bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating Geographical and Evolutionary Rarity into Conservation Prioritization
Authors: TUCKER CAROLINE M. , CADOTTE MARC W. , DAVIES T. JONATHAN , REBELO TONY G.
Published: May 2012

Abstract: Key goals of conservation are to protect both species and the functional and genetic diversity they represent. A strictly species‐based approach may underrepresent rare, threatened, or genetically distinct species and overrepresent widespread species. Although reserves are created for a number of reasons, including economic, cultural, and ecological reasons, their efficacy has been measured primarily in terms of how well species richness is protected, and it is useful to compare how well they protect other measures of diversity. We used Proteaceae species‐occurrence data in the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa to illustrate differences in the spatial distribution of species and evolutionary diversity estimated from a new maximum‐likelihood molecular phylogeny. We calculated species richness, phylogenetic diversity (i.e., summed phylogenetic branch lengths in a site), and a site‐aggregated measure of biogeographically weighted evolutionary distinctiveness (i.e., an abundance weighted measure that captures the unique proportion of the phylogenetic tree a species represents) for sites throughout the Cape Floristic Region. Species richness and phylogenetic diversity values were highly correlated for sites in the region, but species richness was concentrated at a few sites that underrepresented the much more spatially extensive distribution of phylogenetic diversity. Biogeographically weighted evolutionary diversity produced a scheme of prioritization distinct from the other 2 metrics and highlighted southern sites as conservation priorities. In these sites, the high values of biogeographically weighted evolutionary distinctiveness were the result of a nonrandom relation between evolutionary distinctiveness and geographical rarity, where rare species also tended to have high levels of evolutionary distinctiveness. Such distinct and rare species are of particular concern, but are not captured by conservation schemes that focus on species richness or phylogenetic diversity alone.
Effects of Climate and Exurban Development on Nest Predation and Predator Presence in the southern Appalachian Mountains (U.S.A.)
Authors: LUMPKIN HEATHER A. , PEARSON SCOTT M. , TURNER MONICA G.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  In the eastern United States, land‐use and climate change have likely contributed to declines in the abundance of Neotropical migrant birds that occupy forest interiors, but the mechanisms are not well understood. We conducted a nest‐predation experiment in southern Appalachian Mountain forests (North Carolina, U.S.A.) during the 2009 and 2010 breeding seasons to determine the effects of exurban development and temperature on predator presence and the average number of days until eggs in an artificial nest were disturbed by predators. We baited artificial nests with quail (Excalfactoria chinensi) eggs and monitored them for 18 days. We used clay eggs, track plates, and motion‐triggered cameras to detect and identify nest predators. The average number of days a nest was undisturbed decreased as mean temperature increased and, to a lesser extent, as the density of buildings increased. Nests on the ground were more often depredated than those in trees, likely due to increased predation by opossum (Didelphis virginiana) and other carnivores. Raccoons (Procyon lotor), opossums, corvids (Corvus brachyrhynchos and Cyanocitta cristata), chipmunks (Tamias striatus), black bears (Ursus americanus), and domestic cats (Felis catus) were the most commonly detected predators. Presence of these predators did not vary as a function of mean temperature. Domestic cats and corvids were detected more frequently in plots with high rather than low densities of buildings. Forest‐interior specialists and Neotropical migrants often nest in cool, high‐elevation areas with low housing density. These bird species, especially those that nest on the ground, may be most vulnerable to increased nest predation if temperature and exurban development increase at higher elevations as anticipated.
Scientific Gear as a Vector for Non‐Native Species at Deep‐Sea Hydrothermal Vents
Authors: VOIGHT JANET R. , LEE RAYMOND W. , REFT ABIGAIL J. , BATES AMANDA E.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  The fauna of deep‐sea hydrothermal vents are among the most isolated and inaccessible biological communities on Earth. Most vent sites can only be visited by subsea vehicles, which can and do move freely among these communities. Researchers assume individuals of the regionally homogeneous vent fauna are killed by the change in hydrostatic pressure the animals experience when the subsea vehicles, which collected them, rise to the surface. After an Alvin dive, we found 38 apparently healthy individuals of a vent limpet in a sample from a hydrothermally inactive area. Prompted by our identification of these specimens as Lepetodrilus gordensis, a species restricted to vents 635 km to the south of our dive site, we tested whether they were from a novel population or were contaminants from the dive made 36 h earlier. The 16S gene sequences, morphology, sex ratio, bacterial colonies, and stable isotopes uniformly indicated the specimens came from the previous dive. We cleaned the sampler, but assumed pressure changes would kill any organisms we did not remove and that the faunas of the 2 areas were nearly identical and disease‐free. Our failure to completely clean the gear on the subsea vehicle meant we could have introduced the species and any diseases it carried to a novel location. Our findings suggest that the nearly inaccessible biological communities at deep‐sea vents may be vulnerable to anthropogenic alteration, despite their extreme physical conditions.
The Language of Birth
Authors: Simkin Penny , Stewart Mary , Shearer Beth , Christopher Glantz J. , Rooks Judith P. , Lyerly Anne Drapkin , Chalmers Beverley , Keirse Marc J.N.C.
Published: May 2012

