bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the origins of nanostructural variations in differential ethnic hair types using X‐ray scattering techniques
Authors: Wade M. , Tucker I. , Cunningham P. , Skinner R. , Bell F. , Lyons T. , Patten K. , Gonzalez L. , Wess T.
Published: May 2013

Synopsis

Objective

Human hair is a major determinant of visual ethnic differentiation. Although hair types are celebrated as part of our ethnic diversity, the approach to hair care has made the assumption that hair types are structurally and chemically similar. Although this is clearly not the case at the macroscopic level, the intervention of many hair treatments is at the nanoscopic and molecular levels. The purpose of the work presented here is to identify the main nanoscopic and molecular hierarchical differences across five different ethnic hair types from hair fibres taken exclusively from the scalp. These are Afro (subdivided into elastic ‘rubber’ and softer non‐elastic ‘soft’), Chinese, European and Mullato (mixed race).

Methods

Small angle X‐Ray scattering (SAXS) is a technique capable of resolving nanostructural variations in complex materials. Individual hair fibres from different ethnic hair types were used to investigate structural features found in common and also specific to each type. Simultaneous wide angle X‐Ray scattering (WAXS) was used to analyse the submolecular level structure of the fibrous keratin present. The data sets from both techniques were analysed with principal component analysis (PCA) to identify underlying variables.

Results

Principal component analysis of both SAXS and WAXS data was shown to discriminate the scattering signal between different hair types. The X‐ray scattering results show a common underlying keratin intermediate filament (KIF) structure. However, distinct differences were observed in the preferential orientation and intensity signal from the lipid component of the hair. In addition, differences were observed in the intensity distribution of the very low‐angle sample‐dependent diffuse scatter surrounding the ‘beamstop.’

Conclusion

The results indicate that the fibrous keratin scaffold remains consistent between ethnic hair types. The hierarchies made by these may be modulated by variation in the content of keratin‐associated proteins (KAPs) and lipids that alter the interfacial structures and lead to macroscopic differences in hair morphology.
A multidimensional comparison of discourse organization inEnglish andChinese university students' argumentative writing
Authors: Liu Xinghua , Furneaux Clare
Published: May 2013

Three methodological limitations inEnglish‐Chinese contrastive rhetoric research have been identified in previous research, namely: the failure to control for the quality ofL1data; an inference approach to interpreting the relationship betweenL1andL2writing; and a focus on national cultural factors in interpreting rhetorical differences. Addressing these limitations, the current study examined the presence or absence and placement of thesis statement and topic sentences in four sets of argumentative texts produced by three groups of university students. We found thatChinese students tended to favour a direct/deductive approach in theirEnglish andChinese writing, while nativeEnglish writers typically adopted an indirect/inductive approach. This study argues for a dynamic and ecological interpretation of rhetorical practices in different languages and cultures.
Patent Hold‐Up and Antitrust: How A Well‐Intentioned Rule Could Retard Innovation
Authors: Ganglmair Bernhard , Froeb Luke M. , Werden Gregory J.
Published: May 2013

Licensing technology essential to a standard can present a hold‐up problem. After designing new products incorporating a standard, a manufacturer could be confronted by an innovator asserting patent rights to essential technology. This hold‐up problem can be solved with a damages remedy provided by antitrust or some other body of law, but a damages remedy can reduce the innovator's licensing revenue and thereby retard innovation. The availability of an ex post damages remedy also alters the licensing terms in ex ante bargaining with the result that fewer socially beneficial R&D projects are undertaken.
First Versus Second Mover Advantage with Information Asymmetry about the Profitability of New Markets
Authors: Rasmusen Eric , Yoon Young‐Ro
Published: May 2013

Is it better to move first, or second—to innovate, or to imitate? We show that if one player's information about the profitability of new markets is only modestly superior, the possibility of foreclosing the market can lead to a first‐mover advantage. On the other hand, more extreme information superiority can reverse this, leading to a second‐mover advantage. Knowing more surely what is the best choice, the better‐informed player wants to delay to keep his information private and the less‐informed player wants to delay to learn. Because of this, more accurate information can actually lead to inefficiency by increasing the incentive to delay, and exogenous costs of delay can aid efficiency by neutralizing that strategic incentive. In fact, in some circumstances a player may purposely coarsen his information to deter imitation.
Second Mover Advantage and Entry Timing
Authors: Tran Vinh Du , Sibley David S. , Wilkie Simon
Published: May 2013

We describe a model of entry timing assuming that a second mover can benefit from observing the experience of a first mover. We focus on how market attractiveness characteristics such as size and cost affect the time until first entry. The effects depend on whether the number of participants is exogenous or endogenous. In the former case, a more attractive market leads to earlier entry. In the latter case, it leads to later entry. Treating the number of firms as an integer, free entry leads to non‐monotone, but testable, effects of market attractiveness on entry timing.
Microstructural Evolution During Vacuum Sintering of Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Transparent Ceramics: Toward the Origin of Residual Porosity Affecting the Transparency
Authors: Boulesteix Rémy , Maître Alexandre , Chrétien Lucie , Rabinovitch Yoël , Sallé Christian
Published: May 2013

