bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Humour based on flouting Grice’s conversational maxims in Ali Douagi’s "The Star-Gazer"
Authors: Hamdi Sondes
Published: June 2024

Attardo (1993) argues that humour in conversation is partly created by flouting or violating Grice’s Conversational Maxims. A few studies have probed the validity of this claim by investigating humour in literary texts (Amianna & Putranti, 2017; Al-Zubeiry, 2020). However, to the best of our knowledge, not one study has probed this claim on the basis of a Tunisian literary text. Situated within the theoretical framework of Grice’s Cooperative Principle (henceforth CP), this qualitative and descriptive study tries to fill this gap, at least partially, by examining humour in dialogue in Ali Douagi’s short story “The Star-Gazer”. The text is based on an interactional dialogue between a man and a woman. The study’s results suggest that utterances in the dialogue in this story flout the Maxim of Quantity by giving too much or too little information to the hearer, and are found to flout the Maxim of Relation by stating things that are irrelevant to the topic of conversation. Utterances are found to flout the Maxim of Manner by stating things that are long, unclear and ambiguous, but no flouting of the Maxim of Quality is found. The humour in the text is found to be, at least partially, determined by flouting Grice’s Conversational Maxims. As such, the study corroborates the claim that humour in conversation is, partly, determined by flouting or violating Grice’s Conversational Maxims. It is argued that this work contributes to pragmatics, humour research and literary criticism.
Cropping with Vicia villosa and native grass improves soil’s bacterial structure and ecological network in a jujube orchard
Authors: Wang Shoule , Wang Zhongtang , Hao Qing , Peng Bin , Li Pan , Qi Xuelong , Zhang Qiong
Published: June 2024

In a jujube orchard, cropping withgrass may influence bacterial diversity and ecological networks due to changes of physicochemical properties in soil, which has a serious effect on the stability of soil ecosystems. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different cultivation methods (CK: cleaning tillage; NG: cropping with native grass; VV: cropping with Vicia villosa) on the soil’s bacterial structure and its co-occurrence network in a jujube orchard. The results showed that the highest moisture content, total nitrogen, and organic matter in the rhizosphere soil of a jujube orchard was found in the VV group. The soil’s moisture content, total nitrogen, and organic matter in the VV group were 2.66%, 0.87 g kg−1, and 5.55 mg kg−1 higher than that found in the CK group. Compared to the CK group, the number of unique species in the rhizosphere soil in the NG and the VV groups increased by 7.33% and 21.44%. The PICRUSt and FAPROTAX analysis showed that sown grass had a greater influence on the ecological function of the soil’s bacteria. Cropping with Vicia villosa and native grass significantly increased aerobic chemoheterotrophy, nitrogen respiration, nitrate reduction related to biochemical cycles, and the relative abundance of genes related to carbohydrate metabolism and the biodegradation of xenobiotics. The bacterial network complexity in the NG group was higher than that in the CK and VV groups and was greatest in the hub nodes (OTU42, Bacteroidota; OTU541, Nitrospiraceae). In this study, the ecological benefit seen in the soil’s microbial function provides support to the theory that cropping with grass (Vicia villosa) increases the sustainable development of a jujube orchard.
The association between antiphospholipid syndrome and atrial fibrillation: a single center retrospective case-control study
Authors: Zhou Zechuan , Liu Yuansheng
Published: June 2024

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune syndrome characterized by arterial or venous thrombosis, pregnancy complications and thrombocytopenia. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between APS and atrial fibrillation (AF) among patients in Peking University People’s Hospital. A single center retrospective study was conducted. Cases were hospitalized patients diagnosed with AF by a cardiologist while the control group patients did not exhibit cardiac diseases. The results of the study revealed that in multivariable logistic regression, APS, anticardiolipin antibody (aCL) positivity and anti-beta-2-glycoprotein antibody (anti-β2GPI) positivity are independent risk factors of AF. APS, aCL positivity and anti-β2GPI positivity are statistically different between AF patients and non-AF patients. Forthcoming studies are needed to clarify the potential link between APS and AF.
Exploring the plasmodesmata callose-binding protein gene family in upland cotton: unraveling insights for enhancing fiber length
Authors: Zhang Haibo , Xiao Xianghui , Li Ziyin , Chen Yu , Li Pengtao , Peng Renhai , Lu Quanwei , Wang Youwu
Published: June 2024

Plasmodesmata are transmembrane channels embedded within the cell wall that can facilitate the intercellular communication in plants. Plasmodesmata callose-binding (PDCB) protein that associates with the plasmodesmata contributes to cell wall extension. Given that the elongation of cotton fiber cells correlates with the dynamics of the cell wall, this protein can be related to the cotton fiber elongation. This study sought to identify PDCB family members within the Gossypium. hirsutum genome and to elucidate their expression profiles. A total of 45 distinct family members were observed through the identification and screening processes. The analysis of their physicochemical properties revealed the similarity in the amino acid composition and molecular weight across most members. The phylogenetic analysis facilitated the construction of an evolutionary tree, categorizing these members into five groups mainly distributed on 20 chromosomes. The fine mapping results facilitated a tissue-specific examination of group V, revealing that the expression level of GhPDCB9 peaked five days after flowering. The VIGS experiments resulted in a marked decrease in the gene expression level and a significant reduction in the mature fiber length, averaging a shortening of 1.43–4.77 mm. The results indicated that GhPDCB9 played a pivotal role in the cotton fiber development and served as a candidate for enhancing cotton yield.
huella del carbón.
Authors: Aillon Ferreira Sarah
Published: June 2024