Our language both reflects and influences our attitudes and behavior. This Roundtable Discussion explores the language used in obstetrics and in the interactions between caregivers and women or their families: What do practitioners say to mothers and families during labor? At birth? In consultations? To describe what is happening? To encourage a woman's efforts? To lighten the atmosphere? When advising about possible interventions? Medical terminology in perinatal care can often be deceptive or confusing, not only for mothers but for caregivers. The authors of this Roundtable, representing health professionals from different specialties and interests in the field, have examined some examples of such language use, misuse, and abuse in perinatal care. (BIRTH 39:2 June 2012)
Normograde and Retrograde Pinning of the Distal Fragment in Feline Humeral Fractures
Authors: Cohen Liat , Israeli Inbar , Levi Sagi , Benzioni Hadas , Milgram Joshua
Published: May 2012

Objective

To determine if normograde and retrograde pinning of the distal humeral fragment, performed to maximize pin purchase in this fragment, would damage vital structures in and around the elbow and shoulder joints in cats.

Study Design

Anatomic study.

Sample Population

Cadaveric cats (n = 12; 24 thoracic limbs).

Methods

Twelve thoracic limb pairs were harvested from domestic short‐haired cats and 1 limb from each pair was allocated to 1 of 3 groups. A transverse osteotomy was created at the junction of the middle and distal thirds in the diaphyseal osteotomy group (n = 8) and proximal to the supracondylar foramen in the metaphyseal osteotomy group (n = 8). Humeri in the normograde group (n = 8) were left intact. Retrograde pinning of the distal fragment in both osteotomy groups was performed with the elbow flexed. Pins were driven into the medial epicondyle until they exited the skin caudal to the elbow and dissection of the soft tissues around the exit tract of the pin was performed. The fracture was reduced and the pin was advanced until it exited the proximal humeral fragment. In the specimens in normograde group, pinning was initiated on the distal aspect of the medial epicondyle. A 1.0 mm guide hole was drilled from the medial epicondyle to the center of the medullary cavity of the distal humeral metaphysis. A bevelled 1.5 mm IM pin was driven proximally through the guide hole until it exited the proximal humerus.

Results

Pins exiting the distal aspect of the medial epicondyle passed through muscle origins in 5 specimens in the diaphyseal osteotomy group and in all 8 specimens in the metaphyseal group. The ulnar nerve was entrapped in 1 specimen in both the metaphyseal osteotomy and diaphyseal osteotomy groups. The articular cartilage of the trochlea was damaged in 5 specimens in the diaphyseal osteotomy group and in 1 specimen in the metaphyseal osteotomy group. There was no damage to articular or periarticular structures by pins exiting the proximal humerus.

Conclusion

Retrograde pinning of the distal fragment in humeral fractures in the cat may damage the articular cartilage and cannot be recommended. Normograde pinning is safe and maximizes pin purchase in the distal fragment.
Forecasting Product Returns for Remanufacturing Operations
Authors: Clottey Toyin , Benton W. C. , Srivastava Rajesh
Published: May 2012

Driven by legislative pressures, an increasing number of manufacturing companies have been implementing comprehensive recycling and remanufacturing programs. The accurate forecasting of product returns is important for procurement decisions, production planning, and inventory and disposal management in such remanufacturing operations. In this study, we consider a manufacturer that also acts as a remanufacturer, and develop a generalized forecasting approach to determine the distribution of the returns of used products, as well as integrate it with an inventory model to enable production planning and control. We compare our forecasting approach to previous models and show that our approach is more consistent with continuous time, provides accurate estimates when the return lags are exponential in nature, and results in fewer units being held in inventory on average. The analysis revealed that these gains in accuracy resulted in the most cost savings when demand volumes for remanufactured products were high compared to the volume of returned products. Such situations require the frequent acquisition of cores to meet demand. The results show that significant cost savings can be achieved by using the proposed approach for sourcing product returns.
Altered expression of p27Kip1‐interacting cell‐cycle regulators in the adult testicular germ cell tumors: potential role in tumor development and histological progression
Authors: Miyai Kosuke , Yamamoto Sohei , Iwaya Keiichi , Asano Tomohiko , Tamai Seiichi , Tsuda Hitoshi , Matsubara Osamu
Published: May 2012

