bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Dissection of Spatiotemporal Metabolic Shifts in Primary, Secondary, and Lipid Metabolism during Developmental Senescence in Arabidopsis
Authors: Watanabe Mutsumi , Balazadeh Salma , Tohge Takayuki , Erban Alexander , Giavalisco Patrick , Kopka Joachim , Mueller-Roeber Bernd , Fernie Alisdair R. , Hoefgen Rainer
Published: May 2013

Developmental senescence is a coordinated physiological process in plants and is critical for nutrient redistribution from senescing leaves to newly formed sink organs, including young leaves and developing seeds. Progress has been made concerning the genes involved and the regulatory networks controlling senescence. The resulting complex metabolome changes during senescence have not been investigated in detail yet. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive profiling of metabolites, including pigments, lipids, sugars, amino acids, organic acids, nutrient ions, and secondary metabolites, and determined approximately 260 metabolites at distinct stages in leaves and siliques during senescence in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). This provided an extensive catalog of metabolites and their spatiotemporal cobehavior with progressing senescence. Comparison with silique data provides clues to source-sink relations. Furthermore, we analyzed the metabolite distribution within single leaves along the basipetal sink-source transition trajectory during senescence. Ceramides, lysolipids, aromatic amino acids, branched chain amino acids, and stress-induced amino acids accumulated, and an imbalance of asparagine/aspartate, glutamate/glutamine, and nutrient ions in the tip region of leaves was detected. Furthermore, the spatiotemporal distribution of tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates was already changed in the presenescent leaves, and glucosinolates, raffinose, and galactinol accumulated in the base region of leaves with preceding senescence. These results are discussed in the context of current models of the metabolic shifts occurring during developmental and environmentally induced senescence. As senescence processes are correlated to crop yield, the metabolome data and the approach provided here can serve as a blueprint for the analysis of traits and conditions linking crop yield and senescence.
Abnormal Glycosphingolipid Mannosylation Triggers Salicylic Acid–Mediated Responses inArabidopsis
Authors: Mortimer Jenny C. , Yu Xiaolan , Albrecht Sandra , Sicilia Francesca , Huichalaf Mariela , Ampuero Diego , Michaelson Louise V. , Murphy Alex M. , Matsunaga Toshiro , Kurz Samantha , Stephens Elaine , Baldwin Timothy C. , Ishii Tadashi , Napier Johnathan A. , Weber Andreas P.M. , Handford Michael G. , Dupree Paul
Published: May 2013

The Arabidopsis thaliana protein GOLGI-LOCALIZED NUCLEOTIDE SUGAR TRANSPORTER (GONST1) has been previously identified as a GDP-d-mannose transporter. It has been hypothesized that GONST1 provides precursors for the synthesis of cell wall polysaccharides, such as glucomannan. Here, we show that in vitro GONST1 can transport all four plant GDP-sugars. However, gonst1 mutants have no reduction in glucomannan quantity and show no detectable alterations in other cell wall polysaccharides. By contrast, we show that a class of glycosylated sphingolipids (glycosylinositol phosphoceramides [GIPCs]) contains Man and that this mannosylation is affected in gonst1. GONST1 therefore is a Golgi GDP-sugar transporter that specifically supplies GDP-Man to the Golgi lumen for GIPC synthesis. gonst1 plants have a dwarfed phenotype and a constitutive hypersensitive response with elevated salicylic acid levels. This suggests an unexpected role for GIPC sugar decorations in sphingolipid function and plant defense signaling. Additionally, we discuss these data in the context of substrate channeling within the Golgi.
X-ray absorption study of the local structure at the NiO/oxide interfaces
Authors: Preda Iulian , Soriano Leonardo , Díaz-Fernández Daniel , Domínguez-Cañizares Guillermo , Gutiérrez Alejandro , Castro Germán R. , Chaboy Jesús
Published: May 2013

This work reports an X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy study at the NiK-edge in the early stages of growth of NiO on non-ordered SiO2, Al2O3and MgO thin films substrates. Two different coverages of NiO on the substrates have been studied. The analysis of the XANES region shows that for high coverages (80 Eq-ML) the spectra are similar to that of bulk NiO, being identical for all substrates. In contrast, for low coverages (1 Eq-ML) the spectra differ from that of large coverages indicating that the local order around Ni is limited to the first two coordination shells. In addition, the results also suggest the formation of cross-linking bonds Ni—O—M(M= Si, Al, Mg) at the interface.
Law, Property and Ambiguity: The Uses and Abuses of Legal Ambiguity in RemakingIstanbul's Informal Settlements
Authors: Kuyucu Tuna
Published: May 2013

What is the role of legal ambiguity in the creation and institutionalization of private property regimes? In what ways does the (ab)use of legal ambiguities affect market‐making processes? I address these questions through a detailed analysis of two large‐scale urban renewal projects in Istanbul that impose a formal private property regime on informal settlements. My research reveals that without the strategic utilization of legal ambiguities and administrative arbitrariness by public and private actors, private property cannot be easily created and hence capitalist markets cannot function efficiently. My findings challenge the assumptions of several social science traditions such as neoclassical and neoinstitutionalist economics, as well as most works within the law and economics tradition regarding the relationship between law, property and economic development. These approaches to economic development are underpinned by the legal certainty that private property entails as the most important element for an efficient economic order. However, in their unconditional support for private ownership, they fail to realize the degree of legal ambiguity and administrative arbitrariness needed to create the private property regime in the first place. As such their arguments remain theoretically and empirically incomplete. A more complete analysis of the relationship between law and economic dynamics must focus on how private property is constructed, and the extent to which legal ambiguities and loopholes are utilized in this process.
Color, Phenolics, and Antioxidant Activity of Blackberry (Rubus glaucus Benth.), Blueberry (Vaccinium floribundum Kunth.), and Apple Wines from Ecuador
Authors: Ortiz Jacqueline , Marín‐Arroyo María‐Remedios , Noriega‐Domínguez María‐José , Navarro Montserrat , Arozarena Iñigo
Published: May 2013