Los paisajes posindustriales legados por las industrias de los siglos XIX y XX en Chile son vestigios materiales y simbólicos del auge del desarrollo económico y social del país, y el resultado de procesos de transformación territorial, social y cultural. En estos paisajes se perciben las huellas antrópicas sobre el territorio, adquiriendo valores de paisaje cultural al haber sido parte fundamental en la construcción de la identidad local. 
La zona del Golfo de Arauco se configuró como el principal centro de desarrollo de la minería del carbón, dando lugar al crecimiento de ciudades que construyeron su identidad en base a la cultura minera. Con el cierre de industrias durante el siglo XX, se configuró un cementerio de ciudades ruinas, y Lota, corazón de la industria, cayó en un proceso de abandono, siendo actualmente uno de los principales ejemplos nacionales de un paisaje posindustrial degradado y de la pérdida de la memoria asociada a la historia industrial. 
El presente artículo examina el mayor sitio posindustrial de Lota: el sector de Chambeque. Para ello se expone una metodología de análisis paisajístico que incluyó mapeos, revisión bibliográfica histórica y levantamiento fotográfico. Esto permitió analizar los valores contenidos en los paisajes posindustriales con miras al rescate del patrimonio y memoria de la ciudad, abriendo el debate sobre su abordaje y relevancia en el panorama actual a nivel nacional. A partir de esto se plantea la posibilidad de intervención por medio de un proyecto de arquitectura del paisaje basado en estrategias que permiten la conservación y puesta en valor de un sitio posindustrial, apuntando a objetivos como la conservación de ruinas, la remediación ambiental y la reincorporación del sitio a la dinámica urbana.
Maipo 60 x 60: vía verde para la revalorización del patrimonio y paisaje ferroviario
Authors: Iturriaga Del Campo Sandra
Published: June 2024

El siguiente artículo aborda la revalorización de una singular infraestructura ferroviaria que se implementó a inicios del siglo XX al sur de Santiago, como conectividad estratégica y para el desarrollo productivo de las localidades entre Puente Alto y el Volcán. La implementación de esta infraestructura ferroviaria -denominada Ferrocarril Militar-, determinó, desde su origen, una singular estrategia de ordenación del paisaje y el territorio, a través de un recorrido de 60 km de largo y 60 cm de trocha, y un conjunto de componentes. Si bien desde mediados de los 80 dejó de ser usada para sus fines originales de transporte - presentando una creciente obsolescencia a partir de su desmantelamiento -, el potencial de su trazado en el territorio y sus distintos componentes, conservan su impronta y sus atributos latentes hasta el día de hoy, con una rica relación de dependencia entre infraestructura, patrimonio y paisaje. La presente investigación generada en dos etapas, propone la revalorización de esta infraestructura ferroviaria a través de un Atlas Visual, el cual considera tanto el levantamiento y registro exhaustivo de sus preexistencias y de un relato histórico, así como una propuesta para la implementación de una potencial Ruta o Vía Verde, a partir del rescate y puesta en valor de sus valores paisajísticos y patrimoniales.
Tres silencios dentro de la Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo de la Universidad de Chile bajo la dictadura de Pinochet
Authors: Verdejo Bravo Nicolás
Published: June 2024

El efecto de la dictadura de Pinochet sobre la educación superior chilena fue de amplio alcance y significó radicales cambios en la administración de todas las universidades. La Universidad de Chile, institución pública y estatal, fue una de las más afectadas. Su Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo (FAU) fue particularmente objeto de una fuerte intervención que significó la desaparición de algunos de sus miembros, así como la total reubicación de su campus. Aunque el desarrollo institucional, académico y curricular de la facultad bajo el régimen militar ha sido generosamente descrito en recuentos institucionales, el impacto que este contexto tuvo sobre instancias, espacios de enseñanza y personas que la compusieron ha permanecido silente. Disponiendo de documentos y archivos de carácter administrativo, este texto releva tres historias en que diversas expresiones del poder autoritario se ejercieron sobre trabajadores, alumnos y profesores de la FAU. Estos casos evidencian, también, puntos de fricción entre la propia realidad de la facultad y todo aquello que pasaba fuera de sus muros en uno de los períodos más complejos de la historia del país.
Análise dos tratamentos duplex de Deep-rolling e nitretação a plasma em um aço bainítico avançado
Authors: Canal Felipe , Rocha Alexandre da Silva
Published: June 2024

