bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photo‐damage protective effect of two facial products, containing a unique complex of Dead Sea minerals and Himalayan actives
Authors: Wineman Eitan , Portugal‐Cohen Meital , Soroka Yoram , Cohen Dror , Schlippe Gerrit , Voss Werner , Brenner Sarah , Milner Yoram , Hai Noam , Ma’or Zeevi
Published: September 2012

Background  Skin appearance is badly affected when exposed to solar UV rays, which encourage physiological and structural cutaneous alterations that eventually lead to skin photo‐damage.

Aims  To test the capability of two facial preparations, extreme day cream (EXD) and extreme night treatment (EXN), containing a unique complex of Dead Sea water and three Himalayan extracts, to antagonize biological effects induced by photo‐damage.

Methods  Pieces of organ cultures of human skin were used as a model to assess the biological effects of UVB irradiation and the protective effect of topical application of two Extreme preparations. Skin pieces were analyzed for mitochondrial activity by MTT assay, for apoptosis by caspase 3 assay, and for cytokine secretion by solid phase ELISA. Human subjects were tested to evaluate the effect of Extreme preparations on skin wrinkle depth using PRIMOS and skin hydration by a corneometer.

Results  UVB irradiation induced cell apoptosis in the epidermis of skin organ cultures and increased their pro‐inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis α (TNFα) secretion. Topical applications of both preparations significantly attenuated all these effects. Furthermore, in human subjects, a reduction in wrinkle depth and an elevation in the intense skin moisture were observed.

Conclusions  The observations clearly show that EXD and EXN preparations have protective anti‐apoptotic and anti‐inflammatory properties that can attenuate biological effects of skin photo‐damage. Topical application of the preparations improves skin appearance by reducing its wrinkles depth and increasing its moisturizing impact.
Marine‐derived nutrient improves epidermal and dermal structure and prolongs the life span of reconstructed human skin equivalents
Authors: Rietveld Marion , Janson David , Siamari Rachida , Vicanova Jana , Andersen Maja Troest , El Ghalbzouri Abdoelwaheb
Published: September 2012

Introduction  Imedeen™ is a cosmeceutical that provides nutrients to the skin. One of its active ingredients is the Marine Complex™ (MC).

Aim  The aim of this study was to evaluate whether MC affects skin morphogenesis differently in female and male human skin equivalents (HSEs).

Methods  Human skin equivalents were established with cells obtained from female or male donors between 30 and 45 years of age and cultured for seven or 11 weeks in the presence or absence of MC. Using immunohistochemistry, we examined early differentiation by keratin 10 expression, (hyper)proliferation by keratin 17 and Ki67, and basement membrane composition by laminin 332 and collagen type VII. In addition, the expression of collagen type I and the secretion of pro‐collagen I were measured.

Results  Marine Complex strongly increased the number of Ki67‐positive epidermal cells in female HSEs. In the dermis, MC significantly stimulated the amount of secreted pro‐collagen I and increased the deposition of laminin 332 and collagen type VII. Furthermore, MC prolonged the viable phase of HSEs by slowing down its natural degradation. After 11 weeks of culturing, the MC‐treated HSEs showed higher numbers of viable epidermal cell layers and a thicker dermal extracellular matrix compared with controls. In contrast, these effects were less pronounced in male HSEs.

Conclusion  The MC nutrient positively stimulated overall HSE tissue formation and prolonged the longevity of both female and male HSEs. The ability of MC to stimulate the deposition of basement membrane and dermal components can be used to combat 2 human skin aging in vivo.
Positive communication moderates the relationship between corporal punishment and child depressive symptoms
Authors: Wimsatt Amber R. , Fite Paula J. , Grassetti Stevie N. , Rathert Jamie L.
Published: September 2012

Background

Findings are few and mixed regarding the moderating influence that supportive parenting might have on the link between corporal punishment and child depressive symptoms.

Method

A multiple regression model was estimated to examine proposed relationships in a 1‐year longitudinal community‐recruited sample of 89 children (56% male; 9–12 years).

Results

High levels of corporal punishment in tandem with high levels of supportive communication were associated with the highest levels of depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Although supportive parenting behaviors have been shown to be beneficial for child outcomes, when considering a stress‐process framework, simultaneous experiences of harsh and positive parenting may yield more negative outcomes.
Romantic relationships in early adulthood: Influences of family, personality, and relationship cognitions
Authors: Masarik April S. , Conger Rand D. , Martin Monica J. , Donnellan M. Brent , Masyn Katherine E. , Lorenz Frederick O.
Published: September 2012

Two hundred and sixty‐five participants and their romantic partners were involved in a prospective, longitudinal, and multimethod study during the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Guided by the development of the early adult romantic relationships (DEARR) model (Bryant & Conger, 2002), the research (a) investigated mid‐adolescent family experiences and individual differences in personality as predictors of qualities in the early adult romantic union and (b) evaluated the degree to which marital beliefs mediated these associations. Structural equation modeling partially supported the mediating effects of marital beliefs. The findings were generally consistent with the DEARR model, suggesting that it is informative to study early adult romantic relationship functioning within a developmental‐contextual framework, while simultaneously considering the unique effects of personality and relationship cognitions.
The Federalization of Iraq and the Break-up of Sudan
Authors: O'Leary Brendan
Published: September 2012

