bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoliberal Experiments with Urban Infrastructure: The Cross City Tunnel, Sydney
Authors: HAUGHTON GRAHAM , MCMANUS PHIL
Published: January 2011

In this article, we explore a particular variant of neoliberal thought by analysing the proposal, design, funding and operation of an element of transport infrastructure in Sydney, Australia that was developed as a public–private partnership (PPP). Although there has been considerable work on the theoretical advantages and disadvantages of PPPs, there has been little empirically informed critical analysis of how PPPs operate in practice, and even less on how environmental arguments are selectively used to justify PPPs. The Cross City Tunnel (CCT) is one of Australia's most controversial examples of urban transport infrastructure. Although an engineering success, the CCT was far from being environmentally sustainable, socially just or economically viable. The CCT reveals the contradictions of neoliberal policy regimes, shallow sustainability rhetoric, the inappropriateness of the PPP model for other urban infrastructure developments in Sydney and internationally, and a capacity on the part of the partners to learn inappropriate lessons.

Cet article s'intéresse à une variante particulière de la pensée néolibérale en analysant la proposition, le concept, le financement et le fonctionnement d'un élément de l'infrastructure de transport de Sydney qui a étéélaboré en tant que partenariat public‐privé (PPP). De nombreux travaux ont été consacrés aux avantages et inconvénients théoriques des PPP, mais il existe peu d'analyses critiques à partir de données empiriques sur le fonctionnement pratique de ces partenariats, encore moins sur l'utilisation sélective d'arguments environnementaux pour les justifier. L'un des cas les plus controversés d'infrastructure de transport urbain en Australie est le Cross City Tunnel (CCT). Bien qu'étant une réussite technique, la durabilité environnementale, la justice sociale ou la viabilitééconomique était loin de le caractériser. Le CCT révèle les contradictions des régimes politiques néolibéraux, la rhétorique superficielle de la durabilité environnementale, l'inadéquation du modèle des PPP pour d'autres créations d'infrastructures urbaines, à Sydney comme au niveau international, ainsi qu'une capacité des partenaires à apprendre de mauvaises leçons.
Misfolded superoxide dismutase‐1 in CSF from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients
Authors: Zetterström Per , Andersen Peter M. , Brännström Thomas , Marklund Stefan L.
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 91–99.

Several of the superoxide dismutase‐1 (SOD1) mutations linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) lead to synthesis of structurally defective molecules, suggesting that any cytotoxic conformational species common for all mutations should be misfolded. SOD1 can be secreted and evidence from ALS model systems suggests that extracellular SOD1 may be involved in cytotoxicity. Three ELISAs specifically reacting with different sequence segments in misfolded SOD1 species were used for analysis of CSF from 38 neurological controls and from 96 ALS patients, 57 of whom were sporadic cases and 39 familial, including 22 patients carrying SOD1 mutations. Misfolded SOD1 was found in all samples. There were, however, no significant differences between patients with and without mutations, and between all the ALS patients and the controls. The estimated concentration of misfolded SOD1 in the interstitium of the CNS is a 1000 times lower than that required for appreciable cytotoxicity in model systems. The results argue against a direct cytotoxic role of extracellular misfolded SOD1 in ALS. Misfolded SOD1 in CSF cannot be used as a biomarker of ALS in patients with and without mutations in the enzyme.
Engaging and supporting fathers to promote breastfeeding: a new role for Health Visitors?
Authors: Sherriff Nigel , Hall Valerie
Published: January 2011

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 467–475
 
Engaging and supporting fathers to promote breastfeeding: a new role for Health Visitors?

Background:  Health visitors have a central role in delivering and leading on the new UK government targets on breastfeeding as part of the strategy to reduce health inequalities. This article explores fathers’ views and proposes that health visitors are best placed to engage with fathers in supporting the initiation and continuance of breastfeeding.

Aim:  To conduct initial pilot scoping of fathers’ views on breastfeeding in order to provide insights into possible interventions which could contribute to increasing rates of exclusive breastfeeding.

Methods:  Eight individual in‐depth interviews were conducted with fathers (aged 28–47) from different socio‐economic groupings living in Brighton and Hove (UK). Data were collected as part of a larger social marketing project focussing on increasing rates of exclusive breastfeeding in Brighton and Hove. Fathers were recruited through their partners whom had been interviewed previously about breastfeeding. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a ‘framework’ approach.

Findings:  Data reveal that fathers are interested in breastfeeding and want to be involved more broadly in preparation for, and supporting of, breastfeeding. Fathers reported requiring more relevant and accessible information about the benefits of breastfeeding as well as details concerning some of the practical issues involved in supporting their partner’s breastfeeding.

