bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma Processing of B4C–TiB2 Eutectic Composite Powders
Authors: White Ryan M. , Kunkle Jamie M. , Haines Chris , Dickey Elizabeth C.
Published: June 2013

The production of a composite powder of eutectic B4C–TiB2 is demonstrated via an atmospheric plasma processing method. Feedstock material is prepared for plasma processing by mixing and spray drying monolithic B4C and TiB2 to produce a flowable precursor powder. These powders are fed through a plasma torch, where they are melted and actively quenched in flight with argon gas. Plasma processed powders are composed of crystalline B4C and TiB2, with some additional B2O3 oxide phase. The plasma processing method results in the production of monolithic B4C and TiB2 nanoparticles, but some larger particles (generally ≥10 μm in diameter) are shown to contain the traditional lamellar eutectic microstructure. The eutectic interphase spacing ranges from 100 to 650 nm, and the composite microstructure is present through the entire thickness of the eutectic particles. Future work on plasma processing of eutectic powders should focus on methods utilizing passive in‐flight quenching to increase the average particle size.
Carbon Mobility in SiOC/HfO2 Ceramic Nanocomposites
Authors: Nonnenmacher Katharina , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim , Rohrer Jochen , Ionescu Emanuel , Riedel Ralf
Published: June 2013

Silicon oxycarbide/hafnia (SiOC/HfO2) ceramic nanocomposites were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) upon isothermal annealing at 1300°C for 1–200 h. TEM investigations in conjunction with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed a pronounced reduction in the local carbon content in close proximity to internal surfaces. Such small microcracks are a consequence of the polymer‐to‐ceramic transition and, hence, are commonly formed upon thermal annealing. The profiles of the carbon content between surface and bulk were analyzed employing error functions to yield carbon diffusivities.
Glass‐Forming Dynamics of Aluminophosphate Melts Studied by Photon Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: Tran Tri D. , Sidebottom David L.
Published: June 2013

The dynamic structure factor of a series of sodium aluminophosphate melts has been measured using photon correlation spectroscopy. These melts consist of oxide networks that undergo a uniform increase in the lattice connectivity (per structural unit) from 〈n〉 = 2 to 〈n〉 ≈ 2.8 with the addition of alumina. Characteristics of the main viscoelastic relaxation (its shape parameter β and fragility m) were evaluated and the fragility is seen to decrease in a manner identical with that reported previously for both chalcogenide and sodium phosphate melts. To explain this common dependence on connectivity, we turn to the bond lattice model and simulations that indicate a direct proportionality between fragility and the excess entropy gained in the removal of a lattice constraint. We propose that the variation in the fragility with lattice connectivity might be decomposed into two regimes. In the first regime at 〈n〉 < 2.4, the linear decrease in m with 〈n〉 is argued to reflect a decreasing configurational entropy associated with the formation of covalent crosslinks between polymer‐like chains that vanishes in the vicinity of the rigidity threshold. In the second regime at 〈n〉 > 2.4, we speculate that the variation in m with 〈n〉 results from a weaker, vibrational contribution to the entropy.
Testing and extending the triple match principle in the nursing profession: a generational perspective on job demands, job resources and strain at work
Authors: Lavoie‐Tremblay Melanie , Trépanier Sarah‐Geneviève , Fernet Claude , Bonneville‐Roussy Arielle
Published: June 2013

Aim

The Triple Match Principle offers insight into the interactive interplay between job demands and job resources in the prediction of work‐related strain. The aim of this article was to examine the interplay among job demands, job resources and strain in the nursing profession (the Triple Match Principle) and to gain insight into potential generational differences by investigating generation as a moderator of that interplay.

Background

No research has been done to evaluate generational differences in the Triple Match Principle. In a context of nursing shortages, it seems important to examine the relevance of the Triple Match Principle with respect to different generations of nurses.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 1254 public healthcare sector nurses in Quebec, Canada, completed a questionnaire in the autumn of 2010. The questionnaire was used to assess cognitive, emotional and physical job demands and resources; psychological distress; psychosomatic complaints; and turnover intention.

Results

The results supported the Triple Match Principle and showed that job resources were more likely to buffer the effect of job demands on strain as the degree of match in qualitative dimension among demands, resources and strain increased (33·3% of triple‐match interactions, 22·22% of double‐match interactions and 16·67% non‐match interactions were significant). Moreover, generation played a key role in this interplay, as it increased the number of significant qualitative interactions among job demands, job resources and strain.

Conclusions

The results underscore the necessity of providing adequate job resources tailored to the specific job demands nurses face, to counteract the negative effects of those demands.
Divergent lineages in two species of Dendrobium orchids (D. speciosum and D. tetragonum) correspond to major geographical breaks in eastern Australia
Authors: Burke Jacinta M. , Ladiges Pauline Y. , Batty Erin L. , Adams Peter B. , Bayly Michael J.
Published: June 2013

Aim

We investigated genetic divergence among two widespread eastern Australian orchids (Dendrobium sect. Dendrocoryne): Dendrobium speciosum and Dendrobium tetragonum. These orchids are endemic to mesic habitats, with distributional ranges that cross major geographical breaks associated with deep divergences in various fauna. We compared the biogeography of these orchids with other taxa and tested for congruence of divergence date estimations.

Location

Eastern Australia, latitude 14° S to 34° S.