In 2005, after the making of the Constitution of Iraq and the making of Sudan's Comprehensive Peace Agreement, many analysts expected the imminent break-up of Iraq, and that the South Sudanese would eventually opt for federalism and power-sharing rather than secede from Sudan. Six remarkable parallels in the histories of Iraq and Sudan suggest that analysts should have predicted that the Kurds and the South Sudanese would have been equally ardent secessionists in the early twenty-first century. Yet Kurdish nationalist leaders chose federalization in and after 2005, whereas South Sudanese nationalists eventually chose secession after a brief federal power-sharing experiment. The different choices of the respective nationalist leaders were therefore critical, but some plausible explanations of their different choices do not withstand scrutiny. The differing outcomes, so far, are necessarily but not sufficiently explained by the different geopolitical neighbourhoods of Iraq and Sudan. The author suggests that secessions are also driven by political parties who are willing to downsize their state rather than modify the existing regime, and by nationalists who calculate that they are unlikely to have political pivotality in a federal democracy. One implication is that federal power-sharing bargains have a better chance of working in deeply divided places when potential secessionists believe that they may have political pivotality within a federation.
Checks or Toothless Tigers? Powers and Incentives of External Officeholders to Constrain the Cabinet in 25 European Democracies
Authors: Sieberer Ulrich
Published: September 2012

Under what conditions and to what extent do external officeholders in parliamentary democracies constrain the cabinet's freedom of action? The article argues that we must analyse both institutional powers and officeholders’ incentives to use them to obtain an unbiased estimate of the expected constraint. It measures the incentives dimension via the selection method of external officeholders and develops an index to capture the likelihood that such officeholders hold preferences deviant from those of the cabinet. Analysing original data on four external constraint institutions in 25 European democracies, the article shows major variation in the incentives to constrain the cabinet across both offices and countries. Furthermore, it demonstrates that institutional powers and incentives for their use are empirically largely independent dimensions.
Radical Right Parties in Office: Incumbency Records and the Electoral Cost of Governing
Authors: Akkerman Tjitske , de Lange Sarah L.
Published: September 2012

Radical right parties are becoming increasingly likely candidates to participate in government coalitions in Western Europe. Comparative research on the electoral performance of these parties in government is still scarce. Our overview of the electoral effects of government participation of six parties in national governments shows that they do not run a higher risk of losing votes after government participation than other parties. There is considerable variation, however. Some radical right parties experienced great losses, while others won additional support. Focusing on the ways in which radical right parties conducted themselves in government, we explore why some parties won votes and others lost in post-incumbency elections. We compare their policy achievements with regard to immigration and integration policies, the performance of their ministers, and the party coherence of the six parties in office. Our analysis shows that policy records do not fully explain the variation in post-incumbency electoral results. Weak performance and internal party conflict prevent parties from credibly laying claim to the policy achievements of coalition governments and demonstrate that some of these parties were not ready for office.
Endoplasmic Reticulum stress induces hepatic stellate cell apoptosis and contributes to fibrosis resolution
Authors: De Minicis Samuele , Candelaresi Cinzia , Agostinelli Laura , Taffetani Silvia , Saccomanno Stefania , Rychlicki Chiara , Trozzi Luciano , Marzioni Marco , Benedetti Antonio , Svegliati‐Baroni Gianluca
Published: September 2012

Background

Survival of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a hallmark of liver fibrosis, while the induction of HSC apoptosis may induce recovery. Activated HSC are resistant to many pro‐apoptotic stimuli. To this issue, the role of Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress in promoting apoptosis of HSCs and consequently fibrosis resolution is still debated.

Aim

To evaluate the potential ER stress‐mediated apoptosis of HSCs and fibrosis resolution

Methods

HSCs were incubated with the ER stress agonists, tunicamycin or thapsigargin. In vivo, HSC were isolated from normal, bile duct‐ligated (BDL) and bile duct‐diverted (BDD) rats.

Results

In activated HSC, the specific inhibitor of ER stress‐induced apoptosis, calpastatin, is significantly increased vs. quiescent HSCs. Calpain is conversely reduced in activated HSCs. This pattern of protein expression provides HSCs resistance to the ER stress signals of apoptosis (apoptosis‐resistant phenotype). However, both tunicamycin and thapsigargin are able to induce apoptosis in HSCs in vitro, completely reversing the calpain/calpastatin pattern expression. Furthermore, in vivo, the fibrosis resolution observed in rat livers subjected to bile duct ligation (BDL) and subsequent bile duct diversion (BDD), leads to fibrosis resolution through a mechanism of HSCs apoptosis, potentially associated with ER stress: in fact, BDD rat liver shows an increased number of apoptotic HSCs associated with reduced calapstatin and increased calpain protein expression, leading to an apoptosis‐sensible phenotype.

