bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface circulation and upwelling patterns around Sri Lanka
Authors: Vos A. de , Pattiaratchi C. B. , Wijeratne E. M. S.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Sri Lanka occupies a unique location within the equatorial belt in the northern Indian Ocean with the Arabian Sea on its western side and the Bay of Bengal on its eastern side. The region is characterised by bi-annually reversing monsoon winds resulting from seasonal differential heating and cooling of the continental land mass and the ocean. This study explored elements of the dynamics of the surface circulation and coastal upwelling in the waters around Sri Lanka using satellite imagery and the Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS) configured to the study region and forced with ECMWF interim data. The model was run for 2 yr to examine the seasonal and shorter term (∼10 days) variability. The results confirmed the presence of the reversing current system in response to the changing wind field: the eastward flowing Southwest Monsoon Current (SMC) during the Southwest (SW) monsoon transporting 11.5 Sv and the westward flowing Northeast Monsoon Current (NMC) transporting 9.5 Sv during the Northeast (NE) monsoon, respectively. A recirculation feature located to the east of Sri Lanka during the SW monsoon, the Sri Lanka Dome, is shown to result from the interaction between the SMC and the Island of Sri Lanka. Along the eastern and western coasts, during both monsoon periods, flow is southward converging along the south coast. During the SW monsoon the Island deflects the eastward flowing SMC southward whilst along the east coast the southward flow results from the Sri Lanka Dome recirculation. The major upwelling region, during both monsoon periods, is located along the south coast and is shown to be due to flow convergence and divergence associated with offshore transport of water. Higher surface chlorophyll concentrations were observed during the SW monsoon. The location of the flow convergence and hence the upwelling centre was dependent on the relative strengths of wind driven flow along the east and west coasts: during the SW (NE) monsoon the flow along the western (eastern) coast was stronger and hence the upwelling centre was shifted to the east (west). The presence of upwelling along the south coast during both monsoon periods may explain the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) aggregations in this region.
The mass distribution of coarse particulate organic matter exported from an Alpine headwater stream
Authors: Turowski J. M. , Badoux A. , Bunte K. , Rickli C. , Federspiel N. , Jochner M.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Coarse particulate organic matter (CPOM) particles span sizes from 1 mm, with a dry mass less than 1 mg, to large logs and entire trees, which can have a dry mass of several hundred kilograms. Pieces of different size and mass play different roles in stream environments, from being the prime source of energy in stream ecosystems to macroscopically determining channel morphology and local hydraulics. We show that a single scaling exponent can describe the mass distribution of CPOM heavier than 0.1 g transported in the Erlenbach, a steep mountain stream in the Swiss pre-Alps. This exponent takes an average value of −1.8, is independent of discharge and valid for particle masses spanning almost seven orders of magnitude. Similarly, the mass distribution of in-stream large woody debris (LWD) in several Swiss streams can be described by power law scaling distributions, with exponents varying between −1.8 and −2.0, if all in-stream LWD is considered, and between −1.3 and −1.8 for material locked in log jams. We found similar values for in-stream and transported material in the literature. We had expected that scaling exponents are determined by stream type, vegetation, climate, substrate properties, and the connectivity between channels and hillslopes. However, none of the descriptor variables tested here, including drainage area, channel bed slope and the percentage of forested area, show a strong control on exponent value. Together with a rating curve of CPOM transport rates with discharge, the scaling exponents can be used in the design of measuring strategies and in natural hazard mitigation.
Linking process and product in terrestrial carbonates using a solution thermodynamic approach
Authors: Rogerson M. , Pedley H. M. , Kelham A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Determining the processes which generate terrestrial carbonate deposits (tufas, travertines and associated chemical sediments) is a long-standing problem. Deposition of mineral products from solution reflects a complex combination of biological, equilibrium and kinetic processes, and the differences in products these processes produce are yet to be clearly demarked. Building on the groundbreaking work of previous authors, we propose that the underlying control on the processes leading to the deposition of these products can be most parsimoniously understood from the thermodynamic properties of their source solutions. Here, we report initial observations of the differences in product generated from spring and lake systems spanning a range of temperature : supersaturation space. We find that at high supersaturation, biological influences are masked by high rates of spontaneous nucleation and sedimentary products from these settings infrequently exhibit classic "biomediated" fabrics such as clotted micrite. Likewise, at high temperature exclusion of vascular plants and complex/diverse biofilms significantly inhibits the magnitude of biomediated precipitation, again impeding the likelihood of encountering the "bio-type" fabrics. Conversely, despite the clear division in product between extensive tufa facies associations and discontinuous deposits such as oncoid beds, no clear division can be identified between these systems in temperature : supersaturation space. We reiterate the conclusion of previous authors, which demonstrate that this division cannot be made on the basis of physico-chemical characteristics of the solution alone. We further provide a new case study of this division from two adjacent systems in the UK, where continuous tufa-like deposition is happening at a site with lower supersaturation than other sites exhibiting only discontinuous (oncoidal) deposition. However, a strong microbiological division is demonstrated between these sites on the basis of suspended bacterial cell distribution, which reach a prominent maximum where tufa-like deposits are forming. We conclude that at high supersaturation, the thermodynamic properties of solutions provide a highly satisfactory means of linking process and product, raising the opportunity of identifying water characteristics from sedimentological/petrological characteristics of ancient deposits. At low supersaturation, we recommend that future research focuses on geomicrobiological processes rather than the more traditional, inorganic solution chemistry approach dominant in the past.
Stable water isotopes in the coupled atmosphere–land surface model ECHAM5-JSBACH
Authors: Haese B. , Werner M. , Lohmann G.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. In this study we present first results of a new model development, ECHAM5-JSBACH-wiso, where we have incorporated the stable water isotopes H218O and HDO as tracers in the hydrological cycle of the coupled atmosphere–land surface model ECHAM5-JSBACH. The ECHAM5-JSBACH-wiso model was run under present-day climate conditions at two different resolutions (T31L19, T63L31). A comparison between ECHAM5-JSBACH-wiso and ECHAM5-wiso shows that the coupling has a strong impact on the simulated temperature and soil wetness. Caused by these changes of temperature and the hydrological cycle, the δ18O in precipitation also shows variations from −4‰ up to 4‰. One of the strongest anomalies is shown over northeast Asia where, due to an increase of temperature, the δ18O in precipitation increases as well. In order to analyze the sensitivity of the fractionation processes over land, we compare a set of simulations with various implementations of these processes over the land surface. The simulations allow us to distinguish between no fractionation, fractionation included in the evaporation flux (from bare soil) and also fractionation included in both evaporation and transpiration (from water transport through plants) fluxes. While the isotopic composition of the soil water may change for δ18O by up to +8&permil:, the simulated δ18O in precipitation shows only slight differences on the order of ±1‰. The simulated isotopic composition of precipitation fits well with the available observations from the GNIP (Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation) database.
Racial Realities and Corrective Justice
Authors: Shelby Tommie
Published: September 2013