We examined the potential role of cell‐cycle dysregulation in the development and histological progression of adult testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). Expressions of p27Kip1‐interacting cell‐cycle regulators (down‐regulation of p27Kip1 and overexpression of Skp2, Cks1, cyclin A, and cyclin E) and Ki‐67 labeling index (LI) were immunohistochemically examined in histological components of 50 intratubular germ cell neoplasms, unclassified (IGCNUs); 74 seminomas; and 25 embryonal carcinomas, identified from 88 patients. Altered expression of p27Kip1, Skp2, Cks1, cyclin A, and cyclin E was observed in 20%, 12%, 16%, 10%, and 24% of IGCNUs; 26%, 36%, 27%, 89%, and 23% of seminomas; and 48%, 68%, 56%, 100%, and 60% of embryonal carcinomas, respectively. A significant difference in the frequency of Skp2 and cyclin A overexpression was observed between IGCNUs and seminomas. Significantly more frequent alterations of Skp2, Cks1, and cyclin E and p27Kip1 were detected in embryonal carcinomas than in seminomas. Alterations of all cell‐cycle regulators were significantly more frequent in embryonal carcinomas than in IGCNUs. The mean Ki‐67 LI significantly increased from IGCNU (21.2%) through seminoma (34.7%) to embryonal carcinoma (54.2%). These results suggest that alterations of the p27Kip1‐interacting cell‐cycle regulators are common in TGCTs and may be involved in their histological progression.
Cellular senescence: a double‐edged sword in the fight against cancer
Authors: Ohtani Naoko , Takahashi Akiko , Mann David J. , Hara Eiji
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Over the last few decades, it has become apparent that oncogenic proliferative signals are coupled to a variety of growth inhibitory responses, such as the induction of apoptotic cell death or irreversible cell cycle arrest known as ‘cellular senescence’. Thus, both apoptosis and cellular senescence are thought to act as important tumor suppression mechanisms. Unlike apoptotic cells, however, senescent cells remain viable for long periods of time and accumulate with increasing age in various organs and tissues. Moreover, recent studies reveal that although cellular senescence initially functions as a tumor suppressive process, it may eventually exhibit tumor‐promoting effects. Therefore, it is conceivable that accumulation of senescent cells during the ageing process in vivo may contribute to the age‐related increase in cancer incidence. In this review, we provide an update and perspective on recent advances made in understanding the deleterious side effects of cellular senescence.
Astaxanthin attenuates the UVB‐induced secretion of prostaglandin E2and interleukin‐8 in human keratinocytes by interrupting MSK1 phosphorylation in a ROS depletion–independent manner
Authors: Terazawa Shuko , Nakajima Hiroaki , Shingo Mori , Niwano Takao , Imokawa Genji
Published: May 2012

Abstract: To elucidate the effects of redox balance regulation on cutaneous inflammation, we used the potent antioxidant astaxanthin (AX) to assess its effect on the UVB‐induced secretion of PGE2and IL‐8 in human keratinocytes and analysed its biological mechanism of action. The addition of AX (at 8 μm) to human keratinocytes even after UVB irradiation significantly down‐regulated the increased secretion of PGE2or IL‐8. Those suppressive effects were accompanied by significantly decreased expression of genes encoding COX‐2 or IL‐8 as well as COX‐2 protein. Analysis using a specific NF‐κB tanslocation inhibitor demonstrated that the UVB‐stimulated secretion of PGE2and IL‐8 was significantly abolished by its treatment prior to UVB irradiation. Western blotting of phosphorylated signalling molecules revealed that UVB irradiation (80 mJ/cm2) significantly stimulated the phosphorylation of p38, ERK and JNK, which was not suppressed by treatment with AX after irradiation. In contrast, AX significantly inhibited the UVB‐increased phosphorylation of mitogen‐ and stress‐activated protein kinase (MSK)‐1, NF‐kBp65 or CREB even when treated postirradiation. Further, the MSK1 inhibitor H89 significantly down‐regulated the increased secretion of PGE2and IL‐8 in UVB‐exposed human keratinocytes, following post‐irradiation treatment. These findings suggests that AX attenuates the auto‐phosphorylation of MSK1 required for its activation, which results in the decreased phosphorylation of NF‐kBp65, which in turn probably leads to a deficiency of NF‐kB DNA binding activity. This may be associated with the significant suppression of PGE2/IL‐8 secretion via the down‐regulated expression of COX‐2 and IL‐8 at the gene and/or protein levels.
Investigation by in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy: melanocytes at the edges of solar lentigines
Authors: Nakajima Akiko , Funasaka Yoko , Kawana Seiji
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) provides high‐resolution, real‐time optical sections of the skin in a non‐invasive manner, allowing visualization of the skin in its native state. Highly reflective skin components including melanin, collagen and keratin appear bright (white) in RCM images. RCM examination of solar lentigines is known to show features that correlate well with histologic findings such as supranuclear melanin caps, but there are a limited number of reports on melanocyte dendrites. In this study, we utilized RCM to investigate the melanocyte dendricity and distribution within solar lentigines. Seventeen healthy Japanese females who had fairly large solar lentigines on their faces were recruited to join our clinical study, and we examined them by using RCM on their non‐lesional areas, and the inside and the outer rim of the lesional areas. As a result, we discovered that dendritic melanocytes were rarely seen in the center of a solar lentigo (SL), but were seen at a very high frequency in the outer rim of a SL. The results suggest that the melanocytes are more active at the edge of a SL, produce more melanin, and often spread their dendrites widely in a horizontal direction. The findings in this report might shed light on the dynamic pathomechanisms of solar lentigines in vivo.
Mitochondrial common deletion mutation and extrinsic skin ageing in German and Japanese women
Authors: Kaneko Natsumi , Vierkoetter Andrea , Kraemer Ursula , Sugiri Dorothee , Matsui Mary , Yamamoto Ai , Krutmann Jean , Morita Akimichi
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  The mitochondrial common deletion (CD) mutation is induced by oxidative stress. One main source of oxidative stress is the error‐prone process of the respiratory chain located in the mitochondria. Another important source is the exposure to environmental factors, which further induces oxidative stress in the cells. For human skin, the primary damaging environmental factor is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is able to induce CD mutations and the characteristic extrinsic skin ageing signs. Traditionally, levels of UV exposure differ between German and Japanese populations, as tanned skin represents beauty and health in Western cultures, whereas photo‐protected skin is considered ideal in Asia. We hypothesize that (i) this cultural‐related UV exposure pattern might be reflected by CD concentrations in environmentally exposed skin and (ii) CD concentrations in environmentally exposed areas might be associated with the manifestation of extrinsic skin ageing. In this study, we determined the concentration of CD in skin from the neck (environmentally exposed area) and the buttock (environmentally protected area) of 22 German and 46 Japanese women between 30 and 70 years of age. We evaluated skin ageing signs by a validated clinical score, and exposure to environmental factors, such as UV exposure and smoking, was assessed using a questionnaire‐based interview. Higher levels of CD were detected in neck skin than in buttock skin in both German and Japanese women. CD also increased with age in the neck skin. German women had higher CD concentrations in the neck skin than Japanese women. The CD concentrations in the buttock skin samples were similar in both populations. These findings suggest higher environmental UV exposure resulted in higher levels of CD in the skin of German women compared with Japanese women. However, only in Japanese women were the signs of extrinsic skin ageing associated with higher CD concentrations in the neck skin, in agreement with the hypothesis (ii). In German women, we did not find this latter association, which might be due to reaching a maximum level of CD, beyond which cells undergo negative selection and are lost to the population samples. In conclusion, under some conditions, there seems to be an association between the CD mutation concentration and extrinsic skin ageing, but this may be modified by cellular and tissue processes which affect the sampling rate for CD mutation concentrations and prevent a statistical association with extrinsic skin ageing.
Effect of chemical peeling on the skin in relation to UV irradiation
Authors: Funasaka Yoko , Abdel‐Daim Mohamed , Kawana Seiji , Nishigori Chikako
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Chemical peeling is one of the dermatological treatments available for certain cutaneous diseases and conditions or improvement of cosmetic appearance of photoaged skin. However, it needs to be clarified whether the repetitive procedure of chemical peeling on photodamaged skin is safe and whether the different chemicals used for peeling results in similar outcomes or not. In this article, we reviewed the effect of peeling or peeling agents on the skin in relation to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The pretreatment of peeling agents usually enhance UV sensitivity by inducing increased sunburn cell formation, lowering minimum erythematous dose and increasing cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers. However, this sensitivity is reversible and recovers to normal after 1‐week discontinuation. Using animals, the chronic effect of peeling and peeling agents was shown to prevent photocarcinogenesis. There is also an in vitro study using culture cells to know the detailed mechanisms of peeling agents, especially on cell proliferation and apoptotic changes via activating signalling cascades and oxidative stress. It is important to understand the effect of peeling agents on photoaged skin and to know how to deal with UV irradiation during the application of peeling agents and treatment of chemical peeling in daily life.
Relationships between urban tree communities and the biomes in which they reside
Authors: Ramage Benjamin S. , Roman Lara A. , Dukes Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2012

