bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culturally Motivated Challenges to Innovations in Integrative Research: Theory and Solutions
Authors: Chiu Chi‐Yue , Kwan Letty Y.‐Y. , Liou Shyhnan
Published: January 2013

Integrative research can lead to frame‐breaking innovations; it can also lead to disruptive conflicts between research team members. In the present contribution, we propose a cultural perspective to integrative research, treating the knowledge tradition of a discipline or profession as a culture. We discuss how socialization into a disciplinary culture can reinforce intellectual centrism. We further propose that awareness of cultural differences between disciplines can further increase intellectual centrism by enlarging the perceived differences between disciplines. Nonetheless, awareness of disciplinary differences, when coupled with an interdisciplinary learning orientation or growth beliefs, can enhance creative performance and the quality of collaboration in integrative research. We discuss the implications of these ideas for promoting and managing integrative research.
Salivary buffer capacity, pH, and stimulated flow rate of crack cocaine users
Authors: Woyceichoski Iverson Ernani Cogo , Costa Carlos Henrique , de Araújo Cristiano Miranda , Brancher João Armando , Resende Luciane Grochocki , Vieira Iran , de Lima Antonio Adilson Soares
Published: January 2013

Aim:  Crack cocaine is the freebase form of cocaine that can be smoked. The use of this drug has been considered a public health problem in many countries. The aim of this study was to assess the stimulated salivary flow rate (SSFR), pH, and the buffer capacity of saliva in crack cocaine users.

Methods:  Stimulated whole saliva was collected from 54 selected crack cocaine users and 40 non‐users. All samples were analyzed for SSFR, pH, and buffer capacity. SSFR was analyzed by gravimetric method. The buffer capacity and pH were determined using a digital pH meter.

Results:  The crack cocaine users demonstrated higher buffer capacity than the control group (P > 0.05). Salivary pH was lower in crack cocaine users (P < 0.05). Mean values of the SSFR for the experimental and control groups were 1.1 and 1.3 mL/min, respectively (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:  Crack cocaine users might exhibit a significant decrease in salivary pH, but not in salivary flow rate or buffer capacity.
Value Chain Reconfiguration in Highly Disaggregated Industrial Systems: Examining the Emergence of Health Care Diagnostics
Authors: Srai Jagjit Singh , Alinaghian Leila Sadat
Published: January 2013

Many industries have witnessed the progressive disaggregation of their value chains as firms focus on internal advantages and exploit evolving external capabilities.Whileprevious industry studies provide rich narratives on the changes to vertical scope, this study applies evolutionary and configuration theories to explore disaggregation in asubsector ofhealth care, namelyin vitrodiagnostics, with its unique combination of multiple technology‐intense platforms, distributed information and revenue models within a highly regulated environment. The research provides a framework for exploring value chain disaggregation by examining actor variation, selection, and retention patterns, and the reconfiguration of information, material, and revenue flows between industrial actors. Results suggest disaggregation is driven by fragmented operating models supporting novel capabilities in addition to efficiency‐driven capability redistribution.
Managing A Global Partnership Model: Lessons from theBoeing 787 ‘Dreamliner’ Program
Authors: Kotha Suresh , Srikanth Kannan
Published: January 2013

Little research has examined the integration challenges in globally disaggregated value chains in a complexNPDeffort or the tools managers use to overcome such challenges. Drawing onBoeing's 787 program, we highlight integration challengesBoeing faced and how it addressed them through recourse to partial co‐location, establishing a centralized integration support center, reintegrating some activities performed by suppliers, and using its bargaining power to facilitate changes. The integration toolsBoeing employed were geared toward two primary objectives: (1) gaining increased visibility of actions and visibility of knowledge networks across partner firms; and (2) motivating partners to take actions to improve visibility. These findings add empirical traction to the theoretical debate around the integration tools and the role of authority in the knowledge‐based view of the firm.
Strategic Modularity and the Architecture of Multinational Firm
Authors: McDermott Gerald , Mudambi Ram , Parente Ronaldo
Published: January 2013

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) are increasingly recognizing the importance of utilizing knowledge and capabilities from a wider innovation ecosystem beyond their corporate network of subsidiaries. In order to manage the complexity associated with setting up and running such international networks of practice, they devolve responsibility for significant activities to external agents. They accomplish this by designing or reengineering their products or services as modular subassemblies that can be parceled out to a network of partner organizations. The extent to which such modularization occurs varies depending on technical/engineering drivers and strategic considerations. It differs between process and product industries and varies depending on output variety, batch size, and the balance of bargaining power between supplier and buyers in the value chain. This ensures that the observed level of modularization varies across industries. However, we also observe that it varies across firms within industries. Depending on their capabilities, firms may implement a strategy leaning toward vertical integration and integration or specialization and modularization.
Legume Production and Irrigation Strategies in the Aral Sea Basin: Yield, Yield Components, Water Relations and Crop Development of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and Mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek)
Authors: Bourgault M. , Madramootoo C. A. , Webber H. A. , Dutilleul P. , Stulina G. , Horst M. G. , Smith D. L.
Published: January 2013