Methods

Phylogenetic relationships within each species were estimated using maximum parsimony based on sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of nuclear ribosomal DNA and the psbA–trnH spacer region of plastid DNA. Divergence dates were inferred by Bayesian relaxed‐clock dating, calibrated on an early Miocene macrofossil, Dendrobium winikaphyllum from New Zealand.

Results

Deep divergences were revealed within each species. Dendrobium speciosum includes three major geographical clades (deepest 2.6% ITS divergence): a northern Queensland clade, which occurs mainly to the north of the Black Mountain Corridor (BMC) in the Wet Tropics; a central Queensland clade; and a southern clade related to the central clade and separated from it by a dry corridor, the St Lawrence Gap (SLG). The central and northern lineages show overlap near the BMC. Divergence in this area is estimated to date from the Pliocene, possibly late Miocene, 4.3 (2.0–6.9) Ma, and at the SLG in the early Pleistocene, possibly late Pliocene, 2.0 (0.6–3.8) Ma. Dendrobium tetragonum also includes two clades, deeply divergent (3%) at the SLG, estimated as Pliocene in age but possibly latest Miocene, 3.7 (1.8–5.9) Ma.

Main conclusions

Dendrobium orchids reveal significant divergence associated with geographical breaks in eastern Australia, the SLG and BMC, patterns broadly concordant with findings for fauna. We infer that divergences were driven by topographical and climatic conditions, with contraction and fragmentation of mesic biomes during periods of drying in the late Neogene.
Ablation Effect Indicated by Impedance Fall is Correlated with Contact Force Level During Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: DE BORTOLI ALESSANDRO , SUN LI‐ZHI , SOLHEIM EIVIND , HOFF PER IVAR , SCHUSTER PETER , OHM OLE‐JøRGEN , CHEN JIAN
Published: June 2013

Contact Force Correlates with Impedance Fall During Ablation

Introduction

Previous studies have validated the use of impedance fall as a measure of the effects of ablation. We investigated whether catheter‐to‐tissue contact force correlated with impedance fall during atrial fibrillation ablation.

Methods and Results

A total of 394 ablation points from 35 patients who underwent atrial fibrillation ablation were selected and analyzed in terms of the presence of stable catheter contact in non‐ablated areas in the left atrium. A fixed power output (30 W) was applied for 60 seconds. Contact force, impedance fall, and force‐direction angle were retrieved and exported for off‐line analysis. Qualified points were divided into 5 groups according to the level of contact force (1–5 g, 6–10 g, 11–15 g, 16–20 g, and >20 g). An acute impedance fall was observed in the first 10 seconds followed by a plateau in group I and by a further fall in the other groups. Group V showed a rise in impedance during the last 20 seconds of ablation. Levels of impedance fall at each time point were significantly different among all the groups (P<0.001) except between groups III and IV. There was a significant correlation between contact force and maximum impedance fall (rho = 0.54, P<0.01). Lesions with a force‐direction angle of 0–30° had significantly lower contact force and maximum impedance fall than those with angles of 30–60° and 60–135° (P<0.01).

Conclusions

Under stable catheter conditions, contact force correlates with impedance fall during 60 seconds of ablation. Contact force exceeding 5 g produces greater impedance fall, which probably indicates adequate lesion formation. A contact force greater than 20 g may lead to late tissue overheating.
Diel vertical migration of adult Pacific cod Gadus macrocephalus in Alaska
Authors: Nichol D. G. , Kotwicki S. , Zimmermann M.
Published: June 2013

The diel vertical migration (DVM) of Pacific cod Gadus macrocephalus was examined using depth and temperature data from 250 recaptured archival tags deployed on G. macrocephalus in the eastern Bering Sea and in the Gulf of Alaska near Kodiak Island. DVM of two types, deeper during daytime (type I) and deeper during night‐time (type II), occurred frequently (15–40% of all days) in G. macrocephalus released at all sites. Most individuals displayed both diel types, with each type of behaviour lasting up to 58 contiguous days, and day and night depth differences averaging c. 8 m. Despite high among‐individual variability, the occurrence of DVM varied significantly with the release site, season (i.e. day‐of‐year) and bottom depth, with the trend in seasonal occurrence nearly opposite for type I compared to type II DVM. No significance could be attributed to G. macrocephalus fork length, sex or ambient (tag) temperature. Trends in the magnitude of G. macrocephalus depth change were observed, with increased movement often occurring during night‐time, dawn and dusk, and at release sites where the bathymetry was more complex. Both type I and type II DVMs were attributed to foraging on prey species that also undergo DVM, and increased vertical movements of G. macrocephalus during crepuscular and night‐time periods were attributed to more active foraging during dim‐light conditions when G. macrocephalus can potentially exploit a sensory advantage over some of their prey.
Independent and Combined Effects of Physical Activity and Weight Loss on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Overweight and Obese Older Adults
Authors: Beavers Kristen M. , Ambrosius Walter T. , Nicklas Barbara J. , Rejeski W. Jack
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To determine the independent effect of long‐term physical activity (PA) and the combined effects of long‐term PA and weight loss (WL) on inflammation in overweight and obese older adults.

Design

Eighteen‐month randomized, controlled trial.

Setting

The community infrastructure of cooperative extension centers.

