bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Steps towards a mechanistic understanding of respiratory temperature responses
Authors: Kruse Jörg , Rennenberg Heinz , Adams Mark A.
Published: January 2011

Temperature crucially affects the speed of metabolic processes in poikilotherm organisms, including plants. The instantaneous temperature responses of O2‐reduction and CO2‐release can be approximated by Arrhenius kinetics, even though respiratory gas exchange of plants is the net effect of many constituent biochemical processes. Nonetheless, the classical Arrhenius equation must be modified to account for a dynamic response to measurement temperatures. We show that this dynamic response is readily explained by combining Arrhenius and Michaelis–Menten kinetics, as part of a fresh appraisal of metabolic interpretations of instantaneous temperature responses. In combination with recent experimental findings, we argue that control of mitochondrial electron flow is shared among cytochrome oxidase and alternative oxidase under in vivo conditions, and is continuously coordinated. In this way, upstream carbohydrate metabolism and downstream electron transport appear to be optimized according to the demand of ATP, TCA‐cycle intermediates and anabolic reducing power under differing metabolic states. We provide a link to the ‘Growth and Maintenance Paradigm’ of respiration and argue that respiratory temperature responses can be used as a tool to probe metabolic states of plant tissue, such that we can learn more about the mechanisms that govern longer‐term acclimatization responses of plant metabolism.

Contents

Summary
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I.
Introduction
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II.
Representation of the instantaneous temperature response of respiration
661

III.
Temperature responses of mitochondrial oxygen reduction
662

IV.
The temperature response of CO2 respiration
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V.
Conclusion
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Acknowledgements
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References
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Deep RNA sequencing improved the structural annotation of the Tuber melanosporum transcriptome
Authors: Tisserant E. , Da Silva C. , Kohler A. , Morin E. , Wincker P. , Martin F.
Published: January 2011

Featured paper: See also the Editorial by Martin
Functional importance of inositol‐1,4,5‐triphosphate‐induced intracellular Ca2+ mobilization in galanin‐induced microglial migration
Authors: Ifuku Masataka , Okuno Yuko , Yamakawa Yukiko , Izumi Kyoko , Seifert Stefanie , Kettenmann Helmut , Noda Mami
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 61–70.

Galanin (GAL) is a neuropeptide which is up‐regulated following neuronal axotomy or inflammation. One subtype of GAL receptor (GalR2) is reported to be expressed in the brain’s immune cell population, microglia. In the present study, we investigated the effect of GAL on microglial migration and compared the mechanism with that of bradykinin (BK). GAL significantly increased the migration of rat cultured microglia at 0.1 pM. The GAL‐induced signal cascade was partly similar to that induced by BK. It was not dependent on Gi/o protein but involved activation of protein kinase C, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase and Ca2+‐dependent K+ channels. However, reverse‐mode activation of the Na+/Ca2+‐exchanger 1 was not involved in GAL‐induced microglial migration, unlike BK‐induced migration. Likewise, nominally‐free extracellular Ca2+ inhibited BK‐induced migration but not GAL‐induced migration. An inositol‐1,4,5‐triphosphate receptor antagonist significantly inhibited GAL‐induced migration. GAL‐induced Ca2+ signaling did not induce nitric oxide synthase expression, but up‐regulated class II major histocompatibility complex expression. These results indicate that activation of inositol‐1,4,5‐triphosphate receptor and increase in intracellular Ca2+ are important for GAL‐induced migration and immunoreactivity in microglia. The differences in down‐stream signal transduction induced by GAL and BK suggest that GAL and BK may control distinct microglial functions under pathological conditions.
First record of a bivalved larval shell in Early Cambrian tommotiids and its phylogenetic significance
Authors: HOLMER LARS E. , SKOVSTED CHRISTIAN B. , LARSSON CECILIA , BROCK GLENN A. , ZHANG ZHIFEI
Published: January 2011

Abstract:  Brachiopods are marine Lophotrochozoa whose soft parts are enclosed in a bivalved shell. Although brachiopods are represented by a rich record from the Early Cambrian to the present, the origin of their bivalved body plan remains controversial. The Early Cambrian organophosphatic tommotiids Micrina and Paterimitra from Australia have been proposed as stem brachiopods. Here, we describe their earliest ontogeny, indicating that tommotiids possessed bivalved planktotrophic larvae. The curious combinations of characters in Micrina and Paterimitra indicate that they may belong to the stems of the Linguliformea and Rhynchonelliformea, respectively. The bivalved shell of adult living brachiopods may represent a plesiomorphic character retained from planktic tommotiid larvae; the crown group body plan of the Brachiopoda may have evolved through the paedomorphic retention of a bivalved larval state.
Core Decompression of the Equine Navicular Bone: An In Vivo Study in Healthy Horses
Authors: Jenner Florien , Kirker‐Head Carl
Published: January 2011

Objective:To determine the physiologic response of the equine navicular bone to core decompression surgery in healthy horses.

Study Design:Experimental in vivo study.

Materials:Healthy adult horses (n=6).