With world population expected to reach 9.2 billion people by 2050, improved irrigation methods will be needed to increase the productivity of agricultural land and improve food supply worldwide. The objective of this work was to examine the effect of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) and alternate furrow irrigation (AFI) on the yield and yield components of two legume species (common bean and mungbean) produced as a second crop following winter wheat in Uzbekistan, Central Asia. Water relations and crop development were also examined. The research was conducted during two successive growing seasons in the Fergana valley. Production of mungbean using the severe stress RDI treatment in combination with AFI resulted in the highest yields with the lowest quantity of applied water in 2004. In addition, yields of common bean in the moderate stress treatment were not different from the recommended schedule, although irrigation events were decreased from 4 to 2. AFI did not reduce yields, and it did not interact with RDI to reduce yields further. In general, mungbean yields were higher than those of common bean. The combination of AFI and RDI can allow legume production with reduced water inputs.
Factors Affecting the Color of Roasted Cocoa Bean
Authors: Krysiak Wiesława , Adamski Robert , Żyżelewicz Dorota
Published: January 2013

The cacao bean of the Ivory Coast variety was convectionally roasted. The influence of parameters of air (temperature from the scope T = 110–150C, the speed of its flow v = 0.5 and 1.0 m/s, and the relative humidity = 0.3–0.8% or 2 and 5.0%) and time on the degree of browning of the cacao bean was analyzed. For the evaluation of the quality of the grain, two indicators were applied: OD460/OD525 and the F1/F3 ratio. Based on the data obtained, using the response surface methodology has optimized the process of cocoa roasting for its acceptable color.

Practical Applications

The process of roasting the cacao bean should contribute to achieving the acceptable physicochemical properties, such as the appropriate degree of browning of the bean. From a point of view of the technology of chocolate production, it is essential to know which factors of the roasting process will have a significant influence on the color change of the roasted cacao bean. It will allow one to predict changes in roasted bean and to select process conditions depending on quality requirements of the grain.
Cross talk between toll‐like receptor‐4 signaling and angiotensin‐II in liver fibrosis development in the rat model of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Shirai Yusaku , Yoshiji Hitoshi , Noguchi Ryuichi , Kaji Kosuke , Aihara Yosuke , Douhara Akitoshi , Moriya Kei , Namisaki Tadashi , Kawaratani Hideto , Fukui Hiroshi
Published: January 2013

Background and Aim

The innate immune system, including toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR4) signaling cascade and angiotensin‐II (AT‐II) play important roles in the progression of liver fibrosis development; the cross talk between TLR4 and AT‐II has not been elucidated yet. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the effect of AT‐II type 1 receptor blocker (ARB), on the liver fibrosis development, especially in conjunction with the interaction of TLR4 and AT‐II in the rat model of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Methods

Fischer 344 rats were fed a choline‐deficient, l‐amino‐acid‐defined diet for 8 weeks and the effects of losartan were elucidated in conjunction with activated hepatic stellate cells (Ac‐HSC) activation, TLR4, nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), and transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) expressions. In vitro study was carried out to elucidate the effect of AT‐II on several indices including TLR4, myeloid differentiation factor 88, NF‐κB, and TGF‐β expressions in the rat HSC.

Results

ARB markedly inhibited liver fibrosis development along with suppression of the number of Ac‐HSC and TGF‐β. These inhibitory effects of ARB were almost in parallel with suppression of the hepatic TLR4 and NF‐κB expressions. This in vitro study showed that AT‐II significantly augmented the TLR4 expression in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner via AT‐II type 1 receptor in the Ac‐HSC. AT‐II also augmented the lipopolysaccharide‐induced myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), NF‐κB, and TGF‐β and these increments were attenuated by treatment with ARB.

Conclusions

These studies indicated that the cross talk between TLR4 signaling cascade and AT‐II plays a pivotal role in liver fibrosis development in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Predictors for developing intestinal failure in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Gearry Richard B , Kamm Michael A , Hart Ailsa L , Bassett Paul , Gabe Simon M , Nightingale Jeremy M
Published: January 2013

Background and Aim

Intestinal failure (IF) is a rare but devastating complication of Crohn's disease (CD). The clinical and surgical factors that predispose to IF are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to define clinical factors that predispose to IF.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study was performed using consecutive CD patients with IF who were identified from a prospective database. Local population‐based controls were selected with which to compare demographic, phenotypic, and clinical outcomes.

Results

Eighty‐two CD patients requiring long‐term intravenous fluids or nutrition were studied. Diagnosis at age 16 years or less (P = 0.01) and a family history of inflammatory bowel disease (P = 0.02) were associated with a significantly higher risk for developing IF. Among the IF group, 53% had perioperative complications from intestinal resections contributing to long‐term IF. Furthermore, these patients had more abdominal surgeries (P = 0.05) and stricturing disease was less common than in patients with primary active CD (P = 0.01). IF due to primary active CD was associated with penetrating behavior (P = 0.02) and early age at first surgery (P = 0.004). The need for intravenous nutrition as opposed to intravenous fluids correlated inversely with small intestine length (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

CD resulting in IF relates to earlier age at diagnosis, family history of inflammatory bowel disease, stricturing disease, younger age at first surgery, and operative complications. These factors deserve consideration when planning therapy for CD patients.
Basal release of nitric oxide in the mesenteric artery in portal hypertension and cirrhosis: Role of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase
Authors: Serna Eva , Mauricio María Dolores , Lluch Paloma , Segarra Gloria , Cortina Belén , Lluch Salvador , Medina Pascual
Published: January 2013

Background and Aim

Increased basal release of nitric oxide (NO) in the splanchnic circulation contributes to elevated plasma levels of NO observed in decompensated cirrhosis. We evaluated in rat mesenteric arteries whether the differences in basal release of NO, revealed by asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)‐ and NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME)‐induced contractions, were associated with changes in messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolases (DDAHs).