Seventy wines were produced in Ecuador under different processing conditions with local fruits: Andean blackberries (Rubus glaucus Benth.) and blueberries (Vaccinium floribundum Kunth.) and Golden Reinette apples. Wines were evaluated for antioxidant activity (AA) using the radical scavenging capacity (DPPH) method, total phenolic content (TPC) using the Folin–Ciocalteu method, total monomeric anthocyanins (TMAs) using the pH differential test, and color parameters using VIS‐spectrophotometry. For blackberry wines, ellagitannins and anthocyanins were also analyzed using high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode‐array detection (HPLC‐DAD). Apples wines (n = 40) had the lowest TPC (608 ± 86 mg/L) and AA (2.1 ± 0.3 mM Trolox). Blueberry wines (n = 12) had high TPC (1086 ± 194 mg/L) and moderate AA (5.4 ± 0.8 mM) but very low TMA (8 ± 3 mg/L), with a color evolved toward yellow and blue shades. Blackberry wines (n = 10) had the highest TPC (1265 ± 91 mg/L) and AA (12 ± 1 mM). Ellagitannins were the major phenolics (1172 ± 115 mg/L) and correlated well with AA (r = 0.88). Within anthocyanins (TMA 73 ± 16 mg/L), cyanidin‐3‐rutinoside (62%) and cyanidin‐3‐glucoside (15%) were predominant. Wines obtained by cofermentation of apples and blackberries (n = 8) showed intermediate characteristics (TPC 999 ± 83 mg/L, AA 6.2 ± 0.7 mM, TMA 35 ± 22 mg/L) between the blackberry and blueberry wines. The results suggest that the Andean berries, particularly R. glaucus, are suitable raw materials to produce wines with an in vitro antioxidant capacity that is comparable to red grape wines.
Indirect Color Prediction of Amorphous Carbohydrate Melts as a Function of Thermal History
Authors: van Sleeuwen Rutger M. T. , Gosse Anaїck J. , Normand Valery
Published: May 2013

Glassy carbohydrate microcapsules are widely used for the encapsulation of flavors in food applications, and are made using various thermal processes (for example, extrusion). During manufacturing, these carbohydrate melts are held at elevated temperatures and color can form due to nonenzymatic browning reactions. These reactions can negatively or positively affect the color and flavor of microcapsules. The rate of color formation of maltodextrin and maltodextrin/sucrose melts at elevated temperatures was determined spectrophotometrically and was found to follow pseudo zero‐order kinetics. The effect of temperature was adequately modeled by an Arrhenius relationship. Reaction rate constants and Arrhenius parameters were determined for individual wavelengths in the visible range (360 to 700 nm at 1 nm intervals). Transient processes (temperature changes with time) were modeled as a sequence of small isothermal events, and the equivalent thermal history at a reference temperature calculated using the Arrhenius relationship. Therefore, spectral transmittance curves could be predicted with knowledge of the time/temperature relationship. Validation was conducted by subjecting both melts to a transient thermal history. Experimental transmittance spectrum compared favorably against predicted values. These spectra were optionally converted to any desirable color space (for example, CIELAB, XYZ, RGB) or derived parameter (for example, Browning Index). The tool could be used to better control nonenzymatic browning reactions in industrial food processes.
Two novel mutations in apolipoprotein C3 underlie atheroprotective lipid profiles in families
Authors: Bochem A.E. , van Capelleveen J.C. , Dallinga‐Thie G.M. , Schimmel A.W.M. , Motazacker M.M. , Tietjen I. , Singaraja R.R. , Hayden M.R. , Kastelein J.J.P. , Stroes E.S.G. , Hovingh G.K.
Published: May 2013

Apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3) mutations carriers typically display high plasma high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) and low triglycerides (TGs). We set out to investigate the prevalence and clinical consequences of APOC3 mutations in individuals with hyperalphalipoproteinemia. Two novel mutations (c.‐13‐2A>G and c.55+1G>A) and one known mutation (c.127G>A;p.Ala43Thr) were found. Lipid profiles and apoCIII isoform distributions were measured. c.55+1G>A mutation carriers displayed higher HDL‐C percentiles (35.6 ± 35.8 vs 99.0 ± 0, p = 0.002) and lower TGs (0.51 (0.37–0.61) vs 1.42 (1.12–1.81) mmol/l, p = 0.007) and apoCIII levels (4.24 ± 1.57 vs 7.33 ± 3.61 mg/dl, p = 0.18). c.‐13‐2A>G mutation carriers did not display significantly different HDL‐C levels (84.0 ± 30.0 vs 63.7 ± 45.7, p = 0.50), a trend towards lower TGs [0.71 (0.54 to 0.78) vs 0.85 (0.85 to –) mmol/l, p = 0.06] and significantly lower apoCIII levels (3.09 ± 1.08 vs 11.45 ± 1.06 mg/dl, p = 0.003). p.Ala43Thr mutation carriers displayed a trend towards higher HDL‐C percentiles (91.2 ± 31.8 vs 41.0 ± 29.7 mmol/l, p = 0.06) and significantly lower TGs [0.58 (0.36–0.63) vs 0.95 (0.71–1.20) mmol/l, p = 0.02] and apoCIII levels (4.92 ± 2.33 vs 6.60 ± 1.60, p = 0.25). Heterozygosity for APOC3 mutations results in high HDL‐C and low TGs and apoCIII levels. This favourable lipid profile in patients with genetically low apoCIII levels holds promise for current studies investigating the potential of apoCIII inhibition as a novel therapeutic in cardiovascular disease prevention.
Governing Marine Fisheries in a Changing Climate: A Game‐Theoretic Perspective
Authors: Miller Kathleen A. , Munro Gordon R. , Sumaila U. Rashid , Cheung William W. L.
Published: May 2013

Marine biological resources are likely to come under increasing stress over the course of the 21st century as global climate change and ocean acidification interact with other stresses, including heavy fishing pressures and marine pollution, to create far reaching and difficult‐to‐predict changes in species abundance, spatial distribution, and trophic interactions. The governance systems in place for marine fisheries and for the marine environment, more broadly, will be critical in determining the extent to which these resources can be managed for sustainability. The paper focuses on the governance of internationally shared fisheries, and draws on a body of game‐theoretic research to discuss present‐day governance problems and to evaluate the implications of global environmental change for future efforts to maintain cooperative and effective governance of shared fishery resources. In particular, the increased likelihood of abrupt and unpredictable changes in the productive potential and migratory behavior of exploited fish stocks may threaten to disrupt cooperative management arrangements. The paper discusses the value of contingency planning based on anticipation of the possibility of such events and concludes with a discussion of future directions for both research and policy development.
Management of Complex Fisheries: Lessons Learned from a Simulation Model
Authors: Frost Hans , Andersen Peder , Hoff Ayoe
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how fisheries economics management issues or problems can be analyzed by using a complex model based on conventional bioeconomic theory. Complex simulation models contain a number of details that make them suitable for practical management advice, including taking into account the response of the fishermen to implemented management measures. To demonstrate the use of complex management models this paper assesses a number of second best management schemes against a first rank optimum (FRO), an ideal individual transferable quotas (ITQ) system. This is defined as the management scheme which produces the highest net present value over a 25 year period. The assessed management schemes (scenarios) are composed by several measures as used in the Common Fisheries Policy of the European Union for the cod fishery in the Baltic Sea. The scenarios are total allowable catches in combination with entry restrictions, and maximum number of days at sea in combination with entry restrictions. These two scenarios are assessed under assumptions of no cooperative behavior and cooperative behavior, and compliance and noncompliance with various management restrictions. Apart from showing the magnitude of the resource rent, the impact on fleet structure and the adjustment paths is shown. The result is that the resource rent gained from these second best management schemes is lower than FRO, the ideal ITQ system, but may in practice not be so different.
Telemetric Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index, a Predictor of Cardio–Cerebro–Vascular Mortality, is Associated with Aortic Stiffness‐Determining Factors
Authors: Li Zhi‐Yong , Xu Tian‐Ying , Zhang Sai‐Long , Zhou Xiao‐Ming , Xu Xue‐Wen , Guan Yun‐Feng , Lo Ming , Miao Chao‐Yu
Published: May 2013

Background

Ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) has been proposed as a new measure of arterial stiffness for predicting cardio–cerebro–vascular morbidity and mortality. However, there has been no research on the direct relationships between AASI and arterial stiffness‐determining factors.

Methods

We utilized beat‐to‐beat intra‐aortic blood pressure (BP) telemetry to characterize AASI in Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). By determination of aortic structural components and analysis of their correlations with AASI, we provided the first direct evidence for the associations between AASI and arterial stiffness‐determining factors including the collagen content and collagen/elastin.

Results

Ambulatory arterial stiffness index was positively correlated with pulse pressure in both WKY and SHR, less dependent on BP and BP variability than pulse pressure, and relatively stable, especially the number of BP readings not less than ~36. The correlations between AASI and aortic components were comparable for various AASI values derived from BP readings not less than ~36. Not only AASI but also BP variability and pulse pressure demonstrated a direct relationship with arterial stiffness.

Conclusions

These findings indicate AASI may become a routine measure in human arterial stiffness assessment. It is recommended to use a cluster of parameters such as AASI, BP variability, and pulse pressure for evaluating arterial stiffness.
Characterization of the T cell response in allergic contact dermatitis caused by corticosteroids
Authors: Baeck Marie , Soria Angèle , Marot Liliane , Theate Ivan , Hendrickx Emilie , Van Belle Astrid , Goossens An , Tennstedt Dominique , Dachelet Claire , Jaeger Johnathan , Pilette Charles , Renauld Jean‐Christophe , Van Baren Nicolas , Rozières Aurore , Nicolas Jean‐Fançois , Dumoutier Laure
Published: May 2013

Background Delayed allergic hypersensitivity reactions have classically been described as type IV reactions, which are caused by T cells; however, the respective roles of CD4+ and CD8+ cells are yet to be defined. A central role for CD8+ cytotoxic T cells as effector cells has been suggested.