Questions

Climate strongly influences the composition of natural plant communities, but a variety of human activities might release plants in urban areas from some of these climatic constraints. (1) After controlling for minimum temperature, is urban tree species composition related to biome? (2) Do any such patterns result solely from the presence of native species in urban floras? (3) Which climatic, demographic and economic variables are predictive of urban tree species composition?

Location

Continental USA.

Methods

We investigated patterns of tree species composition in small cities across the continental USA, specifically exploring relationships to surrounding biomes and their accompanying temperature and precipitation regimes, as well as to key demographic and economic variables. We estimated urban tree species composition by surveying tree experts in randomly selected cities that were stratified by minimum temperature (i.e. ‘hardiness zone’) and biome, and constrained to similar population sizes. We then used non‐metric multidimensional scaling to investigate relationships between urban tree species composition, biome classification, native status, individual climate variables and several anthropogenic factors.

Results

We found that urban tree communities were consistently related to the surrounding biome, even after controlling for minimum temperatures. These communities could also be predicted by several individual climatic variables (in models that focused solely on the role of climate as well as models that simultaneously considered key anthropogenic factors). In addition, most of these general patterns were still present when we exclusively examined non‐native species. We were unable to identify specific climatic and anthropogenic variables of broad importance because the most predictive variables were highly dependent upon the specific analysis.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that, despite substantial human influence, urban tree communities (including their non‐native components) are related to the same climate factors that shape wildland plant communities.
Low‐Temperature Sintering and Microwave Dielectric Properties of ZnNb2O6–TiO2 Ceramics with BaCu(B2O5) Additions
Authors: Guo Mei , Dou Gang , Gong Shuping , Zhou Dongxiang
Published: May 2012