I reply to Mills's critique of my effort to show the relevance of Rawls's theory of justice for thinking about and responding to racial injustices. Contrary to Mills's claims, my suggestion that the fair equality of opportunity principle can remedy socioeconomic disadvantages caused by the legacy of racial oppression is compatible with Rawls's framework, does not conflate distributive justice with corrective justice, and does not confuse racial injustice with economic injustice. I also raise doubts about Mills's project to radically reconstruct contractarian political philosophy. He seeks to displace ideal theory with nonideal theory by foregrounding the realities of past racial domination. Against this approach, I argue that an ideal theory that abstracts away from these realities is not inherently ideological, useless for corrective justice, or too ideal to guide social reform. And I defend the view that ideal theory is indispensible for nonideal theorizing about racial justice.
Inheriting Racist Disparities in Health
Authors: Sullivan Shannon
Published: September 2013

This article examines how people of color can biologically inherit the deleterious effects of white racism. Drawing primarily on the field of epigenetics, I demonstrate how transgenerational racial disparities are in fact racist disparities that can be manifest physiologically, helping constitute the chemicals, hormones, cells, and fibers of the human body. Epigenetics can be used to demonstrate how white racism can have durable effects on the biological constitution of human beings that are not limited to the specific person who is the target of white racism, but instead extend to that person's offspring. In this way, the field of epigenetics can help philosophers and others understand the transgenerational biological impact of social forces such as white racism. It reveals that the damage done by white racism is more extensive than critical philosophers of race might have realized, and also that interventions against white racism must address not just the economic, geographical, social, and psychological, but also the biological aspects of human existence. In particular, the article examines racist disparities in preterm birth rates and argues that the scope and significance of prenatal care for African American women must be expanded intergenerationally and include wide-scale forms of racial justice.
Evaluation of epidemiology, concomitant urethral disruption and seasonal variation of penile fracture: A report of 86 cases.
Authors: Moslemi Mohammad Kazem
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Penile fracture (PF) is a well-recognized clinical entity and is often deemed a urological emergency. It is not uncommon in our region. The main objective of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics of patients diagnosed with penile fracture in the Qom Province, Iran. We evaluate surgical treatment, concomitant urethral disruption and its seasonal variation.Methods: This is a descriptive retrospective study, reviewing all the medical records of patients admitted with penile fracture from 2003 to 2012 at Kamkar Hospital of Qom, Iran. It takes into account variables related to the urological history, etiology, diagnosis and its surgical treatment. The epidemiologic data, marriage status and the seasonal variation were evaluated. In total, 86 patients, aged between 17 and 62, with PF were hospitalized in our centre. The average age of patients was 36.74 years. All operated cases were followed 3 months and 6 months after surgery.Results: Of the 86 patients, 34 (68%) were the ages of 20 and 40. In terms of marital status, 56 (65%) were married and 30 (35%) were single at the time of presentation. Twenty-six patients (30.2%) had episodes related to intercourse and 48 patients (56%) to manual habitual trauma; the remaining 12 patients had a direct blow to an erect penis or rolled/fell off a bed. Patients presented with swelling, pain and a popping or cracking sound in the penis. The diagnosis was made using history and physical examination in all patients. Unilateral corporeal ruptures were present in 80 (93%) and bilateral in 2 cases (2.32%). Surgical repair was performed with a circumferential sub-coronal degloving incision in 82 cases (95.35%). There were seasonal variations: 22 cases in spring; 25 in summer; 17 in autumn; 22 in winter. Patients had an average postoperative hospital stay of 1 day.Conclusion: Habitual manual trauma was the most common cause of PF in our study. Immediate surgical intervention has low morbidity, short hospital stay and rapid functional recovery. In the case of urethrorhagia, concomitant urethral injury should be evaluated. On the basis of our study, PF may have seasonal variation.
Imaging-based chemical screening reveals activity-dependent neural differentiation of pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Sun Yaping , Dong Zhiqiang , Jin Taihao , Ang Kean-Hooi , Huang Miller , Haston Kelly M , Peng Jisong , Zhong Tao P , Finkbeiner Steven , Weiss William A , Arkin Michelle R , Jan Lily Y , Guo Su
Published: September 2013

