bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activated natural killer T cells producing interferon-gamma elicit promoting activity to murine dendritic cell-based autoimmune hepatic inflammation
Authors: Nakano M , Saeki C , Takahashi H , Homma S , Tajiri H , Zeniya M
Published: August 2012

As natural killer (NK) T cells play an important role in the development of autoimmune diseases, they should have significant roles for the pathogenesis of autoimmune liver disease. Implication of the NK T cells in the generation of autoimmune-related hepatic inflammation was investigated using a novel mouse model. Immunization of mice with dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with hepatocyte-mimicking hepatocellular carcinoma cells (DC/Hepa1-6) induces cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) capable of killing hepatocytes. Subsequent administration of interleukin (IL)-12, a potent interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) inducer, to the immunized mice generates autoimmune hepatic inflammation (AHI), as reported previously. Upon onset of the AHI response, the number of intrahepatic CD3+NK1·1+NK T cells increased markedly, along with a decrease in the number of splenic NK T cells, augmented expression of CXCR6 on intrahepatic NK T cells and CXCL16 in hepatic tissue, suggesting that NK T cells were recruited into the inflamed liver. The NK T cells were strongly positive for CD69 and produced IFN-γ, but not IL-4. AHI activity was attenuated markedly in CD1d–/–NK T cell-deficient mice, indicating that NK T cells play a pivotal role in the development of AHI. Mice treated with DC/Hepa1-6 and alpha-galactosylceramide, a potent NK T cell activator, also exhibited similar hepatic inflammation, in which activated NK T cells producing IFN-γ and CD8+ T cells cytotoxic to hepatocytes were induced in liver-infiltrating mononuclear cells. Activated NK T cells producing IFN-γ potentiate DC-based AHI in the mouse model.
Seasonal changes in surface bulk density and saturated hydraulic conductivity of natural landscapes
Authors: Hu W. , Shao M. A. , Si B. C.
Published: August 2012

Soil surface bulk density (ρb) and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) control many land‐surface processes such as water flow, chemical transport and soil erosion. The objective of this study was to examine seasonal changes in surface ρb and Ks in natural landscapes with few human activities. Measurements of ρb and Ks were made on undisturbed soil samples taken from the soil surface (0–0.05 m) five times from October 2007 to March 2009 along four natural transects in a small watershed on the Chinese Loess Plateau. The transects represented four landscapes with different vegetation and soil typical in this region. Results showed that ρb and Ks varied seasonally. Temporal changes in Ks generally followed the temporal patterns of ρb. According to the mean values of all landscapes, bulk density decreased by 1.6 and 1.1% and log10‐transformed Ks (Log10Ks) increased by 11.0 and 5.8% from October 2007 to March 2008 and from October 2008 to March 2009, respectively; bulk density increased by 2.1% and Log10Ks decreased by 4.9% from March to June in 2007; from June to October in 2007, bulk density decreased by 1.3% while a slight increase (1.4%) in Log10Ks was observed. Both landscape and time significantly influenced ρb and Ks, and Ks was more susceptible to temporal change than ρb. Spatial patterns of ρb and Ks did not change significantly with time. Saturated hydraulic conductivity measurements taken in different seasons can affect runoff simulation results, and Ks data measured in spring may result in underestimation of runoff in a rainy season.
Osmotic dehydration of the Indian fig (Opuntia ficus indica) with binary and ternary solutions
Authors: Vasconcelos Janusa I. L. A. , Andrade Samara A. C. , Maciel Maria I. S. , Guerra Nonete B. , Vasconcelos Margarida A. S.
Published: August 2012

The objective of this work was to study osmotic dehydration (OD) of the Indian fig with two binary solutions (sucrose/water and glucose/water) and a ternary solution (sucrose/NaCl/water) according to a 23 factorial design with independent variables: temperature (30–50 °C), immersion time (90–240 min) and concentration (40–60 °Brix). The dependent variables were water loss (WL), solid gain (SG) and dehydration efficiency index. The temperature had greater influence on the WL in the three hypertonic solutions studied; the concentration had greater influence on the SG in the three hypertonic solutions investigated and the best conditions for the OD of the Indian fig were in glucose solution at 40 °Brix, 40 °C and 165 min.
The archetype Pseudomonas aeruginosa proteins TssB and TagJ form a novel subcomplex in the bacterial type VI secretion system
Authors: Lossi Nadine S. , Manoli Eleni , Simpson Pete , Jones Cerith , Hui Kailyn , Dajani Rana , Coulthurst Sarah J. , Freemont Paul , Filloux Alain
Published: August 2012

