bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of chondroitin 4‐sulphate as a receptor for polycation induced human platelet aggregation
Authors: Donato José L. , Marcondes Sisi , Antunes Edson , Nogueira Marie D. , Nader Helena B. , Dietrich Carl P. , Rendu Francine , de Nucci Gilberto
Published: July 2012

Proteoglycans provide negatively charged sites on the surface of platelets, leukocytes and endothelial cells. Since chondroitin 4‐sulphate is the main proteoglycan present on the platelet surface, the role of this molecule in mediating the activation of human platelets by polylysine was studied.

Platelets were desensitized with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA, 10 nM) 5 min before the addition of polylysine to platelet‐rich plasma (PRP). Changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration were measured in fura2‐am (2 μm) loaded platelets and protein phosphorylation was assessed by autoradiography of the electrophoretic profile obtained from [32P]‐phosphate labelled platelets. The release of dense granule contents was measured in [14C]‐5‐hydroxytryptamine loaded platelets and the synthesis of thromboxane (TXA2) was assessed by radioimmunoassay. Surface chondroitin 4‐sulphate proteoglycan was degraded by incubating platelets with different concentrations of chondroitinase AC (3 min, 37°C). The amount of chondroitin 4‐sulphate remaining in the platelets was then quantified after proteolysis and agarose gel electrophoresis.

The addition of PMA to PRP before polylysine inhibited the aggregation by 88 ± 18% (n = 3). Staurosporine (1 μm, 5 min) prevented the PMA‐induced inhibition. Chondroitinase AC (4 pu ml−1 to 400 μu ml−1, 3 min) abolished the polylysine‐induced aggregation in PRP but caused only a discrete inhibition of ADP‐induced aggregation. The concentration of chrondroitin 4‐sulphate in PRP (0.96 ± 0.2 μg/108 platelets, n = 3) and in washed platelets (WP; 0.35 ± 0.1 μg/108 platelets, n = 3) was significantly reduced following incubation with chondroitinase AC (PRP = 0.63 ± 0.1 μg/108 platelets and WP = 0.08 ± 0.06 μg/108 platelets).

Washed platelets had a significantly lower concentration of chondroitin 4‐sulphate than platelets in PRP. The addition of polylysine to WP induced a rapid increase in light transmission which was not accompanied by TXA2 synthesis or the release of dense granule contents. This effect was not inhibited by sodium nitroprusside (SNP), iloprost, EDTA or the peptide RGDS. This event was accompanied by the discrete phosphorylation of plekstrin and myosin light chain, which were inhibited by staurosporine (10 μm, 10 min). The hydrolysis of platelet surface chondroitin 4‐sulphate strongly reduced the polylysine‐induced phosphorylation.

Our results indicate that polylysine activates platelets through a specific receptor which could be the proteoglycan chondroitin 4‐sulphate present on the platelet membrane.
Effect of dexamethasone and endogenous corticosterone on airway hyperresponsiveness and eosinophilia in the mouse
Authors: De Bie J.J. , Hessel E.M. , Van Ark I. , Van Esch B. , Hofman G. , Nijkamp F.P. , Van Oosterhout A.J.M.
Published: July 2012

Mice were sensitized by 7 intraperitoneal injections of ovalbumin without adjuvant (10 μg in 0.5 ml of sterile saline) on alternate days and after 3 weeks exposed to either ovalbumin (2 mg ml−1 in sterile saline) or saline aerosol for 5 min on 8 consecutive days. One day before the first challenge, animals were injected intraperitoneally on a daily basis with vehicle (0.25 ml sterile saline), dexamethasone (0.5 mg kg−1) or metyrapone (30 mg kg−1).

