well developed and complex, many mothers will not be able to accept unfamiliar alternatives such as cup and finger feeding and prefer to wean rather than do so. Current teat designs have evolved with no reference to Woolridge's landmark research published over ten years ago which clearly demonstrated how normal breastfeeding works. Rather, manufacturers offer consumers an array of teats which have been shortened in length and distorted in conformation when compared with teats available thirty years ago which coincidentally were a closer physiological match with the positioning of the nipple and breast tissues in the mouth of a breastfeeding baby than teats designed and produced since then. Fortunately one UK manufacturer still markets this thirty year old style of teat in a flow rate suitable for very young babies. Over a three year period, we at first hesitantly, but with increasing confidence asked mothers to use this teat when suck retraining and supplementation were indicated. We are able to report that use of these teats has resulted in a success rate in excess of 90% converting babies with significant sucking problems into fully effective breastfeeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Bayside Breastfeeding Clinic, Brisbane, Australia
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MacNab AJ, MacPhail I, MacNab MK, Noble R, O'Flaherty D. A comparison of intubation success for paediatric transport team paramedics using lighted vs regular tracheal tube stylets. Paediatr Anaesth 1998; 8:215-20. [PMID: 9608966 DOI: 10.1046/j.1460-9592.1998.00742.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a prospective randomized study of success rate and time to intubation using Trachlight and Surch-Lite lighted stylets versus a regular tracheal tube stylet, in a training setting. Participants, 18 paediatric transport paramedics, performed two intubations with each of the three devices, using an airway management trainer. There was no significant difference in mean time for intubation between the three devices. The times for external confirmation of correct tube placement were comparable using the two lighted stylets. External confirmation of the tube placement using the lighted stylets was quicker than laryngoscopic visualization. In darkness, with a nonfunctioning laryngoscope, intubations were successfully performed 100% of the time with the lighted stylet, but only 11% of the time with the regular stylet. All paramedics felt that a lighted stylet would be a useful airway management adjunct for the transport environment for complicated intubations or for use in very high or low levels of ambient light.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J MacNab
- Pediatric Transport Program, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Macnab
- British Columbia's Children's and Women's Hospital, Division of Critical Care, Vancouver, Canada
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Surai P, Kostjuk I, Wishart G, Macpherson A, Speake B, Noble R, Ionov I, Kutz E. Effect of vitamin E and selenium supplementation of cockerel diets on glutathione peroxidase activity and lipid peroxidation susceptibility in sperm, testes, and liver. Biol Trace Elem Res 1998; 64:119-32. [PMID: 9845467 DOI: 10.1007/bf02783329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The phospholipids of avian spermatozoa are characterized by high proportions of arachidonic (20:4n-6) and docosatetraenoic (22:4n-6) fatty acids and are therefore sensitive to lipid peroxidation. Alpha-tocopherol and glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px] are believed to be the primary components of the antioxidant system of the spermatozoa. The present study evaluates the effect of vitamin E and vitamin E plus Se supplementation of the cockerel diet on GSH-Px activity, vitamin E accumulation, and lipid peroxidation in the spermatozoa, testes, and liver. At the beginning of the experiment 75 Rhode Island Red cockerels were divided into five groups, kept in individual cages, and fed a wheat-barley-based ration balanced in all nutrients. Supplements fed to the different groups were as follows: vitamin E, 0, 20, 200, 20, and 200 mg/kg to groups 1-5, respectively, with groups 4 and 5 also receiving 0. 3 mg Se/kg. The vitamin E supplementation produced increased levels of alpha-tocopherol in semen, testes, and liver. The inclusion of the Se into the cock diet had a significant (P < 0.01) stimulating effect on GSH-Px activity in seminal plasma, spermatozoa, testes, and liver. The increased vitamin E concentration in the spermatozoa was associated with a reduction in their susceptibility to lipid peroxidation. Similarly, the increased GSH-Px activity provided enhanced protection against lipid peroxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Surai
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Nutrition, Poultry Research Institute, Ukraine, Kharkov region, Borky
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Abstract
Conscious, anaesthetized and decerebrate young mammals respond to acute hypoxia with an initial increase in breathing followed by a fall to, or to below, pre-hypoxic levels--the biphasic ventilatory response. The ventilatory rise is due to sustained hypoxic stimulation of the peripheral chemoreceptors. We present evidence from brain stem and peripheral chemoreflex studies supporting the concept that, in addition to the peripheral chemoreceptors, hypoxia also activates brain stem pathways that inhibit ventilation. A key part of the inhibitory pathway is an area within the red nucleus. Destruction of this area in young decerebrate rabbits abolishes the ventilatory fall during hypoxia, yet has no effect on respiratory control during normoxia and does not affect arterial blood pressure changes in hypoxia. In support of this hypothesis, we report that there are neurones within the red nucleus that increase their discharge in hypoxia. The role of higher brain stem/hypothalamic function in central respiratory control during hypoxia in the fetus and neonate are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- G L Ackland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London, UK
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Pomeroy C, Noble R, McCormick M, Young B. Ocular toxoplasmosis as the presenting manifestation of human immunodeficiency virus infection. Clin Infect Dis 1997; 24:745-6. [PMID: 9145762 DOI: 10.1093/clind/24.4.745a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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Waites BA, Ackland GL, Noble R, Hanson MA. Red nucleus lesions abolish the biphasic respiratory response to isocapnic hypoxia in decerebrate young rabbits. J Physiol 1996; 495 ( Pt 1):217-25. [PMID: 8866364 PMCID: PMC1160737 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.1996.sp021586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