Tratamentos superficiais são comumente designados para melhorar o desempenho dos materiais em termos de resistência ao desgaste, à fadiga e à corrosão. O presente trabalho propõe o estudo da combinação dos tratamentos superficiais de Deep-rolling e nitretação a plasma como uma nova alternativa para aprimorar e prolongar a vida útil dos componentes mecânicos. Para tal, foi realizado o tratamento de Deep-rolling nas pressões de 150 e 250bar em um aço bainítico de resfriamento contínuo e em seguida realizou-se a nitretação a plasma em amostras com e sem Deep-rolling. Os seguintes parâmetros de nitretação foram utilizados: temperaturas de 400°C e 500°C; mistura gasosa 24vol.% N2 -76vol.% H2; tempo de 6h e; pressão de 3mbar. Como ponto de partida, este trabalho buscou investigar a viabilidade do processo por meio da avaliaçãos da microestrutura, microdureza e rugosidade. Os resultados demonstram que o Deep-rolling pode promover uma deformação superficial que resulta na redução da rugosidade e aumento de dureza. As condições com os tratamentos combinados apresentaram um aumento significativo da dureza superficial, aumento da camada de compostos e diminuição da camada de difusão quando comparado com amostras apenas nitretadas a plasma.
The Comparison of Tensile Strengths of Different Tree Species and Their Evaluation in Agricultural Tools
Authors: Rani Annu , Singh Jayant , Singh T.P. , Kumar Ajit , Choudhary Mukesh Kumar
Published: June 2024

This study evaluates the tensile properties of various timber species used in agricultural implements, focusing on their tensile strength and elongation characteristics. Understanding these properties is crucial for selecting suitable timber for different applications, ensuring durability and performance under mechanical stress. The species analyzed include Yellow Teak, Red Cedar, Teak, Lebbeck, Java Plum, Eucalyptus, Margosa, Mango, Sal, and North Indian Rosetimber. The tensile properties were determined using the IS 1708 standard on a servo-controlled universal testing machine. Results showed that Sal exhibited the highest tensile strength and elongation, making it the Most Intense and flexible timber with consistent properties. Margosa also demonstrated high tensile strength and moderate elongation with very low variability, indicating reliable performance. Eucalyptus and North Indian Rose timber presented Intense and moderately flexible properties with consistent material characteristics. Teak, known for its strength and high elongation, combines robustness and flexibility, while Red Cedar showed moderate tensile strength but higher elongation, offering greater flexibility. Yellow Teak, although reasonably Intense, had lower elongation, indicating less flexibility. Lebbeck was Intense and highly flexible but showed significant variability in tensile strength. Mango exhibited moderate tensile strength and elongation with low variability, suggesting consistent performance. Java Plum had the lowest tensile strength and moderate elongation, indicating it is less Intense and not very flexible. This comprehensive analysis aids in the selection of optimal timber for agricultural applications, enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of agricultural implements.
Exploring the Impact of School Leadership on Professional Development in Panabo City Division, Philippines: A Mixed-Method Explanatory Research Study
Authors: Ramos Ruel B. , Bauyot Marleonie M.
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the relationship between school leadership and professional development in the educational setting of Panabo City Division, Philippines. Using a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data were collected through surveys of teachers and school leaders, while qualitative insights were garnered through focus groups and interviews. The data show that school leaders are widely regarded positively, with high mean scores indicating effective participation, supportive behaviors, and clear communication. Similarly, professional development efforts received excellent marks for continual learning, reflective practice, collaborative networking, and creative teaching methods. Statistical research shows a substantial positive association (r = 0.90, p < 0.05) between school leadership and professional development, highlighting the importance of leadership in creating a supportive atmosphere for teacher development. Qualitative findings reveal how supportive leadership behaviors such as resource allocation, collaborative learning communities, and appreciation of teachers' contributions improve professional development outcomes. These findings have practical significance for educational policymakers and school leaders looking to improve leadership practices and maximize professional development programs, which enhances teaching effectiveness.
Anti-cancer Therapies in Adults and Their Effects on Cardiovascular System: A Review
Authors: Habbal Rachida , Ouarrak Saadia , Dehbi Hind
Published: June 2024

The cardio-oncology as a field has been expanded by the rapid development of innovative cancer therapies. While these treatments had significantly improved the overall survival rates for                cancer patients, they also carried the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic toxicities. A comprehensive and accurate diagnosis of cancer was paramount to initiate appropriate and effective treatment strategies. It was essential to recognize that each type of cancer presents unique characteristics and complexities, necessitating personalized treatment approaches tailored to individual patients. These treatment regimens often encompassed a combination of modalities such as surgery, radiotherapy, systemic therapy, including chemotherapy, antineoplastic hormonal agents, targeted therapies, and supportive care interventions. By implementing a tailored treatment plan based on the specific nature of the cancer, healthcare professionals might optimize therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects, ultimately improving the overall prognosis and quality of life for cancer patients.  The concise review aims to underscore the effects of cancer and its treatments on cardiovascular health, drawing insights from prior research. By synthesizing findings from existing studies, we aim to elucidate the intricate relationship between cancer therapies and cardiovascular outcomes. Consequently, there is a pressing need for an updated summary to inform contemporary clinical practice, ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge to provide optimal care for cancer patients while safeguarding their cardiovascular well-being.
Insect Biodegradation of Plastic: A Review
Authors: Satwika Maharaj , Ramesha N. M. , Madhuri Burjikindi , Asritha Chava , Hemanth T. , Bharghavi Kolli
Published: June 2024

