bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P‐T path determinations in the Tormes Gneissic Dome, NW Iberian Massif, Spain
Authors: VIRUETE J. ESCUDER , INDARES A. , ARENAS R.
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT The Tormes Gneissic Dome (TGD, NW sector of the Iberian Massif, Spain) is a high‐grade metamorphic complex affected by a major episode of extensional deformation (D2). The syn‐D2 P‐T path of the Lower Unit of the TGD was deduced from the analysis of reaction textures related to superimposed fabrics developed during exhumation, analysis of mineral zoning and thermobarometric calculations. It comprises an initial phase of decompression, determined using the tweequ thermobarometric technique, from 6.4–8.1 kbar at 735–750C (upper structural levels) and 7.2 kbar at 770C (lower structural levels) to 3.3–3.9 kbar and 645–680C. This evolution is consistent with the observed sequence of melting reactions and the generation of garnet‐and cordierite‐bearing anatectic granitoids. The later part of the syn‐D2 P‐T path consisted of almost isobaric cooling associated with the thermal re‐equilibration of the unit in the new structural position. This segment of the P‐T path is recorded by assemblages with And + Bt + Ms and Ms + Chi + Ab related to the later mylonitic S2 fabrics, which indicate retrogression to low‐amphibolite and greenschist facies conditions.
Early Ordovician U‐Pb metamorphic ages of the eclogite‐bearing Seve Nappes, Northern Scandinavian Caledonides
Authors: ESSEX R. M. , GROMET L. P. , ANDRÉASSON P.‐G. , ALBRECHT L.
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT Eclogite‐grade metamorphism of the Seve Nappe Complex (SNC) in Norrbotten, Sweden, records the attempted subduction of the Baltic continental margin during the early Palaeozoic evolution of the Iapetus Ocean. Metamorphic titanite sampled from several calcsilicate gneisses of the SNC in Norrbotten occurs as part of a prograde, eclogite facies metamorphic mineral assemblage and yields concordant to nearly concordant U/Pb ages of 500–475 Ma. Later structural disruption of these rocks occurred during the Siluro‐Devonian Scandian phase of the Caledonide orogeny, but the U/Pb systematics show no evidence of a second generation (metamorphic or recrystallized) of titanite, or of post‐Early Ordovician disturbance through Pb loss. Hence the U/Pb ages are believed to record the time of prograde mineral growth during eclogite facies metamorphism of the SNC.

These results support earlier Sm/Nd and 40Ar/39Ar studies indicating an Early Ordovician metamorphic age for the eclogitic Norrbotten SNC, and confirm the Early Ordovician destruction of at least this segment of the Palaeozoic passive margin of Baltica. These results indicate that the SNC in the northern Scandinavian Caledonides was subducted and metamorphosed to high grade some 50–70 Myr prior to the high‐grade metamorphism of the SNC in the central Scandinavian Caledonides. This result requires significantly different early Palaeozoic tectonic histories for rocks mapped as SNC in the northern Caledonides and those in the central Caledonides, despite a seemingly similar tectonostratigraphic position and broadly similar high‐grade metamorphism.
Metamorphic petrology and zircon geochronology of high‐grade rocks from the central Mozambique Belt of Tanzania: crustal recycling of Archean and Palaeoproterozoic material during the Pan‐African orogeny
Authors: Sommer H. , Kröner A. , Hauzenberger C. , Muhongo S. , Wingate M. T. D.
Published: July 2010

New data on the metamorphic petrology and zircon geochronology of high‐grade rocks in the central Mozambique Belt (MB) of Tanzania show that this part of the orogen consists of Archean and Palaeoproterozoic material that was structurally reworked during the Pan‐African event. The metamorphic rocks are characterized by a clockwiseP–Tpath, followed by strong decompression, and the time of peak granulite facies metamorphism is similar to other granulite terranes in Tanzania. The predominant rock types are mafic to intermediate granulites, migmatites, granitoid orthogneisses and kyanite/sillimanite‐bearing metapelites. The meta‐granitoid rocks are of calc‐alkaline composition, range in age from late Archean to Neoproterozoic, and their protoliths were probably derived from magmatic arcs during collisional processes. Mafic to intermediate granulites consist of the mineral assemblage garnet–clinopyroxene–plagioclase–quartz–biotite–amphibole ± K‐feldspar ± orthopyroxene ± oxides. Metapelites are composed of garnet‐biotite‐plagioclase ± K‐feldspar ± kyanite/sillimanite ± oxides. Estimated values for peak granulite facies metamorphism are 12–13 kbar and 750–800 °C. Pressures of 5–8 kbar and temperatures of 550–700 °C characterize subsequent retrogression to amphibolite facies conditions. Evidence for a clockwiseP–Tpath is provided by late growth of sillimanite after kyanite in metapelites. Zircon ages indicate that most of the central part of the MB in Tanzania consists of reworked ancient crust as shown by Archean (c. 2970–2500 Ma) and Palaeoproterozoic (c. 2124–1837 Ma) protolith ages. Metamorphic zircon from metapelites and granitoid orthogneisses yielded ages ofc. 640 Ma which are considered to date peak regional granulite facies metamorphism during the Pan‐African orogenic event. However, the available zircon ages for the entire MB in East Africa and Madagascar also document that peak metamorphic conditions were reached at different times in different places. Large parts of the MB in central Tanzania consist of Archean and Palaeoproterozoic material that was reworked during the Pan‐African event and that may have been part of the Tanzania Craton and Usagaran domain farther to the west.
Mechanical Support and Medical Therapy Reverse Heart Failure in Infants and Children
Authors: Zimmerman Hannah , Covington Diane , Smith Richard , Copeland Jack
Published: July 2010

