bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Differential Impact of Delivery Hospital on the Outcomes of Premature Infants
Authors: Lorch Scott A. , Baiocchi Michael , Ahlberg Corinne E. , Small Dylan S.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND:

Because greater percentages of women deliver at hospitals without high-level NICUs, there is little information on the effect of delivery hospital on the outcomes of premature infants in the past 2 decades, or how these effects differ across states with different perinatal regionalization systems.

METHODS:

A retrospective population-based cohort study was constructed of all hospital-based deliveries in Pennsylvania and California between 1995 and 2005 and Missouri between 1995 and 2003 with a gestational age between 23 and 37 weeks (N = 1 328 132). The effect of delivery at a high-level NICU on in-hospital death and 5 complications of premature birth was calculated by using an instrumental variables approach to control for measured and unmeasured differences between hospitals.

RESULTS:

Infants who were delivered at a high-level NICU had significantly fewer in-hospital deaths in Pennsylvania (7.8 fewer deaths/1000 deliveries, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.1–11.5), California (2.7 fewer deaths/1000 deliveries, 95% CI 0.9–4.5), and Missouri (12.6 fewer deaths/1000 deliveries, 95% CI 2.6–22.6). Deliveries at high-level NICUs had similar rates of most complications, with the exception of lower bronchopulmonary dysplasia rates at Missouri high-level NICUs (9.5 fewer cases/1000 deliveries, 95% CI 0.7–18.4) and higher infection rates at high-level NICUs in Pennsylvania and California. The association between delivery hospital, in-hospital mortality, and complications differed across the 3 states.

CONCLUSIONS:

There is benefit to neonatal outcomes when high-risk infants are delivered at high-level NICUs that is larger than previously reported, although the effects differ between states, which may be attributable to different methods of regionalization.
Respiratory Tract Illnesses During the First Year of Life: Effect of Dog and Cat Contacts
Authors: Bergroth Eija , Remes Sami , Pekkanen Juha , Kauppila Timo , Büchele Gisela , Keski-Nisula Leea
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVES:

To investigate the effect of dog and cat contacts on the frequency of respiratory symptoms and infections during the first year of life.

METHODS:

In this birth cohort study, 397 children were followed up from pregnancy onward, and the frequency of respiratory symptoms and infections together with information about dog and cat contacts during the first year of life were reported by using weekly diaries and a questionnaire at the age of 1 year. All the children were born in eastern or middle Finland between September 2002 and May 2005.

RESULTS:

In multivariate analysis, children having dogs at home were healthier (ie, had fewer respiratory tract symptoms or infections) than children with no dog contacts (adjusted odds ratio, [aOR]: 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–1.52). Furthermore, children having dog contacts at home had less frequent otitis (aOR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.38–0.81) and tended to need fewer courses of antibiotics (aOR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.52–0.96) than children without such contacts. In univariate analysis, both the weekly amount of contact with dogs and cats and the average yearly amount of contact were associated with decreased respiratory infectious disease morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results suggest that dog contacts may have a protective effect on respiratory tract infections during the first year of life. Our findings support the theory that during the first year of life, animal contacts are important, possibly leading to better resistance to infectious respiratory illnesses during childhood.
Fire as a Tool for ControllingTamarixspp. Seedlings
Authors: Ohrtman Michelle K. , Clay Sharon A. , Clay David E. , Smart Alexander J
Published: July 2012

Fire is often used in northern grasslands to control invasive grass species but has unknown effects onTamarixspp., more recent invaders. Temperature (using an oven as a fire surrogate) and duration combinations that would be most lethal toTamarixseeds and seedlings were determined.Tamarixseeds were sown in soil-lined dishes, water added to saturation, and seedlings grown for 1 to 5 d. Seeds were also placed in water-saturated or dry soil just before temperature exposure (79 to 204 C [175 to 400 F]) by duration (1 to 5 min) treatments. After treatment, soil water loss was measured by weight difference, and surviving seedlings were counted for 6 d.Tamarixseedling establishment and survival decreased with increasing temperature and duration. The 5-d-old seedlings were the most affected. No 5-d-old seedlings survived 1- and 2-min exposures to 204 C, whereas 1-d-old seedlings had greater than 25% survival. If soils were saturated, two to four times more seedlings established following seed exposure to 177 and 204 C. Longer durations at lower temperatures were required to reduceTamarixsurvival. Increasing duration from 2 to 5 min at 121 C decreased 5-d-old seedling survival from more than 80% to less than 10% and eliminated those seedlings at 149 C. Five minutes at 149 C decreased dry-soil seed viability to about 15%, whereas germination on saturated soils remained high (∼75%). No seeds survived the exposure to 177 and 204 C. Soil moisture loss values associated with 90% mortality of 5- and 1-d-old seedlings were 1.7 and 2.2%, respectively. On saturated soils, 90% of seeds died with 2.5% water loss. Under suitable conditions, fire can decreaseTamarixseedling survival. Fire may be useful for controllingTamarixseedlings in northern grasslands and should be considered for management of new invasions.
Mechanical characteristics of lean-mixed cement-treated granular soil
Authors: Dong Phan Huy , Hayano Kimitoshi , Takahashi Hidetoshi , Morikawa Yoriko
Published: July 2012