Conclusions

ER stress sensitizes HSC to apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, ER stress represents a key target to trigger cell death in activated HSC and promotes fibrosis resolution.
An Infant with Human Parechovirus Type 3 Infection with a Distinctive Rash on the Extremities
Authors: Shoji Kensuke , Komuro Hisako , Kobayashi Yoshinori , Shike Tatsuhiko , Funaki Takanori , Katsuta Tomohiro , Miyata Ippei , Saitoh Akihiko
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Human parechovirus type 3 (HPeV3) is known to cause sepsis‐like syndrome and meningoencephalitis in neonates and young infants. We herein report a neonatal case of sepsis‐like syndrome due to HPeV3 infection, diagnosed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), with a distinctive erythematous rash present mainly on the soles and palms that helped in the diagnosis of the disease. Combining the unique characteristics of rash and confirmation by PCR at the early stage of the disease led to the diagnosis of HPeV3, distinguishing it from sepsis and other critical disease conditions, and allowing for appropriate, rapid management.
Idiopathic Acquired True Leukonychia Totalis
Authors: Bakry Ola Ahmed , Attia Abdalla Mohamed , Shehata Wafaa Ahmed
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Idiopathic acquired true leukonychia totalis is a rare nail disorder not associated with other abnormalities. We present a case in a 12‐year‐old Egyptian boy.
Twins with Neonatal Pemphigus Vulgaris Born to a Mother with Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Case Report
Authors: Itsukaichi Mina , Takakuwa Koichi , Yamaguchi Masayuki , Serikawa Takehiro , Tanaka Kenichi , Kojima Kinuko , Sakakibara Seiichi , Usuda Tohei , Matsunaga Masamichi , Hashimoto Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Dichorionic diamniotic twins were born at 37 weeks of gestation by cesarean section to a 34‐year‐old primigravid Japanese woman because the first twin was in breech presentation. The mother had been diagnosed with pemphigus vulgaris prior to her pregnancy. In addition to a high antidesmoglein 3 autoantibody titer, flaccid bullae and erosions on both of the twins’ lips and in their oral cavities at 13 days of age led to the diagnosis of neonatal pemphigus vulgaris. This case highlights the need for awareness that pemphigus vulgaris may not occur immediately after birth.
Exserohilum Infection in an Immunocompromised Neonate
Authors: Juhas Elizabeth , Reyes‐Mugica Miguel , Michaels Marian G. , Grunwaldt Lorelei J. , Gehris Robin P.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Invasive fungal infections in children have increased in recent years, coinciding with greater survival of preterm neonates and children with immunodeficiencies, more intense chemotherapy regimens, and greater use of stem cell and solid organ transplantation. We describe a case of an immunosuppressed neonate who developed cutaneous Exserohilum rostratum infection.
Repeat Sales as a Matching Estimator
Authors: McMillen Daniel P.
Published: September 2012

The most common approaches for constructing house price indices—hedonic price functions and the repeat sales estimator—focus on changes over time in mean prices. Though the hedonic approach is less wasteful of data than the repeat sales estimator, it relies on an accurate specification of the underlying econometric model. I suggest using a matching estimator as an alternative to the hedonic and repeat sales approaches. Like the repeat sales approach, a matching estimator uses pairs of sales from different dates to estimate the mean difference in sales prices over time. The matching approach preserves much larger sample sizes than the repeat sales estimator while requiring less preimposed structure than the hedonic approach. The matching approach makes it easy to characterize changes in the full distribution of house prices.
The Postforeclosure Experience of U.S. Households
Authors: Molloy Raven , Shan Hui
Published: September 2012

Despite the recent flood of foreclosures on residential mortgages, little is known about what happens to borrowers’ households after their mortgages have been foreclosed. We study the postforeclosure experience of U.S. households using a unique data set based on the credit reports of a large panel of individuals from 1999 to 2010. Although foreclosure considerably raises the probability of moving, the majority of postforeclosure migrants do not end up in substantially less desirable neighborhoods or more crowded living conditions. These results suggest that, on average, foreclosure does not impose an economic burden large enough to severely reduce housing consumption.
“Rabbi, Who Sinned?” Disability Theologies and Sin
Authors: Lowe Mary Elise
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  The historic doctrine of sin has been harmful for persons with disabilities. Disability theologies need to articulate new definitions of sin that expose ableism and exclusion as social sins, and develop models of sin that resist any association of sin with disability, physical differences, mental health, or intellectual abilities. I suggest that disability theologies consider the following models of sin: failure to accept limit, invisibilization, discourse, subject position, and subjection.
The Extended Body: The Social Body of Jesus according to Luke1
Authors: Gregersen Niels Henrik
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Informed by body phenomenology and contemporary concepts of the social body, this article aims to interpret the particular movements and transformations of Jesus’ body as presented in the Gospel of Luke. From the outset Jesus’ body is inscribed in a Jewish genealogy. Likewise, the Gospel depicts the character of Jesus via the various landscapes he passes through as well as through the social interactions of which he is a part. While Jesus’ body is initially described as being energized by the mobile presence of the Spirit, it increasingly closes in and, at the end, simply disappears. Luke describes Jesus’ ascension and resurrection as radical transformations of Jesus’ body, by which Jesus’ body‐and‐mind (Leib) extends into a social body, at home in God as well as among his followers. This social body also crosses the genetic and cultural boundaries between Jews and Gentiles. Only through this extensiveness can Jesus’ body become accessible worldwide.
Fabrication and Analysis of the Oriented LiCoO2 by Slip Casting in a Strong Magnetic Field
Authors: Yamada Hideto , Suzuki Tohru S. , Uchikoshi Tetsuo , Hozumi Masato , Kohama Keiichi , Sakka Yoshio
Published: September 2012