Most infants and children implanted with ventricular assist devices (VADs) go on to cardiac transplantation. Recovery of dilated cardiomyopathies with the combination left ventricular decompression with a VAD and treatment with maximal medical therapy has been possible in some adults, and may be more feasible in infants and children. We used pulsatile and continuous flow VADs and the total artificial heart (TAH) as bridges to transplantation or to recovery. Candidates for native heart recovery were treated with maximal medical therapy for congestive heart failure and short‐term dobutamine prior to weaning off device support. Since 1997, 28 infants and children, ages 1 month to 16 years, were implanted for durations of 3–107 days (mean 27). Eighteen received left VADs (LVAD), seven biventricular assist devices (BiVADs), and three TAHs. Device‐related mortality was 7/28 (25%), leaving 21/28 (75%) surviving to transplantation or weaning from device support and 20/28 (71%) discharged from the hospital and currently surviving for 2 months to 9 years. Ten of 11 transplant recipients (90%) have survived 2 to 9 years. All 10 with recovered hearts are alive and well for 2 months to 5 years. Eight of 12 (67%) LVAD patients with dilated hearts recovered. None of the recovery patients were over 6 years old. Infants and children who have failed inotropic therapy may be treated with an LVAD and medical therapy for congestive heart failure anticipating native heart recovery. A variety of devices have been tried. All small LVADs yielded comparable results. Larger and older children also have a chance of recovery, but our experience with them is too small except to note that they do well with larger devices and transplantation.
Monetary Policy and the Lost Decade: Lessons from Japan
Authors: LEIGH DANIEL
Published: July 2010

I investigate how monetary policy can avoid a deflationary slump when policy rates are near zero by studying interest rate policy during Japan's “Lost Decade.” Estimation results suggest that the Bank of Japan's interest rate policy fits a conventional reaction function with an inflation target near 1%. The disapointing economic performance thus seems primarily due to adverse economic shocks rather than extraordinary policy errors. Also, counterfactual policy simulations suggest that simply raising the inflation target would not have substantially improved performance. However, price‐level targeting or combining a higher inflation target with an aggressive output response would have achieved superior stabilization results.
The Output Effect of a Transition to Price Stability When Velocity Is Time Varying
Authors: EVANS LYNNE , NICOLAE ANAMARIA
Published: July 2010

This paper explores the effect of time‐varying velocity on output responses to policies for reducing/stopping inflation. We study a dynamic general equilibrium model with sticky prices in which we introduce time‐varying velocity. Specifically, we endogenize time‐varying velocity into the model developed by Ireland (1997) for analyzing optimal disinflation. The nonlinear solution method reveals that, depending on velocity, the “disinflationary boom” found by Ball (1994) may disappear even under perfect credibility and that early output losses may be much larger than previously thought. Indeed, we find that a gradual disinflation from a low inflation may even be undesirable.
Capital Constraints, Asymmetric Information, and Internal Capital Markets in Banking: New Evidence
Authors: HOLOD DMYTRO , PEEK JOE
Published: July 2010

A growing literature investigates the role of internal capital markets in mitigating financial constraints faced by the subsidiaries of a conglomerate. Most studies have relied on indirect tests based on correlations between the cash flows and the investment of the subsidiaries. In contrast, we avoid the widespread criticisms of such specifications by providing direct tests that focus on the mechanisms through which internal reallocations of funds occur. We find that internal capital markets are used by multibank holding companies to mitigate capital constraints faced by individual bank subsidiaries. In addition, we show that internal capital management within a multibank holding company involves not only the movement of capital to those subsidiaries with a relatively greater need for capital but also the movement of assets (loans) from less well capitalized to better capitalized subsidiaries by means of loan sales and purchases among the subsidiaries. Furthermore, net loan sales are used to allow efficiency‐enhancing specialization among bank subsidiaries, insofar as those subsidiaries with the best loan origination opportunities are able to focus on loan originations even if they do not have sufficient capital to hold the loans. Our evidence is consistent with banks affiliated with holding companies more actively participating in loan sales and purchases because, by using their internal secondary loan market, they are able to avoid the “lemons” problem faced by stand‐alone banks.
Do Limit Orders Alter Inferences about Investor Performance and Behavior?
Authors: LINNAINMAA JUHANI T.
Published: July 2010

Individual investors lose money around earnings announcements, experience poor posttrade returns, exhibit the disposition effect, and make contrarian trades. Using simulations and trading records of all individual investors in Finland, I find that these trading patterns can be explained in large part by investors' use of limit orders. These patterns arise mechanically because limit orders are price‐contingent and suffer from adverse selection. Reverse causality from behavioral biases to order choices does not appear to explain my findings. I propose a simple method for measuring a data set's susceptibility to this limit order effect.
Market Segmentation and Cross‐predictability of Returns
Authors: MENZLY LIOR , OZBAS OGUZHAN
Published: July 2010