Mammalian pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) represent an important venue for understanding basic principles regulating tissue-specific differentiation and discovering new tools that may facilitate clinical applications. Mechanisms that direct neural differentiation of PSCs involve growth factor signaling and transcription regulation. However, it is unknown whether and how electrical activity influences this process. Here we report a high throughput imaging-based screen, which uncovers that selamectin, an anti-helminthic therapeutic compound with reported activity on invertebrate glutamate-gated chloride channels, promotes neural differentiation of PSCs. We show that selamectin’s pro-neurogenic activity is mediated by γ2-containing GABAA receptors in subsets of neural rosette progenitors, accompanied by increased proneural and lineage-specific transcription factor expression and cell cycle exit. In vivo, selamectin promotes neurogenesis in developing zebrafish. Our results establish a chemical screening platform that reveals activity-dependent neural differentiation from PSCs. Compounds identified in this and future screening might prove therapeutically beneficial for treating neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative disorders.
Learning about loss
Authors: Sánchez Alvarado Alejandro
Published: September 2013

Researchers have identified two genes—follistatin and activin—as having an important role in the ability of certain flatworms to identify wounds that require the production of new tissue.
An essential role for maternal control of Nodal signaling
Authors: Kumari Pooja , Gilligan Patrick C , Lim Shimin , Tran Long Duc , Winkler Sylke , Philp Robin , Sampath Karuna
Published: September 2013

Growth factor signaling is essential for pattern formation, growth, differentiation, and maintenance of stem cell pluripotency. Nodal-related signaling factors are required for axis formation and germ layer specification from sea urchins to mammals. Maternal transcripts of the zebrafish Nodal factor, Squint (Sqt), are localized to future embryonic dorsal. The mechanisms by which maternal sqt/nodal RNA is localized and regulated have been unclear. Here, we show that maternal control of Nodal signaling via the conserved Y box-binding protein 1 (Ybx1) is essential. We identified Ybx1 via a proteomic screen. Ybx1 recognizes the 3’ untranslated region (UTR) of sqt RNA and prevents premature translation and Sqt/Nodal signaling. Maternal-effect mutations in zebrafish ybx1 lead to deregulated Nodal signaling, gastrulation failure, and embryonic lethality. Implanted Nodal-coated beads phenocopy ybx1 mutant defects. Thus, Ybx1 prevents ectopic Nodal activity, revealing a new paradigm in the regulation of Nodal signaling, which is likely to be conserved.
Collaboration gets the most out of software
Authors: Morin Andrew , Eisenbraun Ben , Key Jason , Sanschagrin Paul C , Timony Michael A , Ottaviano Michelle , Sliz Piotr
Published: September 2013

By centralizing many of the tasks associated with the upkeep of scientific software, SBGrid allows researchers to spend more of their time on research.
Emendments to Sprengelia Sm., (Epacridoideae Ericaceae), Tasmania Australia
Authors: Crowden Ron K.
Published: September 2013

Sprengelia montana R.Br. and S propinqua A.Cunn. ex DC are separated from S. incarnata and restored to species status.

Emended descriptions for S. incarnata, S. montana and S. propinqua are given. A new endemic species for Tasmania,

S. minima, R.K.Crowden is described and the relationship between the Tasmanian endemics, S. distichophylla (Rodw.)

Curtis and S. minima, and the New South Wales endemics, S. monticola (A.Cunn ex DC) Druce and S. sprengelioides

(R.Br.) Druce is discussed. An identification key for Sprengelia is provided.
Polymers for Surface‐Functionalization and Biocompatibility of Inorganic Nanocrystals
Authors: Palui Goutam , Wang Wentao , Aldeek Fadi , Mattoussi Hedi
Published: September 2013

Hybrid nanomaterials combining inorganic nanostructures with organic molecules such as polymers and biomolecules offer flexible platforms with size‐ and composition‐tunable properties. These materials have shown promising use in an array of applications ranging from optical devices to biologically active platforms, facilitating important functions such as sensing, imaging, and as diagnostic tools. One of the key requirements to the integration of these inorganic nanostructures into biology is the ability to effectively control and tune their interfaces with the surrounding media. Block copolymers provide versatile molecules with dimensions comparable to those of the inorganic nanostructures and the ability to chemically tune their properties and behavior (solubility and such) over multiple length scales. Amphiphilic polymers have been used by several groups as ligands or/and capsules to promote the transfer of a variety of inorganic nanomaterials (Au nanoparticles, magnetic nanocrystals, and semiconducting nanocrystals) to buffer media and to render them biocompatible. In this article, we provide an overview of the recent developments using various amphiphilic polymers to interface inorganic nanocrystals with biological media. We start with a brief description of the most common routes for growing a few representative high quality nanocrystals of semiconductors (ie, quantum dots), metal, and metal oxide materials. We then discuss the strategies to solubilize those nanocrystals in buffer media using amphiphilic polymers and provide a few representative examples where these hydrophilic platforms have been used as sensors and imaging probes.
Is There Subclinical Synovitis in Early Psoriatic Arthritis? A Clinical Comparison With Gray‐Scale and Power Doppler Ultrasound
Authors: Freeston Jane E. , Coates Laura C. , Nam Jackie L. , Moverley Anna R. , Hensor Elizabeth M. A. , Wakefield Richard J. , Emery Paul , Helliwell Philip S. , Conaghan Philip G.
Published: September 2013