As an attempt to promote reuse of dredging materials for construction, cement-treated granular soil (CTGS), a coarse-grained granular material, can be produced from dredged marine clays by mixing them with appropriate amounts of cement and polymer. This study focused on lean-mixture designs of cement and polymer for cost reduction. To evaluate the applicability of the lean-mixed CTGS for construction, laboratory tests were conducted to investigate the fundamental mechanical characteristics of CTGS including its durability against degradation, compaction characteristics and strength deformation characteristics. The materials, the production method and the engineering properties of CTGS are also comprehensively presented. The test results showed that CTGS has lightweight, high-porosity properties and indicated beneficial uses for the granular materials. From the engineering properties obtained from the tests, CGTS shows high potential to be useful in reclamation, backfill and embankment fill materials. However, the CTGS particles exhibited a significant degree of crushing and deformation and the particle crushing and deformation properties of CTGS dominated its stress–strain behaviour.
Mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered ceria reinforced 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia electrolyte
Authors: Gupta Alka , Sharma Samir , Mahato Neelima , Simpson Amanda , Omar Shobit , Balani Kantesh
Published: July 2012

Doping of ceria into yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) has been reported to have improved the properties in terms of thermal insulation capability, ionic conductivity, and mechanical- and phase-stability of YSZ for applications as potential electrolyte materials workable at intermediate temperature range (500–700°C). In order to select an appropriate amount of ceria to be added, it is important to understand the effects of the added dopants on phase and microstructure, lattice parameters, and mechanical properties. This paper presents synthesis and characterization (of phase, microstructural, and mechanical properties at micron and nanoscale level) of 8 mol. % Y2O3-ZrO2(8YSZ) containing 0, 5, and 10 wt. % CeO2via spark plasma sintering. Microstructural analysis has elicited increased grain growth with increasing CeO2content in 8YSZ. Phase analysis has indicated formation of solid solution with dilation of 8 YSZ lattice upon CeO2addition. In contrast, isolated ceria rich zones have been identified through energy dispersive spectroscopy (attachment in transmission electron microscope) affirming the formation of CeO2-8YSZ composite. Microhardness (H), and fracture toughness (KIC) of CeO2-8YSZ electrolytes were observed to degrade by 31·2% and 24.0%, respectively, for 10 wt.% CeO2-8YSZ samples in comparison to that of 8YSZ alone. Whereas, the hardness and reduced modulus of CeO2-8YSZ samples, evaluated using nanoindentation did not reveal any significant difference in the mechanical properties of the developed composites. Difference in the mechanical properties using Vickers indentation is attributed to the presence of porosity, which is negated in the mechanical property evaluation via nanoindentation.
Site Structure Analysis of a Late Middle Archaic Upland Site in Morgan County, Illinois
Authors: Bradbury Andrew P. , Creasman Steven D. , Delcastello Brian G.
Published: July 2012

Data recovery investigations at a buried upland site in Morgan County, Illinois documented a late Middle Archaic component. Five hearths were documented and represent three hearth-related activity areas. Three additional activity areas were defined: freehand core reduction area, bipolar core reduction area, and a general dumping/disposal area. The activity areas appear to be tethered to the hearths. A single occupation is indicated by soil micromorphology, refits, radiocarbon dates, and spatial data. Analysis of the recovered materials indicated that the site represents a residential base. This article summarizes the results of the analysis of site structure.
Reliability and Validity of a Weight-Bearing Measure of Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion
Authors: Chisholm Martin D. , Birmingham Trevor B. , Brown Janet , MacDermid Joy , Chesworth Bert M.
Published: July 2012

Purpose: To examine reliability and validity of the Lunge Test (LT) of dorsiflexion range of motion and determine the impact of different approaches to obtain a score on these parameters. Methods: Fifty-three patients with ankle injury/dysfunction provided initial assessment data for cross-sectional convergent and known-groups validity analysis with the Pearson coefficient (r) and paired t-test, respectively; data after 4–8 weeks of treatment for longitudinal validity analysis with coefficient r; and data 3 days later for test–retest reliability using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and minimal detectable change (MDC). LT scores were determined for the affected leg only (LTAff) and for the difference between the two limbs (LTDiff). Two strategies were used to calculate LT scores: a single series and the mean of three series of lunges. LTs were correlated with the Lower Extremity Functional Scale and Global Foot and Ankle Scale. Results: Reliability coefficients were high (ICC=0.93–0.99). The MDC=1.0/1.5 cm, LTAff/LTDiff, respectively. Cross-sectional validity was confirmed for LTDiff (r=−0.40 to −0.50). Between-limb differences (p<0.05) supported known-groups validity. Longitudinal validity was supported for both LT change scores (r=0.39–0.63). The number of series of lunges used did not impact results. Conclusions: A single series of lunges produces a reliable LT score. From a validity perspective, clinicians should use LTDiff on initial assessment and either LT to assess change.
A Defence of Environmental Stewardship
Authors: Welchman Jennifer
Published: July 2012