We present evidence supporting the hypothesis that due to investor specialization and market segmentation, value‐relevant information diffuses gradually in financial markets. Using the stock market as our setting, we find that (i) stocks that are in economically related supplier and customer industries cross‐predict each other's returns, (ii) the magnitude of return cross‐predictability declines with the number of informed investors in the market as proxied by the level of analyst coverage and institutional ownership, and (iii) changes in the stock holdings of institutional investors mirror the model trading behavior of informed investors.
Mutual Fund Incubation
Authors: EVANS RICHARD B.
Published: July 2010

Incubation is a strategy for initiating new funds, where multiple funds are started privately, and, at the end of an evaluation period, some are opened to the public. Consistent with incubation being used by fund families to increase performance and attract flows, funds in incubation outperform nonincubated funds by 3.5% risk‐adjusted, and when they are opened to the public they attract higher flows. Postincubation, however, this outperformance disappears. This performance reversal imparts an upward bias to returns that is not removed by a fund size filter. Fund age and ticker creation date filters, however, eliminate the bias.
Complex Fractionated Electrograms and AF Nests in Vagally Mediated Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: OH SEIL , KONG HYOUN‐JOONG , CHOI EUE‐KEUN , KIM HEE CHAN , CHOI YUN‐SHIK
Published: July 2010

Background: Catheter ablation targeting of complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAEs) is one of the techniques used for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. The ablation of sites showing a high‐frequency spectral component (HFC) during sinus rhythm, known as AF nests, has been introduced as an adjunct to conventional ablation. Known locations of some AF nests are similar to CFAE sites. However, it has not been systematically evaluated whether these two targets represent the same foci. The purpose of this study was to compare the anatomical locations of these sites using an animal model of vagally mediated AF.

Methods: Five anesthetized open‐chest dogs were evaluated. Atrial electrograms were obtained epicardially. AF was induced by burst atrial pacing with 20 Hz during vagal stimulation. A total of 15 sites (eight sites in right atrium and seven sites in left atrium) were evaluated in each animal. The CFAE was determined during AF according to the electrogram patterns. After sinus conversion, real‐time spectrum analysis was used for AF nest assessment at the same location.

Results: The CFAE was observed at the high and mid sulcus terminalis areas, pulmonary vein antrum, and mid portion of the coronary sinus. Among them, only 60% of the CFAE sites showed HFC during sinus rhythm. In addition, some of the non‐CFAE sites (22%) showed HFC during sinus rhythm.

Conclusion: The CFAE sites were not the same as the AF nests in this animal model of vagally mediated AF. Therefore, these two types of ablation methods appear to target different substrates of AF. (PACE 2010; 33:1497–1503)
Role of the Atrial Rate as a Factor Modulating Ventricular Response during Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: CLIMENT ANDREU M. , GUILLEM MARIA S. , HUSSER DANIELA , CASTELLS FRANCISCO , MILLET JOSÉ , BOLLMANN ANDREAS
Published: July 2010

Background: During atrial fibrillation (AF), RR interval histograms show different populations of predominant RR (pRR) intervals. These pRR intervals have been suggested to be multiples of the refractory period of the atrioventricular (AV) node or caused by the existence of a dual AV node physiology. In this study, the hypothesis that pRR intervals are related to the dominant atrial fibrillatory rate is tested.

Methods: In this study, Holter electrocardiogram signals from 55 patients with persistent AF were analyzed. Number and position of pRR intervals were detected and compared with mean and standard deviation of the dominant atrial cycle length (DACL). In addition, effects of an enhancement of vagal activity and rate‐control treatments (β‐blockers and verapamil) were evaluated.

Results: In all patients with more than one pRR interval and in 47% with one pRR interval, RR interval populations were statistically related with multiples of the DACL. During night activities and during β‐blockers treatment, mean ventricular rate was decreased (P < 0.01). This change was associated with a variation in the percentage of occurrences of each pRR (P < 0.01), whereas no statistical differences were present in the mean DACL or in the position of pRR intervals. A variation of the DACL due to verapamil was associated with a consistent modification in the position of the pRR intervals.

Conclusion: The relation between pRR and multiples of the DACL during AF suggests that more probable RR intervals are caused by different conduction ratios of the atrial rate. (PACE 2010; 33:1510–1517)
Ca2+‐Mediated Interaction Between Microsilica and Polycarboxylate Comb Polymers in a Model Cement Pore Solution
Authors: Lesti Matthias , Ng Serina , Plank Johann
Published: July 2010