Controlling residual amount of defects in transparent ceramics is a major challenge for laser applications. This study was focused on microstructural evolution of Nd:YAG ceramics during their reactive solid‐state sintering which was correlated to their optical transmittance. From microstructural observations, the microstructural maps and grain size‐density and grain size‐pore size sintering trajectories of Nd:YAG ceramics were established as a function of silica content. For densities higher than 99.7%, the occurrence of intragranular porosity was correlated to a critical pore radius of 0.16 μm. Silica appears to favor the formation of intragranular porosity which was attributed to the increasing of the grain growth rate compared with the densification one. An analytical model was established by coupling the analytical laws derived from sintering trajectories and the classical theory of light diffusion, allowing to correlate the microstructural features of transparent Nd:YAG ceramics to their optical properties.
Low‐Temperature Spark Plasma Sintering of Pure Nano WC Powder
Authors: Grasso Salvatore , Poetschke Johannes , Richter Volkmar , Maizza Giovanni , Sakka Yoshio , Reece Michael J.
Published: May 2013

For the first time we have demonstrated the densification of high‐purity nanostructured (davg ≈ 60 nm) tungsten carbide by High Pressure Spark Plasma Sintering (HPSPS) in the unusually low temperature range of 1200°C–1400°C. The high‐pressure sintering (i.e., 300 MPa) produced dense material at a temperature as low as 1400°C. In comparison with more conventional sintering techniques, such as SPS (80 MPa) or hot isostatic pressing, HPSPS lowered the temperature required for full densification by 400°C–500°C. High Pressure Spark Plasma Sintering, even in absence of any sintering aid or grain growth inhibitor, retained a very fine microstructure resulting in a significant improvement in both hardness (2721 HV10) and fracture toughness (7.2 MPa m1/2).
Solvothermal Conversion of Nanofiber to Nanorod‐Like Mesoporous γ‐Al2O3 Powders, and Study Their Adsorption Efficiency for Congo Red
Authors: Ghosh Sourav , Naskar Milan Kanti
Published: May 2013

Mesoporous γ‐Al2O3 powders with nanofiber and nanorod‐like structures were synthesized using boehmite sols in the presence of triblock copolymer, P123 in ethanol by solvothermal process at different temparatures (100°C–165°C) followed by calcination at 400°C–1000°C. The powders were characterized by low‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption–desorption, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The adsorption efficiency of the powders with Congo red (CR) was studied by UV–vis spectroscopy. The γ‐Al2O3 phase became stable up to 1000°C. The nanorods obtained at 165°C had narrower pore size distribution (PSD) than nanofibers synthesized at 100°C, the former showed higher CR adsorption efficiency. The stepwise growth mechanism of nanofibers to nanorods conversion with increase in solvothermal temperatures was illustrated.
Comparison of the lipid properties of healthy and pansteatitis‐affected African sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell), and the role of diet in pansteatitis outbreaks in the Olifants River in the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Huchzermeyer K D A , Osthoff G , Hugo A , Govender D
Published: May 2013

Pansteatitis has been identified in wild populations of sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell), and Nile crocodiles, Crocodylus niloticus Laurenti, inhabiting the same waters in the Olifants River Gorge in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. Mesenteric and pectoral fat tissue was investigated microscopically and by fatty acid analysis in healthy and pansteatitis‐affected catfish from both captive and wild populations. Variation in fatty acid composition between pectoral and mesenteric fat was noted. Composition of mesenteric fat differed between fish from various localities as a result of differences in diet. Pansteatitis in the captive population, resulting from ingestion of high amounts of dietary oxidized fat, reflected higher levels of unsaturated fatty acids within the mesenteric fat. Mesenteric fat of pansteatitis‐affected wild catfish was characterized by an increase in moisture content, a decrease in fat content and a decrease in stearic and linoleic acids. The n‐3 to n‐6 fatty acid ratio of mesenteric fat was higher in pansteatitis‐affected wild catfish than in healthy catfish from the same locality, reflecting higher polyunsaturated fat intake by pansteatitis‐affected fish. The possible role of alien, invasive, phytoplankton‐feeding silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (Valenciennes), in the aetiology of pansteatitis in both catfish and crocodiles in the Olifants Gorge is discussed.
Liver melanomacrophage centres as indicators of Atlantic bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus L. well‐being
Authors: Passantino L , Santamaria N , Zupa R , Pousis C , Garofalo R , Cianciotta A , Jirillo E , Acone F , Corriero A
Published: May 2013

Melanomacrophage centres (MMCs), located in different organs of non‐mammalian vertebrates, play a role in the destruction, detoxification or recycling of endogenous and exogenous materials. Cytochrome P450 monoxygenase 1A (CYP1A) is involved in xenobiotics biotransformation, and its liver expression is considered as a biomarker for detecting exposure to environmental pollutants. Atlantic bluefin tuna (ABFT), Thunnus thynnus L., liver samples were collected from: wild animals caught in the eastern Atlantic; juveniles reared in the central Adriatic; juveniles reared in the northern Adriatic; adults reared in the western Mediterranean. The samples were processed for basic histology, histochemistry and for CYP1A immunodetection. An unexpected high density of MMCs, containing ferric iron and lipofuscin–ceroids, was detected in the juveniles sampled in the northern Adriatic Sea. These individuals showed also a strong anti‐CYP1A immunopositivity in hepatocytes and in the epithelium of bile ducts. This study supports the utility of MMCs as biomarkers of fish ‘health status’ and gives concern for a potential contaminant accumulation in ABFT.
A new cultivation‐independent tool for fast and reliable detection ofMycobacterium marinum
Authors: Slany M
Published: May 2013