We attempted to fabricate the oriented bulk LiCoO2 using slip casting in a strong magnetic field. The shrinkage of the oriented green compact was measured using a dilatometer. It was confirmed that the oriented green compact undergoes anisotropic shrinkage. The shrinkage in the c‐plane direction of the oriented LiCoO2 was greater than that in the c‐axis direction. The degree of orientation in the bulk LiCoO2 was analyzed using XRD and electron backscatter diffraction; the c‐axis of LiCoO2 was oriented parallel to the magnetic field. Moreover, the orientation parameter, r, was 0.234, indicating that 92% of the grains was aligned with a tilt angle less than 10° between the c‐axis and the magnetic field direction. The texturing led LiCoO2 to anisotropy in the electric conductivity between the c‐plane and c‐axis directions. It was concluded that the magneto‐scientific technique is a powerful method to fabricate highly oriented bulk LiCoO2.
In Situ HT‐ESEM Observation of CeO2 Grain Growth During Sintering
Authors: Podor Renaud , Clavier Nicolas , Ravaux Johann , Claparede Laurent , Dacheux Nicolas
Published: September 2012

The CeO2 sintering and grain growth kinetics were determined from in situ experiments performed using an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) equipped with a hot stage in the temperature range 1000°C–1300°C. Videos were recorded during 8 h at various holding temperatures where the grain growth and grain elimination process were clearly observed at the grain scale with a 2–10 nm resolution. Data were extracted at both sample and grain scales to characterize the microstructural evolution (grain growth and grain elimination). The grain growth kinetic was described using a parabolic law. The activation energy determined using this method for pure CeO2 grain growth (290 ± 40 kJ/mol) was in good agreement with that obtained using the Dorn's method based on dilatometric measurements (330 ± 30 kJ/mol). The microstructural modifications observed using the in situ HT‐ESEM experimental method were compared with computed simulations and revealed a good correlation between the experimental data and the models previously developed.
Toughening by SiC Nanowires in a Dense SiC–Si Ceramic Coating for Oxidation Protection of C/C Composites
Authors: Chu Yanhui , Li Hejun , Fu Qiangang , Qi Lehua , Zou Xu
Published: September 2012

A dense oxidation protective SiC–Si ceramic coating with well‐dispersion SiC nanowires was prepared on carbon/carbon (C/C) composites using a two‐step technique consisting of chemical vapor deposition and hot‐pressing reactive sintering. The results showed that the toughness and thermal shock resistance of the coating were dramatically improved, resulting in an excellent oxidation protection for the coated C/C composites, which is attributed primarily to the toughening effects of SiC nanowires in the coating including two special energy dissipation mechanisms involving the super‐plasticity deformation of SiC nanowires and the plastic fracture at the interface of the nanowire‐matrix, except for nanowire pullout, nanowire bridging, and microcrack deflection. More importantly, a novel oxidation protective failure mechanism of the coated C/C composites revealed that the presence of Al3+ in the coating, damaged the network structure of SiO2 glass and resulted in the slight oxidation of C/C composites.
Understanding the Crystallization Mechanism of a Wollastonite Base Glass Using Isoconversional, IKP Methods and Master Plots
Authors: Pérez Juan M. , Teixeira Silvio R. , Rincón Jesús Ma. , Romero Maximina
Published: September 2012

The complex development of crystals found in the crystallization of SiO2–Al2O3–CaO–Na2O glass has been explained using Differential Thermal Analysis. The crystal growth process has been studied using isoconversional, invariant kinetic parameters, and master plots methods. The applied kinetic models have revealed activation energy values that are over 360 and 385 kJ/mol by employing the integral and differential kinetic methods, respectively. The crystallization process schedule that was previously observed using scanning electron microscopy has been corroborated in this study using the kinetic methods. The crystallization of wollastonite occurs through a complex two‐stage mechanism, with early three‐dimensional growth of crystals (A3 mechanism) on the surface of glass particles followed by one‐dimensional growth of needles (A3/2 mechanism) toward the interior of grains. The results presented in this article are in agreement with a previous paper that employed the Kissinger non‐isothermal method and the Ligero approximation.
Antimicrobial peptide LL37 promotes vascular endothelial growth factor‐A expression in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Kittaka M. , Shiba H. , Kajiya M. , Ouhara K. , Takeda K. , Kanbara K. , Fujita T. , Kawaguchi H. , Komatsuzawa H. , Kurihara H.
Published: September 2012

Background and Objective

LL37, originally found in the innate immune system, is a robust antimicrobial peptide. LL37 exhibits multiple bio‐functions in various cell types, such as migration, cytokine production, apoptosis, and angiogenesis besides its antimicrobial activity Periodontal ligament (PL) cells play a pivotal role in periodontal tissue regeneration. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that LL37 can regulate PL cell function to promote regeneration of periodontal tissue. To prove this hypothesis, we investigated the effect of LL37 on the potent angiogenic inducer vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in cultures of human PL (HPL) cells because neovascularization is indispensable for the progress of tissue regeneration. Moreover, we investigated the signaling cascade associated with LL37‐induced VEGF expression.