Interaction between polycarboxylate (PCE) comb polymers and microsilica suspended in a highly alkaline, Ca2+‐loaded model cement pore solution was studied via zeta potential, adsorption, and paste flow experiments. Zeta potential measurements reveal that in an alkaline suspension, microsilica possesses a negative surface charge stemming from deprotonated silanolate groups. Addition of soluble calcium salts (e.g., CaCl2) was found to cause a charge reversal to positive, owing to the adsorption of Ca2+ ions forming a monolayer on the microsilica surface. Further experiments demonstrate that through Ca2+ mediation, anionic PCE graft polymers adsorb in high amount on the microsilica surface. Polymers possessing a stronger anionic character exhibit a higher affinity to the positive microsilica surface, and consequently, exercise a more powerful dispersing effect than PCE showing less anionic character. A model summarizing the processes occurring at the surface of microsilica in this fluid system is proposed. The study suggests that the high fluidity of concrete containing microsilica depends on the effective dispersion of microsilica, and not of cement.
Calcium–Magnesium Alumino‐Silicate Interaction with Yttrium Monosilicate Environmental Barrier Coatings
Authors: Grant Kendra M. , Krämer Stephan , Seward Gareth G. E. , Levi Carlos G.
Published: July 2010

The interaction of molten calcium–magnesium alumino‐silicate (CMAS) with yttrium monosilicate (YMS), a candidate environmental barrier coating (EBC) for SiC‐based ceramic matrix composites, was investigated. YMS monoliths were exposed to CMAS melts at 1300°C for times ranging from 1 to 100 h and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy/electron microprobe analysis, and electron back‐scattered diffraction. YMS is dissolved into CMAS and reprecipitates as a Ca2Y8(SiO4)6O2 oxyapatite phase. A nominally continuous layer of apatite is readily established at the interface, but its effectiveness as a diffusion barrier is compromised by the presence of thin amorphous films along the grain boundaries that enhance chemical transport between the bulk melt and the YMS. Moreover, the growth mechanism involves continuous renucleation that eventually leads to separation of the crystals formed previously from the interface and their subsequent coarsening. The latter results in widening of the amorphous boundary films, enhancing interdiffusion. The significance of these findings on the viability of YMS as a durable EBC is discussed.
Radiative Emission at Mid‐Infrared Wavelengths from Rare‐Earth Ions Via Nanocrystal Formation in Oxyfluoride Glasses
Authors: Chung Woon Jin , Kim Kyoung Hoon , Park Bong Je , Seo Hong Seok , Ahn Joon Tae , Choi Yong Gyu
Published: July 2010

We observed experimentally that the formation of β‐PbF2 nanocrystals (NC) in oxyfluoride glass conspicuously altered the local structures of rare‐earth (RE) ions, which then enabled their intra4f‐configurational transitions to be luminuous even at mid‐infrared (MIR) wavelengths. Radiative emission centered at ∼2.87 μm originating from Dy3+:6H13/2→6H15/2 transition was remarkably enhanced after the NC were formed by thermal treatment in an ambient atmosphere. However, emission intensities due to Er3+:4I11/2→4I13/2 and Ho3+:5I6→5I7 transitions turned out to be less dependent on the NC formation, which indicated that the enhancement of MIR emission depended on RE.
Crystal Structure and Microwave Dielectric Properties of LaLuO3 Ceramics
Authors: Varghese Jobin , Joseph Tony , Sebastian Mailadil Thomas , Reeves‐McLaren Nik , Feteira Antonio
Published: July 2010

Dense LaLuO3 ceramics were prepared by the conventional solid‐state reaction route. Their room‐temperature (RT) crystal structure and microwave (MW) dielectric properties were investigated. Rietveld refinements performed on X‐ray diffraction data show the RT crystal symmetry to be best described by the centrosymmetric orthorhombic Pnma space group [a=6.01888 (9) Å, b=8.37489 (12) Å, and c=5.81841 (8) Å, Z=4]. This space group assignment was further corroborated by Raman spectroscopy analysis. At RT and MW frequencies, LaLuO3 ceramics sintered at 1525°C/4 h exhibit a relative permittivity, ɛr=22.4, a quality factor, Qu×f=14 400 GHz (at 5.14 GHz), and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency, τf=−7.5 ppm/°C. ɛr corrected for porosity was calculated as 23.9.
Immune memory redefined: characterizing the longevity of natural killer cells
Authors: Sun Joseph C. , Beilke Joshua N. , Lanier Lewis L.
Published: July 2010

Summary:  Natural killer (NK) cells respond rapidly to transformed, stressed, or virally infected cells and provide a first‐line immune defense against pathogen invasion and cancer. Thought to involve short‐lived effector cells that are armed for battle, NK cells were not previously known to contribute in recall responses to pathogen re‐encounter. Here, we highlight recent discoveries demonstrating that NK cells are not limited to driving primary immune responses to foreign antigen but can mount secondary responses contributing to immune memory. We also further characterize the phenotype and function of long‐lived memory NK cells generated during viral infection.
Contracting the ‘mus cells’– does down‐sizing suit us for diving into the memory pool?
Authors: Kurtulus Sema , Tripathi Pulak , Opferman Joseph T. , Hildeman David A.
Published: July 2010