Objectives To determine the type of T cell involved in corticosteroid allergy.

Methods We analysed the kinetics of T cell recruitment and the cytokine production profile in positive patch tests of 27 corticosteroid‐sensitized patients, as compared with control sites and control subjects. Skin biopsies, collected at 8, 24 and 48 hr following drug application, were embedded in paraffin for histological and immunohistological staining, and, in some cases, also deep‐frozen for gene expression analyses.

Results CD3+ T cells were rapidly recruited in concert with the positivity of the patch test sites. High levels of interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5 and, to a lesser extent, interferon‐γ suggested that both Th2 and Th1 cytokines were implicated. IL‐4 was also produced by γδ T cell receptor (TCR) lymphocytes.

Conclusions This study showed that, in allergic contact dermatitis caused by corticosteroids, the inflammatory infiltrate is composed of CD3+ T cells with a predominant Th2 cytokine profile, among which IL‐4 is also produced by γδ TCR lymphocytes.
Clinical relevance of tixocortol pivalate‐positive patch tests and questionable bioequivalence of different hydrocortisone preparations
Authors: Shaw Daniel W. , Maibach Howard I.
Published: May 2013

Background

Tixocortol‐21‐pivalate (tixocortol pivalate) is used as a surrogate marker for contact allergy to hydrocortisone and other corticosteroids.

Objective

To review the results of repeated open application testing (ROAT) and patch testing with hydrocortisone creams and ointments in tixocortol pivalate patch test‐positive patients.

Methods

ROAT was performed when the history of hydrocortisone contact dermatitis was negative or equivocal. Hydrocortisone cream and/or ointment patch tests were performed in patients with and without histories of hydrocortisone contact dermatitis. Results were excluded in patients allergic to vehicle ingredients.

Results

ROAT was positive in 15 of 20 patients (75%) with hydrocortisone cream versus 6 of 16 (38%) with hydrocortisone ointment (p = 0.02). Patch testing was positive with hydrocortisone cream in 23 of 27 patients (85%) versus 1 of 14 (7%) with hydrocortisone ointment (p < 0.0001). Only 1 of 26 tixocortol pivalate patch test‐negative patients had a positive patch test with hydrocortisone cream caused by a vehicle ingredient.

Conclusions

Clinical relevance was shown in most patients with positive tixocortol pivalate patch tests. Hydrocortisone creams gave positive patch tests and positive repeated open application tests much more often than hydrocortisone ointments. There were also significant differences in patch test reactivity among different hydrocortisone creams. We hypothesize that these differences may be explained by differences in hydrocortisone transepidermal penetration in different vehicles.
Sacral nerve stimulation: an effective treatment for chronic functional anal pain?
Authors: Dudding T. C. , Thomas G. P. , Hollingshead J. R. F. , George A. T. , Stern J. , Vaizey C. J.
Published: May 2013

Aim

Chronic idiopathic anal pain is a common condition of unknown aetiology. Patients may have co‐existing psychiatric disorders and existing treatments are often ineffective. A small number of published case reports suggest that sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) could treat this condition. This pilot study aimed to investigate the efficacy of SNS for the treatment of chronic anal pain.

Method

Ten patients with chronic idiopathic anal pain were recruited. All had failed to respond to conservative treatments. Clinical and psychological evaluation was performed in all patients prior to SNS. Temporary stimulation of the S3 foramina was performed for 3 weeks and outcome assessed by comparison of a pain score diary and visual analogue score obtained during stimulation and at baseline. Primary outcome was defined as a > 50% reduction in pain score.

Results

Of the 10 patients recruited, five were found to have clinical depression. Four patients withdrew from the study prior to testing and six underwent peripheral nerve evaluation (PNE). Three patients had > 50% reduction in pain score and progressed to permanent SNS. Of these, only one had good pain control at latest follow‐up of 5 years; the remaining two patients obtained no benefit and had their devices removed or deactivated. These two patients both had depression that was also not improved by SNS.

Conclusion

This study would suggest that SNS is not an effective treatment for chronic anal pain in the majority of patients. PNE is not an effective means of identifying which of these patients are likely to respond to permanent SNS.
Osteogenic differentiation of adipose‐derived stem cells prompted by low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound
Authors: Yue Y. , Yang X. , Wei X. , Chen J. , Fu N. , Fu Y. , Ba K. , Li G. , Yao Y. , Liang C. , Zhang J. , Cai X. , Wang M
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Based on in vivo studies, low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) stimulation has been widely used in the clinic for advancing bone growth during healing of non‐union alignment, fractures and other osseous defects. In this study, we have investigated osteogenic differentiation of adipose stem cells (ASCs) regulated by LIPUS, and also in a preliminarily manner, we have discussed diverse effects of different duty ratio parameters.

Materials and methods

Mouse adipose stem cells were isolated and osteogenically induced. Then they were treated with LIPUS for 10 min/day for 3 days, 5 days and 7 days, respectively. Finally, effects of LIPUS on osteogenic differentiation of the ASCs were analysed by real‐time PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence.