Discussion and conclusion:  Although in our study fathers reported wanting to be involved in supporting breastfeeding, it is likely that current discourses about men and fathers as well as more practical worries and concerns may prevent some health visitors and other health professionals from involving them in meaningful ways. Whilst our study is limited in its scope and more research is needed, our data indicates that fathers are potentially a missing part of the jigsaw in terms of breastfeeding support.
A healthy dose of trust: The relationship between interpersonal trust and health
Authors: SCHNEIDER IRIS K. , KONIJN ELLY A. , RIGHETTI FRANCESCA , RUSBULT CARYL E.
Published: January 2011

The positive effects of trust are manifold. Recent research has shown that trust levels may even influence physical health. The current work explores this issue and aims to shed light on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between trust and health in a 5‐wave longitudinal data set. Results showed that trust was positively related to physical health: Participants report fewer health problems when they trust their partner more, replicating earlier findings. More importantly, symptoms of anxiety and depression mediate the effect of trust on self‐reported health. Finally, results of residual lagged analyses show that earlier levels of trust predict later symptoms of anxiety and depression symptoms, in turn predicting changes in physical health symptoms over time.
Something in the way he moves? Interpersonal judgments of acquaintance rapists
Authors: BURRIS CHRISTOPHER T. , REMPEL JOHN K.
Published: January 2011

Two studies explored variations in women's appraisals of acquaintance rapists. In Study 1, an acquaintance rapist was evaluated the least harshly when he was physically dominating but sexually dysfunctional. In Study 2, this softening of the rapist's perceived qualities was most evident when he attributed his sexual failure to a need for his victim's sexual consent. Acquaintance rape is therefore an interpersonal crime that can yield varied judgments of its perpetrators. In particular, some women may give more benefit of doubt to sexually violent men by relying on an “adversary transformation” narrative in which the victim has tamed the rapist and harnessed his strength, passion, and other desirable qualities for herself.
PHOTOPROTECTION OF SEA‐ICE MICROALGAL COMMUNITIES FROM THE EAST ANTARCTIC PACK ICE1
Authors: Petrou Katherina , Hill Ross , Doblin Martina A. , McMinn Andrew , Johnson Robert , Wright Simon W. , Ralph Peter J.
Published: January 2011

All photosynthetic organisms endeavor to balance energy supply with demand. For sea‐ice diatoms, as with all marine photoautotrophs, light is the most important factor for determining growth and carbon‐fixation rates. Light varies from extremely low to often relatively high irradiances within the sea‐ice environment, meaning that sea‐ice algae require moderate physiological plasticity that is necessary for rapid light acclimation and photoprotection. This study investigated photoprotective mechanisms employed by bottom Antarctic sea‐ice algae in response to relatively high irradiances to understand how they acclimate to the environmental conditions presented during early spring, as the light climate begins to intensify and snow and sea‐ice thinning commences. The sea‐ice microalgae displayed high photosynthetic plasticity to increased irradiance, with a rapid decline in photochemical efficiency that was completely reversible when placed under low light. Similarly, the photoprotective xanthophyll pigment diatoxanthin (Dt) was immediately activated but reversed during recovery under low light. The xanthophyll inhibitor dithiothreitol (DTT) and state transition inhibitor sodium fluoride (NaF) were used in under‐ice in situ incubations and revealed that nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) via xanthophyll‐cycle activation was the preferred method for light acclimation and photoprotection by bottom sea‐ice algae. This study showed that bottom sea‐ice algae from the east Antarctic possess a high level of plasticity in their light‐acclimation capabilities and identified the xanthophyll cycle as a critical mechanism in photoprotection and the preferred means by which sea‐ice diatoms regulate energy flow to PSII.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Spencer Nakia D. , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Lopez Mandi J.
Published: January 2011

Adult mesenchymal stromal cells are plastic‐adherent cells that are self‐renewing and have the capacity to differentiate into various tissue specific lineages. Stromal cells were initially discovered over 100 years ago and substantial insight into stromal cell identification, isolation, characterization, and differentiation has been made, including efforts to elucidate the factors involved in stromal cell differentiation. Stromal cells have immune privilege and thus are attractive candidates for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. Positive results from a number of recent investigations support the use of adult mesenchymal stromal cells for clinical application. This review article provides a brief overview of past, present, and future stromal cell technology.
An Analysis of the Public Perception of Flood Risk on the Belgian Coast
Authors: Kellens Wim , Zaalberg Ruud , Neutens Tijs , Vanneuville Wouter , De Maeyer Philippe
Published: January 2011

In recent years, perception of flood risks has become an important topic to policy makers concerned with risk management and safety issues. Knowledge of the public risk perception is considered a crucial aspect in modern flood risk management as it steers the development of effective and efficient flood mitigation strategies. This study aimed at gaining insight into the perception of flood risks along the Belgian coast. Given the importance of the tourism industry on the Belgian coast, the survey considered both inhabitants and residential tourists. Based on actual expert's risk assessments, a high and a low risk area were selected for the study. Risk perception was assessed on the basis of scaled items regarding storm surges and coastal flood risks. In addition, various personal and residence characteristics were measured. Using multiple regression analysis, risk perception was found to be primarily influenced by actual flood risk estimates, age, gender, and experience with previous flood hazards.
The Role of Analysis on the 17 Most Political Acres on the Face of the Earth
Authors: Arbuckle Donald R.
Published: January 2011