Summary:  Maintenance of T‐cell homeostasis is critical for normal functioning of the immune system. After thymocyte selection, T cells enter the peripheral lymphoid organs, where they are maintained as naive cells. Transient disruption of homeostasis occurs when naive T cells undergo antigen‐driven expansion and acquire effector functions. Effector T cells then either undergo apoptosis (i.e. contraction at the population level) or survive to become memory cells. This apoptotic process is crucial: it resets T‐cell homeostasis, promotes protective immunity, and limits autoimmunity. Although initial studies using in vitro models supported a role for death receptor signaling, more recent in vivo studies have implicated Bcl‐2 family members as being critical for the culling of T‐cell responses. While several Bcl‐2 family members likely contribute to T‐cell contraction, the pro‐apoptotic molecule Bim and its anti‐apoptotic antagonist Bcl‐2 are essential regulators of the process. This review discusses the progress made in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying contraction of T‐cell responses and how some cells avoid this cell death and become memory T cells.
Regulation of CD4+ T‐cell contraction during pathogen challenge
Authors: McKinstry K. Kai , Strutt Tara M. , Swain Susan L.
Published: July 2010

Summary:  Signals orchestrating productive CD4+ T‐cell responses are well documented; however, the regulation of contraction of CD4+ T‐cell effector populations following the resolution of primary immune responses is not well understood. While distinct mechanisms of T‐cell death have been defined, the relative importance of discrete death pathways during the termination of immune responses in vivo remains unclear. Here, we review the current understanding of cell‐intrinsic and ‐extrinsic variables that regulate contraction of CD4+ T‐cell effector populations through multiple pathways that operate both initially during T‐cell priming and later during the effector phase. We discuss the relative importance of antigen‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms of CD4+ T‐cell contraction during in vivo responses, with a special emphasis on influenza virus infection. In this model, we highlight the roles of greater differentiation and presence in the lung of CD4+ effector T cells, as well as their polarization to particular T‐helper subsets, in maximizing contraction. We also discuss the role of autocrine interleukin‐2 in limiting the extent of contraction, and we point out that these same factors regulate contraction during secondary CD4+ T‐cell responses.
Targeting granulocyte apoptosis: mechanisms, models, and therapies
Authors: Duffin Rodger , Leitch Andrew E. , Fox Sarah , Haslett Chris , Rossi Adriano G.
Published: July 2010

Summary: The inflammatory process is a complex series of tightly controlled cellular and biochemical events initiated by the immune system, which has evolved to eliminate or contain infectious agents and to repair damaged tissue. Apoptosis is essential for the clearance of potentially injurious inflammatory cells, such as neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, and the subsequent efficient resolution of inflammation. In this review, we aim to cover key features of the granulocyte life‐cycle ranging from their differentiation within the bone marrow to their maturation and ultimate clearance, with a focus on granulocyte apoptosis and macrophage efferocytosis. We further aim to discuss current and emerging models of inflammation and suggest novel ways of terminating or resolving deleterious inflammatory responses with a specific view to the translation of these strategies into fully realized, pro‐resolution therapies.
Measles virus‐induced suppression of immune responses
Authors: Griffin Diane E.
Published: July 2010

Summary:  Measles is an important cause of child mortality that has a seemingly paradoxical interaction with the immune system. In most individuals, the immune response is successful in eventually clearing measles virus (MV) infection and in establishing life‐long immunity. However, infection is also associated with persistence of viral RNA and several weeks of immune suppression, including loss of delayed type hypersensitivity responses and increased susceptibility to secondary infections. The initial T‐cell response includes CD8+ and T‐helper 1 CD4+ T cells important for control of infectious virus. As viral RNA persists, there is a shift to a T‐helper 2 CD4+ T‐cell response that likely promotes B‐cell maturation and durable antibody responses but may suppress macrophage activation and T‐helper 1 responses to new infections. Suppression of mitogen‐induced lymphocyte proliferation can be induced by lymphocyte infection with MV or by lymphocyte exposure to a complex of the hemagglutinin and fusion surface glycoproteins without infection. Dendritic cells (DCs) are susceptible to infection and can transmit infection to lymphocytes. MV‐infected DCs are unable to stimulate a mixed lymphocyte reaction and can induce lymphocyte unresponsiveness through expression of MV glycoproteins. Thus, multiple factors may contribute both to measles‐induced immune suppression and to the establishment of durable protective immunity.
A multi‐centre, prospective, clinical in‐market evaluation to assess the performance of Opsite™ Post‐Op Visible dressings
Authors: O'Brien Gillian , Buckley Karen , Vanwalleghem Geert , Vanrenterghem Dirk , Dharma Hussein , Winter Rachael L , Douglass Jude
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study was to assess the performance of Opsite™ Post‐Op Visible as a post‐surgical dressing in a typical clinical setting. In this multi‐centre clinical evaluation, patients who underwent clean surgery were treated with Opsite Post‐Op Visible dressing. Duration of dressing wear, visibility through the dressing and ability to handle exudate were assessed and the product was rated in comparison with those normally used. A total of 64 patients were recruited. Mean wear time was 4·5 days. Exudate management was rated very good or good at 96% of assessments. Visibility of the incision site was rated as very good or good at 72%, and as acceptable at 24%, of assessments. Patient comfort was rated very comfortable (63%) or comfortable (37%) at all assessments. Dressings were generally rated as satisfactory or exceeding expectations with clinicians stating that the Opsite Post‐Op Visible dressing was better than the dressing they routinely used for 92% of patients. Opsite Post‐Op Visible dressing is an innovative dressing combining good visibility with exudate management and patient comfort. It was found to have adequate wear time, visibility and exudate management properties making it suitable for use on a variety of surgical incision sites.
Research Letter: Structural Combination of Established 5‐HT2AReceptor Ligands: New Aspects of the Binding Mode
Authors: Kramer Vasko , Herth Matthias M. , Santini Martin A. , Palner Mikael , Knudsen Gitte M. , Rösch Frank
Published: July 2010