Methods:Core decompression was completed by creating three 2.5‐mm‐diameter drill channels into the navicular bone under arthroscopic control. The venous (PV), arterial (PA), articular (PDIPJ), and intraosseous pressures (IOP) were recorded before and after decompression drilling. Each IOP measurement consisted of a baseline (IOPB) and a stress test (intramedullary injection of saline solution, IOPS) recording. Lameness was assessed subjectively and using force plate gait analysis. Fluorochrome bone labeling was performed. Horses were euthanatized at 12 weeks. Navicular bone mineral density (BMD) was measured, and bone histology evaluated.

Results:Peak IOP (IOPmax) after stress testing was significantly (P<.05) reduced immediately after core decompression; however, the magnitude of these effects was decreased at 3 and 6 weeks after decompression. A significant (P<.05) correlation existed between IOPmaxand BMD. No lameness was observed beyond the first week after surgery. Substantial remodeling and neovascularization was evident adjacent the surgery sites.

Conclusion:Navicular bone core decompression surgery reduced IOPmax, and, with the exception of a mild short‐lived lameness, caused no other adverse effects in healthy horses during the 12‐week study period.
In Vitro Comparison of Mechanical and Degradation Properties of Equivalent Absorbable Suture Materials from Two Different Manufacturers
Authors: de la Puerta Benito , Parsons Kevin J. , Draper Edward R. C. , Moores Alison L. , Moores Andrew P.
Published: January 2011

Objective: To compare the mechanical, knotting, and absorption properties of 3 synthetic absorbable suture materials (polyglactin 910, polydioxanone, poliglecaprone 25) from 2 different manufacturers (Huaiyin Medical Instruments Co. Ltd. and Ethicon Inc.).

Sample Population: Suture material samples from the same manufacturing lot for each suture type and manufacturer.

Methods: Part 1: 10 samples of each suture were incubated in bovine serum and tested for ultimate load and stiffness at days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Part 2: 10 knotted samples were similarly evaluated, without incubation.

Results: Huaiyin polydioxanone had a greater (P<.001) ultimate load on days 0, 1, and 7; and a consistently greater stiffness for the duration of the study, compared with the Ethicon polydioxanone. Ethicon poliglecaprone 25 had a greater ultimate load on days 0, 1, 7 (P<.001); on day 21 Huaiyin had a greater ultimate load. Ethicon poliglecaprone had greater stiffness on days 0, 1, 7 (P<.001). Ethicon polyglactin 910 had a greater (P<.001) ultimate load at all times and a greater stiffness (P<.001) at days 0, 1, 7, and 14 compared with Huaiyin polyglactin 910. Huaiyin polydioxanone and polyglactin 910 had greater knot breaking strengths than Ethicon equivalents (P<.001).

Conclusion: Differences in mechanical properties exist between nominally identical suture materials from different manufacturers.
Evaluation of the Learning Curve for Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery: Bilateral Ovariectomy in Dogs
Authors: Freeman Lynetta , Rahmani Emad Y. , Burgess Richard C. F. , Al‐Haddad Mohammad , Selzer Don J. , Sherman Stuart , Constable Peter
Published: January 2011

Objective:Study the learning curve for canine Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) ovariectomy by evaluating operative times and complications.

Study Design:Preclinical research study.

Animals:Adult female dogs (n=20).

Methods:NOTES ovariectomy procedures were performed as follows: Feasibility Group 1 (n=5), Feasibility Group 2 (n=5), and Early Clinical Group 3 (n=10). Six steps of the procedure were identified, timed separately, and the overall time was recorded from introduction to removal of the endoscope. Complications were recorded. Repeated measures analysis of variance using ranked data compared the effect of group (3 levels) on the time for each step. Nonlinear regression using an exponential model with nonzero asymptote was used to model the operative time–procedure number relationship.

Results:Overall median operative time was significantly longer for Group 1 (195 minutes; range, 160–265 minutes) than Group 2 (108 minutes; range, 81–148 minutes;P=.048) and Group 3 (77 minutes; range, 41–136 minutes;P=.0008). The estimated asymptotic operative time was 71 minutes (95% confidence interval, 41–100 minutes); this time was reached after 10 procedures. Gastric cleansing and removing the left ovary took significantly longer in Group 1 than in Group 2 or 3. Operative complications included incomplete ovarian excision, dropping an ovary during retrieval, and conversion to an open procedure. No intraoperative complications occurred in Group 3.

Conclusion:NOTES procedures result in longer operative times in the early part of the learning curve and require considerable experience before reaching proficiency.
Repair of Transverse Process Fractures of Multiple Lumbar Vertebrae in an Adult Dairy Cow
Authors: Nichols Sylvain , Vogel Susan R. , Lardé Hélène
Published: January 2011

Objective:To report lumbar vertebrae transverse process fracture repair using a narrow 3.5 mm limited contact dynamic compression plate (LC‐DCP) in an adult dairy cow.

Study Design:Case report.

Animals:A 3‐year‐old Holstein cow.

Methods:Under general anesthesia, fractured left transverse processes of lumbar vertebrae 2–4 were repaired using internal fixation. A narrow 3.5 mm LC‐DCP was contoured and secured to the spinous process and the transverse process of each fractured vertebra.

Results:Fractured transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae were successfully repaired and the cow discharged 10 days after surgery. At 10 months after surgery, the cow was declared reserved champion at a regional show.

