bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydride-induced degradation of zirconium alloys: a criterion for complete ductile-to-brittle transition and its dependence on microstructure
Authors: Qin W. , Szpunar J. A. , Kozinski J.
Published: October 2015

Hydride-induced embrittlement is an important problem in hydride-forming materials. In this paper, a model is built for analysing a hydride-induced degradation process of the mechanical properties of zirconium alloys. A time-dependent criterion is proposed for determining the critical conditions of complete ductile-to-brittle transition. The dependence of this criterion on microstructure of Zr alloys is analysed in detail. The results show that many factors simultaneously govern the hydride-induced degradation. These factors include the susceptibility of hydrides to rupture, hydride size, hydride distribution, active slip systems, zirconium grain orientation, grain–boundary structure, grain–boundary density, hydrogen concentration, applied stress state and temperature. Intergranular hydrides have a more important influence on the loss in ductility than intragranular ones. The results obtained in this paper are of particular interest for zirconium alloys used in nuclear application.
Experimental study on penny-shaped fluid-driven cracks in an elastic matrix
Authors: Lai Ching-Yao , Zheng Zhong , Dressaire Emilie , Wexler Jason S. , Stone Howard A.
Published: October 2015

When a pressurized fluid is injected into an elastic matrix, the fluid generates a fracture that grows along a plane and forms a fluid-filled disc-like shape. We report a laboratory study of such a fluid-driven crack in a gelatin matrix, study the crack shape as a function of time and investigate the influence of different experimental parameters such as the injection flow rate, Young’s modulus of the matrix and fluid viscosity. We choose parameters so that effects of material toughness are small. We find that the crack radius
R
(
t
) increases with time
t
according to
t

α

with
α
=0.48±0.04. The rescaled experimental data at long times for different parameters collapse based on scaling arguments, available in the literature, showing
R
(
t
)∝
t
4/9
from a balance of viscous stresses from flow along the crack and elastic stresses in the surrounding matrix. Also, we measure the time evolution of the crack shape, which has not been studied before. The rescaled crack shapes collapse at longer times and show good agreement with the scaling arguments. The gelatin system provides a useful laboratory model for further studies of fluid-driven cracks, which has important applications such as hydraulic fracturing.
Study of the semi-conductive behavior of the passive film on carbon steel in simulated concrete pore solution under stress
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Poursaee Amir
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to clarify the semi-conductive behavior of the passive layer formed in concrete environment without and with presence of chloride ions under different loading conditions. Passivation and depassivation of steel play an essential role in the subsequent stages of the corrosion process. Due to the nature of passive films on metals, they show electrochemical properties of a semi-conductor.

Design/methodology/approach

– A C-ring model was proposed in this experiment to induce stress on the specimens. Specimens under different levels of compressive and tensile loadings were exposed to chloride-free and chloride-contaminated solutions and their semi-conductive behavior was investigated using Mott–Schottky technique.

Findings

– Irrespective of the type and magnitude of the applied load, the passive film on rebars in simulated concrete pore solution is a highly disordered n-type semi-conductor. In all specimens, the presence of chloride ions decreases the slope of the Mott-Schottky plots, the donor density and the space charge layer thickness, which leads to a thinner passive film. Results indicate that steel specimens immersed in chloride-free pore solution under tensile loadings passivate more rapidly compared to those under compressive loadings. However, the situation in chloride-contaminated solution is different, and steel under tensile stress exhibits more corrosion than steel under compressive stress or under no load.

Originality/value

– Reinforced concrete structures inevitably experience variable mechanical loads, and continuous degradation from aggressive environments. Therefore, it is imperative to study the synergic impact of different types of mechanical loadings and exposure to chloride ions on this process. This paper fulfils this need.
Applying student-generated theories about global change and energy demand
Authors: Ahamer Gilbert
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore how learning technology could be applied to the development of educational tools for global climate change. The task to be performed in an informed dialogue is to assess the causes and drivers for global climate change and to produce an improved basis of scientific understanding for the implementation of the climate protection targets suggested for each country. By character, this approach integrates the political and the scientific level.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper applies learning theories and options for educational technologies to socio-economic, technological, biospheric, political and scientific themes relevant to present climate change.

Findings

– Drivers, effects and subsequent measures are subject to highly nonlinear effects. Thus, the combination of a (scientific, fact based) “Global Change Data Base” and a (dialogic, communication based) discourse (in the spirit of “Surfing Global Change”) seems best suitable to produce solutions for the seemingly unresolvable issues of climate protection. This combination of approaches is entitled “Tackle the Task of a Transition through Technological Targets (T5)” and allows the application of hypotheses generated by students in a scaffolded setting of discursive learning.

Social implications

– Suggestions for CO2 abatement measures are currently passing the process of political negotiation in all countries in the world. The different views and patterns of ethical values are harmonised during the T5 learning process and symbolise the required political process of consensus finding among and between different ministries, countries and global interest groups.