In vehicle‐treated ovalbumin‐sensitized animals ovalbumin challenge induced a significant increase of airway responsiveness to metacholine both in vitro (27%, P < 0.05) and in vivo (40%, P < 0.05) compared to saline‐challenged mice. Virtually no eosinophils could be detected after saline challenge, whereas the numbers of eosinophils were significantly increased (P < 0.01) at both 3 and 24 h after the last ovalbumin challenge (5.48 ± 3.8 × 103 and 9.13 ± 1.7 × 103 cells, respectively). Furthermore, a significant increase in ovalbumin‐specific immunoglobulin E level (583 ± 103 units ml−1, P < 0.05) was observed after ovalbumin challenge compared to saline challenge (201 ± 38 units ml−1).

Plasma corticosterone level was significantly reduced (−92%, P < 0.001) after treatment with metyrapone. Treatment with metyrapone significantly increased eosinophil infiltration (17.4 ± 9.93 × 103 and 18.7 ± 2.57 × 103 cells, P < 0.05 at 3 h and 24 h, respectively) and potentiated airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine compared to vehicle‐treated ovalbumin‐challenged animals. Dexamethasone inhibited both in vitro and in vivo hyperresponsiveness as well as antigen‐induced infiltration of eosinophils (0, P < 0.05 and 0.7 ± 0.33 × 103 cells, P < 0.05 at 3 h and 24 h, respectively). Metyrapone as well as dexamethasone did not affect the increase in ovalbumin‐specific immunoglobulin E levels after ovalbumin challenge (565 ± 70 units/ml−1; P < 0.05; 552 ± 48 units ml−1, P < 0.05 respectively).

From these data it can be concluded that exogenously applied corticosteroids can inhibit eosinophil infiltration as well as airway hyperresponsiveness. Vise versa, endogenously produced corticosteroids play a down‐regulating role on the induction of both eosinophil infiltration and airway hyperresponsiveness.
Role of Familiarity and Preference in Reproductive Success in Ex Situ Breeding Programs
Authors: MARTIN MEGHAN S. , SHEPHERDSON DAVID J.
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  Success of captive‐breeding programs centers on consistent reproduction among captive animals. However, many individuals do not reproduce even when they are apparently healthy and presented with mates. Mate choice can affect multiple parameters of reproductive success, including mating success, offspring production, offspring survival, and offspring fecundity. We investigated the role of familiarity and preference on reproductive success of female Columbia Basin pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) as measured by litter production, litter size, average number of young that emerged from the burrow, and average number of young that survived to 1 year. We conducted these studies on pygmy rabbits at the Oregon Zoo (Portland, Oregon, U.S.A.) and Washington State University (Pullman, Washington, U.S.A.) from February to June 2006, 2007, and 2008. Before mating, we housed each female adjacent to 2 males (neighbors). Female preference for each potential mate was determined on the basis of behavioral interactions observed and measured between the rabbits. We compared reproductive success between females mated with neighbor and non‐neighbor males and between females mated with preferred and nonpreferred males. Our findings suggest that mating with a neighbor compared with a non‐neighbor and mating with a preferred neighbor compared with a nonpreferred neighbor increased reproductive success in female pygmy rabbits. Litter production, average number of young that emerged, and average number of young that survived to 1 year were higher in rabbits that were neighbors before mating than in animals who were not neighbors. Pairing rabbits with a preferred partner increased the probability of producing a litter and was significantly associated with increased litter size. In captive breeding programs, mates are traditionally selected on the basis of genetic parameters to minimize loss of genetic diversity and inbreeding coefficients. Our results suggest that integrating genetic information with social dynamics and behavioral measures of preference may increase the reproductive output of the pygmy rabbit captive‐breeding program. Our findings are consistent with the idea that allowing mate choice and familiarity increase the reproductive success of captive‐breeding programs for endangered species.
Conservation Objectives and Sea‐Surface Temperature Anomalies in the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: BAN NATALIE C. , PRESSEY ROBERT L. , WEEKS SCARLA
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  Spatial and temporal dynamics of ecological processes have long been considered important in marine systems, but seldom have conservation objectives been set for them. Climate change makes the consideration of the dynamics of ecological processes in the design of marine protected areas critical. We analyzed sea‐surface temperature (SST) trends and variability in Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (GBRMP) for 25 years and formulated and tested whether three sets of notional conservation objectives were met to illustrate the potential for planning to address climate change. Given mixed and limited evidence that no‐take areas increase resilience to disturbances such as anomalously high temperatures (i.e., temperatures ≥1 °C above weekly mean temperature), our conservation objectives focused on areas less likely to be affected by such events at extents ranging from the entire Great Barrier Reef to the system of no‐take zones and individual no‐take zones. The objective sets were (1) at least 50% of temperature refugia (i.e., pixels that had high‐temperature anomalies <5% or <7% of the time) within no‐take zones, (2) maximum occurrence of high‐temperature anomalies is <10%,< 20%, or <30% of total no‐take area 90% of the time, and (3) coverage of any single no‐take zone by high‐temperature anomalies occurs <5% or <10% of the time. We used satellite imagery from 1985–2009 to measure SST to determine high‐temperature anomalies. SSTs in the Great Barrier Reef increased significantly in some regions, and some of the conservation objectives were met by the park's current zoning plan. Dialogue between conservation scientists and managers is needed to develop appropriate conservation objectives under climate change and strategies to meet them.
Psychological Distress and Depression in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zalai Dora , Szeifert Lilla , Novak Marta
Published: July 2012