Plastic poses a persistent threat to various ecosystems and organisms due to its prolonged environmental existence. Traditional methods of managing plastic waste, such as landfill disposal and chemical treatments, have proven environmentally harmful. Despite the recognition of insects as potential agents for plastic degradation, the practical application of this concept remains limited. While the exact mechanisms of insect-mediated plastic breakdown are not fully understood, utilizing insect larvae for this purpose offers advantages such as cost-effectiveness and minimal secondary pollution. This review aims to comprehensively analyze recent research on plastic degradation by insects and microorganisms, shedding light on the processes involved and exploring the potential applications, challenges, and future directions in plastic biodegradation.
Extension Strategies and Models in Agri Trading through Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs): A Way towards Sustainability
Authors: Jose Asha Elizabeth , Raj Nithin , Chavan Niraj , Lakshmi K Vijaya , Ngasainao Centy , Kruparani Pandhiri , Shaiza Machutrin
Published: June 2024

Despite this rapid growth, many FPCs are grappling with nascent stages of development and are encountering numerous challenges. The current emphasis on promoting 10,000 FPCs has brought to light a pressing issue: the sustainability of existing FPCs within the agricultural value chain. Thus, this study aims to scrutinize the prevailing extension strategies and trading models employed by FPCs through a detailed case study analysis. Additionally, the study proposes models for fostering the sustainable growth of FPCs, aimed at mitigating market risks. The extension strategies and models under discussion advocate the collaboration of commodity and value chain-specific FPCs under an institutional leadership framework for a federated approach. This involves linking FPCs to markets through startups facilitated by incubation centers and digitally connecting FPCs to direct marketing channels via ICT interventions. The study delineates models such as the BOTT model, Federated model, and ICT-FPO model. It suggests that a commodity and value chain-specific marketing channel can be effectively managed by an Anchor Institution (AI) in partnership with FPCs, which act as suppliers of quality produce adhering to mutually agreed standards. This underscores the importance of adopting a flexible approach tailored to the unique needs of producers, ensuring the long-term viability and success of FPCs. Additionally, FPCs can collaborate with startups in their early years to procure agricultural produce and market their products through startup outlets. FPCs in their initial stages can also act as procurement agencies, similar to the Food Corporation of India (FCI), with government licensing to reduce risk. Implementing a pre-order system for early booking, coordinating with other FPCs for regular supply under an Anchor Institution, and providing adequate storage facilities through warehousing are further steps to enhance FPO sustainability. Training farmers in order management and using technology for uninterrupted material and information flow along the supply chain are also crucial. Lastly, funding and technical support from institutions like NABARD and SFAC are essential until the FPO reaches the break-even point. Flexibility is key in catering to producers' needs, and therefore, scaling up FPCs is a significant endeavor.
Application of Soil Testing Sensors in Agriculture: A Review
Authors: Mudigiri Chandana , Mamatha Bommireddy
Published: June 2024

The soil whose main role is to provide nutrients in the process of plant growth is the foundation and an important part of agriculture. Soil testing is an important step for increasing agricultural production and raising farm income. Traditional soil testing methods rely on chemical processes carried out in a laboratory. Sensors play a significant role in agriculture by direct measurement of soil chemistry through tests such as pH, moisture, nutrient content, humidity and temperature. The results of soil tests are important to get high yield with good quality produce. ISE (Ion Selective Electrode) and ISEFT (ion-sensitive field effect transistor) sensors have also been used to detect the uptake of ions by plants.
On the Mechanism of Asymmetric Epoxidation of Enones Catalyzed by α,α‐L‐Diarylprolinols: A Theoretical Insight
Authors: Capobianco Amedeo , Russo Alessio , Lattanzi Alessandra , Peluso Andrea
Published: October 2012

The mechanism of the asymmetric epoxidation of enones with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide promoted by α,α‐L‐diarylprolinols has been studied by second order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) and density functional theory (DFT) computations. The non‐covalent activation of the reactants, through an effective network of hydrogen bonding interactions, initially hypothesized on the basis of the available experimental data, is shown to constitute an energetically viable pathway. According to the non‐covalent route, the reaction follows a two‐step nucleophilic epoxidation mechanism, with the first oxa‐Michael addition being the rate‐ and stereoselectivity‐determining step. Formation of the (2R,3S)‐enantiomer of the epoxide derived from trans‐chalcone is predicted to be energetically favoured, in agreement with the experimental findings.
Catalytic CSe Bond Formation under Very Mild Conditions for the Two‐Step, One‐Pot Synthesis of Aryl Selenoacetates
Authors: Grenader Konstantin , Schüpbach Björn , Peters Annabell , Kümmel Oliver , Halter Oliver , Terfort Andreas
Published: October 2012