Public recognition of the fragility of the natural systems on which present and future generations depend has prompted calls for the practice of environmental stewardship – calls widely criticised in the environmental ethics literature. Some argue that stewardship's historical associations entail that it is inherently sexist, speciesist and/or anthropocentric. Others argue that absent belief in a creator to appoint us as stewards and hold us accountable, talk of ‘environmental stewardship’ is empty. I review the concept's recent evolution and provide a tentative definition. I argue that so defined, it is not vulnerable to standard criticisms, but is instead a promising way of construing morally decent conduct towards the environment.
The Relationship between Intragenerational and Intergenerational Ecological Justice
Authors: Glotzbach Stefanie , BaumgÄRtner Stefan
Published: July 2012

The principle of sustainability contains two objectives of justice regarding the conservation and use of ecosystems and their services: (1) global justice between different people of the present generation (‘ intragenerational justice'); (2) justice between people of different generations (‘ intergenerational justice'). Three hypotheses about their relationship – independency, facilitation and rivalry – are held in the political and scientific sustainability discourse. Applying the method of qualitative content analysis to important political documents and the scientific literature, we reveal six determinants underlying the different hypotheses: quantity and quality of ecosystem services, population development, substitutability of ecosystem services, technological progress, institutions and political restrictions.
Purification and Phytotoxic Analysis of Botrytis cinerea Virulence Factors: New Avenues for Crop Protection
Authors: Rathi Subodh , McFeeters Hana , McFeeters Robert L. , Davis Maria R.
Published: July 2012

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus infecting over 230 plant species worldwide. This highly adaptable pathogen can afflict agricultural products from seed to storage, causing significant economic losses and instability in the food supply. Small protein virulence factors secreted by B. cinerea during infection play an important role in initiation and spread of disease. BcSnod1 was found to be abundantly expressed upon exposure to media containing strawberry extract. From sequence similarity, BcSnod2 was also identified and both were recognized as members of the Ceratoplatanin family of small phytotoxic proteins. Recombinant BcSnod1 was shown to have a phytotoxic effect and play an important role in pathogenicity while the role of BcSnod2 remains less clear. Both bacterial and yeast production systems are reported, though the bacterial protein is less toxic and mostly unfolded relative to that made in yeast. Compared to BcSnod1, recombinant bacterial BcSnod2 shows similar, but delayed phytotoxicity on tomato leaves. Further studies of these critical virulence factors and their inhibition promise to provide new avenues for crop protection.
Association of Differentiation-Related Gene-1 (DRG1) with Breast Cancer Survival and in Vitro Impact of DRG1 Suppression
Authors: Baig Ruqia Mehmood , Sanders Andrew J. , Kayani Mahmood Akhtar , Jiang Wen G.
Published: July 2012

Differentiation-related gene-1, DRG1, is a metastasis suppressor gene whose expression has been shown to be dysregulated in a number of malignancies. The current study examines the expression of DRG1 in a clinical breast cohort and its association with a number of clinical pathological factors using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, DRG1 expression is targeted in vitro using ribozyme transgene technology to explore the function of DRG1 in two human breast cancer cell lines. Low levels of DRG1 were found in patients who developed metastasis (p = 0.036) and who died of breast cancer (p = 0.0048) compared to disease free patients. Knockdown of DRG1 also resulted in significantly increased invasion and motility, but decreased matrix-adhesion in MCF7 cells. Knockdown of DRG1 seemed to have minimal impact on the cellular functions of the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line causing no significant differences in cell growth, invasion, motility or matrix-adhesion. Thus, DRG1 appears to be linked to development of metastasis and death in patients who died as a result of breast cancer and may be useful as a prognostic factor as its knockdown appears to be linked with increased invasion and motility and decreased adhesion in MCF7 breast cancer cells.
Improving Product Quality with Entrapped Stable Emulsions: From Theory to Industrial Application
Authors: Panagiotou Thomai , Fisher Robert
Published: July 2012

Entrapment of sub-micron scale emulsions containing active ingredients into macro-scale matrices has exhibited great potential as a delivery vehicle with controlled release capabilities, however optimization remains unrealized. Reported here are methods used to improve product quality by optimizing the emulsion formation steps. These methods are in conjunction with the precepts of Process Intensification (PI). Success with pharmaceutics and chemical reacting systems provides a strategy for a wide range of applications; the emphasis here being nutraceutics. Use of a nano-technology platform assists in: (a) product quality improvements through better nutrient dispersion, and thus bio-efficacy; and (b) production efficiencies through implementation of PI concepts. A continuous methodology, utilizing these PI concepts, that approximates a bottom-up approach to the creation of sub-micron and nano-emulsions is the basis of the technology presented here. Note that solid particles may result during post-processing. The metrics of successful processing include obtainment of nano-scale species with minimal input energy, reduced processing steps at higher throughput rates, and improved quality without over-usage of key ingredients. In addition to flavor and wellness characteristics, product stability for extended shelf life along with an appreciable cargo load in the entrapped emulsion is a major concern. Experimental protocols and path forward recommendations to overcome challenges and meet expectations in these emerging opportunities are also presented.
Preparation and Crystal Structure of Diaqua(μ-5,5'-bistetrazolato-κ4N1,N2,N5,N6)copper(II)
Authors: Joas Manuel , Klapötke Thomas M. , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: July 2012