Participants

Overweight and obese (body mass index >28.0 kg/m2) community‐dwelling men and women aged 60 to 79 at risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Intervention

Physical activity + weight loss (PA + WL) (n = 98), PA only (n = 97), or successful aging (SA) health education (n = 93) intervention.

Measurements

Biomarkers of inflammation (adiponectin, leptin, high‐sensitivity interleukin (hsIL)‐6, IL‐6sR, IL‐8, and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1) were measured at baseline and 6 and 18 months.

Results

After adjustment for baseline biomarker, wave, sex, and visit, leptin and hsIL‐6 showed a significant intervention effect. Specifically, leptin was significantly lower in the PA + WL group (21.3 ng/mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 19.7–22.9 ng/mL) than in the PA (29.3 ng/mL, 95% CI = 26.9–31.8 ng/mL) or SA (30.3 ng/mL, 95% CI = 27.9–32.8 ng/mL) group (both P < .001), and hsIL‐6 was significantly lower in the PA + WL group (2.1 pg/mL, 95% CI = 1.9–2.3 pg/mL) than in the PA (2.5 pg/mL, 95% CI = 2.3–2.7 pg/mL) or SA (2.4 pg/mL, 95% CI = 2.2–2.6 pg/mL) group (P = .02).

Conclusion

Addition of dietary‐induced WL to PA reduced leptin and hsIL‐6 more than PA alone and more than a SA intervention in older adults at risk for CVD. Results suggest that WL, rather than increased PA, is the lifestyle factor primarily responsible for improvement in the inflammatory profile.
Polarity, Continuity, and Alignment in Plant Vascular Strands
Authors: Sawchuk Megan G. , Scarpella Enrico
Published: June 2013

Plant vascular cells are joined end to end along uninterrupted lines to connect shoot organs with roots; vascular strands are thus polar, continuous, and internally aligned. What controls the formation of vascular strands with these properties? The “auxin canalization hypothesis”—based on positive feedback between auxin flow through a cell and the cell's capacity for auxin transport—predicts the selection of continuous files of cells that transport auxin polarly, thus accounting for the polarity and continuity of vascular strands. By contrast, polar, continuous auxin transport—though required—is insufficient to promote internal alignment of vascular strands, implicating additional factors. The auxin canalization hypothesis was derived from the response of mature tissue to auxin application but is consistent with molecular and cellular events in embryo axis formation and shoot organ development. Objections to the hypothesis have been raised based on vascular organizations in callus tissue and shoot organs but seem unsupported by available evidence. Other objections call instead for further research; yet the inductive and orienting influence of auxin on continuous vascular differentiation remains unique.
The Agrarian Question in Neoliberal India: Agrarian Transition Bypassed?
Authors: Lerche Jens
Published: June 2013

This paper re‐interrogates the positions on the agrarian question in India, to reach fresh conclusions about important agrarian policies of the Left, including that of land reforms. Internationally, the classical political economy approach to agrarian transitions has been challenged by positions arguing (a) that neoliberalism and the international corporate food regime have led to a new dominant contradiction between the peasantry and multinational agribusiness or (b) that the agrarian question for capital has been bypassed. It is shown that most analyses of the agrarian question in India, including those of Indian Left parties, tend to adhere either to the classical political economy approach, or their analyses are close to the peasantry versus the corporate food regime approach. In spite of this, it is here argued that an empirical analysis of agrarian transition in India lends credence to some aspects of the third position; that is, the argument that the agrarian question for capital has been bypassed. The paper finishes with a discussion of the political implications of this.
The Agrarian Question in a Maoist Guerrilla Zone: Land, Labour and Capital in the Forests and Hills of Jharkhand, India
Authors: Shah Alpa
Published: June 2013

As an object of ethnographic enquiry, this paper explores the significance of the modes of production debates for the radical Left in India. Its aim is modest: to investigate whether the analysis of the Indian economy by the underground Communist Party of India (Maoist), or the Naxalites, maps on to agrarian transformations in the heart of their revolutionary struggle, in one of their guerrilla zones in Jharkhand. The Maoist concern with the agrarian question is shown to be first and foremost an issue of politics, determining their strategy and tactics; the question of identifying who is the ‘enemy’, who to form alliances with and how to progress the struggle. A principal contradiction is established by the Maoists as being that between feudalism and the masses. Analysing the political economy of the hills and forests of Jharkhand, this paper reveals first how feudal relations were not established there. Second, it shows the persistence of non‐capitalist relations of production in farming. And, third, it illuminates the emergence of class differentiation through processes that bypass the development of capitalism in agriculture. The argument is that it is the modern state itself that has played a crucial role in these slow processes of class differentiation in the Adivasi‐dominated hills and forests of India. Analysing the agrarian transition in this guerrilla zone, this paper offers a critical analysis of Maoist strategy and tactics.
Non‐invasive objective evaluation of radiotherapy‐induced dry mouth
Authors: Fujimaki Youko , Tsunoda Koichi , Ishimoto Shin‐Ichi , Okada Kazunari , Kinoshita Makoto , Igaki Hiroshi , Terahara Atsuro , Asakage Takahiro , Yamasoba Tastuya
Published: June 2013

Background

Dry mouth is a common complaint in patients undergoing radiotherapy. Here, we employed the oral moisture meter Mucus III to evaluate dry mouth in head and neck tumor patients before and after they underwent radiotherapy.