Methods

Rat small mesenteric arteries from 14 Sham‐control, from 14 with partial portal vein ligation (PPVL), and from 14 with bile duct excision (BDE)‐induced cirrhosis were precontracted under isometric conditions with norepinephrine, and additional contractions were induced with ADMA and L‐NAME. mRNA expression of eNOS, DDAH‐1, and DDAH‐2 in mesenteric arteries were evaluated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

ADMA and L‐NAME caused concentration‐ and endothelium‐dependent contractions. pD2 values to L‐NAME were similar in all groups. In contrast, pD2 values to ADMA were similar in PPVL and BDE but were significantly lower than those of the L‐NAME and the Sham groups. Relaxation to acetylcholine was not modified by ADMA or L‐NAME but was abolished by charybdotoxin plus apamin. There was an increased mRNA expression of eNOS, DDAH‐1, and DDAH‐2 in mesenteric arteries from PPVL and BDE compared with the Sham group.

Conclusion

Basal release of NO is increased in mesenteric arteries of PPVL and BDE rats. The rise in expression of DDAHs indicates a higher degradation of ADMA. This would result in an increased generation of endothelial NO and mesenteric vasodilation.
Effect of dietary interventions in the maintenance of normoglycaemia in glycogen storage disease type 1a: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shah K. K. , O'Dell S. D.
Published: January 2013

Background

Untreated glycogen storage disease (GSD)‐1a patients experience hypoglycaemia and growth retardation. The present study examined the effects of dietary interventions on the maintenance of normoglycaemia.

Methods

Clinical trials were identified from EMBASE (January 1980 to November 2011), MEDLINE (January 1948 to November 2011) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2011, Issue 4). The intermittent administration of uncooked cornstarch was compared with: (i) continuous nocturnal feeding of dextrose; (ii) modified uncooked cornstarch; and (iii) dextrose and an uncooked cornstarch–dextrose mixture. One author extracted the data, and assessed the trial eligibility and risk of bias. Quality assessment and data extraction were conducted and checked independently.

Results

Of 41 articles retrieved, five controlled trials (49 participants) were identified with follow‐up at 2 days to 14 years. Results from three nonrandomised controlled trials comparing uncooked cornstarch with continuous nocturnal feeding of dextrose were pooled in a meta‐analysis based on a fixed‐effect model. Twenty‐six participants (three trials) receiving uncooked cornstarch showed a significant increase in blood glucose concentration: mean difference (MD) 0.62 mmol L−1 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.23–1.00] (P = 0.002), 21 (two trials) increased serum insulin: MD 62.37 pmol L−1 (95% CI = 32.19–92.55) (P < 0.0001) and 22 (three trials) increased plasma total cholesterol: MD 0.68 mmol L−1 (95% CI = 0.17– 1.20) (P = 0.01) compared to continuous nocturnal feeding of dextrose. Twenty‐eight subjects (three trials) showed decreased plasma lactate after nocturnal feeding: MD –0.42 mmol L−1 (95% CI = −0.58 to −0.25) (P < 0.00001).

Conclusions

Short‐ to long‐term overnight intermittent administration of uncooked cornstarch prevents nocturnal hypoglycaemia in GSD‐1a children more effectively than continuous nocturnal feeding of dextrose.
A Basic Bivariate Structure of Personality Attributes Evident Across Nine Languages
Authors: Saucier Gerard , Thalmayer Amber Gayle , Payne Doris L. , Carlson Robert , Sanogo Lamine , Ole‐Kotikash Leonard , Church A. Timothy , Katigbak Marcia S. , Somer Oya , Szarota Piotr , Szirmák Zsofia , Zhou Xinyue
Published: January 2013

Here, two studies seek to characterize a parsimonious common‐denominator personality structure with optimal cross‐cultural replicability. Personality differences are observed in all human populations and cultures, but lexicons for personality attributes contain so many distinctions that parsimony is lacking. Models stipulating the most important attributes have been formulated by experts or by empirical studies drawing on experience in a very limited range of cultures. Factor analyses of personality lexicons of nine languages of diverse provenance (Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Turkish, Greek, Polish, Hungarian, Maasai, and Senoufo) were examined, and their common structure was compared to that of several prominent models in psychology. A parsimonious bivariate model showed evidence of substantial convergence and ubiquity across cultures. Analyses involving key markers of these dimensions in English indicate that they are broad dimensions involving the overlapping content of the interpersonal circumplex, models of communion and agency, and morality/warmth and competence. These “Big Two” dimensions—Social Self‐Regulation and Dynamism—provide a common‐denominator model involving the two most crucial axes of personality variation, ubiquitous across cultures. The Big Two might serve as an umbrella model serving to link diverse theoretical models and associated research literatures.
Crater morphology in sandstone targets: The MEMIN impact parameter study
Authors: DUFRESNE Anja , POELCHAU Michael H. , KENKMANN Thomas , DEUTSCH Alex , HOERTH Tobias , SCHÄFER Frank , THOMA Klaus
Published: January 2013