TheMycobacterium marinumgroup (MMG) is a class of mycobacteria that includesM. marinum, the cause of chronic systemic infections in fish. This species occasionally causes granulomatous skin lesions in humans. Other members ofMMGare mycolactone‐producing mycobacteria (MPM;M. ulcerans,M. shottsiiandM. pseudoshottsii). The cultivation‐independent approach presented in this study brings a fast and reliable alternative to classically used cultivation methods. The developed triplexerp/IS2404qPCRassay is based on a primary species‐specificerpdetection, which allows enumeration ofMMGin analysed samples, and secondaryIS2404detection is suitable for the differentiation ofM. marinumfromMPM. The detection ofM. marinumin clinical specimens and in artificially contaminated tissue samples has proven its applicability for diagnostic purposes.
Zinc absorption in Brazilian subjects fed a healthy meal
Authors: Ribeiro M. A. , Cominetti C. , Kakazu M. H. , Sarkis J. E. S. , Dainty J. , Fox T. E. , Cozzolino S. M. F.
Published: May 2013

Background

The high amounts of phytic acid present in diets from developing countries are considered as important inhibitors of zinc (Zn) absorption. The present study aimed to assess the fractional absorption of Zn from a meal containing common Brazilian foods using the stable isotope technique.

Methods

Twelve men, aged 19–42 years, were fed a healthy experimental diet comprising lettuce, tomato, French fries, steak with onions, rice, beans, papaya, orange, pineapple, and passion fruit juice. Each subject received one intravenous dose of enriched 70Zn, and the lunch was extrinsically labelled with enriched 67Zn. Urinary 67Zn and 70Zn enrichments were assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results

The labelled meal phytate : Zn molar ratio was very divergent with respect to chemically determined and calculated data. Subjects presented a normal Zn nutritional status before and after the study. The mean Zn absorption from the labelled meal was 30% (range 11–47%).

Conclusions

According to the World Health Organization parameters, the results denote a moderate/high Zn bioavailability in the evaluated meal, with a variability in the absorption percentage that is similar to other studies. The data show that a typical Brazilian meal, with an adequate energy amount and a balanced macronutrient distribution, presents a Zn bioavailability in accordance with the worldwide recommended standard.
PrPC regulates epidermal growth factor receptor function and cell shape dynamics in Neuro2a cells
Authors: Llorens Franc , Carulla Patricia , Villa Ana , Torres Juan M. , Fortes Puri , Ferrer Isidre , del Río José A.
Published: May 2013

The prion protein (PrP) plays a key role in prion disease pathogenesis. Although the misfolded and pathologic variant of this protein (PrPSC) has been studied in depth, the physiological role of PrPC remains elusive and controversial. PrPC is a cell‐surface glycoprotein involved in multiple cellular functions at the plasma membrane, where it interacts with a myriad of partners and regulates several intracellular signal transduction cascades. However, little is known about the gene expression changes modulated by PrPC in animals and in cellular models. In this article, we present PrPC‐dependent gene expression signature in N2a cells and its implication in the most overrepresented functions: cell cycle, cell growth and proliferation, and maintenance of cell shape. PrPC over‐expression enhances cell proliferation and cell cycle re‐entrance after serum stimulation, while PrPC silencing slows down cell cycle progression. In addition, MAP kinase and protein kinase B (AKT) pathway activation are under the regulation of PrPC in asynchronous cells and following mitogenic stimulation. These effects are due in part to the modulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by PrPC in the plasma membrane, where the two proteins interact in a multimeric complex. We also describe how PrPC over‐expression modulates filopodia formation by Rho GTPase regulation mainly in an AKT‐Cdc42‐N‐WASP‐dependent pathway.

image

In this study, we analyzed the PrPC‐dependent gene expression signature of neuroblastoma (N2a) cells after transient acute up‐regulation and down‐regulation of PrPC. We demonstrate that PrPC plays roles in proliferation and neuritogenesis through modulation of EGFR activity. This approach will give new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which PrPC regulates key cellular functions in cell physiology.
Upstream Capacity Constraint and the Preservation of Monopoly Power in Private Bilateral Contracting
Authors: Avenel Eric
Published: May 2013

This article presents a model of private vertical contracting with a capacity constrained monopolistic supplier. I consider ‘full capacity beliefs’ that are consistent with an upstream capacity constraint and are ‘wary’ when the constraint is tight or production is costless. I show that, facing a capacity constraint, the supplier may preserve its monopoly power in equilibrium. This result stands in sharp contrast to the standard result that the supplier cannot preserve its monopoly power, which holds under the usual implicit assumption of an infinite production capacity.
Exclusive Dealing: Investment Promotion May Facilitate Inefficient Foreclosure
Authors: Fumagalli Chiara , Motta Massimo , Rønde Thomas
Published: May 2013