Results

Our data indicated that LIPUS promoted mRNA levels of runt‐related transcription factor 2, osteopontin and osterix in the presence of osteo‐induction medium; moreover, protein levels of runt‐related transcription factor 2 and osteopontin were upregulated.

Conclusions

We successfully demonstrated that LIPUS enhanced osteogenesis of ASCs, specially at the duty ratio of 20%.
Relationship between HbA1c and risk of all‐cause hospital admissions among people with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Yu D. , Simmons D.
Published: May 2013

Aim

To investigate the relationship between HbA1c and the 2‐year risk of hospitalization among people with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In total, 4704 patients from 18 general practices in Cambridgeshire were included. Glycaemic exposure was assessed in 2008–2009. The primary outcome was all‐cause hospital admissions in 2010–2011. Adjusted relative risks for each HbA1c quintile were estimated using Cox models. Further relationships between HbA1c and risks were explored using spline models.

Results

There was a non‐linear relationship between HbA1c and the risk of all‐cause, diabetes and vascular admissions (all P < 0.001 for linearity test) with an HbA1c threshold of 61 (95% CI 55–66) mmol/mol [7.7 (95% CI 7.2–8.2)%]. For every 11 mmol/mol (1%) HbA1c above the threshold, the risks increased by 6.3% for all‐cause admission, 6.4% for a diabetes admission and 15.9% for a cardiovascular admission (all P < 0.001). The overall hospitalization risks of having an HbA1c above, rather than at, the threshold, were 19.1 16.3 and 54.3% greater, respectively. There were non‐significantly greater risks of hospital admission below the threshold.

Conclusion

In people with Type 2 diabetes, a non‐linear relationship exists between HbA1c and the risk of hospitalization. A threshold of 61 mmol/mol (7.7%) was associated with the lowest rate of all‐cause hospital admissions. Further research should investigate the causes of admissions below and above this threshold, with a view to developing strategies to reduce the excess hospitalization among patients with diabetes.
GSK256073, a selective agonist of G‐protein coupled receptor 109A (GPR109A) reduces serum glucose in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Dobbins R. L. , Shearn S. P. , Byerly R. L. , Gao F. F. , Mahar K. M. , Napolitano A. , Nachbaur G. J. , Le Monnier de Gouville A. ‐C.
Published: May 2013

Aims

This clinical trial assessed whether a potent, selective GPR109A agonist, GSK256073, could, through inhibition of lipolysis, acutely improve glucose homeostasis in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Thirty‐nine diabetic subjects were enrolled in the randomized, single‐blind, placebo‐controlled, three‐period crossover trial. Each subject received placebo and two of four regimens of GSK256073 for 2 days. GSK256073 was dosed 5 mg every 12 h before breakfast and supper (BID), 10 mg every 24 h before breakfast (QD), 25 mg BID and 50 mg QD.

Results

The change from baseline weighted mean glucose concentration for an interval from 24 to 48 h after the initial drug dose was significantly reduced for all GSK256073 regimens, reaching a maximum of −0.87 mmol/l (−1.20, −0.52) with the 25 mg BID dose. Sustained suppression of non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and glycerol concentrations was observed with all GSK256073 doses throughout the 48‐h dosing period. Serum insulin and C‐peptide concentrations fell in concert with glucose concentrations and calculated HOMA‐IR scores decreased 27–47%, consistent with insulin sensitization. No marked differences were evident between either 10 and 50 mg total daily doses or QD versus BID dosing.

Conclusions

Administration of a GPR109A agonist for 2 days significantly decreased serum NEFA and glucose concentrations in diabetic subjects. Glucose improvements were associated with decreased insulin concentrations and measures of enhanced insulin sensitivity. Improved glucose control occurred with GSK256073 doses that were generally safe and not associated with events of flushing or gastrointestinal disturbances.
Feeding ability of a fluvial habitat‐specialist and habitat‐generalist fish in turbulent and still conditions
Authors: Vanderpham Jeffrey P. , Nakagawa Shinichi , Closs Gerard P.
Published: May 2013

Species termed ‘habitat‐generalists’ are able to survive across a wide range of habitats, potentially enabled by the plastic behaviours and morphologies of individuals. This study aimed to compare habitat‐related adaptive specialisation in habitat‐generalists and specialists, by comparing feeding abilities of fish under varied hydrodynamic conditions. We compared the proportion of prey consumed by a New Zealand fluvial habitat‐specialist, the redfin bully, to a closely related habitat‐generalist found in fluvial and lacustrine habitats, the common bully, over a 6‐h period in either still or turbulent aquaria. We tested for intraspecific habitat‐specific adaptations by comparing feeding of common bullies from habitats with different hydrodynamic conditions. Within common bullies, previous research has documented a pattern of more lateral‐line system oculoscapular canal pores in fluvial habitats compared to lacustrine ones. By testing for a relationship between total pores and feeding success, we also aimed to identify the adaptive value of an increase in pores in turbulence. We identified decreased feeding (i.e., proportion of prey consumed) by both species in turbulence, but less so for redfin bullies. There was no clear indication of adaptation to habitat type by common bullies, with high variability in feeding by fish from all locations. We also found no statistical relationship between feeding and total oculoscapular canal pores. The results of this study suggest specialised adaptations of a habitat‐specialist to turbulent environments. The variability in feeding activity of common bullies also suggests the importance of behavioural plasticity in the survival of a habitat‐generalist across a wide range of conditions.
Expression of integrin and CD44 receptors recognising osteopontin in the normal and LPS‐lesioned rat substantia nigra
Authors: Ailane Sara , Long Philip , Jenner Peter , Rose Sarah
Published: May 2013