Benefit‐cost and risk analyses associated with agency rule making are required by presidential order and are reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA). This White House oversight of agency regulatory analysis means that OIRA's work, though primarily analytic, competes daily with the intense political pressures that characterize all work in the White House. Even in the face of the demands of politics, analysis is respected and utilized. A balance between politics and analysis is maintained in several ways. Several structural characteristics of the White House help protect analysis, such as a strong complement of offices whose role is primarily analytic (for example, the Council of Economic Advisors, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and OMB). OIRA's ability to successfully coordinate its regulatory review with White House officials ensures that it serves as an agent for presidential regulatory policy at the same time it champions higher quality benefit‐cost and risk analysis. This role as intermediary between analytic and political judgment also results from OIRA's expertise in such analysis and its reputation for the discretion necessary to maintain the trust of the president's upper level staff.
Switch from calcitriol to paricalcitol in secondary hyperparathyroidism of hemodialysis patients: Responsiveness is related to parathyroid gland size
Authors: VULPIO Carlo , MARESCA Giulia , DISTASIO Enrico , CACACI Silvia , PANOCCHIA Nicola , LUCIANI Giovanna , BOSSOLA Maurizio
Published: January 2011

Paricalcitol is more effective than calcitriol in hemodialysis patients (HD) with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), but it is not effective in some of them. We have investigated the relationship between paricalcitol responsiveness and parathyroid gland (PTG) size. Thirty HD with SHPT treated previously with calcitriol for at least 6 months were switched to paricalcitol (1:4 conversion ratio). Parathyroid gland number and size (maximum longitudinal diameter [MLD] of largest PTG) was measured by ultrasonography. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group A (MLD ≤9.0 mm [17 HD]); and group B (MLD >9.0 mm [13 HD]). They were defined responder if both the last 2 monthly determinations of inhibit parathyroid hormone (iPTH) were within the target (<300 pg/mL) according to National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative recommendations. Twenty‐six and 20 HD completed 6‐month and 12‐month paricalcitol therapy, respectively. After 6 months of paricalcitol treatment, 23.5% HD of group A and 7.7% of group B were responders. At 12 months, 41.2 % of group A and 7.7% of group B were responders. Throughout paricalcitol therapy, serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations slightly increased in all HD but more significantly in group B. The baseline iPTH and MLD of the largest PTG were significantly correlated with final iPTH levels. Paricalcitol is more effective than calcitriol in SHPT, but the responsiveness to paricalcitol and hypercalcemia are related to PTG size. The measurement of MLD by ultrasonography may be useful for predicting responsiveness to paricalcitol, avoiding an unnecessary and expensive therapy.
Risk factors associated with elevated serum pancreatic amylase levels during hemodialysis
Authors: CHEN Yen‐Hsu , YANG Wu‐Chang , WANG Feng‐Ming , TARNG Der‐Cherng , CHEN Jinn‐Yang , NG Yee‐Yung , WU Tsai‐Hun , LIN Yao‐Ping , LIN Chih‐Ching
Published: January 2011

Elevated levels of serum pancreatic enzymes are frequently observed in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The complex hemodynamic, biochemical, and physiological alterations in uremia were speculated to cause excessive release of pancreatic enzymes beyond decreased renal clearance. However, hemodynamic factors are seldom explored in this aspect. We performed the study to evaluate the association between intradialytic hemodynamic change and elevated serum pancreatic amylase (SPA). Eighty‐three prevalent HD patients without any clinical evidence of acute pancreatitis underwent pre‐HD and post‐HD blood sampling for serum pancreatic enzyme levels. Demographic, biochemical, and hematological data were collected from patient record review. Hemodialysis information including intradialytic blood pressure changes and ultrafiltration (UF) amount were collected and averaged for 1 month before the blood sampling day. Patients with elevated SPA during the HD session had greater mean systolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure reduction, greater UF volume, greater pre‐HD blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine, higher serum phosphorus, lower pre‐HD serum total CO2, and lower left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF). Using multivariate linear and logistic regression analysis, the independent predictors of elevated SPA were determined to be mean arterial pressure reduction during HD, mean UF amount, pre‐HD serum total CO2, and LVEF. Greater blood pressure reduction during HD, greater UF volume, lower pre‐HD serum total CO2, and lower LVEF were significantly associated with elevated SPA during HD. This suggests that hemodynamic factors contribute to elevated serum pancreatic enzymes in HD patients.
Consequences of ants and extrafloral nectar for a pollinating seed‐consuming mutualism: ant satiation, floral distraction or plant defense?
Authors: Holland J. Nathaniel , Chamberlain Scott A. , Miller Tom E. X.
Published: January 2011