The influence of BaCu(B2O5) (BCB) on densification, phases, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of ZnNb2O6–xTiO2 (x = 1.70–1.90) composite ceramics have been investigated. Undoped ZnNb2O6–1.8TiO2 ceramics sintered at 1200°C exhibit temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) ~9.25 ppm/°C. When BaCu(B2O5) was added, the sintering temperature of the ZnNb2O6–1.8TiO2 composite ceramics was effectively reduced to 950°C. The results indicated that the permittivity and Q × f were dependent on the sintering temperature and the amounts of BaCu(B2O5). Addition of 3.0 wt% BaCu(B2O5) in ZnNb2O6–1.8TiO2 ceramics sintered at 950°C showed excellent dielectric properties of εr = 40.9, Q × f = 12,200 GHz (f = 5.015 GHz) and τf = +0.3 ppm/°C.
mRNA profiles of piRNA pathway genes in emerald ash borerAgrilus planipennis
Authors: Mittapalli Omprakash , Mamidala Praveen , Rajarapu Swapna Priya
Published: May 2012

Recent advances of Piwi‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have enabled a better understanding of their putative roles in the protection of germ cells against selfish genetic elements. The germ plasm proteins namely, PIWI and VASA, are key players in regulation of piRNAs. However, the biogenesis of piRNAs remains poorly understood. We report the characterization and the transcript profiles of a PIWI and VASA gene in various tissues and developmental stages of the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), an exotic invasive insect pest that has attained a high impact status worldwide. The deduced amino acid sequences of both these genes (herein referred to “ApPIWI andApVASA”) revealed homology with similar proteins from other insect and non‐insect taxa. Peak transcript levels forApPIWI andApVASA were observed in the ovaries (compared to the other tissues assayed) and in adults (compared to the other developmental stages assayed). To our knowledge this is the first report of profiling piRNA pathway genes inA. planipennis. These results provide new insights into the putative function of the PIWI and VASA proteins in insects.
The Effects of Reciprocal Imitation on Teacher–Student Relationships and Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Zhou Jiangyuan
Published: May 2012

Neuroscientific and developmental psychological research in imitation has yielded important insights into building teacher–student relationships and enhancing students' learning. This study investigated the effects of reciprocal imitation on teacher–student relationships and students' learning outcomes in one‐on‐one teacher–student interactions. In a within‐subjects design, participants learned eight English vocabulary words under two conditions: one condition paired with teacher's imitative behaviors and the other with teacher's random behaviors. Students' self‐rating surveys and quiz scores on new words were assessed. When the teacher imitated the students' behaviors in interactions, the students reported significantly higher perceptions of rapport, more confidence in and satisfaction with learning outcomes, and had significantly higher quiz scores. Results had important implications for teachers in using imitation as an effective teaching tool to build teacher–student relationships and enhance students' learning.
Neuromyths: Why Do They Exist and Persist?
Authors: Pasquinelli Elena
Published: May 2012

Neuroeducation—a recent approach to educational policy—claims that a bridge should be established between education and mind‐brain sciences, with the double aim of devising educational methods that work and of understanding why they work. The success of this encounter depends, among other conditions, on getting the science right; otherwise, neuroeducation and science‐informed policies risk doing more harm than good. On several occasions, the cognitive and brain sciences have been misunderstood, and misused: neuromyths—the misconceptions about the mind and brain functioning—have blossomed, thus raising both theoretical and pragmatic concerns. This article addresses the origin, persistence, and potential side‐effects of neuromyths in education. The hypothesis is put forward that the persistence of neuromyths is sustained by specific cultural conditions, such as the circulation of pieces of information about the brain and the appetite for brain news, but has its roots in deeper cognitive intuitions.
Acute and Long‐Term Hemodynamic Effects of Sesame Oil Consumption in Hypertensive Men
Authors: Karatzi Kalliopi , Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Lykka Marita , Mantzouratou Pigi , Skalidi Sofia , Manios Efstathios , Georgiopoulos George , Zakopoulos Nikolaos , Papamichael Christos , Sidossis Labros S.
Published: May 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 14:630–636. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The possible effects of sesame oil on hemodynamics are unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the acute and long‐term effects of sesame oil on hemodynamic responses in hypertensive men. The authors enrolled 30 hypertensive men in a two‐phase study. In the first phase, patients consumed 35 g of either sesame oil or control oil. Central and peripheral blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, augmentation index (AI), C‐reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor α, malonydealdehyde, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed at fast and 2 hours postprandially. In the second phase, patients consumed 35 g of either sesame oil or control oil daily for 2 months. The above‐mentioned parameters were assessed before and following 15, 30, and 60 days of oil consumption. Sesame oil decreased central and peripheral diastolic pressures 1 hour postprandially (P=.006). Fifteen days of sesame oil intake decreased peripheral systolic blood pressure (P=.016) and heart rate–corrected AI75 (P=.017) and increased TAC (P=.007). This is the first study to demonstrate a favorable acute and long‐term effect of sesame oil on hemodynamics in hypertensive men. Further research is warranted to establish the potential protective role of sesame oil.
Quality of life in children and adolescents with respiratory allergy, assessed with a generic and disease‐specific instrument
Authors: Kiotseridis Hampus , Cilio Corrado M. , Bjermer Leif , Aurivillius Magnus , Jacobsson Helene , Dahl Åslög , Tunsäter Alf
Published: May 2012

Introduction:  Respiratory allergic disorders like rhinitis and asthma are common conditions that not only affect target organs, but complicate the daily life of affected children and adolescents.

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to investigate the QoL (quality of life) in children with grass pollen allergy in and out of grass pollen season.