Objective

Arthritis activity assessments in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have traditionally relied on tender and swollen joint counts, but in rheumatoid arthritis, multiple studies have demonstrated subclinical inflammation using modern imaging. The aim of this study was to compare clinical examination and ultrasound (US) findings in an early PsA cohort.

Methods

Forty‐nine disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug–naive patients with recent‐onset PsA (median disease duration 10 months) underwent gray‐scale (GS) and power Doppler (PD) US of 40 joints plus tender and swollen joint counts of 68/66 joints. GS and PD were scored on a 0–3 semiquantitative scale for each joint. Clinically active joints were defined as tender and/or swollen and US active joints were defined as a GS score ≥2 and/or a PD score ≥1.

Results

The most common sites for subclinical synovitis were the wrist (30.6%), knee (21.4%), metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints (26.5–33.7%), and metacarpophalangeal joints (10.2–19.4%). Excluding MTP joints and ankles, 37 (75.5%) of 49 patients had subclinical synovitis with a median of 3 (interquartile range [IQR] 1–4) joints involved. In contrast, clinical overestimation of synovitis occurred most commonly at the shoulder (38%) and ankle (28.6%). Twelve of 49 patients were classified clinically as having oligoarthritis; of these, subclinical synovitis identified 8 (75%) as having polyarthritis with an increase in their median joint count from 3 (IQR 1–4) to 6 (IQR 5–7).

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated that subclinical synovitis, as identified by US, is very common in early PsA and led to the majority of oligoarthritis patients being reclassified as having polyarthritis. Further research is required into the relationship of such subclinical synovitis to structural progression.
Tumor Necrosis Factor α Inhibitor Use and Decreased Risk for Incident Coronary Events in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Bili Androniki , Tang Xiaoqin , Pranesh Shruthi , Bozaite Rasa , Morris Stephanie J. , Antohe Jana L. , Kirchner H. Lester , Wasko Mary Chester M.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To determine the association of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) inhibitors with risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 2,101 incident RA patients was established. Medication exposure was categorized into the following groups: TNFα inhibitors alone or in combination with methotrexate (MTX; aTNF group); MTX alone or in combination with other nonbiologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs; MTX group); and no MTX, nonbiologic DMARDs (reference group). Primary outcome was adjudicated incident coronary artery disease (CAD), defined as myocardial infarction, unstable angina, or coronary revascularization procedure. Secondary outcome was adjudicated incident CVD, defined as a composite of CAD, stroke, transient ischemic attack, abdominal aortic aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease, or arterial revascularization procedure. Cox regression models were used to calculate the hazard ratio for CAD and CVD for the aTNF and MTX groups compared to the reference group.

Results

There were 46 incident CAD and 82 incident CVD events. Adjusting for covariates associated with CAD and CVD, the hazard ratio for incident CAD was 0.45 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.21–0.96) for the aTNF group and 0.54 (95% CI 0.27–1.09) for the MTX group compared to the reference group. Use of TNFα inhibitors for >16.1 months was associated with a relative risk for CAD of 0.18 (95% CI 0.06–0.50) and for CVD of 0.31 (95% CI 0.15–0.65) compared to the reference group. A similar, although not significant, trend was seen with the MTX group.

Conclusion

Use of TNFα inhibitors is associated with a decreased risk for CAD in RA; the risk decreases further with long‐term use. This should be considered when weighing the risks versus benefits of these medications.
(R/S)‐BINOL‐α‐Phosphoryloxy Enecarbamate‐Mediated and (R/S)‐Titanium(IV) BINOLates‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Intramolecular Heck/Aza‐Diels–Alder Cycloaddition (IHADA): An Expedient Methodology
Authors: Khan Imran A. , Saxena Anil K.
Published: September 2013

An (R/S)‐titanium(IV) BINOLate‐catalyzed highly enantioselective intramolecular Heck/aza‐Diels–Alder cycloaddition (IHADA) cascade was developed to prepare tetrahydropyridoindoles (tHPs) and octahydropyrazinopyridoindoles (oHPPs) from in situ generated (R/S)‐BINOL α‐phosphoryloxy carbamate (αPPC2) in one pot. Chiral cooperativity between (R/S)‐αPPC2 and (R/S)‐titanium(IV) BINOLate was observed and successfully utilized for the construction of various tHPs (7 examples) and oHPPs (17 examples).

magnified image
ITO‐Free, Small‐Molecule Organic Solar Cells on Spray‐Coated Copper‐Nanowire‐Based Transparent Electrodes
Authors: Sachse Christoph , Weiß Nelli , Gaponik Nikolai , Müller‐Meskamp Lars , Eychmüller Alexander , Leo Karl
Published: September 2013