Methods

We recruited 17 newly diagnosed patients with pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma or unknown primary squamous cell carcinoma, who received head and neck radiation therapy at Tokyo University Hospital in 2008–2010. The primary sites were the epipharynx (n = 1), oropharynx (n = 6), or hypopharynx (n = 5); it was unknown in five cases. Salivary function was assessed by a dry mouth questionnaire, resting saliva test, chewing gum test, and Mucus III, before (n = 17), immediately after radiotherapy (n = 10), and at 3 (n = 9) and 12 months after radiotherapy (n = 11).

Results

The questionnaire, resting saliva test, and chewing gum test at 3 and 12 months after radiotherapy indicated a significantly decreased resting and stimulated whole saliva flow rate than prior radiotherapy (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001). In contrast, Mucus III results showed significant worsening of xerostomia at 12 months after radiotherapy (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Mucus III has been proven to be an objective diagnostic tool for patients with serious dry mouth, such as in patients with Sjogren's syndrome. However, we did not find a perfect correlation between Mucus III and other objective (resting saliva and chewing gum) and subjective (questionnaire) measures of dry mouth. To precisely diagnose radiotherapy‐induced dry mouth, further improvement to the method is needed.
Utilising infant growth to predict obesity status at 5 years
Authors: Gittner Lisaann S , Ludington‐Hoe Susan M , Haller Harold S
Published: June 2013

Aim

This study determines if an early life growth pattern in healthy infants can predict obesity at age 5.

Methods

Randomly selected from all healthy children born from 1997 to 2001 in a Midwestern US Health Maintenance Organization; growth patterns from birth to 5 years were described for children who were categorised by obesity classification at 5 years into normal weight (n = 61), overweight (n = 47), obese (n = 41) and morbidly obese (n = 72) cohorts using World Health Organization body mass index (BMI) criteria. A retrospective longitudinal analysis based on weighted least squares was performed on BMI by age (1 week; 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months; and 2, 3, 4 and 5 years). Graphs of the longitudinal repeated measures analysis of variance of means allowed identification of the earliest significant divergence of a cohort's average BMI pattern from other cohorts' patterns.

Results

Distinctions in growth patterns and BMIs were evident before 1‐year post‐birth. Children who were obese or morbidly obese at 5 years demonstrated a BMI pattern that differed from children who were normal weight at 5 years.

Conclusions

Identifying obesity development in early life may assist with prevention of later obesity. The results merit future study. An early life BMI growth pattern is clinically important because it permits discrimination of those who do and do not fit a normal weight pattern, guiding individualised interventions in the first year of life while precursors of later health are still forming.
The low birthweight, term infant and the need for admission to special care nurseries
Authors: Parry Michael , Davies Mark W
Published: June 2013

Aim

We aimed to determine, in full‐term newborns born between 2000 and 2499 g, what proportion develop problems or the need for interventions that would likely require admission to a special care nursery (SCN) (i.e. needed an intravenous line (IV) or a nasogastric tube (NGT).

Methods

A multicentre, retrospective audit of all babies born from 1 January to 30 June 2011 was used. Eligible babies were term, inborn at one of four centres in south‐east Queensland, with a birthweight between 2000 and 2499 g.

Results

The cohort of 98 babies had a mean (SD) birthweight of 2340 (122.3) g and a mean (SD) gestational age of 38.3 (1.0) weeks. Forty‐three had at least one low temperature, 55 had at least one low blood glucose, 35 had an NGT, 22 had an IV cannula. In the entire cohort, 48 babies (49%) required either an IV cannula or an NGT. Fifteen per cent had a second problem (either low blood glucose or low temperature) at a median (interquartile range) age of 11 (5.5–25.5) h: none required a second NGT or IV. The proportion of babies that required either an NGT or an IV was larger in the 2000–2199 g group (P = 0.026).

Conclusions

About half of the babies born with a birthweight of 2000–2499 g will require some intervention that will require them to be admitted to a SCN. However, about half would be able to avoid an SCN admission if they are well and admitted to the post‐natal ward.
Optimal Taxation and Monopsonistic Labor Market: Does Monopsony Justify the Minimum Wage?
Authors: CAHUC PIERRE , LAROQUE GUY
Published: June 2013

Does monopsony on the labor market in itself justify the implementation of a minimum wage when it would not be used in a competitive economy? This issue is studied in a model of optimal taxation. We find that there is no room for the minimum wage when there are a continuum of skills with no isolated mass point at the bottom of the wage distribution. Accordingly, in the empirically relevant situation, where there is a continuum of wages at the bottom of the distribution, the minimum wage is not helpful.
Phospho‐regulation and nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of CrzA in response to calcium and alkaline‐pH stress in Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Hernández‐Ortiz Patricia , Espeso Eduardo A.
Published: June 2013