In Pseudomonas aeruginosa three type VI secretion systems (T6SSs) coexist, called H1‐ to H3‐T6SSs. Several T6SS components are proposed to be part of a macromolecular complex resembling the bacteriophage tail. The T6SS protein HsiE1 (TagJ) is unique to the H1‐T6SS and absent from the H2‐ and H3‐T6SSs. We demonstrate that HsiE1 interacts with a predicted N‐terminal α‐helix in HsiB1 (TssB) thus forming a novel subcomplex of the T6SS. HsiB1 is homologous to the Vibrio cholerae VipA component, which contributes to the formation of a bacteriophage tail sheath‐like structure. We show that the interaction between HsiE1 and HsiB1 is specific and does not occur between HsiE1 and HsiB2. Proteins of the TssB family encoded in T6SS clusters lacking a gene encoding a TagJ‐like component are often devoid of the predicted N‐terminal helical region, which suggests co‐evolution. We observe that a synthetic peptide corresponding to the N‐terminal 20 amino acids of HsiB1 interacts with purified HsiE1 protein. This interaction is a common feature to other bacterial T6SSs that display a TagJ homologue as shown here with Serratia marcescens. We further show that hsiE1 is a non‐essential gene for the T6SS and suggest that HsiE1 may modulate incorporation of HsiB1 into the T6SS.
A Phytophthora conserved transposon‐like DNA element as a potential target for soyabean root rot disease diagnosis
Authors: Dai T.‐T. , Meng J. , Dong S. , Lu C.‐C. , Ye W. , Zheng X. , Wang Y.‐C.
Published: August 2012

A transposon‐like element, A3aPro, with multiple copies in the Phytophthora sojae genome, was identified as a suitable detection target for this devastating soyabean root rot pathogen. The PCR primers TrapF1/TrapR1 were designed based on unique sequences derived from the transposon‐like sequence. A 267‐bp DNA fragment was amplified using this primer pair, the specificity of which was evaluated against 118 isolates of P. sojae, 72 isolates of 25 other Phytophthora spp., isolates of Pythium spp. and isolates of true fungi. In tests with P. sojae genomic DNA, detection sensitivities of 10 pg and 10 fg DNA were achieved in standard PCR (TrapF1/TrapR1) and nested PCR (TrapF1/TrapR1 and TrapF2/TrapR2), respectively. Meanwhile, PCR with TrapF1/TrapR1 primers detected the pathogen at the level of a single oospore, and even one zoospore. These primers also proved to be efficient in detecting pathogens from diseased soyabean tissues, residues and soils. In addition, real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays coupled with the TrapF1/TrapR1 primers were developed to detect and quantify the pathogen. The results demonstrated that the TrapF1/TrapR1 and TrapF2/TrapR2 primer‐based PCR assay provides a rapid and sensitive tool for the detection of P. sojae in plants and in production fields.
Detection of phytopathogens of the genus Dickeya using a PCR primer prediction pipeline for draft bacterial genome sequences
Authors: Pritchard L. , Humphris S. , Saddler G. S. , Parkinson N. M. , Bertrand V. , Elphinstone J. G. , Toth I. K.
Published: August 2012

This study used a novel computational pipeline to exploit draft bacterial genome sequences in order to predict, automatically and rapidly, PCR primer sets for Dickeya spp. that were unbiased in terms of diagnostic gene choice. This pipeline was applied to 16 draft and four complete Dickeya genome sequences to generate >700 primer sets predicted to discriminate between Dickeya at the species level. Predicted diagnostic primer sets for both D. dianthicola (DIA‐A and DIA‐B) and ‘D. solani’ (SOL‐C and SOL‐D) were validated against a panel of 70 Dickeya reference strains, representative of the known diversity of this genus, to confirm primer specificity. The classification of the four previously sequenced strains was re‐examined and evidence of possible misclassification of three of these strains is presented.
Spatial variability of watermass conditions within the European Epicontinental Seaway during the Early Jurassic (Pliensbachian–Toarcian)
Authors: HARAZIM DARIO , VAN DE SCHOOTBRUGGE BAS , SORICHTER KATRIN , FIEBIG JENS , WEUG ANDRIES , SUAN GUILLAUME , OSCHMANN WOLFGANG
Published: August 2012

In order to constrain spatial variability in watermass conditions within the European Epicontinental Seaway prior to, during and after the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event, carbon (δ13Cbel, δ13Ccarb) and oxygen (δ18Obel, δ18Ocarb) isotope records were obtained from three sections in the Grands Causses Basin (southern France). These data were then compared with similar records along a north–south transect across the European Epicontinental Seaway. As the conclusions reached here strongly depend on the reliability of belemnite calcites as archives of palaeoceanographic changes, an attempt was made to improve the understanding of isotope signals recorded in belemnite calcite. Intra‐rostral carbon and oxygen‐isotope data from six belemnite specimens belonging to the genusPassaloteuthiswere collected. Intra‐rostral carbon‐isotopes are influenced by vital effects, whereas oxygen‐isotopes reflect relative changes in temperature and salinity. Palaeotemperatures calculated from δ18Obel‐isotope records from the Grands Causses Basin confirm relatively low temperatures throughout the Late Pliensbachian. Similar cool water conditions have previously been shown in Germany, England, Spain and Portugal. A temperature increase of up to 6 °C is observed across the Pliensbachian–Toarcian boundary. A pronounced negative shift of at least −3‰ (Vienna‐Pee Dee Belemnite) is recorded in bulk carbonate carbon during the lowerHarpoceras serpentinumzone, typical of the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event. Before and after the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event, a good correlation between δ13Ccarband δ13Cbelexists, indicating well‐ventilated bottom‐waters and normal marine conditions. Instead, data for the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event indicate the development of a strong north–south gradient in salinity stratification and surface‐water productivity for the Western Tethyan realm. This study thus lends further support to a pronounced regional overprint on carbon and oxygen‐isotope records in epicontinental seaways.
Changes in biomarkers of bone resorption over the first six months after pediatric hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Polgreen L. E. , Rudser K. , Deyo M. , Smith A. , Baker K. S. , Petryk A.
Published: August 2012

Polgreen LE, Rudser K, Deyo M, Smith A, Baker KS, Petryk A. Changes in biomarkers of bone resorption over the first six months after pediatric hematopoietic cell transplantation.