The great potential of solution‐processed metal nanowire networks utilized as a transparent electrode has attracted much attention in the last years. Typically, silver nanowires are applied, although their replacement by more abundant and cheaper materials is of interest. Here, a hydrazine‐free synthesis route for high aspect ratio copper nanowires is used to prepare conductive networks showing an enhanced electrode performance. The network deposition is done with a scalable spray‐coating process on glass and on polymer foils. By a pressing or an annealing step, highly conductive transparent electrodes are obtained, and they reveal transmittance‐resistance values similar to indium tin oxide (ITO) and networks made of silver nanowires. The application potential of the copper nanowire electrodes is demonstrated by integrating them into an evaporated small‐molecule organic solar cell with 3% efficiency.
Saliva sampling method affects performance of a salivary α‐amylase biosensor
Authors: Robles Theodore F. , Sharma Rassilee , Harrell Lauren , Elashoff David A. , Yamaguchi Masaki , Shetty Vivek
Published: September 2013

Objectives

Prompted by the discordance between a standardized salivary alpha‐amylase (sAA) biosensor applied in clinical settings and a reference laboratory analyzer, we examined the impact of the saliva sampling method on the analytic performance of the biosensor.

Methods

Direct mouth readings using the biosensor from 31 normal, healthy volunteers were compared to biosensor and conventional assay readings obtained from saliva samples collected concurrently by passive drool and processed in three different ways (unprocessed, thawed, and thawed and centrifuged).

Results

The direct readings from the mouth showed consistently lower sAA values (Ps < 0.01) compared to all other combinations of sample processing and quantification platforms (biosensor vs. conventional assay). Readings obtained from passive drool saliva were strongly correlated with one another, and Bland–Altman plots of agreement indicated a smaller discrepancy between conventional and biosensor readings obtained with passive drool when compared to the direct mouth readings.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that the analytical performance of the sAA biosensor is influenced significantly by the saliva sampling method. In contrast to the relatively imprecise direct mouth measurements, biosensor sAA levels established indirectly from passive drool saliva samples provide more accurate estimation of sAA levels, even after intermediary processing steps (e.g., freezing, thawing, centrifugation). Am. J. Hum. Biol. 25:719–724, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patterns of senescence in human cardiovascular fitness: VO2max in subsistence and industrialized populations
Authors: Pisor Anne C. , Gurven Michael , Blackwell Aaron D. , Kaplan Hillard , Yetish Gandhi
Published: September 2013

Objectives

This study explores whether cardiovascular fitness levels and senescent decline are similar in the Tsimane of Bolivia and Canadians, as well as other subsistence and industrialized populations. Among Tsimane, we examine whether morbidity predicts lower levels and faster decline of cardiovascular fitness, or whether their lifestyle (e.g., high physical activity) promotes high levels and slow decline. Alternatively, high activity levels and morbidity might counterbalance such that Tsimane fitness levels and decline are similar to those in industrialized populations.

Methods

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was estimated using a step test heart rate method for 701 participants. We compared these estimates to the Canadian Health Measures Survey and previous studies in industrialized and subsistence populations. We evaluated whether health indicators and proxies for market integration were associated with VO2max levels and rate of decline for the Tsimane.

Results

The Tsimane have significantly higher levels of VO2max and slower rates of decline than Canadians; initial evidence suggests differences in VO2max levels between other subsistence and industrialized populations. Low hemoglobin predicts low VO2max for Tsimane women while helminth infection predicts high VO2max for Tsimane men, though results might be specific to the VO2max scaling parameter used. No variables tested interact with age to moderate decline.

Conclusions

The Tsimane demonstrate higher levels of cardiovascular fitness than industrialized populations, but levels similar to other subsistence populations. The high VO2max of Tsimane is consistent with their high physical activity and few indicators of cardiovascular disease, measured in previous studies. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 25:756–769, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recommendations for Screening and Detection of Connective Tissue Disease–Associated Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Khanna Dinesh , Gladue Heather , Channick Richard , Chung Lorinda , Distler Oliver , Furst Daniel E. , Hachulla Eric , Humbert Marc , Langleben David , Mathai Stephen C. , Saggar Rajeev , Visovatti Scott , Altorok Nezam , Townsend Whitney , FitzGerald John , McLaughlin Vallerie V.
Published: September 2013

Objective

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) affects up to 15% of patients with connective tissue diseases (CTDs). Previous recommendations developed as part of larger efforts in PAH did not include detailed recommendations for patients with CTD‐associated PAH. Therefore, we sought to develop recommendations for screening and early detection of CTD‐associated PAH.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the literature on the screening and diagnosis of PAH in CTD. Using the RAND/University of California, Los Angeles consensus methodology, we developed case scenarios followed by 2 stages of voting. First, international experts from a variety of specialties voted anonymously on the appropriateness of each case scenario. The experts then met face‐to‐face to discuss and resolve discrepant votes to arrive at consensus recommendations.