Originality/value

– This approach includes social and natural driving factors such as population, land use, economics, politics, energy systems, the global carbon cycle, biosphere and climate, and thus offers a more comprehensive learning endeavour than many other approaches.
Supervision of financial institutions
Authors: Vousinas Georgios L
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to highlight the new regulatory framework established by Basel III.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper provides a critical review of the existing literature concerning bank supervision while providing an overview of the transition from Basel I to Basel III rules and critical appraisal of the current regulatory framework. Review of the existing literature.

Findings

– Basel III introduces new measures in favor of bank stability and in order to mitigate the propagation of financial shocks. But on the other hand the new regulatory framework adds an extra burden to banks’ business plans affecting credit policies and thus the real economy. Another issue that is not properly addressed is the rising of financial innovations that are able to pass by the new regulations. Overall Basel III rules are moving to the right direction but need to stay always up-to-date in order to catch up with the modern ever-evolving financial system. Pros and cons. Need for improvement.

Originality/value

– The paper presents an up-to-date review of Basel rules with future prospects.
Violence in general practice: a gendered risk?
Authors: Elston Mary Ann , Gabe Jonathan
Published: October 2015

This article focuses on the extent to which violence against family doctors in England is experienced in gendered terms. It draws on data from two studies: a postal survey of 1,300 general practitioners (GPs) (62% response rate) and in‐depth interviews with 26 doctors who have been assaulted or threatened; and 13 focus groups with primary care teams and 19 in‐depth interviews with GPs who had expressed an interest in the topic of violence against doctors. Most GPs, regardless of gender, reported receiving verbal abuse over the last two years, often interpreted as a consequence of declining deference to professionals, while actual physical assaults and threats were much rarer and more likely to be reported by men. Overall, women GPs were much more likely to express concern about violence and to take personal precautions, although younger male GPs working in inner‐city practices also had high levels of concern. The study shows how some aspects of family doctors’ work has been organised on gendered lines and how these contribute to the differences in experience of violence. We suggest that the increasing proportion of women among family doctors may have implications for these, often tacit, organisational routines.
Serum anti‐Mullerian hormone levels across different ethnic groups: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bhide P , Gudi A , Shah A , Homburg R
Published: October 2015

Objective

To assess whether ethnic differences in serum anti‐Mullerian hormone (AMH) exist in a population of subfertile women presenting to a fertility clinic.

Design

Observational cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Homerton University Hospital Fertility Centre, London, UK.

Population

A total of 865 women attending the fertility clinic for their first consultation appointment between September 2012 and September 2013.

Methods

Serum AMH was compared amongst women from five different ethnic groups.

Main outcome measures

Serum AMH and ethnicity were the primary outcome variables.

Results

Although initial comparison showed South Asian women to have a higher serum AMH, compared with white European and Afro‐Caribbean women (F = 3.817; P < 0.005), South Asian women attending the clinic were significantly younger and less likely to be smokers than women from other ethnic groups. The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was significantly higher in South Asian and South East Asian women than in other ethnic groups. Differences in serum AMH were no longer significant after controlling for confounding factors: age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking status with (P = 0.869) and without (P = 0.215) controlling for PCOS.

Conclusion

The results from our study show that there was no independent association of ethnicity and serum AMH levels in an unselected population of women attending the fertility clinic.
Competitive intelligence and disclosure
Authors: Bagnoli Mark , Watts Susan G.
Published: October 2015

Competitive intelligence (CI) activities open new opportunities for firms to acquire and disclose information. We show that disclosure depends on the relative usefulness of information to the competing firms and is generally less (more) likely with Cournot (Bertrand) competition and when firms adopt product differentiation strategies. When CI costs are independent of information characteristics, each firm seeks information solely useful to itself and discloses it unless it is a Bertrand competitor with customer information. Only when the cost advantage is sufficiently great does each firm seek information useful to itself and its rival.
Market size and pharmaceutical innovation
Authors: Dubois Pierre , de Mouzon Olivier , Scott‐Morton Fiona , Seabright Paul
Published: October 2015

This article quantifies the relationship between market size and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry using improved, and newer, methods and data. We find significant elasticities of innovation to expected market size with a point estimate under our preferred specification of 0.23. This suggests that, on average, $2.5 billion is required in additional revenue to support the invention of one new chemical entity. This magnitude is plausible given recent accounting estimates of the cost of innovation of $800 million to $1 billion per drug, and marginal costs of manufacture and distribution near 50%.
A Global Comprehensive Measure of the Impact of Natural Hazards and Disasters
Authors: Noy Ilan
Published: October 2015

The adverse impacts of natural hazards are typically measured separately by the number of fatalities, of injuries, of people otherwise affected, and the financial damage that they wreak. Without a comprehensive measure of disaster impacts it is impossible to fully comprehend their importance and therefore successfully prepare for them. We propose an aggregate measure of disaster impact, which builds on the conceptual underpinnings of the calculations of Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) lost due to the burden of diseases and injuries (WHO, 2013). The proposed measure, however, adds a quantification of the importance of destruction of infrastructure, capital and housing into an overall assessment. The index converts all measures of impact into ‘lifeyears’ units. We then analyze worldwide trends in lifeyears lost to disasters and discuss policy implications of these measurements.
Clinical Impact of Alcohol‐Related Cirrhosis in the Next Decade: Estimates Based on Current Epidemiological Trends in the United States
Authors: Guirguis John , Chhatwal Jagpreet , Dasarathy Jaividhya , Rivas John , McMichael David , Nagy Laura E. , McCullough Arthur J. , Dasarathy Srinivasan
Published: October 2015

Background

Identifying changes in the epidemiology of liver disease is critical for establishing healthcare priorities and allocating resources to develop therapies. The projected contribution of different etiologies toward development of cirrhosis in the United States was estimated based on current publications on epidemiological data and advances in therapy. Given the heterogeneity of published reports and the different perceptions that are not always reconcilable, a critical overview rather than a formal meta‐analysis of the existing data and projections for the next decade was performed.