Non‐pollinating consumers of floral resources, especially ants, can disrupt pollination and plant reproductive processes. As an alternative food resource to flowers, extrafloral nectar (EFN) may distract and satiate ants from flowers, thereby reducing their antagonistic effects on plants. Yet, EFN may actually attract and increase ant density on plants, thus increasing the disruption of pollination and/or their defense of plants. In this study, we tested the effects of ants and EFN on pollinating seed‐consuming interactions between senita cacti and senita moths in the Sonoran Desert. Prior study of senita showed that EFN can distract ants from flowers, but consequences for plant–pollinator interactions remain unstudied. In our current study, ant exclusion had no effect on pollination or oviposition when moths were abundant (>85% flower visitation). Yet, in an ant by EFN factorial experiment under lower moth abundance (<40% visitation), there was a significant effect of ant exclusion (but not EFN or an ant × EFN) on pollination and oviposition. In contrast with our predictions, ant presence increased rather than decreased pollination (and oviposition) by moths, indicating a beneficial effect of ants on plant reproduction. While ant density on plants showed a saturating response to continuous experimental variation in EFN, in support of ant satiation and distraction, the probability of pollination and oviposition increased and saturated with ant density, again showing a beneficial effect of ants on plant reproduction. Ants showed no significant effect on fruit set, fruit survival, or fruit production of oviposited flowers in the ant exclusion experiment. Ants did not affect the survival of moth larvae, but there was a marginally significant effect of ants in reducing wasp parasitism of moths. We suggest that EFN may not only distract ants from disrupting plant–pollinator interactions, but they may also enhance plant–pollinator interactions by increasing pollination and reducing wasp parasitism. Though often considered dichotomous hypotheses, ant distraction and plant defense may be synergistic, though the mechanism(s) for such positive ant effects on plant–pollinator interactions needs further study.
A Chimeric Pre‐ubiquitinated EGF Receptor is Constitutively Endocytosed in a Clathrin‐Dependent, but Kinase‐Independent Manner
Authors: Bertelsen Vibeke , Sak Malgorzata Magdalena , Breen Kamilla , Rødland Marianne S. , Johannessen Lene E. , Traub Linton M. , Stang Espen , Madshus Inger Helene
Published: January 2011

The roles of EGF receptor (EGFR) kinase activity and ubiquitination in EGFR endocytosis have been controversial. The adaptor protein and ubiquitin ligase Cbl has reportedly been required. Consistently, we now report that siRNA‐mediated knock‐down of c‐Cbl and Cbl‐b significantly slowed clathrin‐dependent internalization of activated wild‐type (wt) EGFR by inhibiting recruitment of the EGFR to clathrin‐coated pits. However, a chimeric protein consisting of wt‐EGFR, a C‐terminal linker and four linearly connected ubiquitins was found to interact with Eps15 and epsin 1 and to be constitutively endocytosed in a clathrin‐dependent manner. Interestingly, endocytosis of this fusion protein did not require binding of EGF. Nor was kinase activity required, and the fusion protein was endocytosed in the presence of an EGFR kinase inhibitor, which efficiently counteracted tyrosine phosphorylation. This demonstrates that ubiquitination over‐rides the requirement for kinase activity in recruitment of the EGFR to clathrin‐coated pits.
SNARE Proteins Underpin Insulin‐Regulated GLUT4 Traffic
Authors: Bryant Nia J. , Gould Gwyn W.
Published: January 2011

Delivery of the glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) from an intracellular location to the cell surface in response to insulin represents a specialized form of membrane traffic, known to be impaired in the disease states of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Like all membrane trafficking events, this translocation of GLUT4 requires members of the SNARE family of proteins. Here, we discuss two SNARE complexes that have been implicated in insulin‐regulated GLUT4 traffic: one regulating the final delivery of GLUT4 to the cell surface in response to insulin and the other controlling GLUT4's intracellular trafficking.
Characterization of Aspergillus nidulans RabC/Rab6
Authors: Pantazopoulou Areti , Peñalva Miguel A
Published: January 2011

The Aspergillus nidulans Golgi is not stacked. Early and late Golgi equivalents (GEs) are intermingled but can be resolved by epifluorescence microscopy. RabC, the Aspergillus ortholog of mammalian Rab6, is present across the Golgi, preferentially associated with early GEs near the tip and with late GEs in tip‐distal regions. rabCΔ mutants, showing markedly impaired apical extension, have conspicuously fragmented, brefeldin A‐insensitive early and late GEs, indicating that the Golgi network organization requires RabC. rabCΔ Golgi fragmentation is paralleled by an increase in early endosome abundance. rabCΔ reduces extracellular levels of the major secretable protease, suggesting that it impairs secretion. Notably, the Spitzenkörper, an apical intracellular structure in which secretory carriers accumulate awaiting fusion with the adjacent plasma membrane (PM), contains RabC. rabCΔ leads to abnormally increased accumulation of carriers, detectable with secretory v‐SNARE GFP‐SynA and FM4‐64, in this structure. VpsTVps10, present across the Golgi, recycles between endosomes and Golgi and is mislocalized to a cytosolic haze by rabCΔ that, in contrast, does not affect SynA recycling between endosomes and the PM, indicating that SynA follows a RabC‐independent pathway. tlg2Δ mutants grow normally but are synthetically lethal with rabCΔ, indicating that RabC plays Tlg2‐independent roles.
Clinical Parameters Essential to Methodology and Interpretation of Mucosal Responses
Authors: Anderson Brenna L. , Cu‐Uvin Susan
Published: January 2011

Citation Anderson BL, Cu‐Uvin S. Clinical parameters essential to methodology and interpretation of mucosal responses. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 352–360