Depressive disorders are 1.5–4 times more prevalent in medically ill patients than in the general population. Mood disorders can be regarded as the final common pathway developing from the interaction among multiple pathophysiological, psychological, and socioeconomic stressors that chronic illness imposes on the individual. Symptoms of clinical depression affect approximately 25% patients on hemodialysis and can be associated with low quality of life and increased mortality. The epidemiology of depressive disorders is less well studied in the renal transplant population. However, depression is a risk factor for poor outcomes, such as graft failure and death after renal transplantation. A high prevalence of severe psychological distress in patients with advanced CKD and its impact on CKD outcomes call for screening and intervention integrated in routine renal care. Preliminary data indicate that some of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor agents and time‐limited, manualized, structured psychotherapies can be safe and effective for treating depression in this population.
The Other‐Race Effect in a Longitudinal Sample of 3‐, 6‐ and 9‐Month‐Old Infants: Evidence of a Training Effect
Authors: Spangler Sibylle M. , Schwarzer Gudrun , Freitag Claudia , Vierhaus Marc , Teubert Manuel , Fassbender Ina , Lohaus Arnold , Kolling Thorsten , Graf Frauke , Goertz Claudia , Knopf Monika , Lamm Bettina , Keller Heidi
Published: July 2012

We investigated the development of the other‐race effect “ORE” in a longitudinal sample of 3‐, 6‐, and 9‐month‐oldCaucasian infants. Previous research using cross‐sectional samples has shown an unstableOREat 3 months, an increase at 6 months and full development at 9 months. In Experiment 1, we tested whether 9‐month‐olds showed theOREwithCaucasian andAfrican faces. As expected, the 9‐month‐olds discriminated faces within their own ethnicity (Caucasian) but not within the unfamiliar ethnicity (African). In months. In Experiment 2, we longitudinally tested infants at 3, 6, and 9 months by presenting either theCaucasian or theAfrican faces used in Experiment 1. In contrast to previous cross‐sectional studies and Experiment 1, we found that infants discriminated between all stimuli. Hence, we did not find theOREin this longitudinal study even at 9 months. We assume that the infants in our longitudinal study showed noOREbecause of previous repetitive exposure to African faces at 3 and 6 months. We argue that only a few presentations of faces from other ethnic categories sufficiently slow the development of theORE.
Pubertal Timing as a Potential Mediator of Adoption Effects on Problem Behaviors
Authors: Brooker Rebecca J. , Berenbaum Sheri A. , Bricker Josh , Corley Robin P. , Wadsworth Sally A.
Published: July 2012