The multifunctional protein osteopontin (OPN) is expressed in the substantia nigra (SN) and protects nigral dopaminergic neurones against toxic insult in animal models of Parkinson's disease, although the mechanisms involved are uncertain. In the periphery, OPN regulates inflammatory processes by interacting with integrin and CD44 receptors but the presence and distribution of these sites in SN is unknown. We investigated the expression of integrin receptor subunits and CD44 receptors in the normal SN and after induction of inflammation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and their interaction with OPN. In normal rat SN, integrin αv, β3 and β1, and CD44, receptors were expressed on neurones including TH‐positive cells but not on glia. LPS administration induced a loss of TH‐positive neurones in SN and increased expression of glial cells as shown by GFAP, OX‐6 and ED‐1 immunoreactivity. In LPS‐lesioned SN, there was up‐regulation of the expression of integrin β3 and CD44 receptors. Co‐localisation studies showed that this related to their increased expression on OX‐6‐, ED‐1‐ and GFAP‐positive cells. Furthermore, OPN interacted with integrin and CD44 receptors in the normal rat SN as demonstrated by co‐immunoprecipitation and pull‐down techniques. These data show that integrin and CD44 receptors are present on neurones in normal rat SN and that they are up‐regulated on glial cells following LPS‐mediated inflammation in SN, suggesting that they are functionally important in the inflammatory process. The interaction of OPN with these receptors suggests a role in the neuroprotective effect of this protein in the LPS model of Parkinson's disease.
On the Use of Law in Transatlantic Relations: Legal Dialogues between the EU and US
Authors: Fahey Elaine
Published: May 2013

Law plays a significant role in contemporary transatlantic relations outside of the bilateral context which, from the perspective of EU external relations law, might seem neither conventional nor apparent. Non‐bilateral transatlantic relations increasingly deploy law as a communication tool between the two legal orders. For example, in 2011, the US intervened informally and anonymously in the formulation of EU legislation, while the US House of Representatives passed legislation to prohibit the impact of EU law upon the US legal order. Another example is constituted by EU amicus curiae submissions before the US Supreme Court in death penalty cases. The so‐called Brussels effect is also the subject of recent scholarship, assessing the perceived spillover effect of EU regulatory standards onto US rules. The paper provides many vivid examples of the variable institutional and legal components of transatlantic relations not usually accounted for in scholarship on transatlantic relations.
There Must Be Some Way Out of Here: The Crisis, Labour Rights and Member States in the Eye of the Storm
Authors: Achtsioglou Eftychia , Doherty Michael
Published: May 2013

This article considers the impact of the economic, social and political crisis on the labour law regimes of two of the Member States of the EU most affected; Greece and Ireland. Both countries have been the recipients of ‘bail‐out’ deals, negotiated and monitored by what has become known as the ‘Troika’ of the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The article considers the extent to which both countries have been required to make amendments to their labour law regimes as a condition of their bail‐outs. It argues that the changes demanded reflect the basic norm now governing the EU legal order, namely that of ‘competition’; the logic of market integration based on the primacy of economic competition. The article sets the reforms in Greece and Ireland within the broader context of the ‘social deficit’ problem of the EU construction.
Europe: Political, Not Cosmopolitan
Authors: Somek Alexander
Published: May 2013

The article challenges the established view according to which the authority of the EU is inexplicable in terms of collective civic self‐determination. Contrary to this widely held belief, it explains the condition under which it is plausible to impute the current shape of the Union to the collective self‐determination of European citizens. This condition is met if citizens approach the Union with a cosmopolitan attitude. The article then goes on to explain that while the Union may not appear optimal under this condition, it looks quite disastrous when approached from the perspective of political self‐determination. The argument makes an appeal to European citizens. They have to come to grips with their own self‐understanding. Should European citizens come to realise that they are, after all, political beings because they care about sustaining a form of life at specific place of the world, they will have to re‐appropriate Europe for themselves.
Aquatic grazers reduce the establishment and growth of riparian plants along an environmental gradient
Authors: Veen G. F. (Ciska) , Sarneel Judith M. , Ravensbergen Lone , Huig Naomi , van Paassen José , Rip Winnie , Bakker Elisabeth S.
Published: May 2013

The establishment of riparian plants is determined by abiotic conditions and grazing, although it is usually presumed that the former are most important. We tested the impact of aquatic grazers on the survival and growth of establishing riparian plants and whether the impact of grazing interacts with abiotic conditions.

We conducted an experiment across 10 Dutch wetlands, covering a large range of water depth and nutrient availability. We introduced 1‐year‐old plants of an emergent (common reed, Phragmites australis) and a floating (water soldier, Stratiotes aloides) species in individual enclosures (n = 5 per site) that excluded predominantly waterbirds, which were the most abundant grazers, and on adjacent unprotected plots. Survival and growth were measured during one growing season.

Grazing reduced growth (as biomass) of Phragmites and Stratiotes by a mean of 25 and 60%, respectively. Grazing decreased survival of Stratiotes, but not of Phragmites. Shallow water, water‐level fluctuations, eutrophic conditions and enough light favoured both growth and survival of Phragmites. Growth of Stratiotes was unaffected by these factors, but they reduced its survival. For both species, grazing effects on biomass were consistent across environmental conditions, but for Phragmites, grazing effects on survival were influenced by abiotic conditions.