The crystal structure of the coordination polymer diaqua(μ-5,5'-bistetrazolato-κ4N1,N2,N5,N6)copper(II) was determined by X-ray diffraction. The copper atoms are connected to chains over the bridging 5,5'-bistetrazolato ligand. The energetic properties of the compound were investigated, such as thermal behavior and sensitivities (shock, friction, electrical spark).
siRNAs Trigger Efficient Silencing of a Parasitism Gene in Plant Parasitic Root-Knot Nematodes
Authors: Arguel Marie-Jeanne , Jaouannet Maëlle , Magliano Marc , Abad Pierre , Rosso Marie-Noëlle
Published: July 2012

Expanding genomic data on plant pathogens open new perspectives for the development of specific and environment friendly pest management strategies based on the inhibition of parasitism genes that are essential for the success of infection. Identifying such genes relies on accurate reverse genetics tools and the screening of pathogen knock-down phenotypes. Root-knot nematodes are major cosmopolitan crop pests that feed on a wide range of host plants. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) would provide a powerful tool for reverse genetics of nematode parasitism genes provided that they could (1) target genes expressed in inner tissues of infective nematodes and (2) target genes expressed during parasitism. In this study, we show that siRNAs can access inner tissues of the infective juveniles during soaking and accumulate in the esophagus, amphidial pouches and related neurons of the nematode. We provide evidence that siRNAs can trigger knock-down of the parasitism gene Mi-CRT, a calreticulin gene expressed in the esophageal glands of Meloidogyne incognita. Mi-CRT knock-down in infective juveniles affected nematode virulence. However, Mi-CRT knock-down was not persistent after plant infection, indicating that siRNA-mediated RNAi is best suited for functional analysis of genes involved in pre-parasitic stages or in the early steps of infection.
Effects of Brown Rice and White Rice on Expression of Xenobiotic Metabolism Genes in Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Imam Mustapha Umar , Ismail Maznah
Published: July 2012

Xenobiotics constantly influence biological systems through several means of interaction. These interactions are disturbed in type 2 diabetes, with implications for disease outcome. We aimed to study the implications of such disturbances on type 2 diabetes and rice consumption, the results of which could affect management of the disease in developing countries. In a type 2 diabetic rat model induced through a combination of high fat diet and low dose streptozotocin injection, up-regulation of xenobiotic metabolism genes in the diabetic untreated group was observed. Xenobiotic metabolism genes were upregulated more in the white rice (WR) group than the diabetic untreated group while the brown rice (BR) group showed significantly lower expression values, though not as effective as metformin, which gave values closer to the normal non-diabetic group. The fold changes in expression in the WR group compared to the BR group for Cyp2D4, Cyp3A1, Cyp4A1, Cyp2B1, Cyp2E1, Cyp2C11, UGT2B1, ALDH1A1 and Cyp2C6 were 2.6, 2, 1.5, 4, 2.8, 1.5, 1.8, 3 and 5, respectively. Our results suggest that WR may upregulate these genes in type 2 diabetes more than BR, potentially causing faster drug metabolism, less drug efficacy and more toxicity. These results may have profound implications for rice eating populations, constituting half the world’s population.
pH-Sensitive Hydrogel for Micro-Fluidic Valve
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Zishun , Swaddiwudhipong Somsak , Miao Haiyan , Ding Zhiwei , Yang Zhengzhi
Published: July 2012

The deformation behavior of a pH-sensitive hydrogel micro-fluidic valve system is investigated using inhomogeneous gel deformation theory, in which the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) of the gel solid and fluid flow in the pipe is considered. We use a finite element method with a well adopted hydrogel constitutive equation, which is coded in commercial software, ABAQUS, to simulate the hydrogel valve swelling deformation, while FLUENT is adopted to model the fluid flow in the pipe of the hydrogel valve system. The study demonstrates that FSI significantly affects the gel swelling deformed shapes, fluid flow pressure and velocity patterns. FSI has to be considered in the study on fluid flow regulated by hydrogel microfluidic valve. The study provides a more accurate and adoptable model for future design of new pH-sensitive hydrogel valves, and also gives a useful guideline for further studies on hydrogel fluidic applications.
Antioxidant Activity of New Aramide Nanoparticles Containing Redox-Active N-phthaloyl Valine Moieties in the Hepatic Cytochrome P450 System in Male Rats
Authors: Hassan Hammed H. A. M. , El-Banna Sabah G. , Elhusseiny Amel F. , Mansour El-Sayed M. E.
Published: July 2012