Adopted children show more problem behaviors than nonadopted children. Given that internationally adopted individuals show earlier puberty than nonadopted individuals, and early puberty is associated with problem behaviors in nonadopted youth, we analyzed data from adopted domestic adoptees to determine whether problem behaviors could be explained by differences in pubertal timing. Relative to nonadopted controls (n = 153), domestically adopted girls (n = 121) had earlier menarche, earlier sexual initiation, and more conduct disorder symptoms. Age at menarche partially mediated the relation of adoptive status to sexual initiation, but not to conduct disorder symptoms. Extending findings from international adoptees, results show that domestic adoption is also linked to earlier puberty, and suggest early puberty as one mechanism linking adoption to problematic outcomes.
Comparative Evaluation of Conventional and Transvaginal Laparoscopic Ovariohysterectomy in Dogs
Authors: Bakhtiari Jalal , Khalaj Ali Reza , Aminlou Elham , Niasari‐Naslaji Amir
Published: July 2012

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a transvaginal approach for laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy (OVH) in dogs and to compare it with conventional laparoscopic OVH.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Animals

Adult healthy female mixed breed dogs (n = 24).

Methods

Dogs (weighing 14–17 kg) were anesthetized and positioned in dorsal recumbency for ovariohysterectomy. Dogs were prepared for either conventional (n = 12) or transvaginal (n = 12) laparoscopic OVH. For conventional laparoscopic OVH, 3 midline abdominal portals were used and for the transvaginal approach, 2 midline abdominal portals and one vaginal portal were used. The transected ovarian pedicles, broad ligament, and uterus were removed through the umbilical region in the conventional method and through the vagina in the transvaginal method. Mean surgical time, intraoperative and postoperative complications, clinical and hematologic findings, and wound complications were compared.

Results

OVH was successfully performed without complications using both methods. Mean ± SD surgical times were similar between conventional (34.2 ± 4.03 min) and transvaginal (37.0 ± 3.56 min) methods. No significant differences, hematologic and clinical variables, were found between groups. The vaginal port could limit surgical maneuvers ergonomically during manipulation of the uterine body.

Conclusions

Transvaginal approach for laparoscopic OVH is a feasible technique with the advantage of requiring one less abdominal portal.
Weighty subjects: The biopolitics of the U.S. war on fat
Authors: Greenhalgh Susan
Published: July 2012

The United States has declared a war on fat. I examine this campaign as a biopolitical field of science and governance that has emerged to manage the “obesity epidemic” by remaking overweight and obese subjects into thin, fit, proper Americans. Drawing on research in Southern California, I examine the impact of the campaign on the bodies, selves, and lives of the heavyset young people who are its main targets. At least in this corner of the country, I argue, the war on fat, far from alleviating the problem of fatness, is creating a new fat problem by expanding the number of weight‐obsessed, self‐identified “abnormal”“fat subjects,” who may not be technically obese but whose desperate efforts to lower their weight endanger their health and bring intense socioemotional suffering. These developments have implications for larger issues of social suffering and social justice.
The biopolitics of hospitality in Greece: Humanitarianism and the management of refugees
Authors: Rozakou Katerina
Published: July 2012

Drawing on my research in refugee settings in Greece, I relate the biopolitics of humanitarianism with the Greek notion of “hospitality” and established cultural schemata of social relations. The dominant discourse on hospitality is reproduced in the humanitarian setting of a camp where asylum seekers are produced as worthy guests, placed in the middle ground between mere biological life and full social existence. Volunteers working with refugees on the street, by contrast, attempt to challenge biopolitical power through the reversal of hospitality, through which the refugee is symbolically reconstituted as a host (though a disputable one) and a political subject.
N + Ni Codoped Anatase TiO2 Nanocrystals with Exposed {001} Facets Through Two‐Step Hydrothermal Route
Authors: Zhang Yupeng , Li Chenzhe , Pan Chunxu
Published: July 2012