Abstract– Hypervelocity (2.5–7.8 km s−1) impact experiments into sandstone were carried out to investigate the influence of projectile velocity and mass, target pore space saturation, target‐projectile density contrast, and target layer orientation on crater size and shape. Crater size increases with increasing projectile velocity and mass as well as with increasing target pore space saturation. Craters in water‐saturated porous targets are generally shallower and larger in volume and in diameter than craters from equivalent impacts into dry porous sandstone. Morphometric analyses of the resultant craters, 5–40 cm in diameter, reveal features that are characteristic of all of our experimental craters regardless of impact conditions (I) a large central depression within a fragile, light‐colored central part, and (II) an outer spallation zone with areas of incipient spallation. Two different mechanical processes, grain fragmentation and intergranular tensile fracturing, are recorded within these crater morphologies. Zone (I) approximates the shape of the transient crater formed by material compression, displacement, comminution, and excavation flow, whereas (II) is the result of intergranular tensile fracturing and spallation. The transient crater dimensions are reconstructed by fitting quadric parabolas to crater profiles from digital elevation models. The dimensions of this transient and of the final crater show the same trends: both increase in volume with increasing impact energy, and with increasing water saturation of the target pore space. The relative size of the transient crater (in percent of the final crater volume) decreases with increasing projectile mass and velocity, signifying a greater contribution of spallation on the final crater size when projectile mass and velocity are increased.
Identification of the factors that control synthesis and accumulation of a therapeutic protein, human immune‐regulatory interleukin‐10, in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Chen Ling , Dempsey Brian R. , Gyenis Laszlo , Menassa Rima , Brandle Jim E. , Dhaubhadel Sangeeta
Published: January 2013

Plants are one of the most economical platforms for large‐scale production of recombinant proteins for biopharmaceutical and industrial uses. A large number of human recombinant proteins of therapeutic value have been successfully produced in plant systems. One of the main technical challenges of producing recombinant proteins in plants is to obtain sufficient level of protein. This research aims to identify the factors that control synthesis and accumulation of recombinant proteins in stable transgenic plants. A stepwise dissection of human immune‐regulatory interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) protein production was carried out using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model system. EMS‐mutagenized transgenic Arabidopsis IL‐10 lines, at2762 and at3262, produced significantly higher amount of IL‐10 protein than the non‐mutagenized IL‐10 line (WT‐IL‐10). The fates of trans‐gene in these sets of plants were compared in detail by measuring synthesis and accumulation of IL‐10 transcript, transcript stability, protein synthesis and IL‐10 protein accumulation. The IL‐10 transcripts were more stable in at2762 and at3262 lines than WT‐IL‐10, which may contribute to higher protein synthesis in these lines. To evaluate whether translational regulation of IL‐10 controls its synthesis in non‐mutagenized WT‐IL‐10 and higher IL‐10 accumulating mutant lines, we measured the efficiency of the translational machinery. Our results indicate that mutant lines with higher trans‐gene expression contain more robust and efficient translational machinery compared with the control line.
Plastid terminal oxidase (PTOX) has the potential to act as a safety valve for excess excitation energy in the alpine plant species Ranunculus glacialis L.
Authors: LAUREAU CONSTANCE , DE PAEPE ROSINE , LATOUCHE GWENDAL , MORENO‐CHACÓN MARIA , FINAZZI GIOVANNI , KUNTZ MARCEL , CORNIC GABRIEL , STREB PETER
Published: January 2013

The capacity to consume excess photosynthetic electrons by PTOX activity was investigated in R. glacialis shade‐ and sun‐leaves. PTOX protein content was highest in sun‐leaves and correlated to electron consumption attributed to PTOX. In R. glacialis leaves, PTOX may act as safety valve to prevent overreduction of the electron transport chain and photoinhibition under conditions of varying light and temperature in the alpine environment.
Pathogenesis of acute traumatic coagulopathy
Authors: Davenport Ross
Published: January 2013

Acute traumatic coagulopathy (ATC) is an early endogenous process, driven by the combination of tissue injury and shock that is associated with increased mortality and worse outcomes in the polytrauma patient. This review summarizes our current understanding of the pathophysiology of ATC and the role of rapid diagnostics in the management of severe trauma hemorrhage. In particular we consider diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for bleeding trauma patients with short versus long prehospital times and the concept of remote damage control resuscitation. Endothelial activation of Protein C is a central mechanism of ATC, which produces rapid anticoagulation and fibrinolysis following severe trauma. Continued blood loss, hypothermia, acidosis, and hemodilution potentiate ATC and lead to a global derangement in all components of hemostasis. The contribution and interplay between platelet activity, fibrinogen utilization, endothelial dysfunction, and neurohormonal pathways remain to be defined in ATC pathogenesis but may offer novel therapeutic targets. Conventional laboratory‐based tests of coagulation have a limited role in the early management of major trauma hemorrhage. TEG and ROTEM provide a rapid evaluation of clot dynamics in whole blood and are of greater value than coagulation screens in diagnosing and managing trauma hemorrhage.
Tranexamic acid in remote damage control resuscitation
Authors: Rappold Joseph F. , Pusateri Anthony E.
Published: January 2013