Methods:  We used the Pediatric Allergic Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PADQLQ), a disease‐specific questionnaire including both asthma and rhinitis symptoms. We also used the DISABKIDS (a European project which aims at enhancing the quality of life and the independence of children with chronic health conditions and their families) questionnaire, a generic questionnaire covering non‐organ‐specific effects of disease.

Results:  Ninety‐eight children 7–18 years old with grass pollen allergy were included. Eighty‐nine children (91%) completed the study. The QoL was significantly decreased during pollen season assessed both with DISABKIDS and PADQLQ. The correlation between the questionnaires was 0.73. Not only the physical domain score (P = 0.00093) but also the emotional domain score (P = 0.034) was significantly lowered. Children with multiple manifestations (asthma and rhinitis) had lower QoL than children with rhinitis alone (P = 0.01). Multiple regression analysis showed a highly significant impact on QoL for symptoms from nose, eyes and lungs. They were equally important (standardized coefficient 047, 0.47 and 0.46, respectively).

Conclusion:  The QoL in children and adolescents with respiratory allergy deteriorates during pollen season. This was shown both with generic (DISABKIDS) and disease‐specific instrument (PADQLQ).

Please cite this paper as: Kiotseridis H, Cilio CM, Bjermer L, Aurivillius M, Jacobsson H, Dahl Å and Tunsäter A. Quality of life in children and adolescents with respiratory allergy, assessed with a generic and disease‐specific instrument. Clin Respir J 2013; 7: 168–175.
‘Scorn Eunuch Sports’: Class, Gender and the Context of Early Cricket
Authors: BRUNSTRÖM CONRAD , CASSIDY TANYA M.
Published: May 2012

The under‐theorised eighteenth‐century game of cricket represents a far more fluid and paradoxical site of enquiry than the exhaustively politicised discussions of the nineteenth‐ and twentieth‐century versions of the sport. Eighteenth‐century cricket represents a way of describing the performance of gender within a context of patriotic self‐imagining. Poems and paintings describing cricketers of both sexes illustrate how ideas of masculinity and femininity can be celebrated and challenged at the same time. The extent to which cricket (as it is steadily organised and coded) functions as a ‘heroic’ pastime says much about the centrality of sport in general within the national consciousness.
Gentiopicroside Attenuates Morphine Rewarding Effect through Downregulation of GluN2B Receptors in Nucleus Accumbens
Authors: Liu Shui‐Bing , Ma Lan , Guo Hong‐Ju , Feng Bin , Guo Yan‐Yan , Li Xiao‐Qiang , Sun Wen‐Ji , Zheng Lian‐He , Zhao Ming‐Gao
Published: May 2012

Aims: Gentiopicroside (Gent) is one of the secoiridoid compound isolated from Gentiana lutea. This compound exhibits analgesic activities and inhibits the expression of GluN2B‐containing N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the anterior cingulate cortex in mice. Nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a forebrain structure known for its role in drug addiction. However, little is known about the role of Gent on morphine dependence and synaptic transmission changes in the NAc. Methods: Conditioned place preference (CPP) test and behavioral sensitization of locomotor activity were used to investigate drug‐seeking related behaviors. Brain slices containing NAc were prepared, and whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were performed to record the excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs). Expression of proteins was detected by Western blot analysis. Results: Systemic administration of Gent attenuated the CPP effect induced by morphine, but had no effect on morphine‐induced behavioral sensitization. Gent significantly reversed overexpression of GluN2B‐containing NMDA receptors and dopamine D2 receptors in NAc during the first week of morphine withdrawal. However, the compound did not affect the overexpression of GluN2A‐containing NMDA receptors, GluA1, and dopamine D1 receptors. Lastly, Gent significantly reduced NMDA receptors‐mediated EPSCs in the NAc. Conclusion: Our study provides strong evidence that Gent inhibits morphine dependence through downregulation of GluN2B‐containing NMDA receptors in the NAc.
INTERPRETING TRANSITION FROM ADOLESCENCE TO ADULTHOOD IN PATIENTS ON DIALYSIS WHO HAVE END‐STAGE RENAL DISEASE
Authors: Cura Jonathan
Published: May 2012

Background: Patients with End‐Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) undergo renal replacement therapies such as haemodialysis, and usually have to deal with a lifetime of treatment. If an individual has ESRD at a young age, eventually the individual experiences a stage of transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Methods: Interpretive phenomenology was used to uncover the meaning of transition from adolescence to adulthood. Six patients on haemodialysis between the ages of 17 to 22 years agreed to participate in the study. Multiple sources of data were utilised: semi‐structured interviews, video recordings, diaries and field notes. Using Ricoeur's theory of interpretation, the data were analysed.

Results: Three general themes were found: Living a Shorter Life; Dependence and Independence; and Struggle of Being Normal Amidst Difference.