Methods

Data from the World Health Organization Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health of 2014, Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients from 1999 to 2012, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were inquired to determine future changes in the epidemiology of liver disease.

Results

Alcohol consumption has increased over the past 60 years. In 2010, transplant‐related costs for liver recipients were the highest for hepatitis C (~$124 million) followed by alcohol‐related cirrhosis (~$86 million). We anticipate a significant reduction in incidence cirrhosis due to causes other than alcohol because of the availability of high efficiency antiviral agents for hepatitis C, universal and effective vaccination for hepatitis B, relative stabilization of the obesity trends in the United States, and novel, potentially effective therapies for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The proportion of alcohol‐related liver disease is therefore likely to increase in both the population as a whole and the liver transplant wait list.

Conclusions

Alcohol‐related cirrhosis and alcohol‐related liver disorders will be the major cause of liver disease in the coming decades. There is an urgent need to allocate resources aimed toward understanding the pathogenesis of the disease and its complications so that effective therapies can be developed.
A Bayesian Hierarchical Framework for Modeling Brain Connectivity for Neuroimaging Data
Authors: Chen Shuo , Bowman F. DuBois , Mayberg Helen S.
Published: October 2015

We propose a novel Bayesian hierarchical model for brain imaging data that unifies voxel-level (the most localized unit of measure) and region-level brain connectivity analyses, and yields population-level inferences. Functional connectivity generally refers to associations in brain activity between distinct locations. The first level of our model summarizes brain connectivity for cross-region voxel pairs using a two-component mixture model consisting of connected and nonconnected voxels. We use the proportion of connected voxel pairs to define a new measure of connectivity strength, which reflects the breadth of between-region connectivity. Furthermore, we evaluate the impact of clinical covariates on connectivity between region-pairs at a population level. We perform parameter estimation using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) techniques, which can be executed quickly relative to the number of model parameters. We apply our method to resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from 32 subjects with major depression and simulated data to demonstrate the properties of our method.
A 2‐year multicentre, open‐label, randomized, controlled study of growth hormone (Genotropin®) treatment in very young children born small for gestational age: Early Growth and Neurodevelopment (EGN) Study
Authors: De Schepper Jean , Vanderfaeillie Johan , Mullis Primus‐E. , Rooman Raoul , Robertson Anna , Dilleen Maria , Gomez Roy , Wollmann Hartmut A.
Published: October 2015

Objective

In Europe, growth hormone (GH) treatment for children born small for gestational age (SGA) can only be initiated after 4 years of age. However, younger age at treatment initiation is a predictor of favourable response. To assess the effect of GH treatment on early growth and cognitive functioning in very young (<30 months), short‐stature children born SGA.

Design

A 2‐year, randomized controlled, multicentre study (NCT00627523; EGN study), in which patients received either GH treatment or no treatment for 24 months.

Patients

Children aged 19–29 months diagnosed as SGA at birth, and for whom sufficient early growth data were available, were eligible. Patients were randomized (1:1) to GH treatment (Genotropin®, Pfizer Inc.) at a dose of 0·035 mg/kg/day by subcutaneous injection, or no treatment.

Measurements

The primary objective was to assess the change from baseline in height standard deviation score (SDS) after 24 months of GH treatment.

Results

Change from baseline in height SDS was significantly greater in the GH treatment vs control group at both month 12 (1·03 vs 0·14) and month 24 (1·63 vs 0·43; both P < 0·001). Growth velocity SDS was significantly higher in the GH treatment vs control group at 12 months (P < 0·001), but not at 24 months. There was no significant difference in mental or psychomotor development indices between the two groups.

Conclusions

GH treatment for 24 months in very young short‐stature children born SGA resulted in a significant increase in height SDS compared with no treatment.
Pituitary dysfunction following cranial radiotherapy for adult‐onset nonpituitary brain tumours
Authors: Kyriakakis Nikolaos , Lynch Julie , Orme Steve M. , Gerrard Georgina , Hatfield Paul , Loughrey Carmel , Short Susan C. , Murray Robert D.
Published: October 2015

Objective

There are limited data concerning the evolution of radiation‐induced hypopituitarism in adult‐onset brain tumour (AO‐BT) survivors, in part the consequence of the limited survival of many of these individuals. We aim to characterize the pituitary‐related outcomes following cranial radiotherapy (cXRT) for adult‐onset primary nonpituitary brain tumours.

Design

We retrospectively analysed longitudinal data of patients with AO‐BT who received cXRT within a tertiary cancer referral centre.