Material and Method

HPL cells were treated with synthesized LL37 in the presence or absence of PD98059, a MEK‐ERK inhibitor, or PDTC, an NF‐κB inhibitor. VEGF expression levels were assessed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis and an enzyme‐linked immunoassay. Phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 or NF‐κB p65 were determined by Western blotting.

Results

LL37 upregulated VEGF‐A expression at the mRNA and protein levels in HPL cells, while VEGF‐B mRNA expression was not affected. Both ERK and NF‐κB inhibitors clearly abrogated the increase in VEGF‐A levels induced by LL37 in HPL cells. Importantly, LL37 increased phosphorylated levels of ERK1/2 and NF‐κB p65 in HPL cells.

Conclusion

LL37 induces VEGF‐A production in HPL cells via ERK and NF‐κB signaling cascades, which may result in angiogenesis, thereby contributing to periodontal regeneration.
The impact of sport and active recreation injuries on physical activity levels at 12 months post‐injury
Authors: Andrew N. , Wolfe R. , Cameron P. , Richardson M. , Page R. , Bucknill A. , Gabbe B.
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of serious sport and active recreation injury on 12‐month physical activity levels. Adults admitted to hospital with sport and active recreation‐related injuries, and captured by the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry were recruited to the study. Changes between preinjury and 12 month post‐injury physical activity was assessed using the short International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Independent demographic, injury, and hospital variables were assessed for associations with changes in physical activity levels, using multivariate linear regression. A total of 324 patients were recruited, of which 98% were followed up at 12 months. Mean short IPAQ scores decreased from 7650 METS (95% CI: 7180, 8120) preinjury to 3880 METS; (95% CI: 3530, 4250) post‐injury, independent of functional recovery. Education level and occupation group were the only variables independently associated with changes in physical activity levels post‐injury. These results highlighted that sport and active recreation injuries lead to significant reductions in physical activity levels. Hence, the prevention of sport and active recreation injuries is important when considering promotion of activity at a population level.
Drug‐induced lupus erythematosus with emphasis on skin manifestations and the role of anti‐TNFα agents
Authors: Dalle Vedove Camilla , Simon Jan C. , Girolomoni Giampiero
Published: September 2012

Drug‐induced lupus erythematosus (DILE) is a lupus‐like syndrome temporally related to continuous drug exposure which resolves upon drug discontinuation. There are currently no standard diagnostic criteria for DILE. Findings include skin manifestations, arthritis, serositis, anti‐nuclear and anti‐histone antibodies positivity. Similarly to idiopathic lupus erythematosus, DILE can be divided into systemic (SLE), subacute cutaneous (SCLE) and chronic cutaneous lupus (CCLE). Systemic DILE presents as a milder version of idiopathic SLE, and the drugs most frequently implicated are hydralazine, procainamide and quinidine. Anti‐TNFα therapies are the latest class of medications found to be associated, although rarely, with a “lupus‐like” syndrome, which is however clinically distinct from classical DILE. Drug‐induced SCLE is the most common form of DILE. It is very similar to idiopathic SCLE in terms of clinical and serologic characteristics. The most commonly implicated drugs are antihypertensive drugs and terbinafine, but in recent years also proton pump inhibitors and chemotherapeutic agents have been associated. Drug‐induced CCLE is very rare and usually caused by fluorouracil agents and NSAIDS, but some cases have induced by pantoprazole and anti‐TNFα agents.
Pathways for Epidermal Cell Differentiation via the Homeobox Gene GLABRA2: Update on the Roles of the Classic RegulatorF
Authors: Qing Lin , Aoyama Takashi
Published: September 2012

Recent plant development studies have identified regulatory pathways for epidermal cell differentiation in Arabidopsis thaliana. Interestingly, some of such pathways contain transcriptional networks with a common structure in which the homeobox gene GLABLA2 (GL2) is downstream of the transactivation complex consisting of MYB, bHLH, and WD40 proteins. Here, we review the role of GL2 as an output device of the conserved network, and update the knowledge of epidermal cell differentiation pathways downstream of GL2. Despite the consistent position of GL2 within the network, its role in epidermal tissues varies; in the root epidermis, GL2 promotes non‐hair cell differentiation after cell pattern formation, whereas in the leaf epidermis, it is likely to be involved in both pattern formation and differentiation of trichomes. GL2 expression levels act as quantitative factors for initiation of cell differentiation in the root and leaf epidermis; the quantity of hairless cells in non‐root hair cell files is reduced by gl2 mutations in a semi‐dominant manner, and entopically additive expression of GL2 and a heterozygous gl2 mutation increase and decrease the number of trichomes, respectively. Although few direct target genes have been identified, evidence from genetic and expression analyses suggests that GL2 directly regulates genes with various hierarchies in epidermal cell differentiation pathways.

image

[ Takashi Aoyama (Corresponding author)]
Genetic relationships of introduced Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata populations in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Jing‐Jie , Yang Juan , Li Ying‐Chao , Liu Ning , Zhang Run‐Zhi
Published: September 2012

The Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), is an infamous invasive species worldwide that aggressively attacks potato and other Solanaceae crops. CPB was first found in China in 1993 and has since spread across 2.77 × 105 km2 in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. To better understand genetic variation and migration patterns, we used seven polymorphic microsatellite loci to elucidate the genetic relationships and gene flow among 10 CPB populations across Xinjiang. (i) Overall low levels of genetic diversity were detected on the entire population in Xinjiang but most of the diversity was retained among populations during invasion. (ii) The mean pairwise FST was low (0.071 ± 0.043) among populations. The genetic differentiation was little (pairwise FST 0.038 ± 0.016) between the five interior populations (Wusu, Urumqi, Jimsar, Qitai and Mulei) and Tacheng population. The six populations might come from the same genetic group via Bayesian clustering and were closely related on a neighbor‐joining tree. Combining the history data, the five interior populations may have originated from Tacheng. (iii) Gene flow was frequent, especially among the five interior populations. Individuals from the interior populations could be assigned to Tacheng at higher probabilities (means 0.518 ± 0.127) than vice versa (means 0.328 ± 0.074), suggesting that the beetle population has spread from the border to the interior in Xinjiang.
Numerical investigation of the effects of combining sewer junction characteristics on the hydraulic parameters of flow in fully surcharged condition
Authors: Yekani Motlagh Yaser , Nazemi Amir H. , Sadraddini Ali A. , Abbaspour Akram , Yekani Motlagh Saber
Published: September 2012

In this study, the effects of different parameters on flow structure and flow hydraulics for combining sewer junction consisting of manhole and lateral inflow were investigated numerically. For this purpose, the effects of dimension variations, main and lateral pipe slope, angle and the joint position of lateral pipe beside manhole, manhole geometry, and the outflow rate of manhole on flow structure and energy loss coefficients were investigated. Results show that the rate of energy loss decreases by heightening the installation position of lateral pipe beside manhole. In addition, it was shown that the slope variations of main and lateral pipes and outflow rate do not affect the rate of energy loss.
The potential to retrofit sustainable drainage systems to address combined sewer overflow discharges in the Thames Tideway catchment
Authors: Stovin Virginia R. , Moore Sarah L. , Wall Matthew , Ashley Richard M.
Published: September 2012

Experience of retrofitting sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in the United Kingdom is limited, and there are no well‐established procedures for evaluating the feasibility, value or cost‐effectiveness of doing this, particularly at the catchment scale. This paper demonstrates a two‐phase process for evaluating the potential to retrofit SuDS to address combined sewer discharges in three subcatchments within the Thames Tideway catchment of London. The first phase evaluates what might be achieved with various levels of disconnection (‘global’ disconnection scenarios) using hydraulic models, while the second phase considers how disconnection might practically be achieved. High levels of disconnection are technically possible but practicably difficult. In selected cases, and with aggressive implementation of SuDS, combined sewer overflow CSO discharges could potentially be eliminated or reduced to acceptable levels without the need for any modifications to underground assets. However, retrofit SuDS could not eliminate the requirement for some form of sewer modification in any subcatchments.
Population structure and range expansion: the case of the invasive gastropodCyclope neriteain northwest Iberian Peninsula
Authors: COUCEIRO Lucía , LÓPEZ Lúa , RUIZ José Miguel , BARREIRO Rodolfo
Published: September 2012

Biotic invasions have a reputation for unpredictable behavior. Here, we report how slight changes in human activity responsible for the introduction and range expansion of a non‐native mollusk have led to detectable differences in the genetics of the invasion.Cyclope neriteais a non‐predatory gastropod introduced to 2 areas of the European Atlantic: the northwest Iberian Peninsula (NWIP) and the French Atlantic coast (FAC). Shellfish seabed farming is intense in both areas but focuses on different commercial species. Using mitochondrial gene sequences, the lower genetic diversity recorded along the NWIP suggests a more homogeneous range of source populations than in the FAC. Unlike FAC, genetic diversity and haplotype composition in the NWIP correlate with the date of first occurrence ofC. neriteaat each site rather than with geographical location. Although this pattern evokes the genetic signature expected under a serial‐founder colonization model from a single initial enclave, a comparison with samples from potential source populations suggests that the NWIP probably experienced several independent reintroductions. The jump dispersal pattern ofC. neriteain the NWIP, together with the observation that populations established in the same year are genetically undifferentiated, point to human transport as the most plausible explanation for the current range expansion. Despite evidence for human‐mediated dispersal,C. neriteamanaged to develop a seemingly non‐random genetic pattern in the NWIP. It is suggested that caution must be exerted when interpreting genetic patterns in invaders.
Truth and consequences: the bioinvasion of the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: GALIL Bella Sarah
Published: September 2012

Over 660 alien marine multicellular species have been recorded in the Mediterranean Sea, with many establishing viable populations and subsequently dispersing from their points of entry. A brief overview is presented of the current state of knowledge of bioinvasions in the Mediterranean Sea, with particular attention paid to gelatinous invasive species. A database of alien species records was used to characterize their identity, pattern of expansion and native region, and to discuss the relative importance of different taxa and vectors in the various regions of the sea. The temporal and spatial spread of 4 alien scyphozoans and 2 alien ctenophores is outlined. Although thermophilic species constitute the majority of Mediterranean aliens, Erythrean aliens are predominant in the east, with shipping and mariculture being mainly responsible for introductions in the northwest. The propagule pressure driving the Erythrean invasion is powerful in the establishment and spread of alien species in the eastern Mediterranean. The implications of the enlargement of the Suez Canal, reflecting patterns in global trade and economy, are briefly discussed. Finally, as alien species inventories play a pivotal role in informing regional policy and management decisions and identifying resource priorities, the scientific community is called upon to pay particular attention to their accuracy and veracity.
Seed wasp invasions promoted by unregulated seed trade affect vegetal and animal biodiversity
Authors: AUGER‐ROZENBERG Marie‐Anne , ROQUES Alain
Published: September 2012