Abstract:  Bone loss has been observed within the first six months after HCT in both children and adults. While there is some evidence that bone formation may be reduced in children after HCT, it is currently unknown whether bone resorption is increased. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate changes in markers of bone resorption over the first six months after pediatric HCT. Twenty‐six participants (eight females) aged 10.9 ± 3.4 yr entered the study prior to HCT. Bone resorption was measured by urine DPD and PYD, and by plasma NTX and CTX. Seventeen participants who completed day +30 visit and either day +100 or +180 visits were included in the analysis. DPD increased between days +30 and +100 (mean change, 11.3 nmol/nmol creatinine; p = 0.012) and between days +30 and +180 (13.7 nmol/nmol creatinine; p = 0.036). PYD increased between days +30 and +100 (32 nmBCE/L; p = 0.019). CTX increased between baseline and day +100 (5.9 μg/L; p = 0.012). Changes in NTX levels were not statistically significant. This study shows that markers of bone resorption increase in children after HCT, suggesting that increased resorption may be a contributing factor to the pathophysiology of bone loss after pediatric HCT.
Inheritance of an extended diapause trait in theNorthern corn rootworm,Diabrotica barberi(Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae)
Authors: French B. W. , Coates B. S. , Sappington T. W.
Published: August 2012

Diapause is an adaptive trait that delays development or reproduction under unfavourable circumstances. The northern corn rootworm,Diabrotica barberiSmith &Lawrence, an important maize,Zea maysL., pest in the Diabroticite species complex, overwinters in diapause during the egg stage. SomeNCRpopulations are adapted to crop rotation by expressing an extended diapause (ED) trait that delays embryonic development for 2 years. ThisEDtrait has increased in frequency and geographic distribution since first reported inIllinois in 1932. Reciprocal single pair crosses among beetles from a laboratory colony with the ancestral 1‐year diapause trait and field collected beetles with the 2‐yearEDtrait indicated thatEDfemales laid significantly moreEDeggs than did females with the 1‐year diapause trait regardless of male genotype. TheEDtrait was highly heritable [realized heritability (h2) = 0.698 ± 0.314], with genetic dominance (D) of the trait strongly influenced by female genotype. Selection of theEDtrait and maintenance of polymorphic diapause phenotypes within maize‐soybean cropping systems is discussed in relation to response to a fluctuating environment and as a potentially advantageous life history adaptation.
Higher serum levels of soluble intracellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule predict peripheral artery disease in haemodialysis patients
Authors: CHENG CHI‐HUNG , CHEN YI‐SHYAN , SHU KUO‐HSIUNG , CHANG HORNG‐RONG , CHOU MING‐CHIH
Published: August 2012

Aim:  Serum levels of soluble intracellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (sICAM‐1), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (sVCAM) and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP‐1), are elevated in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). However, the levels of these cell adhesion molecules in patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD) are unclear.

Method:  A total of 112 HD patients were included and PAD was diagnosed using the ankle‐brachial index and Doppler ultrasound. Serum levels of sICAM‐1, sVCAM‐1 and MCP‐1 were assayed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  Out of 106 HD patients, 31 (27.7%) were diagnosed with PAD. After adjusting for risk factors, higher serum levels of sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 were associated with PAD in HD patients, with an odds ratio of 5.3 (95% CI 3.3–65.5) and 2.7 (95% CI 1.2–21.8) respectively. Using sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 for diagnosis of PAD in HD patients, sVCAM‐1 had a sensitivity of 72.4% and specificity of 62.3% for sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 had a sensitivity of 89.3% and a specificity of 40%. MCP‐1 was not associated with PAD in HD patients. In addition, the fistula of HD patients with PAD had a lower A‐V access flow.

Conclusion:  sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 was associated with higher risk of PAD in HD patients. Moreover, HD patients with PAD had a lower blood flow and lower A‐V access flow. Our results showed that sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 may be used as screening markers for PAD in HD patients.
Assessing the vulnerability of an assemblage of subtropical rainforest vertebrate species to climate change in south‐east Queensland
Authors: HAGGER VALERIE , FISHER DIANA , SCHMIDT SUSANNE , BLOMBERG SIMON
Published: August 2012