Research aimed at putting an end to the HIV pandemic is dynamic given the marked advances in understanding of pathogenesis since its origin. Attention has shifted from systemic management of disease to a focus on the most common site of acquisition, the female genital tract. Research on the female genital tract of humans requires consideration of a number of specific clinical parameters. If such parameters are not considered when enrolling subjects into studies, it could lead to faulty data ascertainment. This article reviews important clinical characteristics to consider when conducting studies of the human female genital tract in regard to mucosal immunity and HIV disease. Important topics to consider include the method and source of sample collection, the individual patient characteristics, and in the case of recruitment of HIV‐infected women, HIV disease characteristics.
Inductive/Effector Mechanisms for Humoral Immunity at Mucosal Sites
Authors: Wright Peter F.
Published: January 2011

Citation Wright PF. Inductive/effector mechanisms for humoral immunity at mucosal sites. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 248–252

Problem  Inductive and effector functions in the human mucosal immune system in relationship to protective immunity to HIV are poorly defined.

Method of Study  A broader review of vaccine‐induced immunity in mucosal systems was undertaken.

Results  A series of questions are posed. The limited answers to the questions indicate our profound lack of knowledge of some of the broader issues of the induction of mucosal immunity. The questions posed include the following: Is there a common mucosal immune system? Is IgA the critical immunoglobulin class in mucosal protection? Will systemic administration of antigen stimulate mucosal immunity? Is there true sterilizing mucosal immunity? What is the duration of mucosal immunity?

Conclusion  The focus on mucosal immunity in HIV of this conference highlights recent remarkable advances in our understanding of the early events in HIV pathogenesis at the mucosal surface. This review identifies areas for further research.
Biological Factors that May Contribute to Regional and Racial Disparities in HIV Prevalence
Authors: Kaul Rupert , Cohen Craig R. , Chege Duncan , Yi Tae J. , Tharao Wangari , McKinnon Lyle R. , Remis Robert , Anzala Omu , Kimani Joshua
Published: January 2011

Citation Kaul R, Cohen CR, Chege D, Yi TJ, Tharao W, McKinnon LR, Remis R, Anzala O, Kimani J. Biological factors that may contribute to regional and racial disparities in HIV prevalence. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 317–324

Despite tremendous regional and subregional disparities in HIV prevalence around the world, epidemiology consistently demonstrates that black communities have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. There are many reasons for this, and a narrow focus on socio‐behavioural causes may be seen as laying blame on affected communities or individuals. HIV sexual transmission is very inefficient, and a number of biological factors are critical in determining whether an unprotected sexual exposure to HIV results in productive infection. This review will focus on ways in which biology, rather than behaviour, may contribute to regional and racial differences in HIV epidemic spread. Specific areas of focus are viral factors, host genetics, and the impact of co‐infections and host immunology. Considering biological causes for these racial disparities may help to destigmatize the issue and lead to new and more effective strategies for prevention.
HIV‐1 Infection in the Female Reproductive Tract: Role of Interactions between HIV‐1 and Genital Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kaushic Charu
Published: January 2011

Citation Kaushic C. HIV‐1 infection in the female reproductive tract: role of interactions between HIV‐1 and genital epithelial cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 253–260

Despite recent progress in understanding the mucosal transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1, the immediate events following transmission in the female genital tract are incompletely understood. Recent in vivo studies in primate models indicate that HIV‐1 transmission may occur in the upper or lower genital tract and the initial HIV‐1 replication occurs primarily in the target T cells and in some subsets of DCs localized in the genital tract. However, the principal mechanism(s) that allow the virus to cross the primary barrier of genital epithelial cells (GECs) are still unclear. A number of pathways have been proposed as possible ways that HIV‐1 could use to cross the epithelium. However, little attention has been paid to the response of GECs to HIV‐1. We recently demonstrated that exposure to HIV‐1 rapidly upregulates a wide array of pro‐inflammatory cytokine production by GECs. Among these cytokines, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α impaired the tight junction barrier allowing HIV‐1 and luminal bacteria to translocate across the epithelium. This study illustrated that GECs are dynamically active cells that mount rapid host responses to HIV‐1, independent of viral replication. Cytokine responses of GECs could play a critical role in HIV transmission and replication. Further understanding of GEC responses to HIV‐1 and their regulation could be critical to understanding HIV‐1 transmission dynamics during heterosexual transmission.
SIV‐Specific CD8+ T Cells are Enriched in Female Genital Mucosa of Rhesus Macaques and Express Receptors for Inflammatory Chemokines
Authors: Cromwell Mandy A. , Carville Angela , Mansfield Keith , Klumpp Sherry , Westmoreland Susan V. , Lackner Andrew A. , Johnson R. Paul
Published: January 2011

Citation Cromwell MA, Carville A, Mansfield K, Klumpp S, Westmoreland SV, Lackner AA, Johnson RP. SIV‐specific CD8+ T cells are enriched in female genital mucosa of rhesus macaques and express receptors for inflammatory chemokines. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 242–247

Problem Mucosal T lymphocyte responses in the female reproductive tract, the primary site of HIV transmission in women, may be critical for initial control of virus infection. In addition, characterization of genital immune responses to HIV will be important for the development of a vaccine capable of preventing infection by this route.