Conclusion:A paramedian approach and muscle splitting can be used to repair multiple lumbar transverse process fractures using internal fixation with an excellent cosmetic outcome.
Does Algorithmic Trading Improve Liquidity?
Authors: HENDERSHOTT TERRENCE , JONES CHARLES M. , MENKVELD ALBERT J.
Published: January 2011

Algorithmic trading (AT) has increased sharply over the past decade. Does it improve market quality, and should it be encouraged? We provide the first analysis of this question. The New York Stock Exchange automated quote dissemination in 2003, and we use this change in market structure that increases AT as an exogenous instrument to measure the causal effect of AT on liquidity. For large stocks in particular, AT narrows spreads, reduces adverse selection, and reduces trade‐related price discovery. The findings indicate that AT improves liquidity and enhances the informativeness of quotes.
The individually optimized bolus dose of nadroparin is safe and effective in diabetic and nondiabetic patients with bleeding risk on hemodialysis
Authors: SAIN Milenka , LJUTIC Dragan , KOVACIC Vedran , RADIC Josipa , JELICIC Ivo
Published: January 2011

The risk of bleeding is a well‐known complication in patients on hemodialysis (HD). The aim of this prospective study was to determine the lowest single bolus dose of low–molecular‐weight heparin nadroparin for safe and effective HD in patients with a bleeding risk. Forty HD patients were divided into 4 subgroups with 10 participants (diabetics with and without a bleeding risk, nondiabetics with and without a bleeding risk). The actual starting bolus dose was decreased by 25% after the initial 4 weeks, further decreased by 25% of the starting dose after 4 weeks, and changed due to extracorporeal circuit clotting in the last 4 weeks. The parameters of coagulation were measured at the beginning, after 2 and 4 h of HD sessions. A significant reduction of nadroparin (first vs. last HD session) was observed in: diabetics with a bleeding risk (49.66 ± 12.33 vs. 28.78 ± 9.60 IU/kg/HD; P<0.001), diabetics without a bleeding risk (50.70 ± 15.23 vs. 33.95 ± 16.97 IU/kg/HD; P<0.001), and nondiabetics with a bleeding risk (61.25 ± 18.68 vs. 32.96 ± 10.06 IU/kg/HD; P<0.001). Altogether, the reduction of the nadroparin dose in these groups was 42.05%; 33.04%, and 46.19%, respectively. Although anti‐Xa at hour 4 at the end of the study was <0.4 IU/mL in our diabetic and nondiabetic patients without a risk of bleeding, serious clottings in the extracorporeal circuit and vascular access thromboses were not found. This study demonstrated for the first time that individually optimized doses of nadroparin are sufficient for safe and effective HD in patients with a bleeding risk.
Confounding factors for early death in incident end‐stage renal disease patients: Role of emergency dialysis start
Authors: DESCAMPS Chrystèle , LABEEUW Michel , TROLLIET Pierre , CAHEN Rémi , ECOCHARD René , POUTEIL‐NOBLE Claire , VILLAR Emmanuel
Published: January 2011

Hemodialysis (HD) has been associated with higher 1‐year mortality than peritoneal dialysis (PD) after dialysis start. Confounding effects of late referral, emergency dialysis start, or start with central venous catheter on this association have never been studied concomitantly. Survival was studied among the 495 incident dialysed patients in our department from 1995 to 2006 and followed at least 1 year until December 31, 2007. Nested Cox models adjusted on patient characteristics explored factors associated with 1‐year and ≥1‐year mortality. Hemodialysis patients were 332 (67.1%), 104 (21.0%) were late referred (<6 months), 167 (33.7%) started dialysis in emergency, and 144 (29.1%) started with central venous catheter. When adjusted only on age, sex, and comorbidities, HD was associated with poor 1‐year outcome: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for death in HD vs. PD was 1.77, P=0.02. In fully adjusted model, among first dialysis feature variables, only emergency dialysis start was significantly associated with 1‐year mortality: aHR 1.53, P=0.02. Dialysis modality was not associated with 1‐year mortality rates in this fully adjusted model: aHR in HD vs. PD became 1.03, P=0.91. In ≥1‐year period, HD was associated with lower mortality than PD (aHR 0.61, P=0.004), whereas other first dialysis features were not associated with death. Other factors associated with death were age, type 2 diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, heart failure, and hepatic failure. Negative association between HD and 1‐year survival on dialysis was explained by confounders. Emergency dialysis start was strongly associated with early mortality on dialysis. Its prevention may improve patient survival.
High‐output heart failure secondary to arteriovenous fistula
Authors: STERN Adam B. , KLEMMER Philip J.
Published: January 2011