Global climate change is a threat to ecosystems that are rich in biodiversity and endemism, such as the World Heritage‐listed subtropical rainforests of central eastern Australia. Possible effects of climate change on the biota of tropical rainforests have been studied, but subtropical rainforests have received less attention. We analysed published data for an assemblage of 38 subtropical rainforest vertebrate species in four taxonomic groups to evaluate their relative vulnerability to climate change. Focusing on endemic and/or threatened species, we considered two aspects of vulnerability: (i) resistance, defined by indicators of rarity (geographical range, habitat specificity and local abundance); and (ii) resilience, defined by indicators of a species potential to recover (reproductive output, dispersal potential and climatic niche). Our analysis indicated that frogs are most vulnerable to climate change, followed by reptiles, birds, then mammals. Many species in our assemblage are regionally endemic montane rainforest specialists with high vulnerability. Monitoring of taxa in regenerating rainforest showed that many species with high resilience traits also persisted in disturbed habitat, suggesting that they have capacity to recolonize habitats after disturbance, that is climate change‐induced events. These results will allow us to prioritize adaptation strategies for species most at risk. We conclude that to safeguard the most vulnerable amphibian, reptile and bird species against climate change, climatically stable habitats (cool refugia) that are currently without protection status need to be identified, restored and incorporated in the current reserve system. Our study provides evidence that montane subtropical rainforest deserves highest protection status as habitat for vulnerable taxa.
Coccidioidomycosis in returned Australian travellers
Authors: Subedi S. , Broom J. , Caffery M. , Bint M. , Sowden D.
Published: August 2012

Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides species. The disease has wide clinical presentation and a distinct geographical distribution. We describe two cases of coccidioidomycosis in returned Australian travellers who presented to Nambour Hospital. Knowledge of the international geographical distribution of endemic fungal infections and their clinical manifestations can assist in earlier diagnosis and appropriate management.
Foraging sequence, energy intake and torpor: an individual‐based field study of energy balancing in desert golden spiny mice
Authors: Levy Ofir , Dayan Tamar , Rotics Shay , Kronfeld‐Schor Noga
Published: August 2012

We studied the relationship between sequence of foraging, energy acquired and use of torpor as an energy‐balancing strategy in diurnally active desert golden spiny mice. We hypothesised that individuals that arrive earlier to forage will get higher returns and consequently spend less time torpid. If that is the case, then early foragers can be viewed as more successful; if the same individuals arrive repeatedly early, they are likely to have higher fitness under conditions of resource limitation. For the first time, we show a relationship between foraging sequence and amount of resources removed, with individuals that arrive later to a foraging patch tending to receive lower energetic returns and to spend more time torpid. Torpor bears not only benefits but also significant costs, so these individuals pay a price both in lower energy intake and in extended periods of torpor, in what may well be a positive feedback loop.
Sell the rumour, buy the fact?
Authors: Marshall Ben R. , Visaltanachoti Nuttawat , Cooper Genevieve
Published: August 2012

We document a high‐profile instance of mispricing that is puzzling given the gradual information diffusion hypothesis and the lack of obvious limits to arbitrage. An internet search in 2008 led to a story about United Airlines’ 2002 bankruptcy being re‐released as ‘news’. This resulted in United Airlines losing 73 per cent of its value and caused a $4.2 billion decline in the value of airline stocks and United Airlines suppliers. The incorrect bankruptcy ‘news’ was quickly retracted, which led to a rebound in other airline and supplier firms, but the stock price of United Airlines was adversely affected for 4 days.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials of the effects of low carbohydrate diets on cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Santos F. L. , Esteves S. S. , da Costa Pereira A. , Yancy Jr W. S. , Nunes J. P. L.
Published: August 2012

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were carried out to study the effects of low‐carbohydrate diet (LCD) on weight loss and cardiovascular risk factors (search performed on PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Scopus databases). A total of 23 reports, corresponding to 17 clinical investigations, were identified as meeting the pre‐specified criteria. Meta‐analysis carried out on data obtained in 1,141 obese patients, showed the LCD to be associated with significant decreases in body weight (−7.04 kg [95% CI −7.20/−6.88]), body mass index (−2.09 kg m−2[95% CI −2.15/−2.04]), abdominal circumference (−5.74 cm [95% CI −6.07/−5.41]), systolic blood pressure (−4.81 mm Hg [95% CI −5.33/−4.29]), diastolic blood pressure (−3.10 mm Hg [95% CI −3.45/−2.74]), plasma triglycerides (−29.71 mg dL−1[95% CI −31.99/−27.44]), fasting plasma glucose (−1.05 mg dL−1[95% CI −1.67/−0.44]), glycated haemoglobin (−0.21% [95% CI −0.24/−0.18]), plasma insulin (−2.24 micro IU mL−1[95% CI −2.65/−1.82]) and plasma C‐reactive protein, as well as an increase in high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (1.73 mg dL−1[95%CI 1.44/2.01]). Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and creatinine did not change significantly, whereas limited data exist concerning plasma uric acid.