Method of study  We analyzed lymphocytes isolated from vagina and cervix of chronically SIV‐infected macaques for the frequency of SIV Gag tetramer‐binding cells and expression of chemokine receptors.

Results  We found that the frequency of SIV‐specific CD8+ T cell responses was 3‐ to 30‐fold higher in genital tissues than in peripheral blood. SIV‐specific CD8+ T cells in genital tissues expressed high levels of CXCR3 and CCR5, chemokine receptors normally expressed on memory T cells that home to inflamed tissues. Cells expressing CXCR3 colocalized with its chemokine ligand CXCL9 [monokine induced by interferon gamma, MIG] in the vaginal lamina propria.

Conclusion  These results indicate that the frequency of SIV‐specific CD8+ T cells in the female genital mucosa is enriched compared with peripheral blood and provide initial information regarding the signals that direct recruitment of T cells to the female reproductive tract.
Salivary gland progenitor cell biology provides a rationale for therapeutic salivary gland regeneration
Authors: Lombaert IMA , Knox SM , Hoffman MP
Published: January 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 445–449

An irreversible loss of salivary gland function often occurs in humans after removal of salivary tumors, after therapeutic radiation of head and neck tumors, as a result of Sjögren’s syndrome and in genetic syndromes affecting gland development. The permanent loss of gland function impairs the oral health of these patients and broadly affects their quality of life. The regeneration of functional salivary gland tissue is thus an important therapeutic goal for the field of regenerative medicine and will likely involve stem/progenitor cell biology and/or tissue engineering approaches. Recent reports demonstrate how both innervation of the salivary gland epithelium and certain growth factors influence progenitor cell growth during mouse salivary gland development. These advances in our understanding suggest that developmental mechanisms of mouse salivary gland development may provide a paradigm for postnatal regeneration of both mice and human salivary glands. Herein, we will discuss the developmental mechanisms that influence progenitor cell biology and the implications for salivary gland regeneration.
Dietary vitamin A intake and serum retinol concentrations of preschool children from different socio‐economical levels in İzmir, Turkey
Authors: Midyat Levent , Zafer Kurugöl N , Akşit Sadık , Tanrıverdi Mahir , Yağcı Raşit Vural
Published: January 2011

Aim:  Vitamin A deficiency (VAD), especially in its subclinical form, is a world health problem in young children. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of VAD among preschool children in various socio‐economic groups in İzmir, Turkey.

Methods:  One hundred and one children aged 24–59 months were selected for the study with cluster sampling method. A questionnaire was completed by the parents, and the dietary pattern was assessed by using a 3‐day dietary record method.

Results:  Mean serum retinol concentration of the children was 28.3 ± 10.2 μg/dL. Serum vitamin A concentration of two children (2%) was below 10 μg/dL (VAD), whereas 18 (18%) children had vitamin A concentrations between 10 and 20 μg/dL (subclinical deficiency). We did not find any relationship between mean serum retinol concentrations and the independent variables such as socio‐economical levels, age groups, birth weight and gestational age. However, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between serum retinol concentrations and weight‐for‐age and weight‐for‐height Z scores of the children (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Because one‐fifth of the children under 5 years have VAD in İzmir, Turkey, nutrition education must be given to the families during well‐child care visits, and routine vitamin supplementation should be considered especially in children with malnutrition.
Prevalence of MEFV gene mutations and their clinical correlations in Turkish children with Henoch–Schönlein purpura
Authors: Bayram Cengiz , Demircin Gülay , Erdoğan Özlem , Bülbül Mehmet , Çaltık Aysun , Akyüz Sare G
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To investigate the frequency of MEFV mutations and their associations with the clinical and laboratory findings in children with Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP).

Methods:  One hundred and seven children with HSP were investigated for 12 common MEFV mutations.

Results:  Forty‐seven patients (43.9%) were found to have one of the MEFV mutations. Eight patients (7.5%) were homozygous for one mutation, 33 (30.8%) were heterozygous for one and six (5.6%) were compound heterozygous for two mutations. There were no age and sex differences between patients with or without mutations. Scrotal involvement was statistically more frequent in patients with mutations. Leucocyte counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rates, serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations, number of patients with increased CRP levels and number of patients with increased immunoglobulin A concentrations were found to be higher in patients with MEFV mutations. p.M694V was the most frequent mutation and was found to have effects on clinical and laboratory findings in children with HSP. Fifteen patients were started on colchicine with the diagnosis of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF).

Conclusion:  MEFV mutations are more frequent in HSP than in the general population, and mutation carriers may have more severe clinical findings with higher inflammatory response, suggesting a dysregulation of the inflammatory response because of defective gene encoding the protein pyrine. Investigation of these mutations may be beneficial to follow‐up the susceptible patients more closely leading to early diagnosis and treatment of FMF.
Manual therapy in infantile torticollis: a randomized, controlled pilot study
Authors: Haugen Else Beth , Benth JūratėŠaltytė , Nakstad Britt
Published: January 2011

Aim:  Torticollis in infancy is routinely treated by child physiotherapists. The addition of manual therapy to the treatment is a new approach in Norway. As the effect of manual therapy for this condition is poorly documented, we designed a pilot study to evaluate measurement methods and examine the short‐time effect of manual therapy in addition to child physiotherapy.