We report the synthesis of aramide nanoparticles containing a chiral N-phthaloyl valine moiety and their antioxidant activities on hepatic contents of cytochrome P450, amidopyrene N-demethylase, aniline-4-hyroxylase and induced the hepatic content of cytochrome b5 and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) cytochrome C-reductase. Polymers were obtained as well-separated spherical nanoparticles while highly aggregated particles via H-bonding organization of the aramide-containing pyridine led to a thin layer formation. The effects of the nanoparticles and CCl4 on enzyme activities and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels of male rat liver were studied. Pretreatments of rats with the polyamides prior to the administration of CCl4 decreased the hepatic content of the tested enzymes. Doses reduced the toxic effects exerted by (•CCl3) upon the liver through inhibition of the cytochrome P450 system. Inhibition of such metabolizing enzymes could reduce the carcinogenic effects of chemical carcinogens.
New Trifluoromethyl Triazolopyrimidines as Anti-Plasmodium falciparum Agents
Authors: Boechat Núbia , Pinheiro Luiz C. S. , Silva Thiago S. , Aguiar Anna C. C. , Carvalho Alcione S. , Bastos Monica M. , Costa Carolina C. P. , Pinheiro Sergio , Pinto Angelo C. , Mendonça Jorge S. , Dutra Karen D. B. , Valverde Alessandra L. , Santos-Filho Osvaldo A. , Ceravolo Isabela P. , Krettli Antoniana U.
Published: July 2012

According to the World Health Organization, half of the World’s population, approximately 3.3 billion people, is at risk for developing malaria. Nearly 700,000 deaths each year are associated with the disease. Control of the disease in humans still relies on chemotherapy. Drug resistance is a limiting factor, and the search for new drugs is important. We have designed and synthesized new 2-(trifluoromethyl)[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine derivatives based on bioisosteric replacement of functional groups on the anti-malarial compounds mefloquine and amodiaquine. This approach enabled us to investigate the impact of: (i) ring bioisosteric replacement; (ii) a CF3 group substituted at the 2-position of the [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine scaffold and (iii) a range of amines as substituents at the 7-position of the of heterocyclic ring; on in vitro activity against Plasmodium falciparum. According to docking simulations, the synthesized compounds are able to interact with P. falciparum dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (PfDHODH) through strong hydrogen bonds. The presence of a trifluoromethyl group at the 2-position of the [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine ring led to increased drug activity. Thirteen compounds were found to be active, with IC50 values ranging from 0.023 to 20 µM in the anti-HRP2 and hypoxanthine assays. The selectivity index (SI) of the most active derivatives 5, 8, 11 and 16 was found to vary from 1,003 to 18,478.
Wine, Beer, Alcohol and Polyphenols on Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer
Authors: Arranz Sara , Chiva-Blanch Gemma , Valderas-Martínez Palmira , Medina-Remón Alex , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa M. , Estruch Ramón
Published: July 2012

Since ancient times, people have attributed a variety of health benefits to moderate consumption of fermented beverages such as wine and beer, often without any scientific basis. There is evidence that excessive or binge alcohol consumption is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, as well as with work related and traffic accidents. On the contrary, at the moment, several epidemiological studies have suggested that moderate consumption of alcohol reduces overall mortality, mainly from coronary diseases. However, there are discrepancies regarding the specific effects of different types of beverages (wine, beer and spirits) on the cardiovascular system and cancer, and also whether the possible protective effects of alcoholic beverages are due to their alcoholic content (ethanol) or to their non-alcoholic components (mainly polyphenols). Epidemiological and clinical studies have pointed out that regular and moderate wine consumption (one to two glasses a day) is associated with decreased incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, including colon, basal cell, ovarian, and prostate carcinoma. Moderate beer consumption has also been associated with these effects, but to a lesser degree, probably because of beer’s lower phenolic content. These health benefits have mainly been attributed to an increase in antioxidant capacity, changes in lipid profiles, and the anti-inflammatory effects produced by these alcoholic beverages. This review summarizes the main protective effects on the cardiovascular system and cancer resulting from moderate wine and beer intake due mainly to their common components, alcohol and polyphenols.
The Search for Value and Meaning in the Cocoa Supply Chain in Costa Rica
Authors: Haynes Jessica , Cubbage Frederick , Mercer Evan , Sills Erin
Published: July 2012

Qualitative interviews with participants in the cocoa (Theobroma cacao) supply chain in Costa Rica and the United States were conducted and supplemented with an analysis of the marketing literature to examine the prospects of organic and Fairtrade certification for enhancing environmentally and socially responsible trade of cocoa from Costa Rica. Respondents were familiar with both systems, and most had traded at least organic cocoa for some period. However, most individuals said that they were seeking better product differentiation and marketing than has been achieved under the organic and Fairtrade systems. Many suggested that more direct recognition of individual growers and the unique value of their cocoa throughout the production chain would be more helpful than certification for small companies in the cocoa supply chain. These findings suggest new marketing techniques that convey an integration of meaning into the cocoa and chocolate supply chain as a differentiation strategy. This involves integration of the story of producers’ commitment and dedication; shared producer and consumer values of social and environmental responsibility; and personal relationships between producers and consumers. This marketing approach could enhance the ability of smaller companies to successfully vie with their larger competitors and to produce cocoa in a more environmentally and socially acceptable manner.
Biocatalytic hydroxylation of n-butane with in situ cofactor regeneration at low temperature and under normal pressure
Authors: Staudt Svenja , Müller Christina A , Marienhagen Jan , Böing Christian , Buchholz Stefan , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Gröger Harald
Published: July 2012