In the hemodialysis patient population, a surgically created arteriovenous fistula is the preferred vascular access option. Development of high‐output heart failure may be an underappreciated complication in patients who have undergone this procedure. When a large proportion of arterial blood is shunted from the left‐sided circulation to the right‐sided circulation via the fistula, the increase in preload can lead to increased cardiac output. Over time, the demands of an increased workload may lead to cardiac hypertrophy and eventual heart failure. Patients may present with the usual signs of high‐output heart failure including tachycardia, elevated pulse pressure, hyperkinetic precordium, and jugular venous distension. Typically, the AV fistula is quite large and is likely located in the upper arm, more proximal to the heart. Routine access flow monitoring should demonstrate blood flows (Qa) >2000 ML/min. Echocardiogram may reveal either a low or high left ventricular ejection fraction, and right‐heart catheterization demonstrates an elevated cardiac output with a low to normal systemic vascular resistance. When addressing the problem of high‐output heart failure, the nephrologist is faced with the dilemma of preventing progression of heart failure at the expense of loss of vascular access. Nevertheless, treatment should be directed at correcting the underlying problem by surgical banding or ligation of the fistula.
Femoral arteriovenous fistula 3 months after removal of catheter for hemodialysis
Authors: TONG YanQing , ZHAO DongKai , WU QiuCheng , LIU YanRu
Published: January 2011

A 56‐year‐old Asian woman was admitted to hospital for the consideration of hemodialysis (HD). A right femoral dialysis catheter was inserted for HD. Three months after removal of catheter, she was admitted because of right inguinal swelling. A thrill and bruit were felt and heard at the inguinal area. Color Doppler detected a fistula between right superficial femoral artery and right common femoral vein and subsequently confirmed by contrast enhanced computed tomography scan and 3‐dimensional reconstruction with computed tomography. At surgery, a 4‐mm–diameter fistula was found between the right superficial femoral artery and right common femoral vein. A primary closure of both defects in the artery and vein was then carried out. A follow‐up digital vascular study 3 months after surgical repair was normal. In conclusion, nephrologist should have a heightened awareness to the potential of this complication and should at least document a normal exam following the removal of femoral catheters.
Life history variation inArabidopsis lyrataacross its range: effects of climate, population size and herbivory
Authors: Vergeer Philippine , Kunin William E.
Published: January 2011

For plants with wide distributional areas, covering a wide range of ecologically distinct habitats, evolutionary divergence can lead to substantial phenotypic variation across a species’ range. These intraspecific trait differences can be very informative about the nature of the selective environment as they potentially reflect different environmental selection pressures while controlling for other species characteristics.

In this study, multiple regression and structural equation models were used to examine the relative importance of environmental, ecological, population size and population density effects for variation in growth, reproduction and leaf morphology among 36 populations of the perennial plantArabidopsis lyratassp.petraeaacross its northwest European range.

Substantial variation in temperature, soil nutrient levels and herbivory was observed across the species’ range. In addition, large differences in flowering percentage and individual seed production were found. Leaf morphology varied considerably, with a substantial amount of variation in specific leaf area and trichome density among populations.

Structural equation modeling suggested that this species is sensitive to small population sizes, eutrophication and herbivory. Reproductive output was negatively related to herbivory. In addition population size was negatively associated with soil nutrient concentrations. Leaf morphology was shown to be mainly associated with temperature and herbivory. Lower specific leaf areas and lower trichome densities were related to colder areas and high trichomes densities were related to high levels of herbivory.

These model results are consistent with the interpretation that, in addition to changing environmental effects across its range, ecological effects such as herbivory contribute to the large variation in life history and morphology of this species. The results reveal a strong negative effect of herbivory on the reproductive output of this species, not only via direct effects of herbivory on flowers and seeds, but also indirectly via a shift in life history strategy.
Modelling irruptions and population dynamics of the great spotted woodpecker – joint effects of density and cone crops
Authors: Lindén Andreas , Lehikoinen Aleksi , Hokkanen Tatu , Väisänen Risto A.
Published: January 2011

Irruptive migrants are partially migrating species showing pronounced temporal variation in the number of migrants. Occasional irruptions are often explained by increased population density (per area) or lack of food. Similarly to population dynamics, these explanations are not mutually exclusive, but probably act in concert. Here we do a parallel analysis on the migration intensity and population dynamics of an irruptive migratory bird species, the great spotted woodpeckerDendrocopos major, in southern Finland. Both analyses include simultaneous effects of breeding density and cone crops of Scots pinePinus sylvestrisand Norway sprucePicea abies. A novel model for statistical analyses of irruptive migration intensity is developed. Population dynamics are investigated using log‐linear state‐space models. Woodpecker migration intensity is well explained by lack of spruce cones and increases proportionally to population density. Population dynamics is most successfully described with a density dependent model, where the natural logarithm of spruce cone availability previous autumn has a strong positive effect on population growth. This is likely to be due to lowered winter mortality and lowered emigration rates resulting from plentiful food availability. Although the species uses pine cones as a food resource in winter, the estimated impacts of pine cone crops on migration intensity and population dynamics are low, probably due to low annual variation in crop comparing to spruce cones. Large irruptions also tend to occur earlier in season, often before cones are a crucial food resource for the woodpeckers, suggesting that the woodpeckers use the amount of maturing cones as a cue for upcoming conditions. Our results show that the ecological role of different resources can differ considerably from the expected pattern based on the proportion of the resources in a species’ diet. Advantages of examining patterns of bird migration, population density and dynamics in unison are apparent.
Will all species with temperature‐dependent sex determination respond the same way to climate change? A reply to Kallimanis (2010)
Authors: Escobedo‐Galván Armando H. , González‐Salazar Constantino , López‐Alcaide Saúl , Arroyo‐Peña V. Baruch , Martínez‐Meyer Enrique
Published: January 2011