Tolerance to abiotic stresses by microorganisms require of appropriate signalling and regulatory pathways. Calcineurin phosphatases mediate calcium‐dependent signalling pathways which are widely distributed among phylogeny. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, calcineurin mediates the post‐translational modification of downstream effectors, most of them transcription factors, being the best‐characterized calcineurin‐regulated zinc‐finger factor 1, Crz1p. Here we study the signalling process of CrzA, a filamentous fungal Crz orthologue, in response to calcium and ambient‐pH alkalinization. In Aspergillus nidulans resting cells CrzA locates in the cytoplasm being excluded from nuclei. CrzA is a phospho‐protein and upon calcium, manganese or alkaline‐pH stresses, accumulates in nuclei in a calcineurin‐dependent manner. Functional analysis of CrzA defined the presence of a nuclear‐export and two nuclear‐localization signals as well as a PSINVE sequence that constitutes the major calcineurin‐docking domain. First 450 amino acids of CrzA contain these functional motifs and in this region is where phosphorylated residues locate. Different phosphorylation steps are identified in CrzA and activities of casein kinase 1 homologue, CkiA, and of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β, identified for the first time here as GskA, are involved. The phospho‐signalling process and nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of CrzA shows similarities to those described in yeast for Crz1p homologues and of NFATs in mammals.
Morphogenesis of Plasmodium zoites is uncoupled from tensile strength
Authors: Tremp Annie Z. , Carter Victoria , Saeed Sadia , Dessens Johannes T.
Published: June 2013

A shared feature of the motile stages (zoites) of malaria parasites is a cortical cytoskeletal structure termed subpellicular network (SPN), thought to define and maintain cell shape. Plasmodium alveolins comprise structural components of the SPN, and alveolin gene knockout causes morphological abnormalities that coincide with markedly reduced tensile strength of the affected zoites, indicating the alveolins are prime cell shape determinants. Here, we characterize a novel SPN protein of Plasmodium berghei ookinetes and sporozoites named G2 (glycine at position 2), which is structurally unrelated to alveolins. G2 knockout abolishes parasite transmission and causes zoite malformations and motility defects similar to those observed in alveolin null mutants. Unlike alveolins, however, G2 contributes little to tensile strength, arguing against a cause‐effect relationship between tensile strength and cell shape. We also show that G2 null mutant sporozoites display an abnormal arrangement of their subpellicular microtubules. These results provide important new understanding of the factors that determine zoite morphogenesis, as well as the potential roles of the cortical cytoskeleton in gliding motility.
Altered colonic function and microbiota profile in a mouse model of chronic depression
Authors: Park A. J. , Collins J. , Blennerhassett P. A. , Ghia J. E. , Verdu E. F. , Bercik P. , Collins S. M.
Published: June 2013

Background

Depression often coexists with the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which is characterized by alterations in gut function. There is emerging evidence that the microbial composition (microbiota) of the gut is altered in IBS, but the basis for this is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to determine whether the induction of chronic depression results in changes in the colonic function and in its microbial community, and to explore underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Bilateral olfactory bulbectomy (OBx) was used to induce depression‐like behavior in mice. Colonic function was assessed by measuring muscle contractility, pellet excretion, c‐fos activity, and serotonin levels. Microbiota profiles were obtained using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The hypothalamic‐pituitary axis (HPA) was assessed by the hypothalamic expression of corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH). In separate studies, mice without OBx received CRH via intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion for 4 weeks prior to assessing colonic function and microbiota profiles.

Key Results

Olfactory bulbectomy mice demonstrated chronic depression‐ and anxiety‐like behaviors associated with elevated central CRH expression and increases in c‐Fos activity, serotonin levels, and motility in the colon. These changes were accompanied by an altered intestinal microbial profile. Central CRH administration produced similar changes in behavior and motility and altered the microbiota profile in the colon.

Conclusions & Inferences

The induction of chronic depression alters motor activity and the microbial profile in the colon likely via activation of the HPA. These findings provide a basis for linking the behavioral and gastrointestinal manifestations of IBS.
Molecular control of normal and acrocona mutant seed cone development in Norway spruce (Picea abies) and the evolution of conifer ovule‐bearing organs
Authors: Carlsbecker Annelie , Sundström Jens F. , Englund Marie , Uddenberg Daniel , Izquierdo Liz , Kvarnheden Anders , Vergara‐Silva Francisco , Engström Peter
Published: June 2013

Reproductive organs in seed plants are morphologically divergent and their evolutionary history is often unclear. The mechanisms controlling their development have been extensively studied in angiosperms but are poorly understood in conifers and other gymnosperms. Here, we address the molecular control of seed cone development in Norway spruce, Picea abies.

We present expression analyses of five novel MADS‐box genes in comparison with previously identified MADS and LEAFY genes at distinct developmental stages. In addition, we have characterized the homeotic transformation from vegetative shoot to female cone and associated changes in regulatory gene expression patterns occurring in the acrocona mutant.

The analyses identified genes active at the onset of ovuliferous and ovule development and identified expression patterns marking distinct domains of the ovuliferous scale. The reproductive transformation in acrocona involves the activation of all tested genes normally active in early cone development, except for an AGAMOUS‐LIKE6/SEPALLATA (AGL6/SEP) homologue. This absence may be functionally associated with the nondeterminate development of the acrocona ovule‐bearing scales.

Our morphological and gene expression analyses give support to the hypothesis that the modern cone is a complex structure, and the ovuliferous scale the result of reductions and compactions of an ovule‐bearing axillary short shoot in cones of Paleozoic conifers.
Sociocultural characteristics, obesity and inflammatory biomarkers in Puerto Rican toddlers born in New York City
Authors: Kannan Srimathi , Acosta Luis M. , Acevedo‐Garcia Dolores , Divjan Adnan , Bracero Luis A. , Perzanowski Matthew S. , Chew Ginger L.
Published: June 2013

Background

In the USA, Puerto Rican children have a higher prevalence of asthma than other Latino ethnicities, and acculturation is one of hypothesized reasons for this difference. We examined associations between sociocultural characteristics and serum leptin, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), and body mass index (BMI), and further, among hsCRP, leptin levels, BMI percentiles, and allergic sensitization in 2‐year‐old children.