The hydroxylation of n-alkanes, which proceeds in the presence of a P450-monooxygenase advantageously at temperatures significantly below room temperature, is described. In addition, an enzymatic hydroxylation of the “liquid gas” n-butane with in situ cofactor regeneration, which does not require high-pressure conditions, was developed. The resulting 2-butanol was obtained as the only regioisomer, at a product concentration of 0.16 g/L.
État, experts et savoirs néo-managériaux
Authors: Bezes Philippe
Published: July 2012

Résumé Cet article se propose d’analyser les processus de production, de diffusion et de légitimation des idées et techniques néo-managériales à l’œuvre en France depuis les années 1970. Il met l’accent sur les différents rôles joués par les experts (universitaires, consultants, hauts fonctionnaires, organisations internationales), en précisant leurs positions dans l’État, leur influence et la légitimité, fluctuante mais croissante sur le long terme, dont bénéficient leurs recettes inspirées du New Public Management . L’article identifie quatre périodes contrastées, de la Rationalisation des choix budgétaires (RCB) dans les années 1970 à la Révision générale des politiques publiques des années 2000, caractérisée par un rôle majeur et inédit des cabinets de consultants privés.
Du grand soir au clair-obscur
Authors: Benamouzig Daniel
Published: July 2012

Résumé Depuis quelques années, la prise en charge des dépenses de santé par la Sécurité sociale se réduit sous l’effet d’un transfert de charges vers les assurances complémentaires et les assurés sociaux. Cet article compare le contexte dans lequel est intervenu un recours accru aux acteurs privés en matière d’assurance maladie au cours de deux périodes, caractérisées par un débat controversé dans les années 1980 et par un débat plus discret dans les années 2000, alors même que le recours aux acteurs privés est alors plus net. Ce paradoxe est expliqué à partir des positions relatives des principaux acteurs impliqués dans ces débats, notamment les acteurs publics et privés de l’assurance maladie et les experts économiques, qu’ils soient administratifs ou académiques. Le rapprochement de ces différents acteurs dans un nouveau complexe institutionnel réduit l’espace des différends, auparavant moins circonscrit. Engagé par des acteurs administratifs et développé dans un cadre institutionnel à dominante publique, le recours aux acteurs privés apparaît en définitive sous la forme d’une privatisation bureaucratique, dont il reste à savoir si le caractère bureaucratique favorise ou contient au contraire les effets d’une privatisation en clair-obscur.
Glaucoma Filtration Surgery Following Sustained Elevation of Intraocular Pressure Secondary to Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Injections
Authors: Skalicky Simon E. , Ho Ivan , Agar Ashish , Bank Allan
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To document cases of sustained elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) while receiving intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents and subsequent management.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective series of all cases managed by the authors and colleagues was performed.

RESULTS:

Six patients developed sustained elevated IOP; five received ranibizumab and one bevacizumab. Four received unilateral and two received bilateral injections. Two had preexisting primary open-angle glaucoma and one had pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, all with stable IOP prior to anti-VEGF treatment. Angles were open in all cases. Peak IOP averaged 43 mm Hg (range: 34 to 60 mm Hg). The mean number of injections preceding the IOP increase was 10 (range: 1 to 20). Four patients required trabeculectomy, one selective laser trabeculoplasty, and one multiple topical medications.

CONCLUSION:

A sustained increase in IOP requiring glaucoma filtering surgery is a rare but important treatment complication for patients receiving intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy, especially those with preexisting glaucoma or glaucoma risk factors.
Oribátidos (Acari, Oribatida) de las loreras (Prunus lusitanicus L.) de Extremadura (suroeste de España) y descripción de una nueva especie de Cosmochthonius Berlese, 1910 (Cosmochthoniidae)
Authors: Subías L. S. , Shtanchaeva U.
Published: July 2012

En el primer estudio de los ácaros oribátidos de las “loreras” (Prunus lusitanicus L.) de Extremadura (suroeste de España) se han encontrado un total de 147 especies, de las que se describe una nueva para la ciencia, Cosmochthonius lusitanicus n. sp., siendo también la primera vez que se citan en España las especies Sellnickochthonius formosus (Cooreman, 1947) y Peloribates perezinigoi Shtanchaeva, Grikurova y Subías, 2011, y la subespecie Cerachipteria digita digita Grandjean, 1935. Se compara la fauna obtenida con la ibérica y se dan unas claves de identificación de las especies ibéricas del género Cosmochthonius Berlese, 1910.
A Critical Perspective of an Online Hands-On Laboratory Framework for Environmental Engineering Courses
Authors: Tota-Maharaj Kiran
Published: July 2012