Using the palladium/2‐(dicyclohexylphosphino)‐2′,6′‐di(isopropoxy)biphenyl (RuPhos) catalyst, aryl halides and tricyclohexylsilyl selenol can be efficiently coupled to the respective aryl tricyclohexylsilyl selenides. These can be transformed in the same reaction vessel to the corresponding selenoacetates, permitting a straightforward access to a range of molecules potentially useful for materials science applications.
A highly sensitive immunoassay for interleukin‐6 in dried blood spots
Authors: Miller Elizabeth M. , Mcdade Thomas W.
Published: October 2012

Objective:

Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is a pro‐inflammatory cytokine that is associated with the production of C‐reactive protein, the acute phase response, and chronic low‐grade inflammation. In this report, we describe and validate a highly sensitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantifying IL‐6 at low concentrations in samples of capillary whole blood collected from a simple finger stick and dried on filter paper (dried blood spots, DBS).

Methods:

A commercially available ELISA for IL‐6 was modified to develop a protocol for the quantification of IL‐6 in DBS samples. Procedures for sample elution and incubation were optimized for precision, reliability, accuracy, and lower limit of detection using small volumes of DBS. A set of 46 matched serum/DBS samples were used to evaluate agreement between serum and DBS results.

Results:

The protocol demonstrated acceptable levels of precision, reliability, accuracy, and agreement with serum‐based results. The lower limit of detection was sufficiently low to measure levels of IL‐6 associated with both chronic, low‐grade inflammation, and acute increases in inflammatory activity.

Conclusions:

This protocol adds to the growing panel of analytes validated for quantification in DBS samples and should facilitate future research on the causes and consequences of inflammation in diverse non‐clinical settings. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth charts of Turkish children with Down syndrome
Authors: Tüysüz Beyhan , Göknar Nilüfer Topal , Öztürk Birol
Published: October 2012

We present growth curves of 1,726 Turkish children with Down syndrome (DS) between 0 and 18 years of age and investigate the factors that affect growth including congenital heart disease (CHD) and hypothyroidism. Longitudinal measurements of height, weight, and head circumference (HC) were assessed and accompanying major malformations were recorded. Growth curves were monitored using Cole's LMS method. The mean birth length was reduced by −0.5 standard deviation (SD) for Turkish standards in both boys and girls. Pubertal growth spurt of the girls with DS started 1 year earlier, their puberty duration was short and pubertal annual growth rate was inadequate, and as a result the final height was −3.06 SD for Turkish standards. Although the age at onset of pubertal growth spurt and puberty duration of the boys were similar to normal population, their pubertal annual growth rate was inadequate; thus the final height was −2.56 SD for Turkish standards. The final weight values were similar to normal population. The mean HC values of DS children were corresponded to −0.9 SD for Turkish standards at birth; however after 6 months values were below −2 SD. The final HC values were −1.02 SD for boys and −2.21 SD for girls for Turkish standards. We observed that weight was decreased in DS children with severe CHD during first 4 years of life. However, there is no statistically significant difference in values of height and head circumference between patients with or without severe CHD group. In addition, hypothyroidism had no effect on growth in DS patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome and other disorders of cholesterol biosynthesis: An introduction
Authors: Nowaczyk Małgorzata J.M. , Cunniff Christopher
Published: October 2012

This issue of Seminars of Medical Genetics features a series of articles on Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome and other disorders of endogenous cholesterol synthesis. Clinically, many of these disorders have been known for decades, but only in the last 20 years have the molecular genetic and enzymatic defects underlying these disorders been delineated. As a group, disorders of cholesterol synthesis are relatively common and contribute significantly to the burden of human disease. Leading experts in their fields present clinical, behavioral, molecular, and therapeutic aspects of these disorders. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rib lesions in skeletons from early neolithic sites in Central Germany: On the trail of tuberculosis at the onset of agriculture
Authors: Nicklisch Nicole , Maixner Frank , Ganslmeier Robert , Friederich Susanne , Dresely Veit , Meller Harald , Zink Albert , Alt Kurt W.
Published: October 2012

As an infectious disease, tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major causes of death worldwide. Paleopathological and paleomicrobiological studies indicate a long standing association of the causative agent Mycobacterium tuberculosis and its human host. Since the occurrence and the epidemic spread of this pathogen seem to be closely linked to social and biological factors, it is of particular interest to understand better the role of TB during periods of social and nutritional change such as the Neolithic. In this study, 118 individuals from three sites in Saxony‐Anhalt (Germany) dating to the Linear Pottery Culture (5400–4800 BC) were examined macroscopically to identify TB related bone lesions. In two individuals, Pott's disease was detected. In addition, periosteal reactions of varying degrees and frequency were observed mainly along the neck of the ribs in 6.5% (2/31) of subadults and 35.1% (20/57) of adults, with one site standing out markedly. Rib lesions, however, are not specific indicators of TB as they can also be caused by other diseases; so additional investigations were undertaken using histology and micro‐CT scans to say more about the disease process. Supplementary molecular analyses indicate the presence of pathogens belonging to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in individuals of all sites. Furthermore, we discuss the occurrence and spread of TB during the Neolithic with regard to nutritional aspects and possible risks of infection. The data presented provide important insights into the health status of Early Neolithic populations in Central Germany. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The diet‐body offset in human nitrogen isotopic values: A controlled dietary study
Authors: O'Connell T.C. , Kneale C.J. , Tasevska N. , Kuhnle G.G.C.
Published: October 2012