This study introduces a facile and novel route to synthesize the N + Ni codoped anatase TiO2 nanocrystals with exposed {001} facets through two‐step hydrothermal reaction. The microstructures, chemical compositions, and photocatalytic properties of the codoped TiO2 were characterized using X‐ray diffractometer, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV‐vis spectrometry, and photoluminescence emission spectra. The experimental results revealed that (i) the elements N and Ni have been successfully codoped into the anatase TiO2 with exposed {001} facets; (ii) the size of the TiO2 reached to a narrow range of 5–15 nm; (iii) the codoped TiO2 exhibited an additional visible light absorption band from 400 to 500 nm, which greatly improved the photocatalytic activity. The theoretical calculations for band structure and total energy also provided a good explanation for the experimental results.
Sperm as a limiting factor in mating success in Hymenoptera parasitoids
Authors: Boivin Guy
Published: July 2012

The paradigm that females produce few costly eggs, whereas males produce an unlimited quantity of sperm holds true when matings are dispersed over time and males can replenish their sperm supply. In such a system, the best strategy for males is to mate with as many females as possible, as more is always better. However, in parasitoid species, mating often occurs at the emergence site and males may have to mate successively several females in a short period of time. This can lead to sperm depletion that can be temporary in synspermatogenic species whose males produce sperm throughout their adult life, or definitive in prospermatogenic species whose males emerge with their full sperm complement and do not produce more during their adult life. Both the spermatogeny index and the mating structure of a species will therefore influence the probability and intensity of sperm depletion in males. Sperm‐limited males can court and mate females even in prospermatogenic species. These males still gain some inclusive fitness by preventing competitor males to fully inseminate females, therefore increasing the representation of their daughters in the following generation. Females that mate with partially or completely sperm‐depleted males produce a constrained sex ratio that decreases their lifetime fitness. In species where sperm‐depleted males occur, female choosiness based on sperm supply is predicted, as the cost of mating sperm‐depleted males can be high. In addition, males are also expected to be choosy in prospermatogenic species as mating with sub‐optimal females can be costly when sperm is limited.
Sex‐biased resource allocation in ovo in a sexually size‐dimorphic species
Authors: Chin Eunice H. , Sharp Christopher M. , Burness Gary
Published: July 2012

Sex‐biased resource allocation in eggs is increasingly recognized as one strategy oviparous mothers can employ to invest differentially in one sex, depending on nutritional requirements. Previous studies have used egg size as an index of nutrient allocation, but few have examined egg contents directly. We used molecular sexing of early‐stage ring‐billed gull Larus delawarensis embryos, a species with sexual size dimorphism, to test whether sex‐specific nutrient allocation occurs in ovo. Despite no sex difference in size, eggs with male embryos contained more albumen, while eggs with female embryos contained more yolk, lipid and non‐lipid (protein and carbohydrate). It is unclear why such sex‐biased resource allocation in ovo is utilized by ring‐billed gulls. However, our data indicate that a cursive examination of egg mass or size may not necessarily reflect nutrient allocation strategies mothers use in ovo, and that sex‐biased investment in ovo may be more widespread than currently appreciated.
Cutaneous macroglobulinosis: a case series
Authors: Camp Brendan J. , Magro Cynthia M.
Published: July 2012

Cutaneous macroglobulinosis is a rare skin manifestation of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. It is characterized by the deposition of eosinophilic, immunoglobulin‐derived material in the dermis. It typically presents as pink or skin‐colored papules favoring the extensor surfaces of the extremities. There are 11 reported cases of cutaneous macroglobulinosis in the literature. In our consultative dermatopathology practice we encountered three additional cases. In Case 1, a 41‐year‐old female with a monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM)‐kappa gammopathy developed skin‐colored papules on her extensor extremities, forehead and back. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses revealed periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS)‐positive pink material in the dermis that stained with IgM. In Case 2, an 83‐year‐old female with a monoclonal IgM‐lambda paraproteinemia developed non‐blanching papules and plaques on the lower extremities and cheeks. Skin biopsies showed a striking occlusion of the vessels with a PAS‐positive eosinophilic precipitate, which was also found in the extravascular spaces and stained with IgM using direct immunofluorescence (DIF) and immunohistochemical stains. In Case 3, an 80‐year‐old male with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia developed ulcerated papules and nodules on the lower extremities. The biopsy findings were similar to those of Case 2. We present a series of three patients with cutaneous macroglobulinosis and explore variations in the clinical and histopathological findings of this uncommon entity.
Elevation of vitamin D‐binding protein levels in the plasma of patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Zhang X. , Meng H. , Sun X. , Xu L. , Zhang L. , Shi D. , Feng X. , Lu R. , Chen Z.
Published: July 2012