Patients

A total of 107 adults (age 40·0 ± 13·1 years) followed for a median duration of 8 years following cXRT.

Measurements

Prevalence of radiotherapy‐induced hypopituitarism.

Results

94·4% received fractionated photon radiotherapy (median dose 54 Gy), while the remaining patients received proton beam or stereotactic radiotherapy. 88·8% of patients developed hypopituitarism during follow‐up. The frequency of GH, gonadotrophin, ACTH and TSH deficiencies was 86·9% (severe GHD 64·5%, partial GHD 22·4%), 34·6%, 23·4% and 11·2%, respectively. ACTH deficiency was clinically significant, necessitating glucocorticoid replacement, in only 10·3% of cases. Hyperprolactinaemia developed in 15% of patients, which was persistent in only 50% of cases. Multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies were present in 47·7% of patients, encountered more frequently in patients with tumours in proximity to the sella. Longitudinal data analysis revealed accumulation of hormone deficits throughout the follow‐up period, with incidence of all pituitary hormone deficiencies almost doubling between years 2 and 7 of follow‐up.

Conclusions

Pituitary dysfunction in AO‐BT survivors following cXRT is a common, evolving, time‐dependent phenomenon. It is important that deficits are identified early and replacement therapies introduced to optimize quality of life in these individuals, where prognosis is often guarded.
SL4, a chalcone‐based compound, induces apoptosis in human cancer cells by activation of the ROS/MAPK signalling pathway
Authors: Wang L.‐H. , Li H.‐H. , Li M. , Wang S. , Jiang X.‐R. , Li Y. , Ping G.‐F. , Cao Q. , Liu X. , Fang W.‐H. , Chen G.‐L. , Yang J.‐Y. , Wu C.‐F.
Published: October 2015

Objectives

SL4, a chalcone‐based compound, exhibits clearly inhibitory effects on HIF‐1 and has been shown to effectively suppress tumour invasion and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Here, studies were conducted to determine SL4's anti‐apoptotic effects and its underlying mechanisms, in human cancer cells.

Materials and methods

Cytotoxicity, apoptotic induction and its involved mechanisms of SL4 were investigated using normal cells, cancer cells and mouse xenograft models. The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling in SL4‐induced apoptosis was explored by manipulating specific scavenger or signalling inhibitors, in cultured cells.

Results

SL4 significantly inhibited cell population growth of human cancer cell lines but exhibited lower cytotoxicity against normal cells. In addition, SL4 effectively induced apoptosis of Hep3B and MDA‐MB‐435 cells by activating procaspase‐8, ‐9 and ‐3, and down‐regulating expression levels of XIAP, but did not affect HIF‐1 apoptosis‐related targets, Survivin and Bcl‐XL. Further study showed that SL4 also reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and promoted generation of ROS. ROS generation and apoptotic induction by SL4 were blocked by NAC, a scavenger of ROS, suggesting SL4‐induced apoptosis via ROS accumulation. We also found that MAPKs, JNK and p38, but not ERK1/2, to be critical mediators in SL4‐induced apoptosis. SP600125 and SB203580, specific inhibitors of JNK kinase and p38 kinase, significantly retarded apoptosis induced by SL4. Moreover, anti‐oxidant NAC blocked activation of JNK and p38 induced by SL4, indicating that ROS may act as upstream signalling of JNK and p38 activation. It is noteworthy that animal studies revealed dramatic reduction (49%) in tumour volume after 11 days SL4 treatment.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that SL4 induced apoptosis in human cancer cells through activation of the ROS/MAPK signalling pathway, suggesting that it may be a novel lead compound, as a cancer drug candidate, with polypharmacological characteristics.
Rapidly rising incidence of Type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents aged 0–19 years in Zhejiang, China, 2007 to 2013
Authors: Wu H. B. , Zhong J. M. , Hu R. Y. , Wang H. , Gong W. W. , Pan J. , Fei F. R. , Wang M. , Guo L. H. , Yang L. , Yu M.
Published: October 2015

Aims

To investigate the incidence rates and trends in Type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents aged 0–19 years in the registered Zhejiang population over the period 2007–2013 by age, sex and calendar year.

Methods

In total, 611 individuals with newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetes were identified from 30 districts in Zhejiang province over the study period. Annual incidence and 95% confidence intervals (CI) by age group and sex were calculated per 100 000 person‐years. Trends in diabetes incidence and the associations of age and sex with Type 1 diabetes were assessed using Poisson regression models.

Results

The mean annual age‐standardized incidence of diabetes was 2.02/100 000 person‐years (95% CI: 1.92–2.12), with an average annual increase of 12.0% (95% CI: 7.6–16.6%) over the study period. The risk for Type 1 diabetes in girls was estimated to be 1.25 (95% CI: 1.07–1.47) times higher than that in boys. Compared with those aged 0–4 years, the 5–9, 10–14 and 15–19 years age groups were at significantly greater risk, with adjusting incidence rate ratios of 3.54, 6.58 and 5.39, respectively. The mean age at diagnosis decreased significantly from 12.85 years in 2007 to 11.21 years in 2013. A steep rise in diabetes incidence was observed in the under 5 years age group, which showed the greatest increase at 33.61%.