Methods

IgE antibodies, leptin, and hsCRP concentrations were measured in serum from Puerto Rican toddlers (n = 143) born in New York City with a maternal history of allergy and/or asthma. Demographic and home characteristics questionnaires were administered to the mother, postpartum and two years later. Children's weight and height were measured to determine BMI percentiles.

Results

More girls (60%) had leptin levels above the median compared with boys (37%) (p = 0.0063). Leptin was positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.25; p = 0.0042). Children in daycare were more likely to be obese (40% vs. 24% p < 0.06). Maternal birthplace was significantly associated with children's leptin but not with hsCRP. Leptin levels were lower for children whose mothers were born on the US mainland (GM = 2.5 ng/ml, 95% CI [2.2–2.7]) compared with those whose mothers were born in Puerto Rico or another country (GM = 3.2 ng/ml, 95% CI [2.2–3.9], t‐test p = 0.01). Mothers born in another country were more likely than those born in the US mainland or Puerto Rico to have obese children (60% vs. 26% p < 0.02). Leptin, hsCRP, and BMI percentile were not associated with sensitization to any of the measured inhalant allergens or total IgE.

Conclusion

Even at a very young age, some acculturation factors were associated with biomarkers and anthropometric measures of obesity among this Puerto Rican pediatric population. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the association of mother's birth place with child BMI and leptin as early as 24 months.
Safety of food challenges to extensively heated egg in egg‐allergic children: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Turner Paul J. , Mehr Sam , Joshi Preeti , Tan John , Wong Melanie , Kakakios Alyson , Campbell Dianne E.
Published: June 2013

Background

Many children with IgE‐mediated allergy to egg can tolerate egg in baked foods. However, the clinical characteristics and severity of reactions of egg‐allergic children who react to baked egg at open food challenge (OFC) are not well defined.

Methods

Children presenting to our tertiary referral clinic with a diagnosis of egg allergy and following complete egg avoidance in their diet were offered OFC to baked egg. Challenges were performed with incremental dosages to a total of one baked muffin containing 1/6 egg (equivalent to 1 g egg protein) following a standardized protocol. Data were collected prospectively from 2009–2012.

Results

Open food challenge to baked egg were carried out on 236 egg‐allergic children who had been strictly avoiding egg in their diet. A total of 150 children (64%) passed and successfully incorporated baked egg into their diet. Eighty‐six children (36%) reacted to their challenge. Of these, 12 (14%) experienced anaphylaxis (according to WAO criteria), including four to <100 mg extensively heated egg protein. Intramuscular adrenaline was administered to 5 of the 12 children, one of whom required a second dose due to persistent hypotension. Skin prick testing, asthma, or prior egg anaphylaxis were not predictive of challenge outcome.

Conclusion

The majority of children with IgE‐mediated allergy to egg were able to tolerate 1 g of baked egg protein, but the outcome of OFC remained unpredictable, and 14% of children who failed OFC reacted with anaphylaxis. We recommend that OFC to baked egg should take place under medical supervision.
Influence of maternal and cord blood C‐reactive protein on childhood respiratory symptoms and eczema
Authors: Sonnenschein‐van der Voort Agnes M. M. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Moll Henriëtte A. , Hofman Albert , van der Valk Ralf J. P. , de Jongste Johan C. , Duijts Liesbeth
Published: June 2013

Background

Inflammatory processes during pregnancy might affect fetal lung development and immune responses. We examined the associations of maternal and cord blood C‐reactive protein levels with respiratory symptoms and eczema in preschool children.

Methods

This study was embedded in a population‐based prospective cohort study of 4984 children. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess the effect of C‐reactive protein levels on respiratory symptoms or eczema. C‐reactive protein levels were measured during early pregnancy and at birth. Wheezing, lower respiratory tract infections, and eczema until the age of 4 yr were annually obtained by questionnaires.

Results

Maternal C‐reactive protein was not associated with the risks of wheezing and lower respiratory tract infections. Compared to children with maternal C‐reactive protein in the lowest quarter, children in the highest quarter had increased risks of eczema OR 1.20 (1.03, 1.40). Compared to children with cord blood C‐reactive protein lower than 0.20 mg/l, those with levels higher than 0.20 mg/l had increased risks of wheezing, OR 1.21 (1.07, 1.36), and lower respiratory tract infections, OR 1.21 (1.05, 1.39), but not of eczema.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that elevated maternal C‐reactive protein in pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of eczema, and C‐reactive protein in cord blood with a higher risk of wheezing and lower respiratory tract infections in the first 4 yrs.
Analysis of inflammatory signals in Japanese children with Crohn's disease
Authors: Fujitake Yoshito , Ohtsuka Yoshikazu , Ikuse Tamaki , Ohtani Kiyotaka , Aoyagi Yo , Fujii Tohru , Kudo Takahiro , Ishii Masahiro , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: June 2013

Background

Although it is recognized that the Th1 and Th17 cytokines are directly involved in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease (CD), the precise cause of pediatric CD in the Japanese population has not been well established. In the present study, we examined the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and their signaling molecules in the intestinal mucosa of Japanese children with acute‐ and remission‐phase CD.