Background and Objective:  Vitamin D‐binding protein (DBP) is a multifunctional and highly expressed plasma protein. Among its diverse roles, including those in the immune and inflammatory responses, it is the primary carrier of vitamin D, which has been implicated in periodontitis. We hypothesized that there is a correlation between systemic DBP levels and generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP).

Material and Methods:  Forty‐four patients with GAgP and 32 healthy controls were recruited. Clinical parameters were examined, including the mean bleeding index, probing depth, attachment loss and percentage of severely affected sites. Blood chemistry analyses were performed for each subject. Plasma levels of DBP, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and procalcitonin (PCT) were measured using ELISAs, and plasma levels of 25‐hydroxy‐vitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) were detected using a radioimmunoassay.

Results:  Significantly higher levels of plasma DBP, IL‐6, PCT and 25(OH)D3, as well as leukocyte counts, neutrophil counts and neutrophil percentages were found in patients with GAgP compared with healthy controls (p < 0.05 for all). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the plasma DBP levels were significantly correlated with GAgP, plasma PCT levels and smoking status (p < 0.05 for all). In the GAgP group, the plasma DBP levels in smokers were significantly higher than those in nonsmokers (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Elevated plasma vitamin DBP levels are associated with GAgP.
Melatonin suppresses tumor progression by reducing angiogenesis stimulated by HIF‐1 in a mouse tumor model
Authors: Kim Kil‐Jung , Choi Jae‐Sun , Kang Insug , Kim Kyu‐Won , Jeong Chul‐Ho , Jeong Joo‐Won
Published: July 2012

The sustained expansion of a tumor mass requires new blood vessel formation to provide rapidly proliferating tumor cells with an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) plays an essential role in tumor angiogenesis and growth by regulating the transcription of genes in response to hypoxic stress. This study was designed to investigate the effects of melatonin on tumor growth and angiogenesis, as well as the mechanism underlying the antitumor activities of melatonin. In this study, we show that the administration of melatonin inhibits tumor growth and blocks tumor angiogenesis in mice. Moreover, melatonin diminished the expression of the HIF‐1α protein within the tumor mass during tumorigenesis. Our findings suggest that melatonin is a promising anti‐angiogenic therapeutic agent targeting HIF‐1α in cancer. Considering that HIF‐1α is overexpressed in a majority of human cancers, melatonin could offer a potent therapeutic agent for cancer.
Pattern of traumatic dental injuries in the permanent dentition among children, adolescents, and adults
Authors: Lauridsen Eva , Hermann Nuno Vibe , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Kreiborg Sven , Andreasen Jens Ove
Published: July 2012