1. The respiratory response to isocapnic hypoxia (inspired O2 fraction (FI,O1), 0.1-0.12) was measured in twelve vagotomized, paralysed, artificially ventilated young rabbits (aged 26.6 +/- 0.4 days), following pre-collicular decerebration. Phrenic nerve efferent activity was used as an index of central respiratory output (RO). In hypoxia RO increased after 1-2 min (phase 1) but decreased over the subsequent 3-4 min to, or below, the pre-hypoxic control level (phase 2). 2. We used electrical stimulation to target areas in the mesencephalon which inhibit RO. Profiles of the response to stimulation were determined in a grid of electrode penetrations made mediolaterally and rostrocaudally at the level of the superior colliculi, in normoxia. Histology confirmed that stimulation in the red nucleus (RN) inhibited RO profoundly. 3. Electrolytic lesions were made bilaterally in RN inhibitory sites or in adjacent areas. The respiratory response to isocapnic hypoxia was measured again post-lesioning. 4. In six rabbits with bilateral lesions in the RN, phase 2 of the respiratory response was abolished and RO remained elevated throughout the hypoxic exposure. However, in six rabbits with unilateral lesions in the RN, or with bilateral lesions placed in areas outside the RN that did not inhibit RO on electrical stimulation, the respiratory response remained biphasic. 5. In both groups of animals, blood pressure increased during 1-3 min of hypoxia before decreasing to pre-hypoxic levels. This cardiovascular response remained biphasic irrespective of whether animals showed a biphasic respiratory response or a sustained increase in RO after lesioning. 6. We conclude that structures within the RN are crucial to the mechanism producing a fall in RO during isocapnic hypoxaemia in the neonate.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A Waites
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University College London, UK
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Barzanti V, Battino M, Baracca A, Cavazzoni M, Cocchi M, Noble R, Maranesi M, Turchetto E, Lenaz G. The effect of dietary lipid changes on the fatty acid composition and function of liver, heart and brain mitochondria in the rat at different ages. Br J Nutr 1994; 71:193-202. [PMID: 8142331 DOI: 10.1079/bjn19940126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
A correlation between dietary lipids and cellular enzyme activities is a problem that has only been partially addressed by nutritionists. Therefore, changes in the fatty acid composition and the activities of some key metabolic enzymes (ubiquinol-2-cytochrome c reductase (EC 1.10.2.2), cytochrome oxidase (EC 1.9.3.1) and ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3)) in the mitochondria of liver, heart and brain of rats fed on diets differing extensively in their polyunsaturated fatty acid compositions have been investigated. The results showed that fatty acid compositional changes brought about by the dietary differences were associated with extensive changes in the activities of these key enzymes in the mitochondria. The extent of the influence differed considerably with the period over which the diets were fed. The role of dietary lipids to effect changes through the preservation of membrane structural integrity is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Barzanti
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Bologna, Italy
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Abstract
After two years of difficult financial times, the Kitchener-Waterloo Hospital was faced with another upcoming year of tight fiscal constraint. In February 1991, the hospital implemented a program review process to align its services with the hospital's long-term strategy and economic realities. The authors present a thorough review of the literature pertaining to downsizing decisions. From a practical perspective they demonstrate a downsizing process, its implications and lessons to be learned so that a "rightsizing" exercise can be implemented to minimize the effects of the program and staff reductions while focusing on the positive long-term benefits of strategic planning. Although downsizing is a difficult process, the Kitchener-Waterloo Hospital was able to develop and implement a plan that minimized the impact on the hospital services and its staff. A reduction in expenses of over $2 million was achieved without having to lay off any permanent hospital staff. This was achieved by streamlining programs, reducing management supervisory positions and eliminating 50 full-time equivalent positions through attrition. Ultimately, the hospital's board, senior management, medical staff and employees felt that a rightsizing decision had been made, one which minimized the negative impact of restructuring on service delivery, hospital employees and the community served.
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Noble R. Thrush in the ducts? Med J Aust 1991; 155:131. [PMID: 1857296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Abstract
Top executives will be required to have strong leadership skills, combined with solid communication and team-building skills, to move their organizations through a decade that will promise tight fiscal constraint, increasing involvement in the decision-making process from medical staff, trustees, government officials and facility personnel. The evaluation of the chief executive officer (CEO) will continue along traditional lines with the development of goals and objectives in defined areas of accountability. There will, however, be increased emphasis on the development of measurable standards, and the CEO's ability to lead the organization, motivate the organization's people resources and reallocate resources to meet the organization's mission and the health care needs of the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Noble
- Kitchener-Waterloo Hospital, Ontario
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Batch J, Ma A, Bird D, Noble R, Charles B, Ravenscroft P, Cameron D. The effects of ingestion time of gliclazide in relationship to meals on plasma glucose, insulin and C-peptide levels. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1990; 38:465-7. [PMID: 2199202 DOI: 10.1007/bf02336685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The effect of altering the timing of gliclazide administration in relation to a meal was studied in ten type 2 (non-insulin dependent) chronically treated diabetics. Gliclazide was given 30 min before, at the start of and 30 min after breakfast or omitted altogether. Plasma gliclazide was present at greater than 2 mg/l throughout the study periods. Administration at 30 min after the meal significantly delayed the time to peak for plasma gliclazide. No significant difference was noted in plasma glucose, insulin or c-peptide patterns with any protocol. It is concluded that, in clinical practice, with chronically treated diabetics the timing of gliclazide ingestion in relation to meals is not critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Batch
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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