Conclusions

The incidence of diabetes in Zhejiang was relatively low, although rapidly rising trends have been found in recent years, particularly in younger children. Further monitoring and research are urgently required to better understand possible environmental risk factors and formulate preventive strategies.
Equine coronavirus: An emerging enteric virus of adult horses
Authors: Pusterla N. , Vin R. , Leutenegger C. , Mittel L. D. , Divers T. J.
Published: October 2015

Equine coronavirus (ECoV) is an emerging virus associated clinically and epidemiologically with fever, depression, anorexia and less frequently colic and diarrhoea in adult horses. Sporadic cases and outbreaks have been reported with increased frequency since 2010 from Japan, the USA and more recently from Europe. A faeco‐oral transmission route is suspected and clinical or asymptomatic infected horses appear to be responsible for direct and indirect transmission of ECoV. A presumptive clinical diagnosis of ECoV infection may be suggested by clinical presentation, haematological abnormalities such as leucopenia due to lymphopenia and/or neutropenia. Confirmation of ECoV infection is provided by specific ECoV nucleic acid detection in faeces by quantitative PCR (qPCR) or demonstration of coronavirus antigen by immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy in intestinal biopsy material obtained ante or post mortem. The disease is generally self‐limiting and horses typically recover with symptomatic supportive care. Complications associated with disruption of the gastrointestinal barrier have been reported in some infected horses and include endotoxaemia, septicaemia and hyperammonaemia‐associated encephalopathy. Although specific immunoprophylactic measures have been shown to be effective in disease prevention for closely‐related coronaviruses such as bovine coronavirus (BCoV), such strategies have yet not been investigated for horses and disease prevention is limited to basic biosecurity protocols. This article reviews current knowledge concerning the aetiology, epidemiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, pathology, treatment and prevention of ECoV infection in adult horses.
Pharmacological effects of primaquine ureas and semicarbazides on the central nervous system in mice and antimalarial activity in vitro
Authors: Kedzierska Ewa , Orzelska Jolanta , Perković Ivana , Knežević Danijel , Fidecka Sylwia , Kaiser Marcel , Zorc Branka
Published: October 2015

New primaquine (PQ) urea and semicarbazide derivatives 1–4 were screened for the first time for central nervous system (CNS) and antimalarial activity. Behavioural tests were performed on mice. In vitro cytotoxicity on L‐6 cells and activity against erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium falciparum was determined. Compound 4 inhibited ‘head‐twitch’ responses and decreased body temperature of mice, which suggests some involvement of the serotonergic system. Compound 4 protected mice against clonic seizures and was superior in the antimalarial test. A hybrid of two PQ urea 2 showed a strong antimalarial activity, confirming the previous findings of the high activity of bis(8‐aminoquinolines) and other bisantimalarial drugs. All the compounds decreased the locomotor activity of mice, what suggests their weak depressive effects on the CNS, while PQ derivatives 1 and 2 increased amphetamine‐induced hyperactivity. None of the compounds impaired coordination, what suggests a lack of their neurotoxicity. All the tested compounds presented an antinociceptive activity in the ‘writhing’ test. Compounds 3 and 4 were active in nociceptive tests, and those effects were reversed by naloxone. Compound 4 could be a useful lead compound in the development of CNS active agents and antimalarials, whereas compound 3 may be considered as the most promising lead for new antinociceptive agents.
Involvement of cytokines in the modulation and progression of renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction in C57BL/6 mice: effects of thalidomide and dexamethasone
Authors: Bersani‐Amado Luiz Eduardo , Dantas Jaílson Araujo , Damião Marcio José , Rocha Bruno Ambrósio , Besson Jean Carlos Fernando , Bastos Rafael Lucena , Silva Letícia Nicoletti , Bersani–Amado Ciomar Aparecida , Cuman Roberto Kenji Nakamura
Published: October 2015

This study investigated the kinetics of cytokines that are involved in the development of interstitial fibrosis in mice that were subjected to UUO, the interstitial type I and III collagen deposition, and the effects of Thalido and Dexa treatment on these parameters. Inbred C57BL/6 mice were divided into the groups: Normal (not submitted surgery), Sham (sham surgery), Control (UUO treated with 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose), Thalido (UUO treated with 5 mg/kg thalidomide), and Dexa (UUO treated with 1 mg/kg dexamethasone). The treatments began the day before surgery and were administered once daily by gavage for 1, 7, or 14 days. At the end of each treatment period, blood samples were collected for the determination of creatinine, urea, cytokines. The Control group exhibited a increase in creatinine concentration compared with the Normal and Sham groups within the first 24 h after UUO, which remained high until days 7 and 14. The urea concentration was higher on days 7 and 14 in the Control group compared with the Sham group. In the Thalido and Dexa groups, a reduction of serum creatinine concentration was seen on day 14. Treatment with Dexa reduced the serum concentration of urea on day 7. The serum concentrations of cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10 and IL‐17) and chemokines (KC, MIG, bFGF) increased in UUO mice at all of the sampling times. The Dexa and Thalido groups exhibited alterations in the concentrations of these cytokines, suggesting the involvement of anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms that may have modified the fibrosis framework.
Immunohistochemical determination of the extracellular matrix modulation in a rat model of choline‐deprived myocardium: the effects of carnitine
Authors: Strilakou Athina , Perelas Apostolos , Lazaris Andreas , Papavdi Asteria , Karkalousos Petros , Giannopoulou Ioanna , Kriebardis Anastasios , Panayiotides Ioannis , Liapi Charis
Published: October 2015