This paper studies a model whereby exclusive dealing (ED) can both promote investment and foreclose a more efficient supplier. Since ED promotes the incumbent seller's investment, the seller and the buyer realize a greater surplus from bilateral trade under exclusivity. Hence, the parties involved may sign an ED contract that excludes a more efficient entrant in circumstances where ED would not arise absent investment. The paper therefore invites a more cautious attitude towards accepting possible investment promotion arguments as a defense for ED.
When Do Large Buyers Pay Less? Experimental Evidence
Authors: Ruffle Bradley J.
Published: May 2013

The rise of mega‐retailers has precipitated a growing literature on large‐buyer discounts. According toRotemberg andSaloner [1986] andSnyder [1998], large buyers' ability to obtain price discounts depends on their relative size and the degree of seller competition.Itest experimentally implications of this theory concerning the number of sellers and the sizes of buyers in the market. The results track the comparative‐statics predictions to a surprising extent. Subtle changes in the buyer‐size distribution or number of sellers can create or negate large‐buyer discounts. The results highlight the previously unexplored role of the demand structure in determining buyer‐size discounts.
Empirical Evidence on the Impact of Reserve Prices in English Auctions
Authors: Gonçalves Ricardo
Published: May 2013

We study the impact of reserve prices on the revenue of English auctions using a unique hand‐collected database of virtual football players from the online football management game Hattrick. As theoretically predicted, setting a reserve price entails a trade‐off between the cost of setting it too high and having the good go unsold, and the benefit associated with a higher revenue should the reserve price successfully extract surplus from the highest bidder. Overall, we find the net benefit of setting a higher reserve price to be negative, regardless of the value of the reserve price. This is a novel result insofar as previous literature has generally found an insignificant or positive effect of the reserve price on unconditional auction revenue.
Delegation, Ownership Concentration and R&D Spending: Evidence From Italy
Authors: Kastl Jakub , Martimort David , Piccolo Salvatore
Published: May 2013

We use data from the Italian manufacturing industry to document a positive correlation between delegation and R&D. This result is robust to controlling for the determinants of R&D such as human capital, capital intensity and sectoral or regional effects. We further investigate the determinants of delegation and find that ownership concentration is significantly related to delegation. Among large firms with a dispersed ownership structure, larger ownership concentration implies less delegation, whereas the opposite emerges with more concentrated ownership. Differences between the Northern and Southern regions in terms of firms' propensity to delegate decisions and engage in R&D also emerge.
Effect of dietary supplementation of prebiotics and probiotics on intestinal microarchitecture in broilers reared under cyclic heat stress
Authors: Ashraf S. , Zaneb H. , Yousaf M. S. , Ijaz A. , Sohail M. U. , Muti S. , Usman M. M. , Ijaz S. , Rehman H.
Published: May 2013

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of prebiotics, mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) and/or probiotics (LBP) on intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL) count, goblet cells (GC) count and differentiation and intestinal micro‐architecture in broilers reared under cyclic heat stress. Day‐old broilers (n = 250) were randomly divided into five groups. Fifty birds were reared within the thermoneutral zone (TNZ). Remaining birds were subjected to cyclic heat stress from day 21 to 42 (35° C, 75% RH, 8 h/d). The birds were fed corn‐soy‐based basal diet or the same diet supplemented with 0.5% MOS (HS‐MOS), or 0.1% LBP (HS‐LBP), or their combination (HS‐SYN). The birds were slaughtered on day 42. Tissue samples were collected from mid‐duodenum, jejunum and ileum, and stained with haematoxylin and eosin or combined Alcian blue and PAS technique. All differences were considered significant at p < 0.05. The IEL count increased in all intestinal segments of the HS group compared with the TNZ group and decreased in all supplemented groups compared with the HS group. Compared with the TNZ, heat stress reduced villus height, crypt depth and surface area in duodenum and ileum, and increased crypt depth in ileum. Villus width decreased in duodenum and jejunum compared with the TNZ group. Supplementation of LBP, MOS and SYN reversed all these changes in duodenum, while only increased villus height and surface area in ileum. In jejunum, the villus height and surface area increased with HS‐LBP, and crypt depth increased with HS‐MOS. The number of GC containing acid mucins (duodenum and ileum) and mixed mucins (ileum) were increased in the HS compared with the TNZ. Supplementation of MOS, LBP and SYN maintained the enhanced activity of goblet cells. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of MOS and/or LBP may be helpful in alleviating some of the detrimental effects of heat stress on microstructure of the broiler gut.
Identification of undeclared sources of animal origin in canine dry foods used in dietary elimination trials
Authors: Ricci R. , Granato A. , Vascellari M. , Boscarato M. , Palagiano C. , Andrighetto I. , Diez M. , Mutinelli F.
Published: May 2013