In environmental engineering education at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, laboratory exercises are a key component for a holistic learning experience. This project gives an outlook of online learning related research and teaching linked to a lab-based learning environment. The advent of the internet and online resources such as weblogs as a major communication methodology in higher education has showed a great deal of interest. In this project a further step into the realm of providing an online support system for student’s access to remote and distributed laboratory facilities in water and environmental engineering modules has been conducted. The approach demonstrates the feasibility of using an online laboratory effectively which can enable learners to reinforce their learning through hands-on practicals and can also be carried out in a flexible environment. An online weblog related the research and interlinked teaching for water and environmental engineering modules which can be implemented in reforming a lecture-based course for students undertaking water and wastewater engineering subjects
Intervention in Engineering Students’ Final Year Capstone Research Projects to Enhance Their Written, Oral and Presentation Skills
Authors: Blicblau Aaron , Dini Kourosh
Published: July 2012

This article describes an intervention and enhancement approach to improvement in capstone student’s written, oral and presentation skills as part of their final year research project requirements especially for international students, whose first language is not English. Training in these skills have been incorporated into the early stages of the final year research (capstone) project, as an intervention and enhancement program, incorporating a series of intensive seminars and practical applications to provide the students with these capabilities.  In this paper, we report on the research question “how does an intensive intervention and enhancement program in an engineering capstone research project effect students’ perceptions and their capabilities in communicating their research findings.” Results of student responses showed statistically significant differences between perceptions of local and international students in categories of intervention and enhancement in a tutorial environment for writing, oral communication and presentations. International students perceived the intervention and enhancement process of greater benefit to their engineering future than local students did. Overall, the results from this work are relevant to both international and local students who may be lacking in specialised reporting and English skills.
Faculty Development and Quality Assurance in the EU ERAMIS Project
Authors: Merceron Agathe , Adam Jean-Michel , Luján-Mora Sergio , Milosz Marek , Toppinen Arto
Published: July 2012

The aim of the ERAMIS project is to create a
network of Masters degrees “Informatics as a Second
Competence” in nine beneficiary universities of Kazakhstan,
Kyrgyzstan and Russia. This contribution presents how
faculty development is organized and quality assurance
implemented inside this project.
Eriosomatine aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Eriosomatinae) associated with moss and roots of conifer and willow in forests of the Pacific Northwest of North America
Authors: Pike K.S. , Graf G. , Foottit R.G. , Maw H.E.L. , von Dohlen C. , Harpel J. , Pantoja A. , Emmert S. , Hagerty A.M.
Published: July 2012

Apterous adult morphs of eriosomatine aphids associated with moss (Bryophyta) and/or roots of conifer (Pinaceae) or willow (SalixLinnaeus (Salicaceae)) in forests of the North American Pacific Northwest including Alaska are described, illustrated, and keyed. In total, seven species (Clydesmithia canadensisDanielsson,Melaphis rhois(Fitch) (moss only feeder),Pachypappa rosettei(Maxson),Pachypappa sacculi(Gillette),Prociphilus americanus(Walker) (fir root only feeder),Prociphilus xylostei(De Geer), andThecabius populimonilis(Riley)) are characterised from their secondary host habitats. Secondary host forms ofC. canadensisandT.populimonilisare described for the first time. The morphotypes from the secondary hosts were confirmed through deoxyribonucleic acid sequence matching with those from the primary hosts.
IFN-γ Receptor-Deficient Donor T Cells Mediate Protection from Graft-versus-Host Disease and Preserve Graft-versus-Tumor Responses after Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Sun Kai , Hsiao Hui-Hua , Li Minghui , Ames Erik , Bouchlaka Myriam , Welniak Lisbeth A. , Hagino Takeshi , Jagdeo Jared , Pai Chien-Chun , Chen Mingyi , Blazar Bruce R. , Abedi Mehrdad , Murphy William J.
Published: July 2012

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. It has been previously reported that lung GVHD severity directly correlates with the expansion of donor Th17 cells in the absence of IFN-γ. However, the consequence of Th17-associated lung GVHD in the presence of IFN-γ has not been well characterized. In the current study, T cells from IFN-γ receptor knockout (IFN-γR−/−) mice, capable of producing IFN-γ but unable to signal in response to IFN-γ, have been used to elucidate further the role of IFN-γ in GVHD. We found the transfer of donor T cells from either IFN-γR−/− or IFN-γ knockout (IFN-γ−/−) mice resulted in significant increases in donor Th17 cells in the lung. Marked increases in IL-4–producing Th2 cells infiltrating the lungs were also observed in the mice of donor IFN-γR−/− T cells. Notably, despite the presence of these cells, these mice did not show the severe immune-mediated histopathological lung injury observed in mice receiving donor IFN-γ−/− T cells. Increases in lung GVHD did occur in mice with donor IFN-γR−/− T cells when treated in vivo with anti–IFN-γ demonstrating that the cytokine has a protective role on host tissues in GVHD. A survival benefit from acute GVHD was also observed using donor cells from IFN-γR−/− T cells compared with control donors. Importantly, tumor-bearing mice receiving IFN-γR−/− T cells versus wild-type donor T cells displayed similar graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effects. These results demonstrate the critical role of IFN-γ on host tissues and cell effector functions in GVHD/GVT.
GPR105 Ablation Prevents Inflammation and Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Mice with Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Xu Jianfeng , Morinaga Hidetaka , Oh Dayoung , Li Pingping , Chen Ai , Talukdar Saswata , Lazarowski Eduardo , Olefsky Jerrold M. , Kim Jane J.
Published: July 2012