Recently, Kallimanis (2010) published a paper proposing a mechanism by which temperature‐dependent sex determination (TSD) may play a key role at facilitating species with this strategy to track their climatic niches across space under climate change. Kallimanis hypothesized that TSD species currently inhabiting stable climatic conditions show reduced population growth rates at the edges of their distributional ranges; under warming conditions, these populations will experience faster growth rates and thus are able to colonize new suitable sites. These ideas are based on the assumption that populations of TSD species have balanced sex ratios at the core of their geographic ranges and biased proportions at the edges. However, Kallimanis’ model overlooks complex processes that may produce a more broadly and less predictable aftermath of climate change on TSD species, so we discuss some of his postulates and underlying assumptions. Kallimanis’ model is based only on one of three known TSD strategies in reptiles, thus it lacks generality; and it does not consider the phenological, behavioral, and physiological strategies that TSD species exhibit across their geographic ranges to buffer the potential impacts of climatic variation over the whole reproductive process. We conclude that simple models such as the one proposed by Kallimanis are not broadly applicable; hence, forecasts of TSD species’ responses to climate change will need to be more specific to groups with similar ecologies and modes of TSD.
Life history of breeding partners alters age‐related changes of reproductive traits in a natural population of blue tits
Authors: Auld Josh R. , Charmantier Anne
Published: January 2011

Reproductive senescence, an intra‐individual decline in reproductive function with age, is widespread, but proximate factors determining its rate remain largely unknown. Most studies of reproductive senescence focus on females, leaving senescence in male function and its implications for female function largely understudied. We constructed linear mixed models to explore the interactive effects of paternal and maternal age and a life‐history trait (i.e. age at first reproduction) on four fitness components (i.e. laying date, clutch size, number of fledglings and number of recruits) measured in a wild, breeding population of blue tits Cyanistes caeruleus ogliastrae where individual breeding success has been followed for over 30 years (our dataset spanned 29 years). Previous studies have shown that, across female lifespan, laying date decreases and subsequently increases; earlier laying dates result in higher fitness because hatchlings have greater access to a seasonal food source. Our analyses reveal that females that initiate reproduction early in life show a greater delay in laying date with old age. In addition to delayed laying dates, older females lay smaller clutches. However, the magnitude of female age effects was influenced by the age at first reproduction of their breeding partners. Senescence of laying date and clutch size was reduced when females mated with males that reproduced early in life compared to males that delayed reproduction. We confirmed that both laying date and clutch size were significantly correlated with reproductive fitness suggesting that these dynamics early in the breeding cycle can have long‐term consequences. These complex phenotypic interactions shed light on the proximate mechanisms underlying reproductive senescence in nature and highlight the potential importance of cross‐sex age by life‐history interactions.
Induction of Innate Immune Responses in the Female Genital Tract: Friend or Foe of HIV‐1 Infection?
Authors: Firoz Mian M. , Ashkar Ali A.
Published: January 2011

Citation Mian MF, Ashkar AA. Induction of innate immune responses in the female genital tract: friend or foe of HIV‐1 infection? Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 344–351

Heterosexual transmission of HIV‐1 and HSV‐2 across the genital tract epithelial tissue is one of the primary routes for dissemination of these viral infections. Mucosal innate immunity is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. A vast majority of mucosal HIV‐1 exposures do not result in productive infections which may indicate that the innate mucosal immune system is highly protective. It has been shown that Toll‐like receptors (TLR)‐induced innate antiviral immunity in the genital mucosa lead to induction of type I and III interferon and prevention of HSV‐2 infection. The innate antiviral function of type I and III interferons and other innate factors at genital mucosa against HIV‐1 is not well defined. In this review, we summarize our current understanding and advances of the innate mucosal response to genital viral infections, including HIV‐1 and HSV‐2, focusing on those factors that may prevent or accelerate initial infection. Understanding how each of these components contributes to mucosal innate antiviral immunity may lead to the development of novel and effective strategies to use microbicides or antiviral agents to control HIV‐1 acquisition and/or transmission.
Immune Responses to HIV in the Female Reproductive Tract, Immunologic Parallels with the Gastrointestinal Tract, and Research Implications
Authors: Shacklett Barbara L. , Greenblatt Ruth M.
Published: January 2011

Citation Shacklett BL, Greenblatt RM. Immune responses to HIV in the female reproductive tract, immunologic parallels with the gastrointestinal tract, and research implications. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 230–241

The female reproductive tract is a major site of mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue and susceptibility to HIV infection, yet the tissue site(s) of infection and the impact of HIV infection on this important mucosal tissue remain poorly understood. CD4+ T cells and other cell types expressing the major coreceptors for HIV, CCR5, and CXCR4 are abundant in both the lower reproductive tract (endocervix and vagina) and the upper tract (endocervix and uterus) and are highly susceptible to infection. Antiviral defenses in the female reproductive tract are mediated by a variety of soluble factors and by mucosal effector cells that differ phenotypically from their counterparts in blood. The immunologic characteristics of the female reproductive tract parallel those of the gut, where major HIV‐related immunologic injury occurs. The susceptibility of the female reproductive tract to HIV infection and immunopathogenesis suggests important new avenues for further research.
New Approaches to Making the Microenvironment of the Female Reproductive Tract Hostile to HIV
Authors: Fahey John V. , Bodwell Jack E. , Hickey Danica K. , Ghosh Mimi , Muia Maria N. , Wira Charles R.
Published: January 2011