Failure to respond to commercial limited antigen diets can occur in dogs kept on a dietary trial for the diagnosis of adverse food reaction (AFR). The aim of this study was to assess twelve canine dry limited antigen diets (eleven novel protein diets and one hydrolysed diet) for potential contamination by ingredients of animal origin not mentioned on the label. The validity of the two methods adopted for the detection of such food antigens was also evaluated. Each dietary product was analysed by microscopy analysis using the official method described in Commission RegulationEC152/2009 with the aim of identifying bone fragments of different zoological classes (mammalian, avian and fish) and bypolymerasechainreaction(PCR) for the identification ofDNAof animal origin. Discrepancies between the results obtained byPCRand/or microscopy analysis and the ingredients listed on pet food packages were found. Only in two pet foods did the results of both analyses match the ingredients listed on the label. In the remaining ten samples, microscopy detected bone fragments from one or two unpredicted zoological classes, revealing avian fragments in six of ten samples followed by those of fish in five of ten and mammalian fragments in four of ten. In two samples, microscopy analysis identified a contamination that would have otherwise passed unobserved if onlyPCRhad been used. However,PCRconfirmed the presence of all the zoological classes detected by microscopy and also identified theDNAof an additional unexpected zoological class in two samples. Dogs might fail to respond to commercial limited antigen diets because such diets are contaminated with potential allergens. BothPCRand microscopy analysis are required to guarantee the absence of undeclared animal sources in pet foods. Before ruling outAFR, a novel protein home‐made diet should be considered if the dog is unresponsive to a commercial regimen.
Effect of weaning and in‐feed high doses of zinc oxide on zinc levels in different body compartments of piglets
Authors: Davin R. , Manzanilla E.G. , Klasing K.C. , Pérez J.F.
Published: May 2013

High doses of Zn are widely used for prevention and treatment of diarrhoea in weaning piglets; however, the mechanism of action of Zn against diarrhoea is still not well understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether weaning induces Zn deficiency in piglets. Eight litters of primiparous sows were selected for the experiment, and 3 piglets presenting similar weights were selected within each litter. Two of the three selected piglets from each litter were weaned at 21d of age and fed two different diets: a commercial control diet (WCt) and the same diet plus 2000 ppm of Zn as ZnO (WZn). The third selected pig from each litter was kept unweaned (Uw) with the sow and the rest of the litter. All 24 selected animals were killed at 28 d of age, and blood, gastrointestinal content, liver, pancreas and spleen were sampled for Zn, Fe and Cu analysis (mg/kg or L of sample). Data were analysed using anova including treatment as a fixed factor. Weaned pigs fed WCt diet presented a lower Zn concentration in plasma than Uw animals (0.76 ± 0.091 vs. 1.10 ± 0.099 mg/L, p = 0.05). Zinc levels in liver, pancreas and spleen were not affected by weaning. Total concentration of Zn was higher in gastrointestinal contents of weaned animals fed WCt diet than in Uw pigs (p ≤ 0.001 for stomach, jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon). Supplementation with high doses of ZnO increased levels of Zn in gastrointestinal content (p < 0.001), liver (p < 0.001) and pancreas (p < 0.001) compared to WCt diet. It also increased plasma Zn to non‐deficient levels (1.32 ± 0.086), but the increase was not as marked as in other locations and final concentration was not different than that in Uw animals (p = 0.231). Weaning creates a Zn deficiency situation in weaned pigs as observed by plasma Zn concentrations. ZnO supplementation counteracts Zn deficiency.
Effect of timing of post‐partum introduction to pasture and supplementation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae on milk production, metabolic status, energy balance and some reproductive parameters in early lactation dairy cows
Authors: Al Ibrahim R. M. , Whelan S. J. , Pierce K. M. , Campion D. P. , Gath V. P. , Mulligan F. J.
Published: May 2013

Dietary change, an inconsistent nutrient intake and high levels of milk production make the early post‐partum period (PP) a challenging time for the lactating dairy cow. This experiment investigates the effects of two early PP nutritional management strategies (NM): abrupt introduction to pasture (AP) or a total mixed ration (TMR) for 21 days followed by a gradual introduction to pasture over 7 days (GP), with (Y) or without (C) live yeast (YS) on milk production, energy balance (EB) and selected metabolic and reproductive variables. Forty multiparous dairy cows were assigned to one of four dietary treatments in a two (AP vs. GP) by two (Y vs. C) factorial, randomized block design. The experiment was conducted from days 1 to 70 PP. Blood samples were taken on day 1, day 5 and every 10 days until day 45 to determine metabolites, whilst intake (DMI), and EB were determined during week 6 PP. Milk was sampled weekly for fat, protein and lactose. Trans‐rectal scanning for reproductive variables commenced on day 10 PP. Animals in the GP group had a higher DMI (p = 0.04), higher fat yield (p = 0.08) and fewer days to first ovulation (p = 0.09) vs. those in the AP group. EB (−3.5 ± 0.67 units of energy for milk production) and body condition score loss (0.70 ± 0.09) were not affected by NM. However, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) (p < 0.01) were higher, and glucose (p = 0.02) was lower in the AP vs. the GP group. Supplementary YS tended to improve EB (p = 0.09) and reduced NEFA (p < 0.01) vs. non‐supplemented animals. These data suggest that offering animals a nutritionally balanced TMR during the first 3 weeks PP followed by a gradual introduction to pasture can improve DMI vs. pasture‐based diets. Additionally, the blood metabolic profile suggests a more favourable energy status in the GP group or where YS was supplemented during the early PP period.
Morphology of the parotoid macroglands in Phyllomedusa leaf frogs
Authors: Antoniazzi M. M. , Neves P. R. , Mailho‐Fontana P. L. , Rodrigues M. T. , Jared C.
Published: May 2013