The “trophic level enrichment” between diet and body results in an overall increase in nitrogen isotopic values as the food chain is ascended. Quantifying the diet–body Δ15N spacing has proved difficult, particularly for humans. The value is usually assumed to be +3–5‰ in the archaeological literature. We report here the first (to our knowledge) data from humans on isotopically known diets, comparing dietary intake and a body tissue sample, that of red blood cells. Samples were taken from 11 subjects on controlled diets for a 30‐day period, where the controlled diets were designed to match each individual's habitual diet, thus reducing problems with short‐term changes in diet causing isotopic changes in the body pool. The Δ15Ndiet‐RBCwas measured as +3.5‰. Using measured offsets from other studies, we estimate the human Δ15Ndiet‐keratinas +5.0–5.3‰, which is in good agreement with values derived from the two other studies using individual diet records. We also estimate a value for Δ15Ndiet‐collagenof ≈6‰, again in combination with measured offsets from other studies. This value is larger than usually assumed in palaeodietary studies, which suggests that the proportion of animal protein in prehistoric human diet may have often been overestimated in isotopic studies of palaeodiet. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modernization and the onset of overweight and obesity in bougainville and solomon islands children: Cross‐sectional and longitudinal comparisons between 1966 and 1986
Authors: Weitz Charles A. , Friedlaender Françoise R. , Van Horn Andrew , Friedlaender Jonathan S.
Published: October 2012

This set of cross‐sectional and longitudinal data from children and young adults in certain Bougainville and Solomon Islands populations undergoing rapid modernization during the period 1966–1986 reveals very different responses to essentially the same stimuli—the introduction and widespread availability of western dietary items and reductions in habitual activity. Our analyses of over 2,000 children and young adults first measured in 1966–1972, with follow‐up surveys in 1968–1970 and 1985–1986, show changes in overweight/obesity in these communities have their onset around puberty, and are not related to differences in childhood growth stunting. The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased substantially during the period of this study among young adults, particularly women, and in groups with more Polynesian affinities, where the frequency of overweight (BMI ≥ 25) tripled over this 20‐year interval. However, the BMI of the more Papuan groups on Bougainville remained remarkably stable, even though they were close to the epicenter of modernization during this period, the Bougainville Copper Mine. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced cell viability via strain stimulus and fluid flow in magnetically actuated scaffolds
Authors: Mack Julia J. , Corrin Abigail A. , dos Santos e Lucato Sergio L. , Dunn James C.Y. , Wu Benjamin W. , Cox Brian N.
Published: October 2012

A novel magnetically actuated scaffold was used to explore the effects of strain stimulus on the proliferation and spatial distribution of smooth muscle cells and improve cell viability in the scaffold interior by pumping nutrients throughout the structure. Magnetically actuable scaffolds were fabricated in a tube shape by winding electrospun sheets of a biodegradable polymer modified with magnetic Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Prior to rolling, the sheets were seeded with smooth muscle cells and wound into tubes with diameter 5.2 mm and wall thickness 0.2 mm. The tubular scaffolds were actuated by a magnetic field to induce a cyclic crimping deformation, which applies strain stimulus to the cells and pumps nutrient fluid through the porous tube walls. Comparison with non‐actuated controls shows that magnetic actuation increases the total cell count throughout the scaffold after 14 days of incubation. Furthermore, whereas cell density as a function of position through the tube wall thickness showed a minimum in the mid‐interior in the controls after 14 days due to cell starvation, the actuated scaffolds displayed a maximum cell density. Comparison of cell distributions with the expected spatial variations in strain amplitude and nutrient flux implies that both strain stimulus and nutrient pumping are significant factors in cell proliferation. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 936–946. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of thermodynamic optimum searching (TOS) to improve the prediction accuracy of flux balance analysis
Authors: Zhu Yan , Song Jiangning , Xu Zixiang , Sun Jibin , Zhang Yanping , Li Yin , Ma Yanhe
Published: October 2012

Flux balance analysis (FBA) has been widely used in calculating steady‐state flux distributions that provide important information for metabolic engineering. Several thermodynamics‐based methods, for example, quantitative assignment of reaction directionality and energy balance analysis have been developed to improve the prediction accuracy of FBA. However, these methods can only generate a thermodynamically feasible range, rather than the most thermodynamically favorable solution. We therefore developed a novel optimization method termed as thermodynamic optimum searching (TOS) to calculate the thermodynamically optimal solution, based on the second law of thermodynamics, the minimum magnitude of the Gibbs free energy change and the maximum entropy production principle (MEPP). Then, TOS was applied to five physiological conditions of Escherichia coli to evaluate its effectiveness. The resulting prediction accuracy was found significantly improved (10.7–48.5%) by comparing with the 13C‐fluxome data, indicating that TOS can be considered an advanced calculation and prediction tool in metabolic engineering. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 914–923. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification and profiling of targeted oxidized linoleic acid metabolites in rat plasma by quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Yuan Zhi‐Xin , Rapoport Stanley I. , Soldin Steven J. , Remaley Alan T. , Taha Ameer Y. , Kellom Matthew , Gu Jianghong , Sampson Maureen , Ramsden Christopher E.
Published: October 2012