CitationFahey JV, Bodwell JE, Hickey DK, Ghosh M, Muia MN, Wira CR. New approaches to making the microenvironment of the female reproductive tract hostile to HIV. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 334–343

The studies presented in this review explore three distinct areas with potential for inhibiting HIV infection in women. Based on emerging information from the physiology, endocrinology and immunology of the female reproductive tract (FRT), we propose unique ‘works in progress’ for protecting women from HIV. Various aspects of FRT immunity are suppressed by estradiol during the menstrual cycle, making women more susceptible to HIV infection. By engineering commensal Lactobacillus to secrete the anti‐HIV molecule Elafin as estradiol levels increase, women could be protected from HIV infection. Selective estrogen response modifiers enhance barrier integrity and enhance secretion of protective anti‐HIV molecules. Finally, understanding the interactions and regulation of FRT endogenous antimicrobials, proteases, antiproteases, etc., all of which are under hormonal control, will open new avenues to therapeutic manipulation of the FRT mucosal microenvironment. By seeking new alternatives to preventing HIV infection in women, we may finally disrupt the HIV pandemic.
A Possible Mechanism of Autoimmune‐Mediated infertility in Women with Endometriosis
Authors: Inagaki Junko , Hao Lin , Nakatsuka Mikiya , Yasuda Tatsuji , Hiramatsu Yuji , Shoenfeld Yehuda , Matsuura Eiji
Published: January 2011

Citation Inagaki J, Hao L, Nakatsuka M, Yasuda T, Hiramatsu Y, Shoenfeld Y, Matsuura E. A possible mechanism of autoimmune‐mediated infertility in women with endometriosis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66: 90–99

Problem  Endometriosis has been proposed to be an autoimmune disease because of the presence of a variety of autoantibodies specific for endometrial or ovarian antigens. The object of the present study is to characterize binding specificity of anti‐laminin‐111 autoantibodies in infertile patients with endometriosis and to investigate whether these autoantibodies affect the in vitro embryo development.

Method of study  An ELISA analysis using overlapping synthesized peptides that covered the entire G domain of laminin‐α1 chain was performed in infertile patients with endometriosis (n = 45). Mouse blastocysts were cultured in media containing the purified IgG from one antibody‐positive serum on laminin‐111‐coated dishes.

Results  Anti‐laminin‐111 autoantibodies were directed to several particular biologically functional peptide sequences in laminin‐α 1 chain G domain. The tested IgG significantly inhibited the extent of in vitro trophoblast outgrowth.

Conclusion  Anti‐laminin‐111 autoantibodies may have major pathogenic roles on early reproductive failure including endometriosis‐associated infertility.
Cervico‐Vaginal Tissue Ex Vivo as a Model to Study Early Events in HIV‐1 Infection
Authors: Merbah Melanie , Introini Andrea , Fitzgerald Wendy , Grivel Jean‐Charles , Lisco Andrea , Vanpouille Christophe , Margolis Leonid
Published: January 2011

Citation Merbah M, Introini A, Fitzgerald W, Grivel J‐C, Lisco A, Vanpouille C, Margolis L. Cervico‐vaginal tissue ex vivo as a model to study early events in HIV‐1 infection. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 268–278

Vaginal intercourse remains the most prevalent route of infection of women. In spite of many efforts, the detailed mechanisms of HIV‐1 transmission in the female lower genital tract remain largely unknown. With all the obvious restrictions on studying these mechanisms in humans, their understanding depends on the development of adequate experimental models. Isolated cell cultures do not faithfully reproduce important aspects of cell–cell interactions in living tissues and tissue responses to pathogens. Explants and other types of ex vivo tissue models serve as a bridge between cell culture and tissues in vivo. Herein, we discuss various cervico‐vaginal tissue models and their use in studying HIV vaginal transmission and consider future directions of such studies.
Mechanisms involved in the association between peridontal diseases and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Teles R , Wang C‐Y
Published: January 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 450–461

It is now well accepted that besides the cholesterol associated mechanisms of atherogenesis, inflammation plays a crucial role in all stages of the development of the atherosclerotic lesion. This ‘inflammation hypothesis’ raises the possibility that through systemic elevations of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, periodontal diseases might also contribute to systemic inflammation and, therefore, to atherogenesis. In fact, there is evidence that periodontal diseases are associated with higher systemic levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and a low grade systemic inflammation. This phenomenon has been explained based on mechanisms associated with either the infectious or the inflammatory nature of periodontal diseases. The purposes of this article were to review (1) the evidence suggesting a role for oral bacterial species, particularly periodontal pathogens, in atherogenesis; (2) the potential mechanisms explaining an etiological role for oral bacteria in atherosclerosis; (3) the evidence suggesting that periodontal infections are accompanied by a heightened state of systemic inflammation; (4) the potential sources of systemic inflammatory biomarkers associated with periodontal diseases; and (5) the effects of periodontal therapy on systemic inflammatory biomarkers and cardiovascular risk.
Ethnicity and comorbidities in an overweight and obese multiethnic childhood cohort in Berlin
Authors: Dannemann A , Ernert A , Rücker P , Bau AM , Martus P , Krude H , Babitsch B , Wiegand S
Published: January 2011

Aim:  This study aims to analyse the association between ethnicity, elevated metabolic parameters and metabolic syndrome (MS) in a multiethnic cohort of overweight to obese children and adolescents.