LCD was shown to have favourable effects on body weight and major cardiovascular risk factors; however the effects on long‐term health are unknown.
Customer Integration during Innovation Development: An Exploratory Study in the Logistics Service Industry
Authors: da Mota Pedrosa Alex
Published: August 2012

Previous research has shown that though customer integration during innovation development can enhance companies' innovation performance, it can also harm innovativeness. A possible reason for these contradicting findings is that innovation development is a dynamic process that requires different tasks. Thus, a more fine‐grained picture of how customer‐oriented companies engage in customer integration throughout the entire innovation development process is necessary. This article contributes to the innovation and marketing literature by providing insights into how companies co‐create knowledge about customer needs relevant for innovation development. Using a multiple case study design, this study examines four substantive cases that illustrate the activities logistics service providers undertake to integrate customers during the process of idea generation, development and implementation. The results show that companies focus on both proactive and reactive customer integration during idea generation and implementation but refrain from reactive customer integration during development.
Making European Space in Spatial Planning in Northern Finland
Authors: Luukkonen Juho
Published: August 2012

The article explores European integration in northern Finland. It examines the discursive side of the European integration process by investigating the interplay between European‐level spatial policies and regional territorial practices. Spatial planning is often portrayed from an instrumentalist view as a technical, evidence‐based policy. However, spatial planning is highly political and an effective way of space making: As an inclusive and/or exclusive action, it (re‐)defines spatial relations and (re‐)produces spatial scales. Thus, spatial planning is considered here as a central part of the European integration process through which the regions are spatialized as part of Europe. The empirical analysis shows that polycentrism is the main spatial idea underlying the reorganization of European space. The adaptation to European policies manifests itself through the subjectification, rescaling and relocation of the region.
Determinants of Local Highway Spending in North Carolina
Authors: Walden Michael L. , Eryuruk Gunce
Published: August 2012

Public spending, because it is influenced by elected officials, can be swayed by political considerations as well as socio‐economic factors. Previous studies have confirmed the importance of political measures in the allocation of general public spending as well as in spending for infrastructure and highway projects at the state level. This study examines the determinants of the allocation of state highway funds within one state—in North Carolina to counties during the period 1990–2005—and assesses the relative importance of socio‐economic and political factors in these decisions. Determinants were derived from three conceptual approaches to public spending: the median voter model, the special interest model, and the political model. Persistence was found in both highway construction spending and highway maintenance spending. In addition, employment market conditions were a strong determinant of highway construction spending, as was one political factor—the county's relative vote in the most recent election for the state's dominant political party. Highway maintenance spending was found to be dominated by median voter factors with no finding of political influence.
Pathogen inactivation of platelets using ultraviolet C light: effect on in vitro function and recovery and survival of platelets
Authors: Bashir Saber , Cookson Philip , Wiltshire Michael , Hawkins Louise , Sonoda Luke , Thomas Stephen , Seltsam Axel , Tolksdorf Frank , Williamson Lorna M. , Cardigan Rebecca
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: We evaluated the effect of treating platelets (PLTs) using ultraviolet (UV)C light without the addition of any photosensitizing chemicals on PLT function in vitro and PLT recovery and survival in an autologous radiolabeled volunteer study.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: For in vitro studies, pooled or single buffy coat–derived PLT concentrates (PCs) were pooled and split to obtain identical PCs that were either treated with UVC or untreated (n = 6 each) and stored for 7 days. PLT recovery and survival were determined in a two‐arm parallel autologous study in healthy volunteers performed according to BEST guidelines. UVC‐treated or untreated PCs (n = 6 each) were stored for 5 days and were compared to fresh PLTs from the same donor.

RESULTS: There were no significant differences on Day 7 of storage between paired UVC‐treated and control PC units for pH, adenosine triphosphate, lactate dehydrogenase, CD62P, CD63, PLT microparticles, and JC‐1 binding, but annexin V binding, lactate accumulation, and expression of CD41/61 were significantly higher in treated units (p < 0.05). Compared with control units, the recovery and survival of UVC‐treated PC were reduced after 5 days of storage (p < 0.05) and when expressed as a percentage of fresh values, survival was reduced by 20% (p = 0.005) and recovery by 17% (p = 0.088).

CONCLUSION: UVC‐treated PLTs stored for 5 days showed marginal changes in PLT metabolism and activation in vitro and were associated with a degree of reduction in recovery and survival similar to other pathogen inactivation systems that are licensed and in use.
Further Evidence for the “Muscle Bundle” Hypothesis of Cavotricuspid Isthmus Conduction: Physiological Proof, with Clinical Implications for Ablation
Authors: MECHULAN ALEXIS , GULA LORNE J. , KLEIN GEORGE J. , LEONG‐SIT PETER , OBEYESEKERE MANOJ , KRAHN ANDREW D. , YEE RAYMOND , SKANES ALLAN C.
Published: August 2012

Two Line Flutter Ablation. Introduction: It has been suggested that the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) is composed of discrete muscle bundles with preferred paths of conduction. An ablation technique targeting high‐voltage local electrograms (maximum voltage guided or MVG technique) has been described with the aim of preferentially targeting the muscle bundles. We hypothesized that the MVG technique could provide isthmus block even if the high voltage targets were clearly separated on different ablation lines. In contrast, conduction over a continuous sheet of muscle would require a single continuous ablation line.

Methods:
Twenty‐two consecutive patients (mean age 65 ± 11.7, 5 females) underwent ablation using the MVG technique on 2 noncontiguous lines in the CTI. Ablation lesions were first applied at the septal aspect of the CTI, targeting only the ventricular (anterior) aspect of the annulus. A line distinctly lateral and noncontiguous to the first was then chosen to target high voltage potentials on the atrial (posterior) aspect of the CTI.