Methods:  Randomized controlled trial, double blinded. Thirty‐two patients aged 3–6 months were randomized to intervention group (manual therapy and child physiotherapy) and control group (child physiotherapy alone). Primary outcome: Change of symptoms because of torticollis evaluated by video recordings. Secondary outcomes: 12 parameters including spontaneous movements, active and passive range of motion and head righting reaction.

Results:  We found a nonsignificant tendency to greater improvement in lateral flexion (p = 0.092) and head righting reaction (p = 0.116) in the intervention group.

Conclusion:  In this pilot study, we found that in patients with moderate symptoms related to torticollis, the short‐time effect of manual therapy in addition to physiotherapy is not significantly better than physiotherapy alone.
Fat‐free mass hydration in newborns: assessment and implications for body composition studies
Authors: Eriksson Britt , Löf Marie , Eriksson Olle , Hannestad Ulf , Forsum Elisabet
Published: January 2011

Aim:  Equipment (Pea Pod) offering new possibilities to assess infant body composition has recently become available and has already been used in several studies. In the Pea Pod, body density is converted to body composition using one of two models (‘Fomon’ or ‘Butte’) with different water content in fat‐free mass (hydration factor, HF). In healthy full‐term infants, we assessed HF and its biological variability in 12 newborns and calculated body composition using the two models at 1 and 12 weeks in 108 infants. Body weight and volume were assessed in Pea Pod, and body water was assessed using isotope dilution.

Results:  Hydration factor was 80.9% with low biological variability (0.8% of average HF). Body fat (%) was significantly lower at 1 and 12 weeks when calculated using the ‘Butte’ model than when using the ‘Fomon’ model. The difference was more pronounced at one than at 12 weeks.

Conclusion:  Our HF value agrees with that in the ‘Fomon’ model, its low biological variability can be reconciled with the statement that Pea Pod is accurate in newborns and ‘Fomon’ is the best available model for studies in Pea Pod.
Periodontal disease in Norwegian old‐age pensioners
Authors: Norderyd Ola , Henriksen Birgitte Moesgaard , Jansson Henrik
Published: January 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2010.00380.x

Periodontal disease in Norwegian old‐age pensioners

Purpose:  To identify factors of importance for periodontal health and disease on an old‐age Norwegian population.

Materials and methods:  From a random sample of 1152 urban and rural elderly Norwegians, aged 67 years or older, 582 individuals were agreed to participate in the study. After exclusion of edentulous individuals, 394 individuals were remained. A standardised clinical examination was performed by the same examiner. In conjunction with the clinical examination, a questionnaire was filled out regarding demographic and social status, educational level, tobacco habits and general condition.

Results:  In the examined population, 33% of the subjects had periodontal disease. Out of those, 12% had severe periodontitis, that is, ≥3 periodontal pockets ≥6 mm. All variables were tested separately in a logistic regression model with periodontal pockets 6 mm and above, as the outcome variable. After univariate testing the following variables were included in a multivariate logistic regression model: daily smoking, higher plaque score, rural living and lower education. Only daily smoking remained significantly correlated to periodontal disease in the multivariate model.

Conclusions:  This study has shown a prevalence of periodontal disease in 33% of the study population. Out of those approximately 12% had more severe periodontitis. Daily tobacco use was the only factor significantly correlated to presence of periodontal disease.
Trypanosoma brucei: a model micro‐organism to study eukaryotic phospholipid biosynthesis
Authors: Serricchio Mauro , Bütikofer Peter
Published: January 2011

Although the protozoan parasite,Trypanosoma brucei, can acquire lipids from its environment, recent reports have shown that it is also capable ofde novosynthesis of all major phospholipids. Here we provide an overview of the biosynthetic pathways involved in phospholipid formation inT. bruceiand highlight differences to corresponding pathways in other eukaryotes, with the aim of promoting trypanosomes as an attractive model organism to study lipid biosynthesis. We show thatde novosynthesis of phosphatidylethanolamine involving CDP‐activated intermediates is essential inT. bruceiand that a reduction in its cellular content affects mitochondrial morphology and ultrastructure. In addition, we highlight that reduced levels of phosphatidylcholine inhibit nuclear division, suggesting a role for phosphatidylcholine formation in the control of cell division. Furthermore, we discuss possible routes leading to phosphatidylserine and cardiolipin formation inT. bruceiand review the biosynthesis of phosphatidylinositol, which seems to take place in two separate compartments. Finally, we emphasize thatT. bruceirepresents the only eukaryote so far that synthesizes all three sphingophospholipid classes, sphingomyelin, inositolphosphorylceramide and ethanolaminephosphorylceramide, and that their production is developmentally regulated.
Tumor necrosis factor receptor cross‐talk
Authors: Naudé Petrus J. W. , den Boer Johan A. , Luiten Paul G. M. , Eisel Ulrich L. M.
Published: January 2011