Choline has been identified as an essential nutrient with crucial role in many vital biological functions. Recent studies have demonstrated that heart dysfunction can develop in the setting of choline deprivation even in the absence of underlying heart disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are responsible for extracellular matrix degradation, and the dysregulation of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 has been involved in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular disorders. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of MMPs and their inhibitors (TIMPs), in the pathogenesis of choline deficiency‐induced cardiomyopathy, and the way they are affected by carnitine supplementation. Male Wistar Albino adult rats were divided into four groups and received standard or choline‐deficient diet with or without L‐carnitine in drinking water (0.15% w/v) for 1 month. Heart tissue immunohistochemistry for MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐2 was performed. Choline deficiency was associated with suppressed immunohistochemical expression of MMP‐2 and an increased expression of TIMP‐2 compared to control, while it had no impact on TIMP‐1. MMP‐9 expression was decreased without, however, reaching statistical significance. Carnitine did not affect MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1 or TIMP‐2 expression. The pattern of TIMP and MMP modulation observed in a choline deficiency setting appears to promote fibrosis. Carnitine, although shown to suppress fibrosis, does not seem to affect MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1 or TIMP‐2 expression. Further studies will be required to identify the mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of carnitine.
Civil Society, Everyday Life and the Possibilities for Development Studies
Authors: Peck Sarah
Published: October 2015

Civil society is one of the most contentious terms in political thought. There is considerable, and highly significant, difference between academic debate about the meaning of ‘civil society’ and the way the term is mobilized in international development discourse. In particular, narratives of civil society in international development are often dominated by reference to organizational descriptions and measurability. But I would like to suggest here that the term should be reclaimed as a way of giving meaning to the stories of the everyday lives of the people who create, shape and embody civil society. Used in this way, the idea of civil society can be understood as intersecting emotions, discourses and practices and can add to the body of scholarly work that nurtures and values everyday life as a lens through which to view wider social processes. Paying attention to the everyday life of civil society may have implications for that way the civil society is engaged with academically, and also has the potential to refresh how civil society is thought about in development practice.
Fcγ receptors: genetic variation, function, and disease
Authors: Hargreaves Chantal E. , Rose‐Zerilli Matthew J. J. , Machado Lee R. , Iriyama Chisako , Hollox Edward J. , Cragg Mark S. , Strefford Jonathan C.
Published: October 2015

Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) are key immune receptors responsible for the effective control of both humoral and innate immunity and are central to maintaining the balance between generating appropriate responses to infection and preventing autoimmunity. When this balance is lost, pathology results in increased susceptibility to cancer, autoimmunity, and infection. In contrast, optimal FcγR engagement facilitates effective disease resolution and response to monoclonal antibody immunotherapy. The underlying genetics of the FcγR gene family are a central component of this careful balance. Complex in humans and generated through ancestral duplication events, here we review the evolution of the gene family in mammals, the potential importance of copy number, and functionally relevant single nucleotide polymorphisms, as well as discussing current approaches and limitations when exploring genetic variation in this region.
Structural mechanism of high affinity FcγRI recognition of immunoglobulin G
Authors: Lu Jinghua , Sun Peter D.
Published: October 2015

Antibody‐based immunotherapies are becoming powerful means of modern medicine for treating cancers and autoimmune diseases. The increasing popularity of antibody‐based treatment demands a better understanding of antibody functions and in particular, their interaction with Fc receptors as effectiveness of antibodies often depends on their ability to activate or avoid effector cell functions through Fc receptors. Until recently, our understanding of antibody recognition by Fc receptors is based on the structures of low affinity Fc receptor in complex with Fc. These structural studies provided significant insights to our understanding of how an IgG antibody generally docks on Fcγ receptor and the requirement of immune complex formation for effector cell activations. They are less informative, however, to the molecular forces underlying the vast different affinities between antibodies and their Fcγ receptors. Recently, the structure of the high affinity FcγRI in complex with IgG‐Fc has been determined. This review will focus on the knowledge learned from the high affinity complex structural work and a potential receptor–glycan interaction as an important contribution to the receptor affinity.
bIgG time for large eaters: monocytes and macrophages as effector and target cells of antibody‐mediated immune activation and repression
Authors: Gordan Sina , Biburger Markus , Nimmerjahn Falk
Published: October 2015