Results:
Complete CTI block was achieved in all study patients without complication. A mean of 7.8 ± 3.7 ablation lesions were required. Mean ablation time was 401.0 ± 414.5 seconds.

Conclusion:
Two nonoverlapping incomplete lines of ablation in the CTI consistently lead to bidirectional conduction block. This further supports the hypothesis that conduction over the CTI occurs over discrete muscle bundles. These bundles can be targeted individually for ablation without the need to ablate a continuous line over the CTI. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 47‐52, January 2013)
Technically Speaking: On Equipping and Evaluating “Unnatural” Language Learners
Authors: Reno Joshua
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT This article compares different communicative trials for apes in captivity and children with autism in order to investigate how ideological assumptions about linguistic agency and impairment are constructed and challenged in practice. To the extent that Euro‐American techniques of “unnatural” language instruction developed during the Cold War era have been successful, it is because communicative interactions are broken down into basic components, and would‐be language learners are equipped with materials, devices, and habits that make up for their distinct bio/social deficits. Such linguistic equipment can present a challenge to the ideological presumption of a subject inherently gifted with the rudiments of talk, that is, the human as naturally speaking. However, this ideology can reassert itself if the active contribution of unnatural language learners to their technoscientific trials is downplayed. In order to counter this tendency, I propose that speech acts be reimagined as part of a more encompassing semiotic ensemble. [language development, semiotics, materiality, posthumanism, linguistic ideology]
Pastoralism, Provisioning, and Power at Bronze Age Acemhöyük, Turkey
Authors: Arbuckle Benjamin S.
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT  This article addresses the relationship between a major Anatolian Bronze Age center, the site of Acemhöyük, and its pastoral hinterland with a focus on understanding the nature of the interactions and integration between rural pastoral producers and a centralized state. Through the analysis of faunal, archaeological, and ethnohistoric evidence, it is argued that although mobile herders provisioned Acemhöyük with animal products, and the center itself was characterized by specialized systems of carcass processing and distribution, pastoralists operated largely outside of centralized controls focusing on the intensive production of wool in response to regional, rather than local, markets. These results suggest that the relationships between urban centers and their pastoral hinterlands in Bronze Age Anatolia were complex, with mobile herders likely playing a more prominent role in the development of Bronze Age commodity economies than previously realized. [pastoralism, Bronze Age, Anatolia, sheep and goats, Acemhöyük]

Özet Bu makale TunçÇağ’nda Anadolu’nun büyük merkezlerinden biri olan Acemhöyük’ün etrafndaki krsal bölge ile olan ilişkisini incelemektedir. İncelemenin odak noktas krsal üreticiler ile merkezi devlet arasndaki ikili ilişkilerin ve entegrasyonun doğasn anlamaktr. Makalede, zooarkeolojik, arkeolojik ve etno‐tarihsel analizlerden elde edilen bilgilere dayanlarak, bir yandan göçebe çoban topluluklarn Acemhöyük’e hayvansal ürünler sağladğ, öte yandan da merkezin uzmanlaşmş et işleme ve dağtm sistemlerine sahip olduğu öne sürülmüştür. Buna rağmen, krsal kesimde hayvanclk aktiviteleri merkezi kontrolün dşnda faaliyet göstermiş, yerel değil bölgesel pazara hitap eden yün üretimine yönelmiştir. Bu sonuçlar TunçÇağ Anadolu'sunda merkezi yönetimler ile krsallar arasndaki ilişkilerin karmaşk bir yapya sahip olduğunu ve göçebe çoban topluluklarnn TunçÇağ ekonomisinde daha önce sanldğndan daha önemli bir rol oynadklarn göstermektedir.
Self‐reported cultural skills from dental students and graduates from Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Marino R. , Morgan M. , Hawthorne L. , Ismail M.
Published: August 2012

Objective

To explore Melbourne Dental School students and graduates’ self‐assessed levels of competence and skill regarding cultural issues which emerge in dental treatment, and their perceptions of the dental curriculum in addressing socio‐cultural issues.

Methods

Information was derived from a 59‐item questionnaire consisting of three parts: socio‐demographic; self‐assessed level of culture competency within the clinical encounter; and cultural aspects in the dental curriculum. Data was collected from undergraduate dental students enrolled in the fourth year of 2006 and 2007 and fifth year of 2006 and from dentists who graduated in 2002 and 2003.

Results

A total of 133 students and 37 dentists took part in the survey. Response rates were 68.9% among students and 92.6% among dentists. The majority (students: 90.2%; graduates: 62.1%) indicated ‘Very often’/’Always’ treating patients from different cultural backgrounds. Distribution of competencies showed that participants felt fairly competent in communicating and establishing rapport, but less competent in dealing with patients’ cultural practices, and patients’ family involvement. The majority (students: 72.1%; graduates: 59.7%) perceived the coverage of socio‐cultural aspects in the course as not adequate. Around 40% of participants indicated that inclusion of socio‐cultural awareness in the dental curriculum was important or very important.