Cone and seed insects are considered the most important predators of tree seeds during the pre‐dispersal phase of development. Among them, exotic seed chalcids in the genusMegastigmusinvaded Europe as a result of the rapidly‐increasing and mostly unregulated seed trade for afforestation and ornamental plantations. Unlike their economic impact in seed orchards, until recently, little attention was paid to the ecological impact of these insects. In the present study, selected case studies of alienMegastigmusspp. were considered to assess their specific impact on the potential of natural regeneration of native woody plants and on the native entomofauna competing for seed resource. We re‐analyzed data from former studies that did not focus on these ecological interactions and, here, present previously unpublished results. Seeds of Douglas‐fir, true cedars, true firs and wild roses were sampled all over Europe, and the relative importance of the native and invasive chalcid species was assessed as well as their specific impact on seed yield. In most cases, the recent arrival of alien chalcids resulted in a significant decrease in the regeneration potential of the host trees. In the absence of competitors, alien chalcids occupied the entire seed niche in Douglas‐fir, but their impact tended to decrease after the arrival of invasive seed bugs. In firs, alien chalcids tended to displace the native chalcids, but not in wild roses and cedars, where their damage was increasing. Different biological traits that might explain invasive success of alien chalcids are discussed. However, no general invasive patterns seem to exist.
Enhanced UV‐B Radiation Increases Glyphosate Resistance in Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti)
Authors: Yin Lina , Zhang Mingcai , Li Zhaohu , Duan Liusheng , Wang Shiwen
Published: September 2012

Depletion of the ozone layer leads to increasing UV‐B radiation on the earth's surface, which may affect weeds and their responses to herbicides. However, the effect of increased UV‐B radiation on weeds and the interaction of weeds and herbicides are still obscure. The objective of this study was to compare glyphosate efficacy on velvetleaf that was grown under with and without increased UV‐B radiation. Leaf area, dry weight and net photosynthesis of velvetleaf seedlings were adversely affected by increased UV‐B radiation. Leaf cuticle wax significantly increased by 28% under increased UV‐B radiation. Glyphosate efficacy on velvetleaf, evaluated by shoot dry weight, was significantly decreased by increased UV‐B radiation. Exposure to increased UV‐B radiation significantly decreased 14C‐glyphosate absorption from 49% to 43%, and also resulted in less 14C‐glyphosate translocation out of treated leaves and less glyphosate accumulation in newly expanded leaves. The decrease in glyphosate efficacy was due to changes in absorption and distribution, which were attributed to increased cuticle wax and decreased photosynthesis caused by increased UV‐B radiation. These results suggest that the responses of weeds to herbicides may be affected by increased UV‐B radiation, to the extent that higher rates may be required to achieve the desired effects.
Social Mobility, Equity and the Politics of Recruitment
Authors: Fevre Ralph
Published: September 2012

Much reliance has been placed on increased equity as a way of improving social mobility but the evidence base for this view, for example in Britain, looks less and less convincing. Part of the attraction of equity was that it was believed to promote efficiency through the refinement of meritocracy. Sociological theory now suggests that the equation of equity with efficiency may have prevented reforms which would have improved social mobility. This theory fills a gap in the human resource management (HRM) literature to show that it is far from obvious what managers should do to increase organisational efficiency when they make recruitment decisions. Instead of recruiting for efficiency, their decisions are shaped by the politics of recruitment both inside organisations, affecting management decision‐making particularly, and outside organisations amongst legislators and pressure groups (for example). This politics has shaped the way equity figures in recruitment, it has, for the most part, only figured to the extent that it was believed to serve efficiency, yet what counted for efficiency was itself a political product. When it is hide‐bound in this way it is small wonder that insufficient progress has been made in improving social mobility, in Britain and elsewhere, by increasing equity.
Research on Women in Policing: A Look at the Past, Present and Future
Authors: Archbold Carol A. , Schulz Dorothy Moses
Published: September 2012

There are more women employed by police agencies today than ever before. Their role and workplace experiences have changed significantly from the time that they were first employed as police matrons in the late 1800s‐early 1900s. This article covers the history of women in policing. It provides an overview of past and contemporary research focused on female police officers. A trend found in the contemporary research reveals that there are many similarities among male and female police officers. This trend is interesting as policing has traditionally been a male dominated profession in the United States.
Pumping Iron: The Social Advantages of Weight Training
Authors: Munroe‐Chandler Krista J. , Loughead Todd M. , Kossert Amy L.
Published: September 2012

This study examined the positive exerciser stereotype in weight trainers. Male (n = 135) and female (n = 191) participants read a vignette in which the weight training habits of the male target were manipulated. Participants then rated the target on a series of personality and physical attributes. Analyses were conducted separately for both males and females. A main effect of target type emerged (p < .001) across gender on both personality and physical attributes, which was not moderated by impression motivation. The typical and excessive weight training targets were perceived more favorably in comparison to the nonweight training and control targets, suggesting that the weight trainer stereotype for men does exist and can vary according to the gender of the observer.
Protective Effects of the Delta Opioid Peptide [D‐Ala2, D‐Leu5]enkephalin in an Ex Vivo Model of Ischemia/Reperfusion in Brain Slices
Authors: Zheng Yong‐Jun , Wang Xiang‐Rui , Chen Hong‐Zhuan , Wu Xing‐Jun , Zhao Yan‐Hua , Su Dian‐San
Published: September 2012

Introduction

The delta opioid peptide [D‐Ala2, D‐Leu5]enkephalin (DADLE) plays a key role in neuronal protection against both hypoxic and ischemic conditions. However, the cellular mechanisms of action of DADLE under these conditions remain unclear.