We conclude that aquatic grazers significantly reduce the establishment and growth of macrophytes in the riparian zone over a wide range of environmental conditions.
Modeling thermal convection in supradetachment basins: example from western Norway
Authors: Souche A. , Dabrowski M. , Andersen T. B.
Published: May 2013

The juxtaposition of fault‐bounded sedimentary basins, above crustal‐scale detachments, with warmer exhumed footwalls can lead to thermal convection of the fluids in the sediments. The Devonian basins of western Norway are examples of supradetachment basins that formed in the hanging wall of the Nordfjord‐Sogn Detachment Zone. In the central part of the Hornelen and Kvamshesten basins, the basin‐fill is chiefly represented by fluvial sandstones and minor lacustrine siltstones, whereas the fault margins are dominated by fanglomerates along the detachment contact. Prominent alteration and low‐greenschist facies metamorphic conditions are associated with the peak temperature estimates of the sediments close to the detachment shear zone. Fluid circulation may have been active during the burial of the sediments, and we quantify the potential role played by thermal convection in redistributing heat within the basins. Different models are tested with homogeneous and layered basin‐fill and with material transport properties corresponding to sandstones and siltstones. We found that thermally driven fluid flow is expected in supradetachment basins as a transient process during the exhumation of warmer footwalls. We demonstrate that the fluid flow may have significantly affected the temperature distribution in the upper five kilometers of the Devonian basins of western Norway. The temperature anomaly induced by the flow may locally reach about 80°C. The sedimentary layering formed by sand‐ and siltstones strata does not inhibit fluid circulation at the scale of the basin. The presence of fluid pathways along the detachment has an important impact on the flow and allows an efficient drainage of the basin by channelizing fluids upward along the detachment.
Increased circulating Lin−/lowCD33+HLA‐DR− myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Shen Peng , Wang Aijuan , He Mengye , Wang Qingqing , Zheng Shusen
Published: May 2013

Aim

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) can be induced or expanded in tumor‐bearing mice and cancer patients. The frequency of MDSC denoted here as Lin−/lowCD33+HLA‐DR− was investigated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. The clinical relevance of MDSC and patients' characteristics were examined. Also, MDSC‐related immune regulatory pathways in these patients were discussed.

Methods

The quantity of MDSC was tested in peripheral blood of patients with HCC (n = 63) and healthy donors (n = 56). The expressions of interferon (IFN)‐γ, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐13, nitric oxide synthase (NOS)‐2 and arginase (ARG)‐1 were analyzed. Co‐culturing with anti‐CD3/CD28‐stimulated T lymphocytes was used to determine the suppressive effect of MDSC on the T lymphocytes.

Results

Patients with treatment‐naive HCC had an increased subpopulation of Lin−/lowCD33+HLA‐DR− cells in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with characteristics of MDSC and associated to the stage (P = 0.0004). Patients with splenomegaly had a higher frequency of circulating MDSC. Also, COX‐2, MMP‐13 and VEGF were expressed differently associated with the alteration of MDSC.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence showing an increased population of Lin−/lowCD33+HLA‐DR− MDSC in the peripheral blood of HCC patients. Our data also suggest that MMP‐13 and COX‐2 in PBMC may play a new important role companied with MDSC in HCC patients.
Geological setting of basaltic rocks in an accretionary complex, Khangai–Khentei Belt, Mongolia
Authors: Tsukada Kazuhiro , Nakane Yuki , Yamamoto Koshi , Kurihara Toshiyuki , Otoh Shigeru , Kashiwagi Kenji , Chuluun Minjin , Gonchigdorj Sersmaa , Nuramkhaan Manchuk , Niwa Masakazu , Tokiwa Tetsuya
Published: May 2013

We describe the mode of occurrence and geochemical characteristics of basalts, in the Khangai–Khentei belt in Mongolia, overlain by Middle Paleozoic radiolarian chert in an extensive accretionary complex. These basalts are greatly enriched in K, Ti, Fe, P, Rb, Ba, Th, and Nb in comparison to the composition of the mid‐ocean ridge basalts, indicative of within‐plate alkaline type. Ti/Y vs Nb/Y and MnO/TiO2/P2O5 ratios of the basalts also suggest within‐plate affinities. Considering the geochemical characteristics as well as the conformable relationship with the overlying radiolarian chert, the alkaline basalts were clearly not continental but formed a pelagic oceanic island. The mode of occurrence and geochemistry of the basalts show that the alkaline basaltic volcanic activity had taken place to form an oceanic island in the Paleozoic pelagic region sufficiently far from continents to allow radiolarian ooze accumulation.
Processing and Properties of BioCeramic Coatings onto 3D Ti‐Mesh by DipCasting Method
Authors: Yi Wei , Hu Xiaozhi , Sun Xudong , Ichim Paul , Suvorova Alexandra
Published: May 2013