Results

The key recommendation stated that all patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) should be screened for PAH. In addition, patients with mixed connective tissue disease or other CTDs with scleroderma features (scleroderma spectrum disorders) should be screened for PAH. It was recommended that screening pulmonary function tests (PFTs) with single‐breath diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, transthoracic echocardiogram, and measurement of N‐terminal pro–brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) be performed in all patients with SSc and scleroderma spectrum disorders. In patients with SSc and scleroderma spectrum disorders, transthoracic echocardiogram and PFTs should be performed annually. The full screening panel (transthoracic echocardiogram, PFTs, and measurement of NT‐proBNP) should be performed as soon as any new signs or symptoms are present.

Conclusion

We provide consensus‐based, evidence‐driven recommendations for screening and early detection of CTD‐associated PAH. It is our hope that these recommendations will lead to earlier detection of CTD‐associated PAH and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Role of Interleukin‐10 in Endochondral Bone Formation in Mice: Anabolic Effect via the Bone Morphogenetic Protein/Smad Pathway
Authors: Jung Youn‐Kwan , Kim Gun‐Woo , Park Hye‐Ri , Lee Eun‐Ju , Choi Je‐Yong , Beier Frank , Han Seung‐Woo
Published: September 2013

Objective

Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) is a pleiotropic immunoregulatory cytokine with a chondroprotective effect that is elevated in cartilage and synovium in patients with osteoarthritis. However, the role of IL‐10 during endochondral bone formation and its mechanism of action have not been elucidated.

Methods

IL‐10–/– mice and IL‐10–treated tibial organ cultures were used to study loss and gain of IL‐10 functions, respectively, during endochondral bone formation. Primary chondrocytes from the long bones of mouse embryos were cultured with and without IL‐10. To assess the role of IL‐10 in chondrogenic differentiation, we conducted mesenchymal cell micromass cultures.

Results

The lengths of whole skeletons from IL‐10–/– mice were similar to those of their wild‐type littermates, although their skull diameters were smaller. The tibial growth plates of IL‐10–/– mice showed shortening of the proliferating zone. Treatment with IL‐10 significantly increased tibial lengths in organ culture. IL‐10 also induced chondrocyte proliferation and hypertrophic differentiation in primary chondrocytes in vitro. Mechanistically, IL‐10 activated STAT‐3 and the Smad1/5/8 and ERK‐1/2 MAP kinase pathways and induced the expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP‐2) and BMP‐6 in primary chondrocytes. Furthermore, the blocking of BMP signaling attenuated the IL‐10–mediated induction of cyclin D1 and RUNX‐2 in primary chondrocytes and suppressed Alcian blue and alkaline phosphatase staining in mesenchymal cell micromass cultures.

Conclusion

These results indicate that IL‐10 acts as a stimulator of chondrocyte proliferation and chondrogenic or hypertrophic differentiation via activation of the BMP signaling pathway.
Aberrant Muscle Antigen Exposure in Mice Is Sufficient to Cause Myositis in a Treg Cell–Deficient Milieu
Authors: Young Nicholas A. , Sharma Rahul , Friedman Alexandra K. , Kaffenberger Benjamin H. , Bolon Brad , Jarjour Wael N.
Published: September 2013

Objective

Myositis is associated with muscle‐targeted inflammation and is observed in some Treg cell–deficient mouse models. Because an autoimmune pathogenesis has been strongly implicated, the aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that abnormal exposure to muscle antigens, as observed in muscle injury, can induce autoimmune‐mediated myositis in susceptible hosts.

Methods

FoxP3 mutant (scurfy) mice were mated to synaptotagmin VII (Syt VII) mutant mice, which resulted in a new mouse strain that combines impaired membrane resealing with Treg cell deficiency. Lymphocyte preparations from double‐mutant mice were adoptively transferred intraperitoneally, with or without purified Treg cells, into recombination‐activating gene 1 (RAG‐1)–null recipients. Lymph node cells from mice with the FoxP3 mutation were transferred into RAG‐1–null mice either 1) intraperitoneally in conjunction with muscle homogenate or purified myosin protein or 2) intramuscularly with or without cotransfer of purified Treg cells.

Results

FoxP3‐deficient mouse lymph node cells transferred in conjunction with myosin protein or muscle homogenate induced robust skeletal muscle inflammation. The infiltrates consisted predominantly of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, a limited number of macrophages, and no B cells. Significant inflammation was also seen in similar experiments using lymph node cells from FoxP3/Syt VII double‐mutant mice but was absent in experiments using adoptive transfer of FoxP3 mutant mouse cells alone. The cotransfer of Treg cells completely suppressed myositis.

Conclusion

These data, derived from a new, reproducible model, demonstrate the critical roles of Treg cell deficiency and aberrant muscle antigen exposure in the priming of autoreactive cells to induce myositis. This mouse system has multifaceted potential for examining the interplay in vivo between tissue injury and autoimmunity.
Toll‐like Receptor 7–Stimulated Tumor Necrosis Factor α Causes Bone Marrow Damage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Zhuang Haoyang , Han Shuhong , Xu Yuan , Li Yi , Wang Hai , Yang Li‐Jun , Reeves Westley H.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To define the pathogenesis of bone marrow (BM) involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) levels, cell death, and cellular damage in BM from SLE patients, controls, and mice with pristane‐induced lupus were analyzed using a morphometric technique and immunohistochemistry. The pathogenesis of BM abnormalities was studied in wild‐type (WT), TNFα−/−, Toll‐like receptor–deficient (TLR‐7−/−), interferon (IFN)–α/β/ω receptor–knockout (IFNAR−/−), and B cell–deficient (μmt) mice treated with pristane. Flow cytometry was used to examine TNFα production (by intracellular staining) and plasma cell/plasmablast development. CXCL12 expression was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