Conclusion: Transition to Adulthood among patients with ESRD is like a pendulum continuously moving in a back and forth motion. The “World‐in‐Between” is a constant search of self within two ends of characteristics: of holding on and giving up; expression and non‐expression of self.
Role of GbpA protein, an important virulence‐related colonization factor, for Vibrio cholerae's survival in the aquatic environment
Authors: Stauder Monica , Huq Anwar , Pezzati Elisabetta , Grim Christopher J. , Ramoino Paola , Pane Luigi , Colwell Rita R. , Pruzzo Carla , Vezzulli Luigi
Published: May 2012

Vibrio cholerae N‐acetyl glucosamine‐binding protein A (GbpA) is a chitin binding protein and a virulence factor involved in the colonization of human intestine. We investigated the distribution and genetic variations of gbpA in 488 V. cholerae strains of environmental and clinical origin, belonging to different serogroups and biotypes. We found that the gene is consistently present and highly conserved including an environmental V. cholerae‐related strain of ancestral origin. The gene was also consistently expressed in a number of representative V. cholerae strains cultured in laboratory aquatic microcosms under conditions simulating those found in temperate marine environments. Functional analysis carried out on V. cholerae O1 El Tor N16961 showed that GbpA is not involved in adhesion to inorganic surfaces but promotes interaction with environmental biotic substrates (plankton and bivalve hepatopancreas cells) representing known marine reservoir or host for the bacterium. It is suggested that the ability of GbpA to colonize human intestinal cells most probably originated from its primary function in the aquatic environment.
Pin Disassembly of the Coonrad-Morrey Total Elbow Replacement: Failure Mechanism and Risk Factors
Authors: Kumar Shyam , Rymaruk Sophy , Stanley David
Published: May 2012

Background

Disassembly of the Coonrad-Morrey total elbow replacement with the pin in pin locking mechanism has previously been reported. We present the largest series documented to date with failure of this mechanism.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients treated at the shoulder and elbow unit of the Northern General Hospital Sheffield UK.

Results

There were five men and one woman with a mean age at pin failure of 56 years (range 39 years to 79 years). One patient had failure of bilateral replacements and two patients had failure on two separate occasions. Three patients had undergone surgery for distal humeral fractures, two for non-inflammatory arthritis and one for rheumatoid arthritis. All patients required revision surgery. A mechanism of pin failure is proposed and the risk factors are identified.

Conclusion

Despite the redesign of the locking mechanism of the Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty, there remains a risk of pin failure. This would appear to be greatest in younger male patients undergoing a total elbow replacement for a distal humeral fracture or post-traumatic arthritis.
Field test of an affordable, portable, wireless microphone array for spatial monitoring of animal ecology and behaviour
Authors: Mennill Daniel J. , Battiston Matthew , Wilson David R. , Foote Jennifer R. , Doucet Stéphanie M.
Published: May 2012

1. Using arrays of microphones, biologists can monitor the position of free‐living animals based on the sounds they produce. Microphone array technology exploits differences in sound arrival times at each microphone to calculate an animal’s position. This technology provides new opportunities for studying animal ecology and behaviour and has many advantages over tracking technologies that require capturing animals and fitting them with external devices, or technologies that focus on one individual in isolation of the activities of nearby animals.

2. The efficacy of microphone arrays for triangulating the position of wild animals has been established through previous studies. Yet widespread use of microphone array technology has been limited by many factors: arrays are expensive, custom manufactured, and cumbersome. Consequently, microphone arrays are used infrequently, in spite of their transformative potential for studying animal ecology and behaviour.

3. We conducted a field test of a new wireless microphone array system that has multiple advantages over previous systems: it is relatively inexpensive, commercially available, includes an integrated global positioning system (GPS) for time‐synchronizing microphones, and it is small enough to fit in a backpack. We set up an array of four stereo recorders (each with a pair of stereo microphones) at 12 sites and tested the system’s accuracy for estimating the location of loudspeakers broadcasting 25 types of bird, mammal and frog sounds.

4. We found that this system produced accurate location estimates based on multi‐channel recordings of many types of acoustic signals. The average location accuracy was 1·87 ± 0·13 m, on par with cable‐based microphone array systems. Location accuracy was significantly higher when the recorders were closer together and when sounds were broadcast inside the area bounded by the microphones. Accuracy tended to be higher in field vs. forest habitats.

5. We discuss how this system may be used to enhance studies of animal ecology and behaviour across a wide range of contexts. As with previous arrays, this system will allow researchers to monitor animals that produce distinctive acoustic signals. In contrast to previous microphone arrays, this system is affordable, portable and commercially available. Consequently, this system stands to dramatically enhance research on wild, free‐living animals.
Cultivation of RPMI 2650 cells as an in-vitro model for human transmucosal nasal drug absorption studies: optimization of selected culture conditions
Authors: Reichl Stephan , Becker Karin
Published: May 2012

Objectives

The kinetics of drug absorption for nasally administered drugs are often studied using excised mucosal tissue. To avoid the disadvantages of animal experiments, cellular in-vitro models have been established. This study describes the optimization of culture conditions for a model based on the RPMI 2650 cell line, and an evaluation of this model's value for drug absorption studies.

Methods

The cells were cultured in two serum-free media, serum-reduced variants or minimum essential medium (MEM) containing 5–20% serum. Cell seeding efficiency and proliferation behavior were evaluated in addition to viability and attachment following cryopreservation and thawing. Cells were cultured on different filter inserts for varying cultivation times. The epithelial barrier properties were determined by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Permeability was assessed using marker substances.