Methods:  For 1053 patients, standard deviation of body mass index (BMI‐SDS) was calculated and metabolic parameters (fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment‐IR, lipids, blood pressure) were measured. MS was defined by WHO criteria. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Adjusted differences in BMI‐SDS and metabolic parameters between different migration groups were assessed with linear regression models. The risk for MS was calculated with multiple logistic regression models.

Results:  Forty‐eight per cent of the children were German, 25% Turkish and 27% had another ethnicity. Concerning weight status, 23% are overweight, 31% obese and 46% extremely obese with higher rates among the immigrant population. Multivariable models indicate significant associations between elevated metabolic parameters and higher BMI‐SDS values. Overall prevalence of MS was 32.3%. MS was detected significantly more often among Turkish patients (40.4%) compared to Germans (27.3%; p = 0.02). Logistic regression analysis showed a greater risk for MS with older age (OR = 1.09; p = 0.003) and Turkish ethnicity (OR = 1.62; p = 0.02).

Conclusion:  Nearly all patients had symptoms of MS, and 40% had MS showing that this highly health‐threatening condition is quite common. Therefore, effective therapy and prevention efforts must be developed for this high risk group. More migration‐specific research regarding insulin resistance, MS and Type 2 DM is needed.
Evaluation of potential medical and economic benefits of universal rotavirus vaccination in Greece
Authors: Syriopoulou Vassiliki , Kafetzis Dimitrios , Theodoridou Maria , Syrogiannopoulos George A , Mantagos Stefanos , Trimis Georgios , Mavrikou Maria , Konstantopoulos Andreas
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the potential benefits of introducing universal rotavirus (RV) vaccination in Greece.

Methods:  A decision analytic model was developed to compare the burden and cost of rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE) with and without a universal RV vaccination (88% vaccination coverage) for a cohort of children followed from birth until the age of five.

Results:  Universal RV vaccination would substantially decrease the RVGE burden on the National Health System by reducing RVGE‐related hospitalizations/emergency visits and medical consultations by 83% and 75%, respectively. Total RVGE‐related costs was estimated at about 7.6 M€ and would be reduced by 5.9 M€ (−78%) if RV vaccination was introduced. A rapid effect is expected with 76% of cases and 84% of costs avoided would be averted within 2 years postvaccine introduction. The societal benefit would also be significant: total annual number of RVGE cases and parent’s lost work days would be reduced by 67% and 78%, respectively. Including indirect costs, the total disease cost reduction would be 9 M€.

Conclusion:  Introduction of universal RV vaccination in Greece could offer considerable medical and economic benefits for the National Health System and society. Potential herd immunity would improve results in favour of vaccination.
Mouse model for men with klinefelter syndrome: a multifaceted fit for a complex disorder
Authors: Swerdloff Ronald S , Lue YanHe , Liu Peter Y , Erkkilä Krista , Wang Christina
Published: January 2011

41XXY mouse models share many characteristics of the human 47XXY Klinefelter syndrome (KS). This manuscript discusses the relative role of androgen deficiency and X chromosome genes resulting in the XXY mouse phenotype. The similarities in phenotype between 47XXY men and 41XXY mice suggest that the clinical manifestations in XXY men may be because of gene‐dosage effect from genes that escape X inactivation in mouse.

Conclusion: The 41XXY mouse is an excellent model for KS.
Postnatal screening for Klinefelter syndrome: is there a rationale?
Authors: Herlihy Amy S , Gillam Lynn , Halliday Jane L , McLachlan Robert I
Published: January 2011

Diagnosis of Klinefelter syndrome (KS) allows for timely beneficial interventions across the lifespan. Most cases currently remain undiagnosed because of low awareness of KS amongst health professionals, the hesitancy of men to seek medical attention and its variable clinical presentation. Given these barriers, population‐based genetic screening provides an approach to comprehensive and early detection. We examine current evidence regarding risks and benefits of diagnosing KS at different ages.

Conclusion:  There is a lack of evidence regarding the influence of age at diagnosis on adult outcomes that can only be obtained through a pilot screening programme.
Menarcheal age among urban Kenyan primary school girls
Authors: Ogeng’o Dorinah N , Obimbo Moses M , Ogeng’o Julius A
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To determine the mean menarcheal age among urban primary school girls in Kenya.

Subjects and methods:  A structured questionnaire was administered to 820 primary grade 6–8 girls aged between 12 and 17 years in five public primary schools, Langata division of Nairobi West district, Nairobi Kenya. The girls came from low and middle socioeconomic status residences. Declared menarcheal age by recall to the nearest month was recorded. Data were analysed using SPSS version 15.0 for windows. The results are presented using tables and bar charts.