BM from SLE patients exhibited striking death of niche and hematopoietic cells associated with TNFα overproduction. BM from mice with a type I IFN–mediated lupus syndrome induced by pristane showed similar abnormalities. TNFα was produced mainly by BM neutrophils, many with phagocytosed nuclear material (lupus erythematosus cells). TNFα production was abolished in pristane‐treated TLR‐7−/− and μmt mice but was restored in μmt mice by infusing normal plasma. Pristane‐treated WT and IFNAR−/− mice developed anemia, BM hypocellularity, and extramedullary hematopoiesis, which were absent in TLR‐7−/− and TNFα−/− mice. Additionally, the expression of CXCL12, which is produced by stromal cells and mediates homing of hematopoietic cells and plasmablasts, was decreased in BM from pristane‐treated WT mice but was normal in BM from pristane‐treated TNFα−/− mice.

Conclusion

Although autoantibodies and glomerulonephritis are type I IFN dependent, lupus‐associated BM abnormalities were TLR‐7 and TNFα driven but type I IFN independent, suggesting that lupus is a disorder of innate immunity in which TLR‐7 activation by phagocytosed nuclei causes relentless type I IFN and TNFα production mediating glomerulonephritis and hematologic involvement, respectively.
Dual Role of Autophagy in Stress‐Induced Cell Death in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fibroblasts
Authors: Kato Masaru , Ospelt Caroline , Gay Renate E. , Gay Steffen , Klein Kerstin
Published: September 2013

Objective

To investigate the role of autophagy in the regulation of cell death in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs).

Methods

RASFs and osteoarthritis synovial fibroblasts (OASFs) were treated with thapsigargin (TG), an inducer of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and MG132, a proteasome inhibitor. Then, 3‐methyladenine was used as an autophagy inhibitor and bafilomycin A1 as a lysosome inhibitor. Polyubiquitinated proteins, p62, and autophagy induction were evaluated by immunoblotting, immunofluorescence microscopy, and immunohistochemistry, respectively. OASFs were transfected with small interfering RNA targeting autophagy‐linked FYVE protein (ALFY). Cell death was evaluated by flow cytometry and a caspase 3 activity assay.

Results

In RASFs, the induction of autophagy by TG and MG132 was increased compared to that in OASFs. Whereas autophagy promoted a caspase 3–independent induction of cell death under ER stress, autophagy had a protective role in apoptosis induced by proteasome inhibition. Treatment of RASFs with 3‐methyladenine blocked TG‐induced cell death. ER stress induced a strong accumulation of p62‐positive polyubiquitinated protein aggregates, accompanied by the formation of large vacuoles in RASFs but not OASFs. Furthermore, TG‐induced p62 protein expression was increased, whereas TG‐induced ALFY expression was reduced, in RASFs compared to OASFs. ALFY knockdown promoted the accumulation of p62, the formation of polyubiquitinated protein aggregates, and cell death.

Conclusion

Our data provide the first evidence of a dual role of autophagy in the regulation of death pathways in RASFs. A reduced expression of ALFY and the formation of p62‐positive polyubiquitinated protein aggregates promote cell death in RASFs under severe ER stress.
Effect of the Substitution Pattern on the Intramolecular Charge‐Transfer Emissions in Organoboron‐Based Biphenyls, Diphenylacetylenes, and Stilbenes
Authors: Yan Yi‐Qiao , Li Yan‐Bang , Wang Jian‐Wu , Zhao Cui‐Hua
Published: September 2013

Three series of organoboron‐based molecules, including biphenyls 1a, 1b, 1c, diphenylacetylenes 2a, 2b, 2c, and stilbenes 3a, 3b, 3c, in which the electron‐accepting boryl and the electron‐donating amino groups are introduced at different positions, have been comprehensively investigated to explore the effect of the substitution pattern on the intramolecular charge‐transfer emissions. In cyclohexane solution, the change of substitution pattern from p,p′ to o,p′ by introduction of boryl at the lateral o‐position rather than the terminal p‐position leads to bathochromism in the absorption and emission spectra. With further variation of the amino position from the terminal p′‐position in o,p′‐substitution to the lateral o′‐position in an o,o′‐substitution pattern, a blueshift was observed in the absorption owing to the less‐efficient conjugation extension of the amino group as the result of sp3 hybridization. It is notable that the emission of the three series of molecules changes with completely different trends. Only the emission of the biphenyl is redshifted further from o,p′‐substituted 1b to o,o′‐substituted 1a, whereas o,o′‐substituted diphenylacetylene 2a maintains almost the same spectrum as that of o,p′‐substituted diphenylacetylene 2b and the fluorescence of o,o′‐substituted stilbene 3a is even blueshifted compared with o,p′‐substituted stilbene 3b. As a result, the o,o′‐substituted biphenyl 1a shows the longest emission wavelength despite the limited conjugation of the parent biphenyl skeleton. The long emission wavelength of 1a may arise from its extremely twisted structure, which would cause a significant structural relaxation in the exited state. In the solid state, 1a still keeps almost the longest emission wavelength. In addition, its quantum yield is also among the highest. The unusual properties, intense solid‐state emission together with long emission wavelength, and particularly large Stokes shift, which are difficult to attain by structural modification of other parent π‐conjugated frameworks, have been achieved by the introduction of boryl and amino groups at the o,o′‐positions of the biphenyl skeleton.
Culture and Accountants' Perceptions of Environmental Reporting Practice
Authors: Yusoff Haslinda , Othman Radiah , Yatim Normahiran
Published: September 2013