Key findings

Serum supplementation of medium was necessary for cultivation, whereas the serum concentration showed little impact on proliferation and attachment following cryopreservation. A pronounced dependence of TEER on medium and filter material was observed. An optimized model cultured with MEM containing 10% serum on polyethylene terephthalate exhibited permeability that was similar to excised nasal mucosa.

Conclusions

These data indicate that this model could be an appropriate alternative to excised mucosa for the in-vitro evaluation of nasal drug absorption.
Study of Sand Particle Trajectories and Erosion Into the First Compression Stage of a Turbofan
Authors: Ghenaiet Adel
Published: May 2012

Aero-engines operating in dusty environments are subject to ingestion of erodent particles leading to erosion damage of blades and a permanent drop in performance. This work concerns the study of particle dynamics and erosion of the front compression stage of a commercial turbofan. Particle trajectories simulations used a stochastic Lagrangian tracking code that solves the equations of motion separately from the airflow in a stepwise manner, while the tracking of particles in different cells is based on the finite element method. As the locations of impacts and rates of erosion were predicted, the subsequent geometry deteriorations were assessed. The number of particles, sizes, and initial positions were specified conformed to sand particle distribution (MIL-E5007E, 0-1000 micrometers) and concentrations 50–700 mg/m3. The results show that the IGV blade is mainly eroded over the leading edge and near hub and shroud; also the rotor blade has a noticeable erosion of the leading and trailing edges and a rounding of the blade tip corners, whereas in the diffuser, erosion is shown to spread over the blade surfaces in addition to the leading edge and trailing edge.
Investigation of Pre-Stall Behavior in an Axial Compressor Rotor—Part I: Unsteadiness of Tip Clearance Flow
Authors: Wu Yanhui , Li Qingpeng , Tian Jiangtao , Chu Wuli
Published: May 2012

To investigate the pre-stall behavior of an axial flow compressor rotor, which was experimentally observed with spike-type stall inception, systematic experimental and whole-passage simulations were laid out to analyze the internal flow fields in the test rotor. In this part, emphases were put on the analyses of experimental results and the predicted results from steady simulations and unsteady simulations, which converged to equilibrium solutions with nearly periodic fluctuations of efficiency. The objective was to uncover the unsteady behavior of tip clearance flow and its associated flow mechanism at near-stall conditions. To validate the steady simulation results, the predicted total characteristics and spanwise distributions of aerodynamic parameters were first compared with the measured steady data, and a good agreement was achieved. Then, the numerically obtained unsteady flow fields during one period of efficiency fluctuations were analyzed in detail. The instantaneous flow structure near casing showed that tip secondary vortex (TSV), which appeared in the previous unsteady single-passage simulations, did exist in tip flow fields of whole-passage simulations. The cyclical motion of this vortex was the main source of the nearly periodic variation of efficiency. The simulated active period of TSV increased when the mass flow rate decreased. The simulated frequency of TSV at flow condition very close to the measured stall point equaled the frequency of the characteristic hump identified from the instantaneous casing pressure measurements. This coincidence implied that the occurrence of this hump was most probably a result of the movement of TSV. Further flow field analyses indicated that the interaction of the low-energy leakage fluid from adjacent passages with the broken-down tip leakage vortex (TLV) was the flow mechanism for the formation of TSV. Once TSV appeared in tip flow fields, its rearward movement would lead to a periodic variation in near-tip blade loading, which in turn altered the strength of TLV and TSV, accordingly, the low-energy regions associated with the breakdown of TLV and the motion of TSV, thus establishing a self-sustained unsteady flow oscillation in tip flow fields.
Preliminary Experimental Results of Integrated Gasification Fuel Cell Operation Using Hardware Simulation
Authors: Traverso Alberto , Tucker David , Haynes Comas L.
Published: May 2012

A newly developed integrated gasification fuel cell (IGFC) hybrid system concept has been tested using the Hybrid Performance (Hyper) project hardware-based simulation facility at the U.S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory. The cathode-loop hardware facility, previously connected to the real-time fuel cell model, was integrated with a real-time model of a gasifier of solid (biomass and fossil) fuel. The fuel cells are operated at the compressor delivery pressure, and they are fueled by an updraft atmospheric gasifier, through the syngas conditioning train for tar removal and syngas compression. The system was brought to steady state; then several perturbations in open loop (variable speed) and closed loop (constant speed) were performed in order to characterize the IGFC behavior. Coupled experiments and computations have shown the feasibility of relatively fast control of the plant as well as a possible mitigation strategy to reduce the thermal stress on the fuel cells as a consequence of load variation and change in gasifier operating conditions. Results also provided an insight into the different features of variable versus constant speed operation of the gas turbine section.
Magnetohydrodynamic Nonlinear Peristaltic Flow in a Compliant Walls Channel With Heat and Mass Transfer
Authors: Hina Sadia , Hayat Tasawar , Asghar Saleem , Alhothuali Mohammed Shabab , Alhomaidan Adnan
Published: May 2012

This paper discusses the effects of magnetic field and heat and mass transfer on the peristaltic flow of an incompressible fluid in a channel with compliant walls. Mathematical formulation for the fourth grade fluid is presented. Relations of stream function, temperature, concentration field, and heat transfer coefficient are derived. The variations of the interesting parameters entering into the problem are carefully analyzed.