With the advent of remote damage control resuscitation and far‐forward surgery, a renewed emphasis has been placed on examining a variety of pharmacologic adjuncts to controlling blood loss before definitive operative intervention. In this paper, the authors review the current state of the art for tranexamic acid (TXA) and its potential benefits to those patients who are in need of a massive transfusion. Specifically addressed are its biologic and pharmacologic properties, as well the results of a number of recent studies. The 2010 CRASH‐2 trial randomized in excess of 20,000 patients and demonstrated a reduction in all‐cause mortality from 16.0 to 14.5% and death due to bleeding from 5.7 to 4.9%. The 2012 Military Application of Tranexamic Acid in Trauma Emergency Resuscitation study provided a retrospective analysis of 896 wounded cared for at a military hospital in Afghanistan. This study demonstrated a 23.9%‐17.4% reduction in all‐cause mortality. Finally, they discuss the potential complications associated with TXA use as well as areas of future research, which are needed to solidify our knowledge of TXA and its potential beneficial effects on controlling bleeding.
Equity in multiproduct supply chain network
Authors: SAEE BOSTANABAD Mina , MEHRI-TEKMEH Javad , DEHKHARGHANI Ali Moghanni
Published: January 2013

In this paper, multiproduct supply chain network is investigated with equity consideration,namely, obtaining the optimal flow pattern, in such a way that no user in the network can increasehis(her) benefit with change in product’s sending path. However, each kind of products, has anindividual cost function and, at the same time, contributes to its own and other product’s cost functionin an individual way. An algorithm is developed to find optimal flow pattern for such multiproductsupply chain network.
Application of a Mathematical Model to an Advertisement Reservation Problem
Authors: COSGUN Ozlem , GULTAS Ilkay , SERARSLAN Mehmet N.
Published: January 2013

Television networks provide TV programs free of charge to the public. However, they acquire their revenue by telecasting advertisements in the midst of continuing programs or shows. A key problem faced by the TV networks in Turkey is how to accept and televise the advertisements reserved by a client on a specified advertisement break which we called “Advertisement Reservation Problem” (ARP). The problem is complicated by limited time inventory, by different rating points for different target groups, competition avoidance and the relationship between TV networks and clients. In this study we have developed a mathematical model for advertisement reservation problem and extended this model for some cases encountered in real business life. We have also discussed how these cases affect the decisions of a TV network. Mixed integer linear programming approach is proposed to solve these problems. This approach has been implemented to a case taken from one of the biggest TV networks of Turkey.
Orientalist Camp: The Case of Allen Edwardes
Authors: Boer Roland
Published: January 2013

This article seeks to recover and assess the work of Allen Edwardes, a sexologist, linguist, and biblical scholar who was part of the circle around R. E. L. Masters and Albert Ellis. The focus is on Edwardes's extraordinary Erotica Judaica. I argue that Edwardes may be seen in terms of 'orientalist camp'—two categories I introduce before situating Edwardes within the 1960s and sexual liberation. From there, the argument concerns the tensions within Edwardes's work between scholarly argument and ribald commentary, which appears in one's own bodily response, in the main text, and in the nature of the footnotes. In closing, I suggest that in this tension Edwardes challenges the polite conventions of scholarship.
The Chosen Peoples of the 11th and 21st Centuries
Authors: Gabriele Matthew
Published: January 2013

The idea of a people’s election by God is a narrative that attempts to efface contestation over the past, erasing history by constructing new memory. This paper will examine how this functions by comparing two Christian narratives of election. The Franks who participated in the First Crusade (1095-99) thought themselves to be God's new chosen people, who were in the process of reclaiming his favor. Similarly, a streak in contemporary evangelical (Judeo-)Christianity thinks itself at a point in that narrative just before the crusaders, with God showing his anger at his new chosen people (Americans). By understanding this process of narrativization, we understand that the idea of election suggests a course of action, in that it creates a hermeneutic seal around the "insiders," flattens differences among "outsiders," and requires the chosen people to fight back against the agents of God’s wrath.
Secularism and the Question of the "Judeo-Christian"
Authors: Britt Brian
Published: January 2013

This essay comments on the papers in this special issue, paying special attention to "Judaism," "Christianity," and "Judeo-Christian" in relation to discussions of secularism and civil religion. It attempts an explanation of why "Judeo-Christian" has become a term we take for granted, suggesting that the term derives from a tradition of naming and group identity that combines obvious and subtle expressions, habits, and patterns. Finally, it poses questions for further research into the meaning and use of the terms "Judeo-Christian" and "civil religion."
Eusebius's Christian Library and the Construction of "Hebrews," "Jews," and "Hellenistic Judaism"
Authors: Schott Jeremy M.
Published: January 2013

This article approaches the idea of "Judeo-Christianity" at an oblique angle. For scholars of late antiquity, the idea of "Hellenistic Judaism" shares some of the problems that scholars of modernity have identified in "Judeo-Christianity." Each of these terms makes explicit and implicit claims about history; each also uses Judaism to reify a particular understanding of Christianity. This article examines the role of the fourth-century bishop and polymath Eusebius of Caesarea, and his famed library, in the creation of “Hellenistic Judaism.” Eusebius drew a distinction between an ancient "Hebrew" theological tradition and a wider "Judaism." Echoing certain modern constructions of "Judeo-Christianity," Eusebius contended that the "Hebrew-Christian" tradition represented the most universal, civilized, and transcendent form of religion.
Improving Metabolism by Throwing Out All the JNK
Authors: Ferrante Anthony W.
Published: January 2013

JNK activity in adipose macrophages promotes inflammation and insulin resistance in mouse models of obesity.

[Also see Report by

Han
et al.