GPR105, a G protein-coupled receptor for UDP-glucose, is highly expressed in several human tissues and participates in the innate immune response. Because inflammation has been implicated as a key initial trigger for type 2 diabetes, we hypothesized that GPR105 (official gene name: P2RY14) might play a role in the initiation of inflammation and insulin resistance in obesity. To this end, we investigated glucose metabolism in GPR105 knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). We also examined whether GPR105 regulates macrophage recruitment to liver or adipose tissues by in vivo monocyte tracking and in vitro chemotaxis experiments, followed by transplantation of bone marrow from either KO or WT donors to WT recipients. Our data show that genetic deletion of GPR105 confers protection against HFD-induced insulin resistance, with reduced macrophage infiltration and inflammation in liver, and increased insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation in liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. By tracking monocytes from either KO or WT donors, we found that fewer KO monocytes were recruited to the liver of WT recipients. Furthermore, we observed that uridine 5-diphosphoglucose enhanced the in vitro migration of bone marrow-derived macrophages from WT but not KO mice, and that plasma uridine 5-diphosphoglucose levels were significantly higher in obese versus lean mice. Finally, we confirmed that insulin sensitivity improved in HFD mice with a myeloid cell-specific deletion of GPR105. These studies indicate that GPR105 ablation mitigates HFD-induced insulin resistance by inhibiting macrophage recruitment and tissue inflammation. Hence GPR105 provides a novel link between innate immunity and metabolism.
Attenuation of Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease in the Absence of the Transcription Factor RORγt
Authors: Fulton LeShara M. , Carlson Michael J. , Coghill James M. , Ott Laura E. , West Michelle L. , Panoskaltsis-Mortari Angela , Littman Dan R. , Blazar Bruce R. , Serody Jonathan S.
Published: July 2012

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains the most significant complication after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Previously, acute GVHD had been considered to be mediated predominantly by Th1-polarized T cells. Recently, investigators have identified a second proinflammatory lineage of T cells termed Th17 that is critically dependent on the transcription factor retinoic acid-related orphan receptor (ROR)γt. In this study, we have evaluated the role of Th17 cells in murine acute GVHD by infusing donor T cells lacking RORC and as a consequence the isoform RORγt. Recipients given donor CD4+ and CD8+ T cells lacking RORC had significantly attenuated acute GVHD and markedly decreased tissue pathology in the colon, liver, and lung. Using a clinically relevant haploidentical murine transplantation model, we showed that RORC−/− CD4+ T cells alone diminished the severity and lethality of acute GVHD. This was not found when CD4+ T cells from RORC−/− mice were given to completely mismatched BALB/c mice, and it was correlated with absolute differences in the generation of TNF in the colon after transplant. Thus, CD4+ T cell expression of RORC is important in the pathogenesis of acute GVHD.
The Prolyl Hydroxylase PHD3 Identifies Proinflammatory Macrophages and Its Expression Is Regulated by Activin A
Authors: Escribese María M. , Sierra-Filardi Elena , Nieto Concha , Samaniego Rafael , Sánchez-Torres Carmen , Matsuyama Takami , Calderon-Gómez Elisabeth , Vega Miguel A. , Salas Azucena , Sánchez-Mateos Paloma , Corbí Angel L.
Published: July 2012

Modulation of macrophage polarization underlies the onset and resolution of inflammatory processes, with polarization-specific molecules being actively sought as potential diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Based on their cytokine profile upon exposure to pathogenic stimuli, human monocyte-derived macrophages generated in the presence of GM-CSF or M-CSF are considered as proinflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory (M2) macrophages, respectively. We report in this study that the prolyl hydroxylase PHD3-encoding EGLN3 gene is specifically expressed by in vitro-generated proinflammatory M1(GM-CSF) human macrophages at the mRNA and protein level. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the expression of PHD3 in CD163+ lung macrophages under basal homeostatic conditions, whereas PHD3+ macrophages were abundantly found in tissues undergoing inflammatory responses (e.g., Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) and in tumors. In the case of melanoma, PHD3 expression marked a subset of tumor-associated macrophages that exhibit a weak (e.g., CD163) or absent (e.g., FOLR2) expression of typical M2-polarization markers. EGLN3 gene expression in proinflammatory M1(GM-CSF) macrophages was found to be activin A dependent and could be prevented in the presence of an anti-activin A-blocking Ab or inhibitors of activin receptor-like kinase receptors. Moreover, EGLN3 gene expression was upregulated in response to hypoxia only in M2(M-CSF) macrophages, and the hypoxia-mediated upregulation of EGLN3 expression was significantly impaired by activin A neutralization. These results indicate that EGLN3 gene expression in macrophages is dependent on activin A both under basal and hypoxic conditions and that the expression of the EGLN3-encoded PHD3 prolyl hydroxylase identifies proinflammatory macrophages in vivo and in vitro.