Results:  The mean menarcheal age was 12.5 ± 2.8 years with peak at 12–14 years. A substantial number of girls (10.8%) attained menarche before the age of 11 years, with 2% of them attaining it before 10 years. None attained menarche before nine or after 16 years. Of those who attained early menarche, 64.3% were from middle while only 35.7% came from low socioeconomic status residence, respectively.

Conclusion:  Mean menarcheal age of 12.5 years is lower than previously reported with over 10% of the girls attaining menarche by 11 years. Early commencement of reproductive health education and follow‐up for complications of early menarche is recommended.
RELATIONSHIP OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL, PASTING PROPERTIES OF MILLET STARCHES AND THE TEXTURE PROPERTIES OF COOKED MILLET
Authors: LIU CHENG , LIU PEILING , YAN SHUQIN , QING ZHANG , SHEN QUN
Published: January 2011

Ten cultivars of foxtail millet were evaluated for chemical component and cooking textural properties. The solubility and swelling power of starches from 10 cultivars ranged from 6.92 to 11.61% and 14.45 to 17.84 g/g, respectively. The value of peak viscosity, trough viscosity, breakdown, final viscosity, setback and pasting temperature, measured by Rapid Visco Analyzer, varied between 4,136 and 5,099 cP; 1,436 and 2,288 cP; 2,192 and 3,529 cP; 3,137 and 4,419 cP; 1,701 and 2,259 cP; and 72.0 and 78.5C, respectively. Peak viscosity and breakdown value showed highly negative correlation with apparent amylose content. Setback was positively correlated with solubility. Texture properties of cooked millet were assessed by Rice Hardness–Viscosity Apparatus. The result suggested that there was positive correlation between adhesiveness and apparent amylose content. Hardness showed negative correlation with protein content. Changnong 35 had the best texture property. This study may bring out an advanced method for predicting the character of cooked millet indirectly.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The research is supported by the “11th Five” Key Programs for Science and Technology Development of China (2006BAD02B01). The purpose of the research is to set up an evaluation system to select proper varieties for different product processing. The result of this study may bring out an advanced method for predicting the character of cooked millet indirectly by starch. The methods would help manufacturers to find proper varieties to processing.
Objective Being and “Ofness” in Descartes
Authors: SHAPIRO LIONEL
Published: January 2011

It is generally assumed that Descartes invokes “objective being in the intellect” in order to explain or describe an idea’s status as being “of something.” I argue that this assumption is mistaken. As emerges in his discussion of “materially false ideas” in the Fourth Replies, Descartes recognizes two senses of ‘idea of’. One, a theoretical sense, is itself introduced in terms of objective being. Hence Descartes can’t be introducing objective being to explain or describe “ofness” understood in this sense. Descartes also appeals to a pretheoretical sense of ‘idea of’. I will argue that the notion of objective being can’t serve to explain or describe this “ofness” either. I conclude by proposing an alternative explanation of the role of objective being, according to which Descartes introduces this notion to explain the mind’s ability to attain clear and distinct ideas.
Properties, Powers, and the Subset Account of Realization
Authors: AUDI PAUL
Published: January 2011

According to thesubset account of realization, a property,F, is realized by another property,G, wheneverFis individuated by a non‐empty proper subset of the causal powers by whichGis individuated (andFis not a conjunctive property of whichGis a conjunct). This account is especially attractive because it seems both to explain the way in which realized properties are nothing over and above their realizers, and to provide for the causal efficacy of realized properties. It therefore seems to provide a way around the causal exclusion problem. There is reason to doubt, however, that the subset account can achieve both tasks. The problem arises when we look closely at the relation between properties and causal powers, specifically, at the idea that propertiesconferpowers on the things that have them. If realizers are to be ontically prior to what they realize, then we must regard theconferralof powers by properties as a substantive relation of determination. This relation of conferral is at the heart of a kind of exclusion problem, analogous to the familiar causal exclusion problem. I argue that the subset account cannot adequately answer this new exclusion problem, and is for that reason ill‐suited to be the backbone of a non‐reductive physicalism.
Change‐oriented organizational citizenship behaviour: An interactive product of openness to change values, work unit identification, and sense of power
Authors: Seppälä Tuija , Lipponen Jukka , Bardi Anat , Pirttilä‐Backman Anna‐Maija
Published: January 2011

Due to the increased frequency of organizational changes, predicting employees’ voluntary involvement in the development of organizational practices and individual work is of particular importance in organizational psychology. This study focused upon change‐oriented organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) as an expression of openness to change values, and also upon psychological factors that can moderate the value–behaviour relationship. We propose that personal values, group identification, and a sense of power interact in predicting change‐oriented OCB of employees. One hundred and eighty‐four employees rated their values, their identification with the work unit and their sense of power. In line with our predictions, the results showed that openness to change values and work unit identification interacted positively in predicting supervisor‐rated change‐oriented OCB in workers with a high sense of power, but not in workers with a low sense of power. This finding suggests that workers who have a high sense of power and are highly identified with the work unit tend to pursue their openness to change values in a way that contributes to the organization. The authors further conclude that an interactive approach, rather than one of direct effect, is advantageous when studying values as antecedents to change‐oriented OCB.