]
Age-Specific Seroprevalences of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus, Human Polyomaviruses 6, 7, and 9, and Trichodysplasia Spinulosa-Associated Polyomavirus
Authors: Nicol Jérôme T. J. , Robinot Rémy , Carpentier Audrey , Carandina Giovanni , Mazzoni Elisa , Tognon Mauro , Touzé Antoine , Coursaget Pierre
Published: January 2013

Six new human polyomaviruses have been identified since 2008 (Merkel cell polyomavirus [MCPyV], human polyomavirus 6 [HPyV6], HPyV7, HPyV9, trichodysplasia spinulosa polyomavirus [TSPyV], and Malawi polyomavirus [MWPyV]). The presence of specific antibodies against MCPyV, HPyV6, HPyV7, HPyV9, and TSPyV in 828 Italian subjects aged 1 to 100 years was investigated by virus-like particle-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). The findings indicate that all of these new polyomaviruses circulate widely in humans, with seroprevalences in adulthood ranging from 39.4% for HPyV9 to 87.1% for MCPyV, and that primary exposure is most intense in childhood, with the exception of HPyV7 and HPyV9, for which the seroprevalence increased throughout life. The proportion of subjects with high antibody titers was found to increase with age for MCPyV and to decrease with age for TSPyV.
Enhanced Detection of Host Response Antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi Using Immuno-PCR
Authors: Halpern Micah D. , Jain Sunny , Jewett Mollie W.
Published: January 2013

Lyme disease is the fastest-growing zoonotic disease in North America. Current methods for detection ofBorrelia burgdorferiinfection are challenged by analysis subjectivity and standardization of antigen source. In the present study, we developed an immuno-PCR (iPCR)-based approach employing recombinantin vivo-expressedB. burgdorferiantigens for objective detection of a host immune response toB. burgdorferiinfection. iPCR is a liquid-phase protein detection method that combines the sensitivity of PCR with the specificity and versatility of immunoassay-based protocols. Use of magnetic beads coated with intact spirochetes provided effective antigen presentation and allowed detection of host-generated antibodies in experimentally infected mice at day 11 postinoculation, whereas host-generated antibodies were detected at day 14 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and day 21 by immunoblotting. Furthermore, magnetic beads coated with recombinantB. burgdorferi in vivo-expressed antigen OspC or BmpA demonstrated positive detection of host-generated antibodies in mice at day 7 postinoculation with markedly increased iPCR signals above the background, with the quantification cycle (Cq) value for each sample minus the mean backgroundCqplus 3 standard deviations (ΔCq) being 4 to 10, whereas ΔCqwas 2.5 for intact spirochete-coated beads. iPCR demonstrated a strong correlation (Spearman rank correlation = 0.895,P< 0.0001) with a commercial ELISA for detection of host antibodies in human Lyme disease patient sera using theB. burgdorferiVlsE C6 peptide. In addition, iPCR showed potential applicability for direct detection of spirochetes in blood. The results presented here indicate that our iPCR assay has the potential to provide an objective format that can be used for sensitive detection of multiple host response antibodies and isotypes toB. burgdorferiinfection.
Real-Time Multiplex PCR Assay and Melting Curve Analysis for Identifying Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Souza Tamara B. , Lozer Diego M. , Kitagawa Sônia M. S. , Spano Liliana C. , Silva Neusa P. , Scaletsky Isabel C. A.
Published: January 2013

A real-time multiplex PCR assay was designed to amplify the virulence genes
eae
, pEAF,
aatA
,
daaC
,
elt
,
est
,
ipaH
,
stx
1
, and
stx
2
for the detection of all diarrheagenic
Escherichia coli
pathotypes. This assay proved to be more sensitive and rapid than a conventional multiplex PCR for diarrheagenic
E. coli
isolates from children with diarrhea.
PCR Followed by Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Broad-Range Identification of Fungal Pathogens
Authors: Massire Christian , Buelow Daelynn R. , Zhang Sean X. , Lovari Robert , Matthews Heather E. , Toleno Donna M. , Ranken Raymond R. , Hall Thomas A. , Metzgar David , Sampath Rangarajan , Blyn Lawrence B. , Ecker David J. , Gu Zhengming , Walsh Thomas J. , Hayden Randall T.
Published: January 2013

Invasive fungal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. Early and accurate identification of these pathogens is central to direct therapy and to improve overall outcome. PCR coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (PCR/ESI-MS) was evaluated as a novel means for identification of fungal pathogens. Using a database grounded by 60 ATCC reference strains, a total of 394 clinical fungal isolates (264 molds and 130 yeasts) were analyzed by PCR/ESI-MS; results were compared to phenotypic identification, and discrepant results were sequence confirmed. PCR/ESI-MS identified 81.4% of molds to either the genus or species level, with concordance rates of 89.7% and 87.4%, respectively, to phenotypic identification. Likewise, PCR/ESI-MS was able to identify 98.4% of yeasts to either the genus or species level, agreeing with 100% of phenotypic results at both the genus and species level. PCR/ESI-MS performed best with
Aspergillus
and
Candida
isolates, generating species-level identification in 94.4% and 99.2% of isolates, respectively. PCR/ESI-MS is a promising new technology for broad-range detection and identification of medically important fungal pathogens that cause invasive mycoses.
Hypermutable Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis Patients from Two Brazilian Cities
Authors: Lutz Larissa , Leão Robson Souza , Ferreira Alex Guerra , Pereira Dariane Castro , Raupp Caroline , Pitt Tyrone , Marques Elizabeth Andrade , Barth Afonso Luis
Published: January 2013