Conclusion

Although there were some significant differences in participants’ reports, they generally self‐reported having good competency and skill in providing care to patients from different cultural backgrounds. Further exploration of these issues would enhance the future dental workforce's quality of care, professionalism and capacity for cultural competence.
Effects of vascular endothelial cells on osteogenic differentiation of noncontact co‐cultured periodontal ligament stem cells under hypoxia
Authors: Wu Y. , Cao H. , Yang Y. , Zhou Y. , Gu Y. , Zhao X. , Zhang Y. , Zhao Z. , Zhang L. , Yin J.
Published: August 2012

Background and Objective: During periodontitis or orthodontic tooth movement, the periodontal vasculature is severely impaired by chronic inflammation or excessive mechanical force. This leads to a hypoxic microenvironment of the periodontal cells and enhances the expression of various cytokines and growth factors that may regulate angiogenesis and alveolar bone remodeling. However, the role of hypoxia in regulating the communication between endothelial cells (ECs) and osteoblast progenitors during the remodeling and repair of periodontal tissue is still poorly defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vascular ECs on osteogenic differentiation, mineralization and the paracrine function of noncontact co‐cultured periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) under hypoxia, and further reveal the involvement of MEK/ERK and p38 MAPK pathways in the process.

Material and Methods: First, PDLSCs were obtained and a noncontact co‐culture system of PDLSCs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells was established. Second, the effects of different time‐periods of hypoxia (2% O2) on the osteogenic potential, mineralization and paracrine function of co‐cultured PDLSCs were investigated. Third, ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK activities of PDLSCs under hypoxia were measured by western blotting. Finally, we employed specific MAPK inhibitors (PD98059 and SB20350) to investigate the involvement of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK in PDLSC osteogenesis under hypoxia.

Results: We observed further increased osteogenic differentiation of co‐cultured PDLSCs, manifested by markedly enhanced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and prostaglandin E2(PGE2) levels, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release, runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and Sp7 transcriptional and protein levels and mineralized nodule formation, compared with PDLSCs cultured alone. ERK1/2 was phosphorylated in a rapid but transient manner, whereas p38 MAPK was activated in a slow and sustained way under hypoxia. Furthermore, hypoxia‐stimulated transcription and expression of osteogenic regulators (hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α, ALP, Runx2, Sp7, PGE2and VEGF) were also inhibited by PD98059 and SB203580 to different degrees.

Conclusion: Further increased osteogenic differentiation and mineralization of co‐cultured PDLSCs under hypoxia were regulated by MEK/ERK and p38 MAPK pathways. And the ECs‐mediated paracrine of PGE2and VEGF may facilitate the unidirectional PDLSC‐EC communication and promote PDLSCs osteogenesis.
Wound treatment and pain management: a stressful time
Authors: Matsuzaki Kyoichi , Upton Dominic
Published: August 2012

This review and case study report considers the evidence to indicate that the progress of wound healing is negatively affected by the presence of stressors and in circumstances where patients are in pain. It considers the relationship between perceptions of pain, stress and delayed wound healing with a specific focus on guidance for clinical practice. It is appreciated that although the literature has examined these issues in the management of acute wounds, demonstrating that psychological stress can have detrimental effects on the wound‐healing process, the evidence to support this link in relation to chronic wounds is limited. The review considers evidence indicating that punch biopsy wounds heal more slowly in subjects under stress on account of caring for family members with long‐term illnesses and also considers briefly the relationship between cortisol secretion in response to stress and the consequent influences on cytokine levels and the wound‐healing process.
Experimental Analysis of a Beverage Carbonation System Equipped with a Venturi Nozzle
Authors: Bottani Eleonora , Ferretti Gino , Vignali Giuseppe
Published: August 2012

This article investigates an important issue in carbonation systems for beverages, i.e., monitoring and optimizing the amount of carbon dioxide concentration in carbonated beverages. The study is grounded on two series of experimental tests performed using a laboratory apparatus that reproduces an industrial carbonation unit equipped with a Venturi nozzle, properly manufactured for this application. The experimental tests aimed to optimize the carbonation process as a function of both two parameters of the Venturi nozzle, namely the injection distance and the length of the cylindrical part, and a plant parameter, namely the pressure of the fluid at the end of the Venturi device. Analysis of variance was used to assess whether the parameters mentioned earlier have a significant effect on the carbonation level reached by the fluid (i.e., water), and on the amount of carbon dioxide sucked by the Venturi device.

This study contributes to the literature in that it examines and optimizes an industrial carbonation process. The outcomes obtained could be useful for the optimization of the equipment.

Practical Applications

This study can be useful to practitioners because it examines and optimizes a real industrial carbonation process. The outcomes obtained provide indications as regards the optimal size of the Venturi device, and could be useful for the optimization of the equipment used in the beverage industry, as well as for the optimization of the carbonation process.
Pulpar temperature changes during mechanical reduction of equine cheek teeth: Comparison of different motorised dental instruments, duration of treatments and use of water cooling
Authors: O'Leary J. M. , Barnett T. P. , Parkin T. D. H. , Dixon P. M. , Barakzai S. Z.
Published: August 2012

Reasons for performing study

Although equine motorised dental instruments are widely used, there is limited information on their thermal effect on teeth. The recently described variation in subocclusal secondary dentine depth overlying individual pulp horns may affect heat transmission to the underlying pulps.