MH.MZ, MDL 100907, and altanserin are structurally similar 4‐benzoyl‐piperidine derivatives and are well accommodated to receptor interaction models. We combined structural elements of different high‐affinity and selective 5‐HT2Aantagonists, as MH.MZ, altanserin, and SR 46349B, to improve the binding properties of new compounds. Three new derivatives were synthesized with a 4‐benzoyl‐piperidine moiety as the lead structure. Thein vitroaffinity of the novel compounds was determined by a [3H]MDL 100907 competition binding assay. The combination of MH.MZ and SR 46349B resulted in a compound (8) with a moderate affinity toward the 5‐HT2Areceptor (Ki = 57 nm). The remarkably reduced affinity of other compounds (4a), (4b), and(4c)(Ki = 411, 360 and 356 nmrespectively) indicates that MH.MZ can only bind to the 5‐HT2Areceptor with thep‐fluorophenylethyl residue in a sterically restricted hydrophobic binding pocket.
Call sharing across vocal clans of killer whales: Evidence for vocal imitation?
Authors: Weiß Brigitte M. , Symonds Helena , Spong Paul , Ladich Friedrich
Published: July 2010

Abstract

In killer whales or orcas (Orcinus orca) vocal matching appears to be an important aspect of within‐group communication, but fish‐eating “resident” orcas frequently associate with whales that share little or none of their repertoire. The production of calls belonging to another group's repertoire would allow vocal matching in such contexts and has been observed in captive and free‐living orcas. However, reports were largely descriptive and neither structure nor usage of such “resemblance calls” have been investigated in detail. We analyzed resemblance calls in free‐living orcas when groups known to produce the respective call types were absent. In this context, they made up only 0.2% of the recorded calls. Time and frequency parameters of resemblance calls differed significantly from the “original” calls, and the accuracy of the resemblance calls ranged from rough renditions of a call type to the resemblance of call subtypes. Our results show that call sharing across vocal clans occurs in orcas but is rare and that shared calls are structurally distinguishable from original call types in the absence of the groups originally producing the calls. We discuss whether this call sharing represents cases of vocal imitation as suggested by previous, qualitative reports.
Individual vocal production in a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) social unit
Authors: Schulz Tyler M. , Whitehead Hal , Gero Shane , Rendell Luke
Published: July 2010

Abstract

The vocal repertoires of group‐living animals may communicate individual or group identity. Female and juvenile sperm whales live in long‐term social units that can be assigned to vocal clans based on the pattern of clicks in coda vocalizations. An unusual set of circumstances allowed us to record the vocalizations of photo‐identified individuals within a single social unit over a 41 d period. Using click interpulse intervals, we were able to assign codas to individuals and investigate coda production at the individual level within a social unit for the first time. Adult females in the unit vocalized at approximately equal rates. A calf and juvenile, both male, vocalized less often than the adult females. Repertoires were indistinguishable for all unit members apart from a mother and her calf, which possessed significantly different repertoires—even from one another. We suggest that similarity among the coda repertoires of most unit members indicates a function in advertising unit identity. In contrast, the distinctive repertoires of the calf and its mother may facilitate reunions between these whales. We hypothesize that sperm whales may be able to vary their vocal repertoires as their reproductive status alters the trade‐off between the benefits of individual and group identification.
Recreational fishing depredation and associated behaviors involving common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Sarasota Bay, Florida
Authors: Powell Jessica R. , Wells Randall S.
Published: July 2010

Abstract

Odontocete depredation involves stealing or damaging bait or prey already captured by fishing gear. The increase in depredation is of concern for small stocks of cetaceans because interactions with fishing gear can lead to serious injury or mortality through entanglement or ingestion. Using long‐term data sets available for the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) community in Sarasota Bay, Florida, we investigated recreational fishing gear interactions by (1) examining temporal patterns in depredation and associated behaviors from 2000 to 2007; (2) quantifying the behavior of dolphins that depredate or engage in associated behaviors; and (3) identifying factors associated with the rise in depredation locally. The number of incidents of dolphins (primarily adult males) interacting with recreational anglers and boaters increased following 2004. Depredation and associated behaviors increased during red tide lags and tourist seasons during times of prey depletion and heightened angler and boater activity. Dolphins with a history of fishing gear interactions shifted away from natural activity patterns and were more likely to be within 50 m of fishing lines. Recreational fishing gear interactions were attributed to a two percent population decline in Sarasota Bay in 2006 and need to be considered along with other cumulative human impacts in the development of conservation measures for dolphins.
Replacement dolphins? Social restructuring of a resident pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, after two major hurricanes
Authors: Elliser Cindy R. , Herzing Denise L.
Published: July 2010