Methods

Ischemia was simulated with perfusing the brain slices with glucose‐free artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Apoptosis was examined using an in situ cell death detection kit and expressed as the percentage of positively labeled neurons relative to total number of neurons. PCR was performed by adding cDNA, 5 pm dNTP, 1 μL Taqase, and primers. PCR products were separated with electrophoresis, stained with ethidium bromide, and visualized under ultraviolet light.

Aims

To investigate the potential effects of DADLE in an ex vivo model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion.

Results

DADLE attenuated lactic dehydrogenase release and neuronal apoptosis in a concentration‐dependent manner. The protective effects of DADLE were attenuated by representative selective delta2, but not delta1 opioid antagonists. Treatment with PD98059, a selective inhibitor of ERK kinase (MEK), also blocked the protective effect of DADLE as well as ERK phosphorylation induced by DADLE.

Conclusions

Endogenous opioid peptides could promote cell survival via delta2 opioid receptors, possibly through the downstream MEK‐ERK pathway.
Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Protects C17.2 Cells from Radiation‐Induced Injury through ERK1/2
Authors: Luan Ping , Zhou Hai‐Hong , Zhang Bei , Liu An‐Ming , Yang Lian‐Hong , Weng Xue‐Ling , Tao En‐Xiang , Liu Jun
Published: September 2012

Aims

To establish a radiation‐induced neural injury model using C17.2 neural stem cells (NSCs) and to investigate whether basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) can protect the radiation‐induced injury of C17.2 NSCs. Furthermore, we aim to identify the possible mechanisms involved in this model.

Methods

C17.2 NSCs received a single exposure (3, 6, and 9 Gy, respectively) at a dose rate of 300 cGy/min with a control group receiving 0 Gy. Different concentrations of bFGF were added for 24 h, 5 min postirradiation. The MTS assay and flow cytometry were used to detect cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Expression of FGFR1, ERK1/2, and p‐ERK1/2 proteins was detected with or without U0126 was pretreated prior to C17.2 NSCs receiving irradiation.

Results

C17.2 NSCs showed a dose‐dependent cell death as the dose of radiation was increased. Additionally, the rate of apoptosis in the C17.2 NSCs reached 31.2 ± 1.23% in the 6 Gy irradiation group, which was the most significant when compared to the other irradiation treated groups. bFGF showed protective effect on cell apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner. The mean percentage of apoptotic cells decreased to 7.83 ± 1.75% when 100 ng/mL bFGF was given. Furthermore, U0126 could block the protective effect of bFGF by inhibiting the phosphorylation of ERK1/2.

Conclusions

An in vitro cellular model of radiation‐induced apoptosis of NSCs, in C17.2 NSCs, was developed successfully. Additionally, bFGF can protect neurons from radiation injury in vitro via the ERK1/2 signal transduction pathway.
THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF HIGH‐SPEED METALLIC JETS*
Authors: HEINE‐GELDERN R. V. , PUGH E. M. , LaPaz Lincoln
Published: September 2012

Using a Kerr cell camera at exposure times of ½ microsecond, the authors have obtained visible‐light photographs of the metallic jets squirted from the lined conical cavities of high‐explosive charges. Since these jets travel at nearly meteoritic velocities, their front ends are heated to incandescence and vaporized. This paper presents a number of photographs of such jets traveling thru air, water, steel, glass, and plexiglas.
THE FORMATION OF CRATERS BY HIGH‐SPEED PARTICLES*
Authors: ROSTOKER NORMAN , LaPaz Lincoln
Published: September 2012

Some investigators have discussed the formation of craters by high‐speed particles on the basis of experimental data taken over a limited velocity spectrum for the incident particle. Their interpretation of the data has been that the crater volume is proportional to the kinetic energy of the incident particle. In this paper, we discuss an approach to this problem that was originated by Öpik for the formation of meteorite craters. Öpik's theory is based on a hydrodynamic approximation similar to the approximation that has been successfully employed by Pugh in explaining the penetration produced by shaped‐charge jets. The estimates of the mass of a meteorite based on Öpik's theory differ radically from the estimates made by Rinehart that are based on the assumption that crater volume is proportional to the kinetic energy of the incident particle up to meteoritic velocities. The essential purpose of this paper is to reëxamine both points of view in order to illuminate the details of their differences. Experimental evidence is presented from the study of shaped‐charge jets that indicates that Rinehart's extrapolation is incorrect. The data from shaped‐charge experiments are in rough agreement with Öpik's theory.