The parotoid macroglands of toads (bufonids) and leaf frogs (hylids) are used in passive defence against predators. The parotoids release poison when the amphibian is bitten by a predator. Despite the apparent similarity, the anatomical and histological structure of these macroglands in hylids is poorly studied when compared with those of bufonids. In this paper, we focused on the morphology of the macroglands of P. distincta, a leaf frog endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest, comparing their structure with those of bufonids. In addition, we compared the macrogland morphology of P. distincta with those from major clades of Phyllomedusa. All results revealed a macrogland morphology in leaf frogs distinct from that of toads, suggesting that the term parotoid should be used only for those of bufonids.
The North of the South: The Geopolitical Implications of “Pacific Consensus” in South America and the Brazilian Dilemma
Authors: Vadell Javier A.
Published: May 2013

This article analyzes the geopolitical implications of the growing economic interdependence between the People's Republic of China and South America, especially Brazil. Presenting data on China's trade and investment and highlighting the advances in diplomatic bilateral cooperation during the 21st century, it focuses on two main questions: Would the China–South America relationship constitute a new pattern of south–south cooperation or a new type of north–south relationship? What role does Brazil play in this scenario? Although China stimulates South American economic growth, what are the geopolitical implications for Brazil, as a regional power, in two specific strategic points: as an industrialized country affected by the competition of Chinese products and as a leader of the South American integration process with The Southern Market (Mercosur) and the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR)? Our hypothesis is that the evolution and dynamics of this relationship are more akin to a center–periphery standard, with special characteristics, which we call Pacific Consensus. A second hypothesis is that, although the growing economic penetration of China in the Southern Hemisphere benefits macroeconomic indicators and economic growth, it challenges the Brazilian strategic geopolitical position, creating a complex dilemma.
Bright-Line Fever: Simple Legal Rules and Complex Property Customs among the Fataluku of East Timor
Authors: Fitzpatrick Daniel , McWilliam Andrew
Published: May 2013

Recent law and economics scholarship has revived a debate on bright-line rules in property theory. Economic analysis asserts a baseline preference for bright-line property rules because of the information costs if “all the world” had to understand a range of permitted uses, or deal with multiple interest holders in a resource. A baseline preference for bright-line rules of property arises from the cost of communicating information: all else being equal, complex rules suit smaller audiences (e.g., contracting parties) and simple rules suit large audiences (e.g., property transactors, violators, and enforcers). This article explores the circumstances in which a simple rule, purportedly for a large audience, takes on interpretive complexity as it traverses specialized audience segments. The argument draws on two heuristic strands of recent sociolegal scholarship: systems theory notions of autopoiesis, and concepts of negotiability in plural property relations. The potential for complex interpretations of simple legal rules is illustrated through a case study of the Fataluku language group in the district of Lautem, East Timor.
Pragmatic Discourse and Gender Inequality in China
Authors: He Xin , Ng Kwai
Published: May 2013

Using courtroom dialogs from actual court trials in China as data, this article analyzes an emerging “pragmatic discourse,” deployed by judges to assist, but at the same time to constrain divorcing women. Through questions, statements, rebuttals, and other interactional devices, Chinese judges define the premises that underpin the law's understanding of gender equality and women's welfare. By looking at how discourses are deployed by judges and litigants, we link micro linguistic practices to more general social forces and processes. Despite their honest effort to protect women's rights, Chinese judges often inadvertently reinforce and reproduce the patriarchal norm. The data demonstrate how the hegemonic patriarchal order reasserts itself in an institutional forum that is meant to promote gender equality. The interaction of the discourses also highlights the tensions in Chinese society and displays the effect of changing social environment on the legal operation.
Product feedback regulation implicated in translational control of the Trypanosoma brucei S‐adenosylmethionine decarboxylase regulatory subunit prozyme
Authors: Xiao Yanjing , Nguyen Suong , Kim Sok Ho , Volkov Oleg A. , Tu Benjamin P. , Phillips Margaret A.
Published: May 2013

Human African sleeping sickness (HAT) is caused by the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma brucei. Polyamine biosynthesis is an important drug target in the treatment of HAT. Previously we showed that trypanosomatid S‐adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (AdoMetDC), a key enzyme for biosynthesis of the polyamine spermidine, is activated by heterodimer formation with an inactive paralogue termed prozyme. Furthermore, prozyme protein levels were regulated in response to reduced AdoMetDC activity. Herein we show that T. brucei encodes three prozyme transcripts. The 3′UTRs of these transcripts were mapped and chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) reporter constructs were used to identify a 1.2 kb region that contained a 3′UTR prozyme regulatory element sufficient to upregulate CAT protein levels (but not RNA) upon AdoMetDC inhibition, supporting the hypothesis that prozyme expression is regulated translationally. To gain insight into trans‐acting factors, genetic rescue of AdoMetDC RNAi knock‐down lines with human AdoMetDC was performed leading to rescue of the cell growth block, and restoration of prozyme protein to wild‐type levels. Metabolite analysis showed that prozyme protein levels were inversely proportional to intracellular levels of decarboxylated AdoMet (dcAdoMet). These data suggest that prozyme translation may be regulated by dcAdoMet, a metabolite not previously identified to play a regulatory role.
Nursing challenges with a severely injured patient in critical care
Authors: Crossan Lisa , Cole Elaine
Published: May 2013