Linoleic acid (LA) and LA‐esters are the precursors of LA hydroperoxides, which are readily converted to 9‐ and 13‐hydroxy‐​octadecadienoic acid (HODE) and 9‐ and 13‐oxo‐​octadecadienoic acid (oxo ODE) metabolites in vivo. These four oxidized LA metabolites (OXLAMs) have been implicated in a variety of pathological conditions. Therefore, their accurate measurement may provide mechanistic insights into disease pathogenesis. Here we present a novel quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (Q‐TOFMS) method for quantitation and identification of target OXLAMs in rat plasma. In this method, the esterified OXLAMs were base‐hydrolyzed and followed by liquid–liquid extraction. Quantitative analyses were based on one‐point standard addition with isotope dilution. The Q‐TOFMS data of target metabolites were acquired and multiple reaction monitoring extracted‐ion chromatograms were generated post‐acquisition with a 10 ppm extraction window. The limit of quantitation was 9.7–35.9 nmol/L depending on the metabolite. The method was reproducible with a coefficient of variation of <18.5%. Mean concentrations of target metabolites in rat plasma were 57.8, 123.2, 218.1 and 57.8 nmol/L for 9‐HODE, 13‐HODE, 9‐oxoODE and 13‐oxoODE, respectively. Plasma levels of total OXLAMs were 456.9 nmol/L, which correlated well with published concentrations obtained by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The concentrations were also obtained utilizing a standard addition curve approach. The calibration curves were linear with correlation coefficients of >0.991. Concentrations of 9‐HODE, 13‐HODE, 9‐oxoODE and 13‐oxoODE were 84.0, 138.6, 263.0 and 69.5 nmol/L, respectively, which were consistent with the results obtained from one‐point standard addition. Target metabolites were simultaneously characterized based on the accurate Q‐TOFMS data. This is the first study of secondary LA metabolites using Q‐TOFMS. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
The Complexity of Community Engagement: Developing Staff–Community Relationships in a Participatory Child Education and Women's Rights Intervention in Kolkata Slums
Authors: Nic a Bháird Caoimhe
Published: October 2012

Dissatisfaction with inflexible top‐down development interventions has led to a demand for more community‐led approaches and the proliferation of terms such as participation, empowerment, and community ownership. However, the practical implications of these terms remain unclear. This study examined how sociocultural factors influenced relationship building between NGO staff and community members, and how this mediated community participation in a child education and women's rights intervention in Kolkata. Twenty interviews and one focus group were conducted with NGO staff, pupils, and members of a women's group. A thematic analysis produced five global themes: Sociocultural Context, Staff–Community Divide, Power Dynamics, Building Relationships, and Unstable Progress. Differences in social status, lifestyle, and priorities marked clear divisions between staff and community members, leading to communication difficulties and resistance ranging from suspicious stares to open hostility. Establishing mutual respect was a slow and unpredictable process often fuelled by unanticipated events such as staff helping with medical emergencies. A campaign against domestic violence prompted some women to physically attack men and vandalise property, provoking violent retaliation and creating divides within the community. Overcoming these challenges required a responsive approach which often deviated from operational and funding plans. The more participatory and community‐led an intervention, the less predictable it becomes. The flexibility needed to gain community acceptance and manage unanticipated events relies on trusting relationships between both communities and staff, and staff and donors. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hemin‐Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheets Reveal Peroxynitrite Reduction and Isomerization Activity
Authors: Vernekar Amit A. , Mugesh Govindasamy
Published: October 2012

Facile and efficient reduction of graphene oxide (GO) and novel applications of the reduced graphene oxide (RGO) based materials are of current interest. Herein, we report a novel and facile method for the reduction of GO by using a biocompatible reducing agent dithiothreitol (DTT). Stabilization of DTT by the formation of a six‐membered ring with internal disulfide linkage upon oxidation is responsible for the reduction of GO. The reduced graphene oxide is characterized by several spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Dispersion of RGO in DMF remained stable for several weeks suggesting that the RGO obtained by DTT‐mediated reduction is hydrophobic in nature. This method can be considered for large scale production of good quality RGO. Treatment of RGO with hemin afforded a functional hemin‐reduced graphene oxide (H‐RGO) hybrid material that exhibited remarkable protective effects against the potentially harmful peroxynitrite (PN). A detailed inhibition study on PN‐mediated oxidation and nitration reactions indicate that the interaction between hemin and RGO results in a synergistic effect, which leads to an efficient reduction of PN to nitrate. The RGO also catalyzes the isomerization of PN to nitrate as the RGO layers facilitate the rapid recombination of .NO2 with FeIV=O species. In the presence of reducing agents such as ascorbic acid, the FeIV=O species can be reduced to FeIII, thus helping to maintain the PN reductase cycle.
Association of CD1a‐positive dendritic cells with papillary thyroid carcinoma in thyroid fine‐needle aspirations
Authors: Pusztaszeri Marc P. , Sadow Peter M. , Faquin William C.
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND:

In contrast to other primary thyroid neoplasms and benign thyroid tissue, it has been demonstrated histologically that dendritic cells (DCs) are associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the presence and potential diagnostic value of DCs in thyroid fine‐needle aspirations (FNAs) have not been previously described.