Hypermutable (HPM) strains of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
have been found at high frequencies in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients in Europe. We report the results of testing for HPM frequencies, mutator genotype, and antimicrobial resistance of
P. aeruginosa
strains from Brazilian CF patients. A modified disk diffusion technique was used to quantify antibiotic-resistant subpopulations of an isolate, and estimations of the frequency of mutation to rifampin resistance were determined for 705 isolates from 149 patients attending clinics in two Brazilian cities. Mutations in the
mutS
gene were detected by sequencing assays. We found 194 (27.5%) HPM isolates in samples from 99 (66.4%) patients. Thirty-five HPM isolates (18.0%) from 31 (31.3%) patients exhibited a high increased spontaneous mutation rate compared with controls, and eight isolates from six patients displayed a defective
mutS
gene. The dominant HPM population was associated with very low antibiotic resistance levels, while HPM subpopulations were generally more resistant to antimicrobials. A relatively high prevalence of HPM
P. aeruginosa
in CF patients was associated with surprisingly low antibiotic resistance levels, in contrast to some earlier studies.
Identification and Typing of Isolates of Cyphellophora and Relatives by Use of Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism and Rolling Circle Amplification
Authors: Feng Peiying , Klaassen Corné H. W. , Meis Jacques F. , Najafzadeh M. J. , Gerrits Van Den Ende A. H. G. , Xi Liyan , de Hoog G. S.
Published: January 2013

The species diversity and identification of black fungi belonging toCyphellophoraandPhialophora, which colonize and infect human skin and nails, were studied using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP). A total of 76CyphellophoraandPhialophoraisolates were evaluated, and their delimitation was compared to earlier studies using multilocus sequencing. The results of the AFLP analysis and sequencing were in complete agreement with each other. Seven species-specific padlock probes for the most prevalent species were designed on the basis of the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region, and identification of the respective species could easily be achieved with the aid of rolling circle amplification.
Mycobacterium smegmatis in Skin Biopsy Specimens from Patients with Suppurative Granulomatous Inflammation
Authors: Xu Zhe , Lu Di , Zhang Xia , Li Haijing , Meng Shufang , Pan Yue-Song , Boyd Alan S. , Ma Lin , Tang Yi-Wei
Published: January 2013

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin biopsy specimens, including 72 suppurative granulomatous inflammation (SGI) and 47 non-SGI controls, were tested for mycobacteria by using a broad-range PCR and a suspension array identification system.
Mycobacterium smegmatis
was detected in 13 (18.1%) of the SGI skin biopsy specimens, which was significantly more than 2 (4.3%) in the controls (odds ratio, 5.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.21 to 27.06;
P
= 0.028).
Daxx Upregulation within the Cytoplasm of Reovirus-Infected Cells Is Mediated by Interferon and Contributes to Apoptosis
Authors: Dionne Kalen R. , Zhuang Yonghua , Leser J. Smith , Tyler Kenneth L. , Clarke Penny
Published: January 2013

Reovirus infection is a well-characterized experimental system for the study of viral pathogenesis and antiviral immunity within the central nervous system (CNS). We have previously shown that c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and the Fas death receptor each play a role in neuronal apoptosis occurring in reovirus-infected brains. Death-associated protein 6 (Daxx) is a cellular protein that mechanistically links Fas signaling to JNK signaling in several models of apoptosis. In the present study, we demonstrate that Daxx is upregulated in reovirus-infected brain tissue through a type I interferon-mediated mechanism. Daxx upregulation is limited to brain regions that undergo reovirus-induced apoptosis and occurs in the cytoplasm and nucleus of neurons. Cytoplasmic Daxx is present in Fas-expressing cells during reovirus encephalitis, suggesting a role for Daxx in Fas-mediated apoptosis following reovirus infection. Further,
in vitro
expression of a dominant negative form of Daxx (DN-Daxx), which binds to Fas but which does not transmit downstream signaling, inhibits apoptosis of reovirus-infected cells. In contrast,
in vitro
depletion of Daxx results in increased expression of caspase 3 and apoptosis, suggesting that Daxx plays an antiapoptotic role in the nucleus. Overall, these data imply a regulatory role for Daxx in reovirus-induced apoptosis, depending on its location in the nucleus or cytoplasm.
Romulus and Remus, Two Phage Isolates Representing a Distinct Clade within the Twortlikevirus Genus, Display Suitable Properties for Phage Therapy Applications
Authors: Vandersteegen Katrien , Kropinski Andrew M. , Nash John H. E. , Noben Jean-Paul , Hermans Katleen , Lavigne Rob
Published: January 2013

The renewed interest in controllingStaphylococcus aureusinfections using their natural enemies, bacteriophages, has led to the isolation of a limited number of virulent phages so far. These phages are all members of theTwortlikevirus, displaying little variance. We present two novel closely related (95.9% DNA homology) lytic myoviruses, Romulus and Remus, with double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genomes of 131,333 bp and 134,643 bp, respectively. Despite their relatedness toStaphylococcusphages K, G1, ISP, and Twort andListeriaphages A511 and P100, Romulus and Remus can be proposed as isolates of a new species within theTwortlikevirusgenus. A distinguishing feature for these phage genomes is the unique distribution of group I introns compared to that in other staphylococcal myoviruses. In addition, a hedgehog/intein domain was found within their DNA polymerase genes, and an insertion sequence-encoded transposase exhibits splicing behavior and produces a functional portal protein. From a phage therapy application perspective, Romulus and Remus infected approximately 70% of the testedS. aureusisolates and displayed promising lytic activity against these isolates. Furthermore, both phages showed a rapid initial adsorption and demonstrated biofilm-degrading capacity in a proof-of-concept experiment.
Recombinant Influenza Virus Carrying the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) F
85-93
CTL Epitope Reduces RSV Replication in Mice
Authors: De Baets Sarah , Schepens Bert , Sedeyn Koen , Schotsaert Michael , Roose Kenny , Bogaert Pieter , Fiers Walter , Saelens Xavier
Published: January 2013