Background

Patients with severe, multiple, traumatic injuries are challenging to manage in critical care. Early identification of injuries and optimal resuscitation is essential for favourable outcomes. Trauma‐related haemorrhage can lead to the lethal triad of hypothermia, coagulopathy and acidosis. Many trauma patients require urgent haemorrhage control and structural fixation through operative intervention. However, metabolic derangement and cardiovascular instability may delay surgery, resulting in an ongoing cycle of deterioration. Damage control surgery (DCS) may be used as a temporizing measure until the patient is stabilized in critical care. The aim of this case study is to discuss the complex issues faced in the critical care management of a severely injured patient.

Design

We conducted a patient case study, with analysis of care using published evidence. The key terms used to search for evidence were trauma, injury, damage control surgery, spinal fixation, critical/intensive care and nurse.

Results

We report the care of a trauma patient with complex, conflicting injuries requiring management of the lethal triad and DCS. The delay in subsequent definitive repair of spinal column fractures provided many challenges for critical care nurses including restricted patient mobilization, positioning and pressure ulcer prevention. A review of contemporary evidence relating to DCS reveals that whilst this technique is used increasingly in trauma, the research focuses on single system injuries.

Conclusion

Evidence and guidelines are required to support DCS for critical care patients with multiple, conflicting injuries including spinal fractures. For patients with delayed surgical intervention, rotational bed therapy may assist critical care nurses in meeting needs.
Direct and legacy effects of long‐term elevatedCO2on fine root growth and plant–insect interactions
Authors: Stiling Peter , Moon Daniel , Rossi Anthony , Forkner Rebecca , Hungate Bruce A. , Day Frank P. , Schroeder Rachel E. , Drake Bert
Published: May 2013

Increasing atmosphericCO2concentrations alter leaf physiology, with effects that cascade to communities and ecosystems. Yet, responses over cycles of disturbance and recovery are not well known, because most experiments span limited ecological time. We examined the effects ofCO2on root growth, herbivory and arthropod biodiversity in a woodland from 1996 to 2006, and the legacy ofCO2enrichment on these processes during the year after theCO2treatment ceased.

We used minirhizotrons to study root growth, leaf censuses to study herbivory and pitfall traps to determine the effects of elevatedCO2on arthropod biodiversity.

ElevatedCO2increased fine root biomass, but decreased foliar nitrogen and herbivory on all plant species. Insect biodiversity was unchanged in elevatedCO2. Legacy effects of elevatedCO2disappeared quickly as fine root growth, foliar nitrogen and herbivory levels recovered in the next growing season following the cessation of elevatedCO2.

Although the effects of elevatedCO2cascade through plants to herbivores, they do not reach other trophic levels, and biodiversity remains unchanged. The legacy of 10 yr of elevatedCO2on plant–herbivore interactions in this system appear to be minimal, indicating that the effects of elevatedCO2may not accumulate over cycles of disturbance and recovery.
The regulation of cambial activity in Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) involves extensive transcriptome remodeling
Authors: Qiu Zongbo , Wan Lichuan , Chen Tong , Wan Yinglang , He Xinqiang , Lu Shanfa , Wang Yanwei , Lin Jinxing
Published: May 2013

Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata), a commercially important tree for the timber and pulp industry, is widely distributed in southern China and northern Vietnam, but its large and complex genome has hindered the development of genomic resources. Few efforts have focused on analysis of the modulation of transcriptional networks in vascular cambium during the transition from active growth to dormancy in conifers.

Here, we used Illumina sequencing to analyze the global transcriptome alterations at the different stages of vascular cambium development in Chinese fir.

By analyzing dynamic changes in the transcriptome of vascular cambium based on our RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) data at the dormant, reactivating and active stages, many potentially interesting genes were identified that encoded putative regulators of cambial activity, cell division, cell expansion and cell wall biosynthesis and modification. In particular, the genes involved in transcriptional regulation and hormone signaling were highlighted to reveal their biological importance in the cambium development and wood formation.