METHODS:

The authors quantitatively assessed for the presence of DCs that were positive for cluster of differentiation 1a (CD1a) (a 43‐49 kD protein expressed on DCs and cortical thymocytes) in cytologic samples of histologically confirmed PTC (n = 31) and in a control group of benign thyroid nodules (BTNs) (n = 29) using immunocytochemical staining with antibodies against CD1a. A subset of the corresponding PTCs (n = 11) and BTNs (n = 10) from surgical resection specimens also were assessed immunohistochemically for both CD1a and Langerin (a type II transmembrane cell surface receptor produced by Langerhans cells).

RESULTS:

CD1a‐positive DCs were identified in 97% PTCs (n = 30 of 31 PTCs) in thyroid FNA specimens. DCs were largely present in 2 distinct patterns: either as isolated DCs in the background (n = 29 of 31) and/or associated with tumor cells (n = 30 of 31). Tumor‐associated DCs (mean ± standard deviation: 6.44 ± 6.13 DCs per tumor cluster) exhibited multiple dendritic cytoplasmic processes extending over and between malignant cells within groups. The 3 PTC cases with the least DCs corresponded to the follicular variant at excision. In contrast, only 31% of BTNs (n = 9 of 29 BTNs; P = .0048) contained CD1a‐positive DCs. When DCs were present in BTN, they were isolated primarily in the background (27%; n = 8 of 29), although 17% of BTNs (n = 5 of 29) contained rare DCs among thyrocytes, revealing both patterns in 4 cases. Both thyrocyte‐associated DCs and background DCs were more numerous in PTC FNAs than in BTN FNAs, but only the thyrocyte‐associated group of DCs was statistically significant (P < .0001 and P = .1173, respectively). Similar findings were reported in histologic samples in which all PTCs examined (n = 11 of 11) contained both CD1a‐positive and Langerin‐positive DCs; only 20% of BTNs (n = 2 of 10) contained rare DCs.

CONCLUSIONS:

CD1a‐positive DCs were present in FNA specimens of PTC, typically in close association with tumor cells, whereas they were rare in BTNs. The increased presence of CD1a‐positive DCs in PTC may be a useful diagnostic adjuvant. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:206–213. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Answering the demands of digital genomics
Authors: Titmus Matthew A. , Gurtowski James , Schatz Michael C.
Published: October 2012

The continuing revolution in DNA sequencing and biological sensor technologies is driving a digital transformation to our approaches for observation, experimentation, and interpretation that form the foundation of modern biology and genomics. Whereas classical experiments were limited to thousands of hand‐collected observations, today's improved sensors allow billions of digital observations and are improving at an exponential rate that exceeds Moore's law. These improvements have made it possible to monitor the dynamics of biological processes on an unprecedented scale, but have proportionally greater quantitative and computational requirements.

The exponentially growing digital demands have motivated extensive research into improved algorithms and parallel systems. Recently, a great deal of research has been focused on applying emerging scalable computing systems to genomic research. One of the most promising is the Hadoop open‐source implementation of MapReduce: it is specifically designed to scale to very large datasets, its intuitive design supports rich parallel algorithms, and is naturally applied to analysis of many biological assays. There has also been success accelerating numerically intensive genomics applications using heterogeneous processors such as GPUs and FPGAs. These are promising early results, but it is clear that continued computational research will become even more important in the years to come. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AMT (3‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole) and 5‐IT (5‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole): an analytical challenge and implications for forensic analysis
Authors: Elliott Simon P. , Brandt Simon D. , Freeman Sally , Archer Roland P.
Published: October 2012

5‐(2‐Aminopropyl)indole (5‐IT) and 3‐(2‐aminopropyl)indole (α‐methyltryptamine, AMT) are isomeric substances and their differentiation can be a challenge under routine analytical conditions, especially when reference material is unavailable. 5‐IT represents a very recent addition to the battery of new psychoactive substances that are commercially available from online retailers. This report illustrates how subtle differences observed under mass spectral and UV conditions can help to facilitate the differentiation between the two isomers. Analyses included 1 H and 13C NMR, GC‐EI/CI ion trap MS, applications of several U/HPLC‐DAD and HPLC‐MS methods. Investigations currently underway also highlight the confirmation that AMT was detected in a number of fatal intoxications. These findings also demonstrate that there is a potential risk of misidentification when dealing with both substances. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.