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants worldwide. Despite decades of research, there is still no registered vaccine available for this major pathogen. We investigated the protective efficacy of a recombinant influenza virus, PR8/NA-F
85–93
, that carries the RSV CD8
+
T cell epitope F
85–93
in its neuraminidase stalk. F
85–93
-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were induced in mice after a single intranasal immunization with PR8/NA-F
85-93
virus, and these CTLs provided a significant reduction in the lung viral load upon a subsequent challenge with RSV. To avoid influenza-induced morbidity, we treated mice with matrix protein 2 (M2e)-specific monoclonal antibodies before PR8/NA-F
85-93
virus infection. Treatment with anti-M2e antibodies reduced the infiltration of immune cells in the lungs upon PR8/NA-F
85-93
infection, whereas the formation of inducible bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue was not affected. Moreover, this treatment prevented body weight loss yet still permitted the induction of RSV F-specific T cell responses and significantly reduced RSV replication upon challenge. These results demonstrate that it is possible to take advantage of the infection-permissive protection of M2e-specific antibodies against influenza A virus to induce heterologous CD8
+
T cell-mediated immunity by an influenza A virus vector expressing the RSV F
85-93
epitope.
Solution Structure of Mouse Hepatitis Virus (MHV) nsp3a and Determinants of the Interaction with MHV Nucleocapsid (N) Protein
Authors: Keane Sarah C. , Giedroc David P.
Published: January 2013

Coronaviruses (CoVs) are positive-sense, single-stranded, enveloped RNA viruses that infect a variety of vertebrate hosts. The CoV nucleocapsid (N) protein contains two structurally independent RNA binding domains, designated the N-terminal domain (NTD) and the dimeric C-terminal domain (CTD), joined by a charged linker region rich in serine and arginine residues (SR-rich linker). An important goal in unraveling N function is to molecularly characterize N-protein interactions. Recent genetic evidence suggests that N interacts with nsp3a, a component of the viral replicase. Here we present the solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) structure of mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) nsp3a and show, using isothermal titration calorimetry, that MHV N219, an N construct that extends into the SR-rich linker (residues 60 to 219), binds cognate nsp3a with high affinity (equilibrium association constant [
K
a
], [1.4 ± 0.3] × 10
6
M
−1
). In contrast, neither N197, an N construct containing only the folded NTD (residues 60 to 197), nor the CTD dimer (residues 260 to 380) binds nsp3a with detectable affinity. This indicates that the key nsp3a binding determinants localize to the SR-rich linker, a finding consistent with those of reverse genetics studies. NMR chemical shift perturbation analysis reveals that the N-terminal region of an MHV N SR-rich linker peptide (residues 198 to 230) binds to the acidic face of MHV nsp3a containing the acidic α2 helix with an affinity (expressed as
K
a
) of 8.1 × 10
3
M
−1
. These studies reveal that the SR-rich linker of MHV N is necessary but not sufficient to maintain this high-affinity binding to N.
Astrocyte-Derived CXCL10 Drives Accumulation of Antibody-Secreting Cells in the Central Nervous System during Viral Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Phares Timothy W. , Stohlman Stephen A. , Hinton David R. , Bergmann Cornelia C.
Published: January 2013

Microbial infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are often associated with local accumulation of antibody (Ab)-secreting cells (ASC). By providing a source of Ab at the site of infection, CNS-localized ASC play a critical role in acute viral control and in preventing viral recrudescence. Following coronavirus-induced encephalomyelitis, the CNS accumulation of ASC is chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 3 (CXCR3) dependent. This study demonstrates that CNS-expressed CXCR3 ligand CXCL10 is the critical chemokine regulating ASC accumulation. Impaired ASC recruitment in CXCL10−/−but not CXCL9−/−mice was consistent with reduced CNS IgG and κ-light chain mRNA and virus-specific Ab. Moreover, the few ASC recruited to the CNS in CXCL10−/−mice were confined to the vasculature, distinct from the parenchymal localization in wild-type and CXCL9−/−mice. However, neither CXCL9 nor CXCL10 deficiency diminished neutralizing serum Ab, supporting a direct role for CXCL10 in ASC migration. T cell accumulation, localization, and effector functions were also not affected in either CXCL9−/−or CXCL10−/−mice, consistent with similar control of infectious virus. There was also no evidence for dysregulation of chemokines or cytokines involved in ASC regulation. The distinct roles of CXCL9 and CXCL10 in ASC accumulation rather coincided with their differential localization. While CXCL10 was predominantly expressed by astrocytes, CXCL9 expression was confined to the vasculature/perivascular spaces. These results suggest that CXCL10 is critical for two phases: recruitment of ASC to the CNS vasculature and ASC entry into the CNS parenchyma.