Abstract

Environmental variations can influence the structure of ecological communities that in turn alter the grouping and association patterns of social communities. This study compares the social structure of bottlenose dolphins in the Bahamas before and after two major hurricanes. Approximately 30% of regularly seen individuals disappeared after the hurricanes, with an equal number of immigrants arriving afterwards. The primary goal of this study was to quantitatively describe social structure changes occurring after this large‐scale emigration (or death) and subsequent immigration of individuals using the social analysis program, SOCPROG 2.3. The pre‐hurricane results revealed one community with association patterns that were consistent with previous work on this population as well as other well‐documented populations. Post‐hurricane associations revealed that the community split into two distinct units, whose members associated highly within, but rarely between units. Association patterns varied between units. Immigrants assimilated well into the population, especially males. Over half of the post‐hurricane associations involved immigrants, the majority between residents and immigrants, and primarily involving immigrant males. The costs/benefits of choosing to associate with an immigrant individual differ between males and females and may have been the driving force for the changes in social structure that occurred.
Growth under uncertainty: The influence of marine variability on early development of Galapagos sea lions
Authors: Mueller Birte , Pörschmann Ulrich , Wolf Jochen B. W. , Trillmich Fritz
Published: July 2010

Abstract

Development implies a change in allocation of resources from somatic growth to reproduction. In a highly variable environment, growth can vary from year to year thereby influencing the long‐term life history perspective. The Galapagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) lives in a highly unpredictable marine environment in which food abundance varies not only seasonally, but also annually due to El Niño. Galapagos sea lions are restricted to a patch of cold upwelling waters surrounding the archipelago and are closely tied to land as nursing females alternate between foraging at sea and nursing ashore. Therefore, their offspring are especially vulnerable to ocean warming causing reduced food abundance. We found a significant correlation between sea surface temperature (SST) and early growth: Both mass at birth and linear growth within the first 2 mo of life correlated negatively with SST. Absolute mass gain was higher for males, but both sexes gained equally 1.9% of birth mass per day. Until the age of 3 yr male and female juveniles showed similar growth to an asymptotic mass of 40 and 35 kg, respectively. As a consequence of the highly variable environment, the plasticity in growth strategy of Galapagos sea lion juveniles appears wider than that of all other sea lions allowing them to cope with poor conditions.
Olfaction and brain size in the bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus)
Authors: Thewissen J. G. M. , George John , Rosa Cheryl , Kishida Takushi
Published: July 2010

Abstract

Although there are several isolated references to the olfactory anatomy of mysticetes, it is usually thought that olfaction is rudimentary in this group. We investigated the olfactory anatomy of bowhead whales and found that these whales have a cribriform plate and small, but histologically complex olfactory bulb. The olfactory bulb makes up approximately 0.13% of brain weight, unlike odontocetes where this structure is absent. We also determined that 51% of olfactory receptor genes were intact, unlike odontocetes, where this number is less than 25%. This suggests that bowheads have a sense of smell, and we speculate that they may use this to find aggregations of krill on which they feed.
Distribution of Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) off the west coast, South Island, New Zealand, with implications for the management of bycatch
Authors: Rayment William , Clement Deanna , Dawson Steve , Slooten Elisabeth , Secchi Eduardo
Published: July 2010

Abstract

To support decision making on placement of protected areas for Hector's dolphin on New Zealand's South Island west coast, we conducted three aerial surveys documenting the species’ distribution in this area. The first survey was designed to quantify alongshore distribution and abundance, and revealed a patchy distribution with a central zone of high density. Two further surveys, in summer and winter, focused on this central zone to quantify offshore distribution in detail. Dolphin density decreased with increasing distance offshore, with no dolphins sighted more than 6 nmi from the coast or in water deeper than 60 m. There was no significant difference in offshore distribution between summer and winter surveys conducted in 2003 (G= 2.15, df = 5, P= 0.83). Partial Mantel tests showed that dolphin distribution was best explained by distance from the coast, in both summer (rM= 0.088, P= 0.0001) and winter (rM= 0.054, P= 0.0004). Spatial contouring techniques showed that small (ca. 5 km) and medium scale (ca. 50 km) patterns of density in the central zone were remarkably consistent, suggesting year‐round residency. Based on these data, the current restrictions on commercial gillnetting protect 60% or less of the dolphin population for 3 mo of the year.
National Institutes of Health Center for Human Immunology Conference, September 2009
Authors: Nussenblatt Robert B. , Bielekova Bibiana , Childs Richard , Krensky Alan , Strober Warren , Trinchieri Giorgio ,   for the Center for Human Immunology, Autoimmunity and Inflammation, National Institutes of Health
Published: July 2010

Although studies of the laboratory mouse model have laid the groundwork for our rich understanding of immunobiology, they have fallen short in deciphering human disease and providing much needed therapeutic modalities. Indeed, bench‐to‐bedside approaches have not been a particularly effective means of developing translational research.1 Recently, a symposium was held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) entitled “Meeting the Human Immunology Challenge,” highlighting the opportunities for the new Intramural NIH Center for Human Immunology, Autoimmunity, and Inflammation (http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/resources/chi/); among other things it has become clear that a broader definition of the human immune spectrum in health and disease is needed. The human immunology meeting was held in the Clinical Center of the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, on September 3 and 4, 2009.
Development and Characterization of Edible Films Based on Mucilage of Opuntia ficus‐indica (L.)
Authors: Espino‐Díaz Miguel , De Jesús Ornelas‐Paz J. , Martínez‐Téllez Miguel A. , Santillán Carlos , Barbosa‐Cánovas Gustavo V. , Zamudio‐Flores Paul B. , Olivas Guadalupe I.
Published: July 2010