Methods

A total of 11 children with acute‐phase CD (mean age 10.32 ± 6.02 years) and 20 children with remission‐phase CD (mean age 11.87 ± 4.29 years) provided samples for a serum cytokine assay. Among these children, seven with acute‐phase CD (mean age 13.63 ± 1.94 years), six with remission‐phase CD (mean age 9.93 ± 4.33 years), and six healthy controls (mean age 9.90 ± 4.88 years) provided samples for a signaling assay. Among this group, the expression of Th1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T‐cell signaling molecules were examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

A significant elevation in the serum level of interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α was confirmed in pediatric patients with acute‐phase CD compared to patients with remission‐phase CD (P < 0.01 and 0.05, respectively). The mucosal expression of interferon‐γ, signal transducer and activator of transcription 4, and transforming growth factor‐β1 were significantly enhanced in pediatric patients with acute‐phase CD compared to patients with remission‐phase CD or those with normal mucosa.

Conclusions

These results suggest the possible involvement of Th1 and Th17 signaling in the pathogenesis of CD in Japanese children.
Comparative and collaborative studies for the validation of a nested PCR for the detection of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. dieffenbachiae from Anthurium samples
Authors: Chabirand A. , Jouen E. , Pruvost O. , Chiroleu F. , Hostachy B. , Bergsma‐Vlami M. , Bianchi G. , Cozzolino L. , Elphinstone J. , Holeva M. , Manole F. , Martini P. , Matoušková H. , Minatchy J. , de Beeck G. Op , Poliakoff F. , Sigillo L. , Siverio F. , Van Vaerenbergh J. , Laurentie M. , Robène‐Soustrade I.
Published: June 2013

Efficient control of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. dieffenbachiae, the causal agent of anthurium bacterial blight, requires sensitive and reliable diagnostic tools. The European standard EN ISO 16140:2003 has been followed to compare a nested PCR assay (N‐PCR) to a reference method (isolation and serological identification of bacterial colonies) and to other alternative serological detection methods. The evaluation was performed in two steps: a comparative study and a collaborative study involving 15 European laboratories. Although inclusivity was maximal (100%) for all methods, a maximal exclusivity was obtained only with N‐PCR followed by an enzymatic restriction digestion of the amplicons. Exclusivity indices of 90·6, 88·7 and 47·2% were found for indirect ELISA, immunofluorescence and double antibody sandwich ELISA, respectively. An exclusivity of 92·5% was obtained with the reference method, further increased to 100% if pathogenicity tests were performed as a supplemental assay. The best level of sensitivity (relative detection level) was obtained with the reference method followed by the N‐PCR assay. The N‐PCR performance in terms of relative accuracy, accordance and concordance was very similar to that of the reference method. Moreover, N‐PCR had undeniable advantages compared to the reference method (less labour‐intensive and less time‐consuming). In addition, post‐test probabilities of infection were calculated to select the most appropriate detection scheme related to the prevalence of the pathogen. The N‐PCR assay has since been included in a revised version of the EPPO detection protocol.
Cohort Profile: The Maternal‐Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals Research Platform
Authors: Arbuckle Tye E. , Fraser William D. , Fisher Mandy , Davis Karelyn , Liang Chun Lei , Lupien Nicole , Bastien Stéphanie , Velez Maria P. , von Dadelszen Peter , Hemmings Denise G. , Wang Jingwei , Helewa Michael , Taback Shayne , Sermer Mathew , Foster Warren , Ross Greg , Fredette Paul , Smith Graeme , Walker Mark , Shear Roberta , Dodds Linda , Ettinger Adrienne S. , Weber Jean‐Philippe , D'Amour Monique , Legrand Melissa , Kumarathasan Premkumari , Vincent Renaud , Luo Zhong‐Cheng , Platt Robert W. , Mitchell Grant , Hidiroglou Nick , Cockell Kevin , Villeneuve Maya , Rawn Dorothea F. K , Dabeka Robert , Cao Xu‐Liang , Becalski Adam , Ratnayake Nimal , Bondy Genevieve , Jin Xiaolei , Wang Zhongwen , Tittlemier Sheryl , Julien Pierre , Avard Denise , Weiler Hope , LeBlanc Alain , Muckle Gina , Boivin Michel , Dionne Ginette , Ayotte Pierre , Lanphear Bruce , Séguin Jean R. , Saint‐Amour Dave , Dewailly Éric , Monnier Patricia , Koren Gideon , Ouellet Emmanuel
Published: June 2013

Background

The Maternal‐Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) Study was established to obtain Canadian biomonitoring data for pregnant women and their infants, and to examine potential adverse health effects of prenatal exposure to priority environmental chemicals on pregnancy and infant health.

Methods

Women were recruited during the first trimester from 10 sites across Canada and were followed through delivery. Questionnaires were administered during pregnancy and post‐delivery to collect information on demographics, occupation, life style, medical history, environmental exposures and diet. Information on the pregnancy and the infant was abstracted from medical charts. Maternal blood, urine, hair and breast milk, as well as cord blood and infant meconium, were collected and analysed for an extensive list of environmental biomarkers and nutrients. Additional biospecimens were stored in the study's Biobank. The MIREC Research Platform encompasses the main cohort study, the Biobank and follow‐up studies.