The mononuclear phagocytic system consists of a great variety of cell subsets localized throughout the body in immunological and non‐immunological tissues. While one of their prime tasks is to detect, phagocytose, and kill intruding microorganisms, they are also involved in maintaining tissue homeostasis and immune tolerance toward self through removal of dying cells. Furthermore, monocytes and macrophages have been recognized to play a critical role for mediating immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐dependent effector functions, including target cell depletion, tissue inflammation, and immunomodulation. For this, monocyte and macrophage populations are equipped with a complex set of Fc‐receptors, enabling them to directly interact with pro‐ or anti‐inflammatory IgG preparations. In this review, we will summarize the most recent findings, supporting a central role of monocytes and macrophages for pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory IgG activity.
Biogeography and colonization history of plethodontid salamanders from the Interior Highlands of eastern North America
Authors: Martin Samuel D. , Shepard Donald B. , Steffen Michael A. , Phillips John G. , Bonett Ronald M.
Published: October 2015

Aim

The Interior Highlands (Ouachita Mountains and Ozark Plateau) are major physiographical regions of eastern North America and harbour many endemic species. Despite their close proximity, the Ozarks and Ouachitas have different geological histories and relatively distinct species pools. Few studies have tested the biogeographical origins of this region's fauna, and most researchers have treated the Interior Highlands as a single unit. Here, we inferred the sources and timing of colonization of the Ozarks and the Ouachitas by analysing the biogeography of three genera of plethodontid salamanders (Eurycea,PlethodonandDesmognathus).

Location

Eastern North America.

Methods

We constructed a well‐sampled, time‐calibrated phylogeny for the family Plethodontidae using three mitochondrial and three nuclear genes inbeast. Genetic data were primarily taken from GenBank, although we also produced 76 novel sequences. Usinglagrange, we reconstructed ancestral areas for North American plethodontids. We compared the frequency and timing of dispersal events between the Ozarks and Ouachitas to other putative sources such as the Eastern Highlands (Appalachian Mountains and associated limestone plateaus).

Results

We inferred nine dispersal events from the Eastern Highlands to the Interior Highlands, and just two dispersal events between the geographically proximate Ozarks and Ouachitas. Following one dispersal in the Oligocene, other inter‐highland dispersal events occurred in the Miocene and Pliocene, including two periods of near‐synchronous movements.

Main conclusions

Given the relatively limited faunal exchange between the Ozarks and Ouachitas, we conclude that either the river valley separating the Ozarks and Ouachitas is a more formidable barrier to plethodontid salamander dispersal than barriers separating the Interior Highlands from the Eastern Highlands, or ecological/community contingencies have limited dispersal within the Interior Highlands. In our study, geographical proximity of upland islands does not correspond with faunal similarity.
Pharmacological induction of ferritin prevents osteoblastic transformation of smooth muscle cells
Authors: Becs Gergely , Zarjou Abolfazl , Agarwal Anupam , Kovács Katalin Éva , Becs Ádám , Nyitrai Mónika , Balogh Enikő , Bányai Emese , Eaton John W. , Arosio Paolo , Poli Maura , Jeney Viktória , Balla József , Balla György
Published: October 2015

Vascular calcification is a frequent complication of atherosclerosis, diabetes and chronic kidney disease. In the latter group of patients, calcification is commonly seen in tunica media where smooth muscle cells (SMC) undergo osteoblastic transformation. Risk factors such as elevated phosphorus levels and vitamin D3 analogues have been identified. In the light of earlier observations by our group and others, we sought to inhibit SMC calcification via induction of ferritin. Human aortic SMC were cultured using β‐glycerophosphate with activated vitamin D3, or inorganic phosphate with calcium, and induction of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin as well as accumulation of calcium were used to monitor osteoblastic transformation. In addition, to examine the role of vitamin D3 analogues, plasma samples from patients on haemodialysis who had received calcitriol or paricalcitol were tested for their tendency to induce calcification of SMC. Addition of exogenous ferritin mitigates the transformation of SMC into osteoblast‐like cells. Importantly, pharmacological induction of heavy chain ferritin by 3H‐1,2‐Dithiole‐3‐thione was able to inhibit the SMC transition into osteoblast‐like cells and calcification of extracellular matrix. Plasma samples collected from patients after the administration of activated vitamin D3 caused significantly increased ALP activity in SMC compared to the samples drawn prior to activated vitamin D3 and here, again induction of ferritin diminished the osteoblastic transformation. Our data suggests that pharmacological induction of ferritin prevents osteoblastic transformation of SMC. Hence, utilization of such agents that will cause enhanced ferritin synthesis may have important clinical applications in prevention of vascular calcification.
Contracts with Wishful Thinkers
Authors: Immordino Giovanni , Menichini Anna Maria C. , Romano Maria Grazia
Published: October 2015

In a setting with a wishful thinking agent and a realistic principal, the paper studies how incentive contracts should be designed to control for both moral hazard and self‐deception. The properties of the contract that reconcile the agent with reality depend on the weight the agent attaches to anticipatory utility. When this is small, principal and agent agree on full recollection. For intermediate values the principal bears an extra cost to make the agent recall bad news. For large weights, the principal gives up on inducing signal recollection. We also extend the analysis to the case in which the parameter of anticipatory utility is private information.
Social Mobility, Whiteness, and Whitening in Colombia
Authors: Viveros Vigoya Mara
Published: October 2015