Extensive research has been performed to unravel the mechanistic signaling pathways mediated by tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1), by contrast there is limited knowledge on cellular signaling upon activation of TNFR2. Recently published data have revealed that these two receptors not only function independently, but also can influence each other via cross‐talk between the different signaling pathways initiated by TNFR1 and TNFR2 stimulation. Furthermore, the complexity of this cross‐talk is also dependent on the different signaling kinetics between TNFR1 and TNFR2, by which a delicate balance between cell survival and apoptosis can be maintained. Some known signaling factors and the kinetics that are involved in the receptor cross‐talk between TNFR1 and TNFR2 are the topic of this review.
MEASUREMENT OF FRUIT PEELABILITY IN THE GENUS ACTINIDIA
Authors: HARKER F. ROGER , HALLETT IAN C. , WHITE ANNE , SEAL ALAN G.
Published: January 2011

Actinidia (kiwifruit) vary in peeling behavior from “difficult to peel” to “easy to peel.” Thus, the breeding of new cultivars of commercially acceptable kiwifruit with peelable skins is possible. Identification of skin properties conferring peelability and development of a simple, repeatable method for measuring peelability will be critical to the success of breeding programs. We assessed mechanical and biological characteristics of kiwifruit skins with respect to the ease with which fruit could be peeled. Values for skin–flesh adhesion, skin compliance in tension, and skin tearing were obtained, and a simple method for quantifying peelability developed based on knowledge of tearing of sheet materials. Using this test, we established that peelability varies among kiwifruit selections, but is only evident once fruit has ripened. We demonstrated that efficiency of peeling was dependent on the radius of curvature from which the skin is drawn away from the flesh.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The development of a peelable kiwifruit will enhance the diversity of products in the kiwifruit category and provide consumers with a more convenient option for eating this type of fruit. The information presented in this study contributes to the knowledge of the biological, structural and mechanical properties that influence skin‐to‐flesh adhesion and skin tearing behavior. The simple protocol for assessing peelability may be adapted for use in screening seedling populations for this trait.
An assessment of measures of body image, body attitude, acculturation, and weight status among Mexican American women
Authors: Petti Yvette M. , Cowell Julia M.
Published: January 2011

Purpose: The purpose of this descriptive study was to establish the validity and reliability of the measurement of body image and body attitudes among Mexican American women.

Data sources: Completed measures of height, weight, waist circumference, body mass index, acculturation, body image, and body attitude of 35 U.S.‐born Mexican American women between the ages of 18 and 65 years of age. Also included were repeated measures of body image and body attitude and verbatim face‐to‐face interviews with 13 study participants.

Conclusions: Most study participants were overweight; however, body image discrepancy (difference between perceived actual and ideal body image) did not increase as anticipated and was negatively related to body mass index; suggesting those participants' perceptions of ideal body image increased with increasing body size and was reliable. Body attitude subscale scores had varying relationships to weight status.

Implications for practice: Further study is warranted examining why an acceptance of a greater body image occurs, potentially leading to a greater understanding of the influences of body image integration on health behaviors. Clinicians working with Mexican American women should consider weight reduction interventions that are based on an individual assessment of the perceptions of body image and body attitudes.
Influence of Blanching and Grinding Process with Hot Water on Beany and Non‐Beany Flavor in Soymilk
Authors: Lv Yan‐Chun , Song Huan‐Lu , Li Xin , Wu Liang , Guo Shun‐Tang
Published: January 2011

Abstract: A total of 8 beany odor‐active compounds and 4 non‐beany aroma‐active compounds of traditional soymilk were identified through dynamic headspace dilution analysis (DHDA) and gas chromatography‐olfactometry‐mass spectrometry (GC‐O‐MS). To eliminate the beany flavors, soymilk was processed with hot water blanching and grinding for 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 min with a temperature between 80 and 100 °C. A total of 5 beany odor‐active compounds and 3 non‐beany aroma‐active compounds of this soymilk were analyzed by headspace solid phase microextraction (HS‐SPME). As a result, lipoxygenase (LOX) activity gradually decreased by hot water treatment with time, and with the decrease of Lox activity, the 5 beany odor‐active compounds and 3 non‐beany aroma‐active compounds were significantly decreased. However, the reduction in non‐beany flavor compounds was smaller than for beany odor compounds. Therefore, a balance between beany and non‐beany flavors can be reached in soymilk. When the soaked soybeans were blanched and ground with hot water for 2 to 6 min, the LOX activity was between 38% and 57% of the beginning activity. For these processing times, the non‐beany compounds could be largely maintained. The ratio of the total peak area of the 3 non‐beany aroma compounds and 5 beany flavor compounds was between 0.07 and 0.12, and the sensory scores of the aromas were higher than that of the off‐flavors.

Practical Application: Beany flavors in soymilk could be reduced with hot water blanching and grinding at temperature above 80 °C. However, the treatment of hot water blanching affected the non‐beany aromas of soymilk. A suitable blanching and grinding time is necessary to achieve a balance of soymilk flavors.