Our results reveal the dynamics of transcriptional networks and identify potential key components in the regulation of vascular cambium development in Chinese fir, which will contribute to the in‐depth study of cambial differentiation and wood‐forming candidate genes in conifers.
EVALUATING THE PROSPECTS OF BENEFIT SHARING SCHEMES IN PROTECTING MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN CENTRAL AFRICA
Authors: MUKANJARI SAMSON , BEDNAR‐FRIEDL BIRGIT , MUCHAPONDWA EDWIN , ZIKHALI PRECIOUS
Published: May 2013

Presently, the mountain gorilla in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo is endangered mainly by poaching and habitat loss. This paper sets out to investigate the possible resolution of poaching involving the local community by using benefit sharing schemes with local communities. Using a bioeconomic model, the paper demonstrates that the current revenue sharing scheme yields suboptimal conservation outcomes. It is, however, shown that a performance‐linked benefit sharing scheme in which the Park Agency makes payment to the local community based on the growth of the gorilla stock can achieve socially optimal conservation. This scheme renders poaching effort by the local community, and therefore poaching fines and antipoaching enforcement toward the local community unnecessary. Given the huge financial outlay requirements for the ideal benefit sharing scheme, the Park Agencies in central Africa could reap more financial benefits for use in conservation if they employ an oligopolistic pricing strategy for gorilla tourism.
INFLUENCES OF AVAILABILITY ON PARAMETER ESTIMATES FROM SITE OCCUPANCY MODELS WITH APPLICATION TO SUBMERSED AQUATIC VEGETATION
Authors: GRAY BRIAN R. , HOLLAND MARK D. , YI FENG , STARCEVICH LEIGH ANN HARROD
Published: May 2013

Site occupancy models are commonly used by ecologists to estimate the probabilities of species site occupancy and of species detection. This study addresses the influence on site occupancy and detection estimates of variation in species availability among surveys within sites. Such variation in availability may result from temporary emigration, nonavailability of the species for detection, and sampling sites spatially when species presence is not uniform within sites. We demonstrate, using Monte Carlo simulations and aquatic vegetation data, that variation in availability and heterogeneity in the probability of availability may yield biases in the expected values of the site occupancy and detection estimates that have traditionally been associated with low‐detection probabilities and heterogeneity in those probabilities. These findings confirm that the effects of availability may be important for ecologists and managers, and that where such effects are expected, modification of sampling designs and/or analytical methods should be considered. Failure to limit the effects of availability may preclude reliable estimation of the probability of site occupancy.
Cyclin D1‐induced proliferation is independent of beta‐catenin in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Sales KU , Giudice FS , Castilho RM , Salles FT , Squarize CH , Abrahao AC , Pinto DS
Published: May 2013

Objective

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) progression and metastasis have previously been associated with the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase‐protein kinase B (PI3K‐Akt) and Wnt signalling pathways, which lead to the activation of pro‐proliferative genes, such as cyclin D1. The current study aims to investigate whether there is a crosstalk between these pathways in HNSCC and which pathway is more likely to regulate cyclin D1.

Material and Methods

Two HNSCC and a control keratinocyte cell lines were treated with EGF and wortmannin to respectively activate and block the PI3K‐Akt and Wnt pathways. Partial and total levels of cyclin D1, beta‐catenin and Akt were evaluated by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Twenty‐four paraffin‐embedded samples of human HNSCC, as well as normal oral mucosa biopsies, were also immunohistochemically evaluated for beta‐catenin and cyclin D1 expression.

Results

Following both treatments, change in cyclin D1 protein was correlated with Akt levels only. Cytoplasmic staining for beta‐catenin and loss of its membranous expression in the HNSCC invasive areas were found in 92% of the HNSCC biopsies.

Conclusion

Taken together, we show that the change in cyclin D1 levels is more likely to be due to the EGFR‐Akt pathway activation than due to beta‐catenin nuclear translocation.
In‐House Globalization: The Role of Globally Distributed Design and Product Architecture on Product Development Performance
Authors: Gokpinar Bilal , Hopp Wallace J. , Iravani Seyed M. R.
Published: May 2013

Changes in the global economy and technological advances are stimulating increased geographic distribution of new product design and development efforts. For large organizations that design and develop complex products, this geographic distribution has added a new layer of complexity to product development operations. In this empirical study of a large auto manufacturer, we examine the operational performance implications of splitting the design of vehicle subsystems across multiple geographic locations. Our results indicate that global distribution diminishes the chance of completing tasks on time and degrades subsystem design quality. Finally, by examining the interplay between subsystem centrality and global distribution, we found that higher centrality in the product architecture amplifies the impact of global distribution on subsystem error rates.
Environmental Regulations and Multinational Corporations' Foreign Market Entry Investments
Authors: Rivera Jorge , Oh Chang Hoon
Published: May 2013

In this study, we examine how differences in environmental regulation characteristics are linked to multinational corporations' (MNCs) foreign market entry (FME) investments decisions around the world. We rely on a data set with 29,303 observations from 94 European Fortune Global 500 companies operating across 77 countries during the period 2001–2007. We found that MNCs are more likely to enter countries with more certain—i.e., clearer and more stable—environmental regulations than those of their home countries. Results also suggest that there is a higher level of MNC entry into foreign countries with environmental regulations that are more stringent than those of their home countries. This finding challenges the controversial but commonly held view that more stringent environmental regulations deter MNCs' FME investments. Notably, the magnitude of the regulatory certainty relationship with MNCs' FME investments is larger than that of regulatory stringency. Findings also indicate that the increased tendency of MNCs to enter countries with more stringent environmental regulations is higher in more democratic countries and for cleaner industry firms.