This paper seeks to investigate and interpret the possible link between culture and the perceptions of accountants on corporate environmental reporting practices (ENRPs) on a two‐country basis, i.e. between Malaysia and Australia. Using Hofstede's (1980) and Gray's (1988) cultural value framework, the paper employs a qualitative approach through interviews conducted with corporate accountants in publicly listed companies in Malaysia and Australia. It is revealed that ENRPs in both countries are influenced by cultural values, in particular collectivism, high uncertainty avoidance, uniformity, conservatism and secrecy. Despite the fact that types of cultural and sub‐cultural dimension pertaining to reporting practice in Malaysia and Australia are similar, mixed findings are found when compared with national cultural values (Hofstede, 1980) and sub‐cultural values (Gray, 1988). The consistencies of cultural dimensions found in ENRP in these two countries and the orientation of the practice across nations indicate a promising move towards standardization and harmonization of successful implementation of environmental accounting and reporting. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Silicon Nanowire Arrays – A New Catalyst for the Reduction of Nitrobenzene Derivatives
Authors: Xu Yajun , Wang Lei , Jiang Wenwen , Wang Hongwei , Yao Jianlin , Guo Qinghua , Yuan Lin , Chen Hong
Published: September 2013

Silicon nanowire arrays (SiNWAs) are under extensive investigation for solar cells and biomedical applications. This study reports for the first time that hydrogen fluoride‐treated (H)‐SiNWAs are an efficient catalyst for the reduction of nitrobenzene derivatives. We show that SiNWAs, after hydrogen fluoride treatment, have a high catalytic activity in p‐nitrophenol (PNP) reduction. The conversion rate of PNP by H‐SiNWAs increases with time and is almost complete within 30 min, which thus indicates catalytic activity comparable to that of platinum nanoparticles. The catalytic activity of SiNWAs is closely related to the chemical composition and specific morphology of the surface. SiH bonds on the surface are essential for activity, and arrays with longer nanowires showed a higher catalytic activity. Moreover, the activity can be easily regenerated by hydrogen fluoride treatment. It was also found that H‐SiNWAs exhibit a similar catalytic activity for the reduction of other nitrobenzene derivatives such as p‐nitroaniline and sodium m‐nitrobenzenesulfonate. It is concluded that H‐SiNWAs may be considered as an environmentally friendly alternative to noble‐metal‐based catalysts for the reduction of nitrobenzene derivatives.
Silver Nanoparticles for Olefin Production: New Insights into the Mechanistic Description of Propyne Hydrogenation
Authors: Vilé Gianvito , Baudouin David , Remediakis Ioannis N. , Copéret Christophe , López Núria , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: September 2013

The gas‐phase partial hydrogenation of propyne was investigated over supported Ag nanoparticles (2–20 nm in diameter) prepared by using different deposition methods, activation conditions, loadings, and carriers. The excellent selectivities to propene attained over the catalysts, exceeding 90 %, are independent of the particle size but the activity is maximal over approximately 4.5 nm Ag particles. Certain kinetic fingerprints of Ag, such as the positive dependence on the alkyne pressure, the relatively low reaction order in H2, and the low apparent activation energy, deviate from those of conventional hydrogenation metals such as Pd and Ni, questioning the applicability of the classical Horiuti–Polanyi scheme. Periodic dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT‐D) calculations and microkinetic analysis demonstrate the occurrence of an associative mechanism, which features the activation of H2 on the adsorbed propyne at structural step sites. By using the atomistic Wulff model, the number of B5 sites available on the Ag nanoparticles was estimated to be maximal in the size range of 3.5–4.7 nm. The rate of propene production correlates with the density of B5 sites, which suggests that the latter are potential active centers for the reaction. This alternative pathway broadens the mechanistic diversity of hydrogenation reactions over metal surfaces and opens new directions for understanding metals that do not readily activate H2.
Amperometric Sensing of H2O2 using Pt–TiO2/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Leonardi Salvatore Gianluca , Aloisio Davide , Donato Nicola , Russo Patrícia A. , Ferro Marta C. , Pinna Nicola , Neri Giovanni
Published: September 2013

Nanostructures made of titanium dioxide and/or platinum nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) were synthesized by a simple and fast microwave‐assisted route and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopies. The composites consist of RGO sheets fully and homogeneously coated with a dense layer of 8 nm TiO2 and/or 2 nm Pt nanoparticles. Screen‐printed flexible sensors based on Pt–TiO2/RGO composites are applied for the amperometric detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The electrochemical characteristics of Pt/RGO, TiO2/RGO and Pt–TiO2/RGO‐modified screen printed electrodes are investigated and discussed. The developed sensor allows the detection of H2O2, with a linear response from 0 to 20 mM of H2O2 and a sensitivity of 40 μA mM−1 cm−2. The resulting device is also suitable for the analysis of this toxic compound in milk.