Objectives

This study compared the effect of 3 different equine motorised dental instruments on the pulpar temperature of equine cheek teeth with and without the use of water cooling. It also evaluated the effect of subocclusal secondary dentine thickness on pulpar temperature changes.

Methods

A thermocouple probe was inserted into the pulp horns of 188 transversely sectioned maxillary cheek teeth with its tip lying subocclusally. Pulpar temperature changes were recorded during and following the continuous use of 3 different equine motorised dental instruments (A, B and C) for sequential time periods, with and without the use of water cooling.

Results

Using motorised dental instrument B compared with either A or C increased the likelihood that the critical temperature was reached in pulps by 8.6 times. Compared with rasping for 30 s, rasping for 45, 60 and 90 s increased the likelihood that the critical temperature would be reached in pulps by 7.3, 8.9 and 24.7 times, respectively. Thicker subocclusal secondary dentine (odds ratio [OR] = 0.75/mm) and water cooling (OR = 0.14) were both protective against the likelihood of the pulp reaching the critical temperature.

Conclusions

Prolonged rasping with motorised dental instruments increased the likelihood that a pulp would be heated above the critical temperature. Increased dentinal thickness and water cooling had protective roles in reducing pulpar heating.

Potential relevance

Motorised dental instruments have the potential to seriously damage equine pulp if used inappropriately. Higher speed motorised dental instruments should be used for less time and teeth should be water cooled during or immediately after instrument use to reduce the risk of thermal pulpar damage.
Discovery of coesite–eclogite from the Nordøyane UHP domain, Western Gneiss Region, Norway: field relations, metamorphic history, and tectonic significance
Authors: BUTLER J. P. , JAMIESON R. A. , STEENKAMP H. M. , ROBINSON P.
Published: August 2012

Ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) rocks from the Western Gneiss Region (WGR) of Norway record subduction of Baltican continental crust during the Silurian to Devonian Scandian continental collision. Here, we report a new coesite locality from the island of Harøya in the Nordøyane UHP domain, the most northerly yet documented in the WGR, and reconstruct the P–T history of the host eclogite. The coesite–eclogite lies within migmatitic orthogneiss, interpreted as Baltica basement, that underwent multiple stages of deformation and partial melting during exhumation. Two stages of metamorphism have been deduced from petrography and mineral chemistry. The early (M1) assemblage comprises garnet (Pyr38–41Alm35–37Grs23–26Spss1) and omphacite (Na0.35–0.40Ca0.57–0.60Fe2+0.08–0.10Mg0.53Fe3+0.01AlVI0.40–0.42)2(AlIV0.03–0.06Si1.94–1.97)2O6, with subordinate phengite, kyanite, rutile, coesite and apatite, all present as inclusions in garnet. The later (M2) assemblage comprises retrograde rims on garnet (Pyr38–40Alm40–44Grs16–21Spss1), diopside rims on omphacite (Na0.04–0.06Ca0.88–0.91Fe2+0.09–0.13Mg0.81–83Fe3+0.08AlVI0.03)2(AlIV0.07–0.08Si1.92–1.93)2O6, plagioclase, biotite, pargasite, orthopyroxene and ilmenite. Metamorphic P–T conditions estimated using thermocalc are ∼3 GPa and 760 °C for M1, consistent with the presence of coesite, and ∼1 GPa and 813 °C for M2, consistent with possible phengite dehydration melting during decompression. Comparison with other WGR eclogites containing the same assemblage shows a broad similarity in peak (M1) P–T conditions, confirming suggestions that large portions of the WGR were buried to depths of ∼100 km during Scandian subduction. Field relations suggest that exhumation, accompanied by widespread partial melting, involved an early phase of top‐northwest shearing, followed by subhorizontal sinistral shearing along northwest‐dipping foliations, related to regional transtension. The present results add to the growing body of data on the distribution, maximum P–T conditions, and exhumation paths of WGR coesite–eclogites and their host rocks that is required to constrain quantitative models for the formation and exhumation of UHP metamorphic rocks during the Scandian collision.
Deformation assisted phase transformation: an example from the sillimanite‐in isograd, Eolus batholith, Needle Mountains, Colorado, USA
Authors: Hunter Robert A. , Andronicos Christopher L.
Published: August 2012

Terra Nova, 25, 48–56, 2013

The Palaeoproterozoic Vallecito conglomerate of the Needle Mountains, Colorado, experienced deformation and metamorphism during emplacement of the ∼1.4 Ga Eolus batholith, producing a contact aureole defined by sillimanite near the pluton, andalusite and sillimanite together ∼2 km from the pluton, and andalusite alone at greater distance. In the andalusite–sillimanite zone, sillimanite‐rich layers, poor in andalusite, define shear bands. In contrast, regions between shear bands contain abundant andalusite and sillimanite. A deformed sample is enriched in immobile elements, with an estimated major element mass loss of 43% relative to a weakly deformed sample. Modal and compositional variation between deformed and undeformed regions indicates that mass transfer was central to shear band development. This process changed the composition of the deformed sample, facilitated the localization of deformation, catalyzed metamorphism and allowed the assemblage to more rapidly approach equilibrium than weakly deformed assemblages.