This study presents a dipcasting method that can deposit both porous and dense bioceramic coatings onto 3D Ti‐mesh made from commercially pure Ti‐mesh for surgical applications. First, a dense bioglass coating was deposited onto the 3D Ti‐mesh, which is to seal off the Ti‐mesh. Second, a microporous HA/bioglass coating was deposited on top of the dense bioglass coating, which is to promote bone regeneration into the 3D Ti‐mesh. X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy were used to analyze the bioceramic coatings and cross‐sectional microstructures. Vickers microhardness across the interface between bioceramic coating and Ti‐substrate was measured.
Experimental study on drying of pear slices in a convective dryer
Authors: Doymaz İbrahim
Published: May 2013

The experiments were conducted on pear slices with thickness of 5 mm at temperatures of 50, 57, 64 and 71 °C with an air velocity of 2.0 m s−1. Prior to drying, pear slices were pretreated with citric acid solution (0.5% w/w, 1 min, 20 °C) or blanched in hot water (1 min, 85 °C). Also, the untreated samples were dried as control. The shortest drying time of pear slices was obtained with pretreatment with citric acid solution. It was observed that whole drying process of pear slices took place in a falling rate period. Four mathematical models were tested to fit drying data of pear slices. According to the statistical criteria (R2, χ2 and RMSE), the Midilli et al. model was found to be the best model to describe the drying behaviour of pear slices. The effective diffusivity of moisture transfer during drying process varied between 8.56 × 10−11 and 2.25 × 10−10 m2 s−1, while the activation energy of moisture diffusion in pear slices was found to be 34.95–41.00 kJ mol−1.
Experiments on dough rheology to improve screening of bread wheat cultivars
Authors: Gélinas Pierre , McKinnon Carole
Published: May 2013

The bread‐making potential of flour may be roughly estimated by dough rheology, especially its tolerance to over‐mixing as determined with the farinograph. The objective of this study was to identify the relative effects of experimental conditions likely to affect dough mixing stability: mixer speed, temperature, salt, yeast and bread additives such as ascorbic acid and preservatives. The addition of 1–2% salt or ascorbic acid (50 mg kg−1 flour) improved dough mixing stability and counteracted the negative effect of bread preservatives. Mixing salted dough at slow speed (63 rpm) and 25 °C might be a more realistic bread‐making procedure for performing dough rheology assays with equipment such as the farinograph, compared to official methods (only flour and water, no salt; 30 °C). Amongst five bread wheat cultivars, differences existed in dough strengthening response to both salt and ascorbic acid, a property that may find application in wheat breeding and screening.
Drug interactions in Brazilian type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: de Araújo Márcio Flávio Moura , dos Santos Alves Priscila de Jesus , Veras Vivian Saraiva , de Araújo Thiago Moura , Zanetti Maria Lúcia , Damasceno Marta Maria Coelho
Published: May 2013

The aim of this paper is to identify the prevalence of the most frequent drug interactions in patients using oral antidiabéticos and their association with capillary glucose and medication adherence. In total, 579 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients from 12 health institutions in Fortaleza, Brazil were interviewed in 2009. A form was applied, including questions on medication use, comorbidities, lifestyle, body mass index and random capillary glucose. Results revealed that 26.7% used five or more different drugs simultaneously and daily. Statistically significant drug interactions occurred between antidiabéticos and diuretics, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, anti‐lipidaemics and corticoids. No significant association was found between polypharmacy, medication adherence and glucose. It is important for nurses, in consensus with other health professionals, to consider the possibility of other drugs that mean less risk for diabetes patients’ glucose control or of increased antidiabetics doses.
Enlarged Perivascular Spaces and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Potter Gillian M. , Doubal Fergus N. , Jackson Caroline A. , Chappell Francesca M. , Sudlow Cathie L. , Dennis Martin S. , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: May 2013

Background and aims

Enlarged perivascular spaces (also known as Virchow-Robin spaces) on T2-weighted brain magnetic resonance imaging are common, but their etiology, and specificity to small vessel as opposed to general cerebrovascular disease or ageing, is unclear. We tested the association between enlarged perivascular spaces and ischemic stroke subtype, other markers of small vessel disease, and common vascular risk factors.

Methods

We prospectively recruited patients with acute stroke, diagnosed and subtyped by a stroke physician using clinical features and brain magnetic resonance imaging. A neuroradiologist rated basal ganglia and centrum semiovale enlarged perivascular spaces on a five-point scale, white matter lesions, recent and old infarcts, and cerebral atrophy. We assessed associations between basal ganglia-, centrum semiovale- and total (combined basal ganglia and centrum semiovale) enlarged perivascular spaces, stroke subtype, white matter lesions, atrophy, and vascular risk factors.

Results

Among 298 patients (mean age 68 years), after adjusting for vascular risk factors and white matter lesions, basal ganglia-enlarged perivascular spaces were associated with increasing age ( P = 0·001), centrum semiovale-enlarged perivascular spaces ( P < 0·001), cerebral atrophy ( P = 0·03), and lacunar stroke subtype ( P = 0·04). Centrum semiovale- enlarged perivascular spaces were associated mainly with basal ganglia-enlarged perivascular spaces. Total enlarged perivascular spaces were associated with increasing age ( P = 0·01), deep white matter lesions ( P = 0·005), and previous stroke ( P = 0·006).

Conclusions

Enlarged perivascular spaces are associated with age, lacunar stroke subtype and white matter lesions and should be considered as another magnetic resonance imaging marker of cerebral small vessel disease. Further evaluation of enlarged perivascular spaces in studies of ageing, stroke, and dementia is needed to determine their pathophysiological importance.