Results

Of the 8716 women approached at early prenatal clinics, 5108 were eligible and 2001 agreed to participate (39%). MIREC participants tended to smoke less (5.9% vs. 10.5%), be older (mean 32.2 vs. 29.4 years) and have a higher education (62.3% vs. 35.1% with a university degree) than women giving birth in Canada.

Conclusions

The MIREC Study, while smaller in number of participants than several of the international cohort studies, has one of the most comprehensive datasets on prenatal exposure to multiple environmental chemicals. The biomonitoring data and biological specimen bank will make this research platform a significant resource for examining potential adverse health effects of prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals.
HLA‐A*33:44: a new allele identified by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese blood donor
Authors: Ye X. , Ding H. , Huang YF , Tan Y. , Xia W. , Bei C.
Published: June 2013

The HLA‐A*33:44 allele differs from HLA‐A*33:03:01 by a single mutation at position 866 (G→A), at codon 265 (GGT→GAT) in exon4 (Gly→Asp)
Evaluation of a new flow cytometry crossmatch procedure for simultaneous detection of cytotoxicity and antibody binding
Authors: Alheim M. , Paul P. K. , Hauzenberger D.‐M. , Wikström A.‐C.
Published: June 2013

In this study we have evaluated an alternative 96‐well format flow cytometry based (FCtox) method which enable simultaneous detection of cytotoxicity and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibody binding. Comparable results were obtained in side‐by‐side comparisons with conventional complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and flow cytometric crossmatch (FCXM) in terms of sensitivity and specificity. There was 91 and 93% agreement between results obtained by FCtox and CDC for T and B cells, respectively. In addition, comparable results were obtained with FCtox IgG and FCXM IgG for both T and B cells. Furthermore, compared with a recently developed and highly sensitive Luminex based C1q assay we obtained close to 90% method agreement with the FCtox assay. Our alternative cytotoxicity and IgG binding assay which exhibit low intra‐and inter‐assay variation will improve the workflow and speed up the pre‐transplant testing and also allow continuous monitoring of assay performance and proper quality assurance.
Fading EUphoria at the Dutch‐German Border? The Case of Avantis
Authors: Jacobs Joren , Kooij Henk‐Jan
Published: June 2013

The paper deals with the failure of the Avantis cross‐border business estate. The inception of this hitherto largely undeveloped site took place in the early 1990s, a period which we suggest characterising with the notion of EUphoria, that is, a widely held belief in the future of a borderless Europe. EUphoria is seen as the key to bringing together otherwise separate discourses under one shared ambition of constructing a cross‐border business estate. With the fading of EUphoria, however, Avantis resurfaces as a shared problem and appears to have been built on expectations and promises held within a discourse of European integration rather than among private investors. In retrospect, Avantis as a product of EUphoria remains a EUtopia, albeit with very few believers.
Renal transplantation from hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive donors to HBsAg‐negative recipients: a case of post‐transplant fulminant hepatitis associated with an extensively mutated hepatitis B virus strain and review of the current literature
Authors: Magiorkinis E. , Paraskevis D. , Pavlopoulou I.D. , Kantzanou M. , Haida C. , Hatzakis A. , Boletis I.N.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to present a fatal case of fulminant hepatitis B (FHB) that developed in a renal transplant recipient, immunized against hepatitis B, 1 year post transplantation.

Methods

Polymerase chain reaction amplification and full genome sequencing were performed to investigate whether specific mutations were associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission and FHB.

Results

Molecular analysis revealed multiple mutations in various open reading frames of HBV, the most important being the G145R escape mutation and a frameshift mutation–insertion (1838insA) within the pre‐C/C reading frame.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the possibility of developing FHB, despite previous immunization against HBV or administration of hyperimmune gammaglobulin, because of the selection of escape virus mutants. The current literature and guidelines regarding renal transplantation from hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive to HBsAg‐negative patients were also reviewed.
Subconvexity and equidistribution of Heegner points in the level aspect
Authors: Liu Sheng-Chi , Masri Riad , Young Matthew P.
Published: June 2013

Let $q$ be a prime and $- D\lt - 4$ be an odd fundamental discriminant such that $q$ splits in $ \mathbb{Q} ( \sqrt{- D} )$. For $f$ a weight-zero Hecke–Maass newform of level $q$ and ${\Theta }_{\chi } $ the weight-one theta series of level $D$ corresponding to an ideal class group character $\chi $ of $ \mathbb{Q} ( \sqrt{- D} )$, we establish a hybrid subconvexity bound for $L(f\times {\Theta }_{\chi } , s)$ at $s= 1/ 2$ when $q\asymp {D}^{\eta } $ for $0\lt \eta \lt 1$. With this circle of ideas, we show that the Heegner points of level $q$ and discriminant $D$ become equidistributed, in a natural sense, as $q, D\rightarrow \infty $ for $q\leq {D}^{1/ 20- \varepsilon } $. Our approach to these problems is connected to estimating the ${L}^{2} $-restriction norm of a Maass form of large level $q$ when restricted to the collection of Heegner points. We furthermore establish bounds for quadratic twists of Hecke–Maass $L$-functions with simultaneously large level and large quadratic twist, and hybrid bounds for quadratic Dirichlet $L$-functions in certain ranges.