En este artículo examino en primer lugar cómo se ha entendido la “blanquidad” y “el blanqueamiento” en Colombia, mostrando las continuidades y discontinuidades que ha tenido esta dinámica social en relación con la constitución progresiva del significado contemporáneo del término “raza”. En segundo lugar, doy cuenta del proceso vivido por las y los sujetos de una investigación, realizada en Bogotá sobre el surgimiento y participación de las clases medias ‘negras’ en la vida nacional colombiana”. En tercer lugar analizo el vínculo que se puede establecer entre el ascenso social y el blanqueamiento como proceso ideológico, social y personal. Por último, considero las adaptaciones y resistencias que implica este proceso frente a las jerarquías socioraciales, en el particular contexto del multiculturalismo actual que autoriza las diferencias culturales pero invisibiliza las desigualdades raciales. [Afrolatinoamericanos, Colombia, movilidad social, multiculturalismo, relaciones raciales]
Practicing Tranquilidad: Domestic Technologies and Comfortable Homes in Southeastern Mexico
Authors: Pertierra Anna Cristina
Published: October 2015

Este artículo analiza cómo los mexicanos se manifiestan una ideología de la comodidad doméstica moderna—una ideología cuyo desarrollo hasta la fecha ha sido en su mayoría explorado con referencia a Gran Bretaña y Estados Unidos. Basado en la investigación etnográfica de la pequeña ciudad mexicana de Chetumal, en el sur de Quintana Roo, se argumenta que el concepto clave de la tranquilidad sustenta el montaje de casas que son cada vez más ricos en los aparatos electrónicos. Los televisores y acondicionadores de aire domésticos son tecnologías de trascendencia particular, cuya presencia en los hogares de las clases medias establecidas y emergentes posibilitan la materialización de hogares y vidas tranquilas. La economía y la historia de Chetumal ha creado una ciudad sumamente adecuada para construir una vida tranquila. Sin embargo, este ejemplo específico de las prácticas y experiencias de sus habitantes también nos ofrece información sobre un ideal nacional (cada vez más asequible) de la domesticidad en la clase media mexicana, y la función de las tecnologías domésticas en la realización de tal ideal.
Can Impression Procedures Affect Certain Vital Functions of Edentulous Patients? A Clinical Study
Authors: Piskin Bulent , Karakoc Omer , Emir Faruk , Uyar Alper , Sipahi Cumhur , Tasci Canturk , Açıkel Cengizhan , Sevketbeyoglu Haldun
Published: October 2015

Purpose

The most suitable treatment conditions and timing for medically unstable patients with severe systemic diseases about to undergo invasive dental treatment are well documented in the literature; however, no medical guides or recommendations identify these conditions for noninvasive dental treatments in such patients. The aim of this clinical study was to determine the effect of impression procedures on arterial oxygen saturation (AOS) and pulse rates (PRs) of edentulous subjects.

Materials and Methods

A total of 28 Caucasian edentulous participants (15 females, 13 males) were included in the study. Pulse oximetry recordings (150 seconds) were performed for each participant at three stages; recording at rest (CON), during mandibular impressions (MANIs), and maxillary impressions (MAXIs). The mean values of PR, AOS, and event scores (ESs) indicating desaturation were obtained from the records. The comparisons of mean PR and AOS values were performed with the Bonferroni‐corrected Wilcoxon‐signed ranks test. The ESs were analyzed with the McNemar Test.

Results

The mean AOS values of MANI and MAXI did not display significant changes when compared with CON; however, the ESs obtained in both MANI and MAXI were significantly higher than those of CON (p = 0.008, p = 0.004). In addition, mean PR values obtained in MAXI were significantly higher than CON (p = 0.009).

Conclusions

According to the results of this clinical study, the impression procedures may affect the PR values and lead to desaturation events in edentulous patients; however, further studies evaluating blood gas levels, which indicate precise AOS values, are necessary to support the results of this study.
Molecular and Biological Analysis of Potato virus M (PVM) Isolates from the Czech Republic
Authors: Plchova Helena , Vaculik Petr , Cerovska Noemi , Moravec Tomas , Dedic Petr
Published: October 2015

The sequences of the 3′‐terminal region of four Czech Potato virus M isolates VIRUBRA 4/007, VIRUBRA 4/009, VIRUBRA 4/016 and VIRUBRA 4/035 were determined and compared with sequences of PVM isolates available in GenBank. Among the Czech isolates, VIRUBRA 4/007 and 4/016 as well as VIRUBRA 4/016 and 4/035 showed the highest nucleotide identity (93%). Isolates VIRUBRA 4/007, 4/016 and 4/035 were most similar to the PV0273 isolate from Germany and to the wild isolate from Russia. Interestingly, isolate VIRUBRA 4/009 significantly differed from the other three Czech isolates and was the only European isolate that showed the highest nucleotide identity with American isolates. Moreover, the PVM isolates from the Czech Republic and Germany differed in their host range. Phylogenetic analysis based on ORF5 coding for coat protein showed that the Czech isolates could be classified in two of the three groupings of the phylogenetic tree obtained. This is the first report on molecular and biological analysis of the genome sequences of PVM isolates from the Czech Republic.