Abstract:  Mucilage of Opuntia ficus‐indica (OFI) was extracted and characterized by its composition and molecular weight distribution. Mucilage film‐forming dispersions were prepared under different pHs (3, 4, 5.6, 7, and 8) and calcium concentration (0% and 30% of CaCl2, with respect to mucilage's weight), and their particle size determined. Mucilage films with and without calcium (MFCa and MF, respectively) were prepared. The effect of calcium and pH on mucilage films was evaluated determining thickness, color, water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), and percentage of elongation (%E). The average molecular weight of the different fractions of mucilage was: 3.4 × 106 (0.73%), 1 × 105 (1.46%), 1.1 × 103 (45.79%), and 2.4 × 102 Da (52.03%). Aqueous mucilage dispersions with no calcium presented particles with an average size d(0.5) of 15.4 μm, greater than the dispersions with calcium, 13.2 μm. MFCa films showed more thickness (0.13 mm) than the MF films (0.10 mm). The addition of calcium increased the WVP of the films from 109.94 to 130.45 gmm/m2dkPa. Calcium and pH affected the mechanical properties of the films; the largest TS was observed on MF films, whereas the highest %E was observed on MFCa films. The highest differences among MF and MFCa films were observed at pHs 5.6 and 7 for TS and at pHs 4 and 8 for %E. No effect of pH and calcium was observed on luminosity and hue angle. Chroma values were higher for MF when compared with MFCa, and increased as pH of the films increased.

Practical Application:  In this study mucilage from nopal was extracted and characterized by its ability to form edible films under different pHs, and with or without the addition of calcium. Opuntia ficus‐indica mucilage had the ability to form edible films. In general, it can be considered that mucilage films without modification of pH and without the addition of calcium have the best water vapor barrier properties and tensile strength. Mucilage from nopal could represent a good option for the development of edible films in countries where nopal is highly produced at low cost, constituting a processing alternative for nopal.
Antiangiogenetic Effects of 4 Varieties of Grapes In Vitro
Authors: Liu Ming , Liu Rui‐Hai , Song Bing‐Bing , Li Chun‐Feng , Lin Luo‐Qiang , Zhang Chun‐Peng , Zhao Jin‐Lu , Liu Jia‐Ren
Published: July 2010

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of grapes on the human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVE) cells’ capillary tube formation and matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) expression secreted into the medium. Four different grape varieties (Concord, Niagara, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir) were extracted using 80% acetone and the extracts were stored at −80 °C. The total amount of phenolics and flavonoids for each of the 4 grape varieties were determined by spectrophotometry. Grape extracts were co‐cultured with HUVE cells on Matrigel and inhibitory effects on tube formation were observed under a microscope. The inhibitory effects of grape extracts on MMP‐2 expression were examined by zymogram. All 4 grape varieties inhibited the tube formation of HUVE cells in a dose‐dependent manner on Matrigel. Except for Chardonnay, the other 3 grape varieties completely inhibited secretion of MMP‐2 at 20 mg/mL. There was a significant positive relationship between the total phenolics and flavonoids and antiangiogenetic activities. The grapes tested have the potential to inhibit angiogenesis mainly by their phenolics and flavonoids contents, which partly contribute to their cancer chemopreventive efficacy.
Shelf Life and Sensory Characteristics of Baby Spinach Subjected to Electron Beam Irradiation
Authors: Neal Jack A. , Booren Betsy , Cisneros‐Zevallos Luis , Miller Rhonda K. , Lucia Lisa M. , Maxim Joseph E. , Castillo Alejandro
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The use of ionizing radiation for the control of foodborne pathogens and extending the shelf life of fresh iceberg lettuce and fresh spinach has recently been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of electron beam irradiation for controlling foodborne pathogens has been reported. For this experiment, the effectiveness of electron beam irradiation on the microbiological and sensory characteristics of fresh spinach was studied. Total aerobic plate counts were reduced by 2.6 and 3.2 log CFU/g at 0.7 and 1.4 kGy, respectively. Lactic acid bacteria were reduced at both doses of e‐beam but grew slowly over the 35 d of the experiment. Yeasts and molds were not reduced in samples exposed to 0.7 kGy whereas 1.4 kGy significantly reduced microbial counts. Gas compositions (O2and CO2) were significantly different than controls. Oxygen levels inside the spinach sample bags decreased over time; however, O2levels did not drop below 1% that can induce anaerobic fermentation. CO2levels for all treatments increased through day 4; yet 7 d after irradiation, CO2level differences were not significant in both control and irradiated samples. Irradiation dose did not affect the basic tastes, aromatics, or mouth feels of fresh spinach, however; hardness attributes decreased as irradiated dose increased and slimy attributes of fresh spinach were higher in control samples compared to irradiated samples.