Abstract –  Background: Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) comprise six types of luxation and seven types of tooth fractures. The risk of pulp necrosis is increased in teeth with combination injuries where fractures and luxations occur concomitantly. Aim: To report and compare the distributions of luxations and fracture types among children, adolescents, and adults, and to analyze the distribution and prevalence of combination injuries. Material and method: The study group included 4754 patients (3186 men and 1568 women) with 10 166 traumatized permanent incisors treated at Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet. Differences in the distributions of trauma types among age groups (children <12 years, adolescents 12–20 years, and adults >20 years) and distributions of concomitant crown fractures for each luxation type were analyzed with the Chi‐square test. Results: A total of 7464 teeth (73.4%) had suffered a luxation injury and 5914 teeth (58.2%) a fracture. The overall most frequent injuries were crown fractures without pulp exposure (34.9%), concussions (24.2%), and subluxations (22.2%). The relative frequency of crown fractures without pulp exposure decreased across age groups (children 45.2%, adolescents 36.5%, adults 26.3%, P < 0.001), whereas the relative frequencies of other injury types increased across age groups : crown–root fractures (children 1.8%, adolescents 6.3%, adults 9.2%, P < 0.001), root fractures (children 2.5%, adolescents 4.6%, adults 8.7%, P < 0.001), and lateral luxations (children 5.7%, adolescents 10.9%, adults 13.0%, P < 0.001). One‐third of the traumatized teeth (n = 3212) had sustained a combination of a fracture and a luxation injury. The luxation types most frequently presenting with a concomitant crown fracture were concussion (57.9%), intrusion (47.2%), and subluxation (33.4%) (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The majority of TDI were minor injuries. The relative frequencies of injury types varied among age groups. Combination injuries were observed in one‐third of the traumatized teeth and occurred most frequently in teeth with concussion, intrusion, and subluxation.
SEGREGATION AND CIVIC VIRTUE
Authors: Merry Michael S.
Published: July 2012

In this essay Michael Merry defends the following prima facie argument: that civic virtue is not dependent on integration and in fact may be best fostered under conditions of segregation. He demonstrates that civic virtue can and does take place under conditions of involuntary segregation, but that voluntary separation—as a response to segregation—is a more effective way to facilitate it. While segregation and disadvantage commonly coexist, spatial concentrations, particularly when there is a strong voluntary aspect present, often aid in fostering civic virtue. Accordingly, so long as separation provides the conditions necessary for the promotion of civic virtue, integration is not an irreducible good.
Yes, Ronald Reagan's Rhetoric Was Unique—But Statistically,HowUnique?
Authors: SCHONHARDT‐BAILEY CHERYL , YAGER EDWARD , LAHLOU SAADI
Published: July 2012

We use automated textual analysis to compare Ronald Reagan's rhetoric with that of presidents Woodrow Wilson through Barack Obama, using their State of the Union speeches. We are able to assign statistical significance to the thematic content, and to depict spatially the shifting dimensionality in themes used by presidents. We find strong evidence for Reagan's usage of the civil religion rhetoric: over half (59%) of the discourse in his seminal and 48% in his State of the Union speeches focus on civil religion. We also find an apparent shift in modern presidential rhetoric, from themes concerned with (1) institutions, to ones focused more on (2) individuals, families, and children.
N‐terminal cleavage fragment of focal adhesion kinase is required to activate the survival signalling pathway in cultured myoblasts under oxidative stress
Authors: Lim Jeong A , Hwang Sung Ho , Kim Min Jeong , Kim Sang Soo , Kim Hye Sun
Published: July 2012

We have previously shown that the cultured L6 myoblasts are susceptible to menadione‐induced oxidative stress. Damaged cells were detached from the culture dishes. In the present study, we focused on focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which plays pivotal roles in maintaining focal adhesion function and cell survival. FAK, normally localized at the focal adhesion regions of the myoblasts, was not observed at the regions under oxidative stress induced by menadione and H2O2. Two cleavage products, 80‐kDa N‐terminal FAK and 35‐kDa C‐terminal FAK fragments, as well as full‐length FAK (125 kDa) were detected in myoblasts cultured under normal conditions by western blotting with anti‐N‐terminal FAK or anti‐C‐terminal FAK sera. Of interest was the finding that the cleavage products of FAK (but not full‐length FAK) disappeared under oxidative stress. The cleavage of full‐length FAK to N‐terminal FAK and C‐terminal FAK was inhibited by calpeptin, a specific calpain inhibitor. In addition, pre‐incubation of cells with calpeptin resulted in a sharp decrease in survival signals, such as Akt phosphorylation and the ratio of Bcl‐2/Bax, under stress conditions. By contrast, not only relative viability, but also Akt phosphorylation and the ratio of Bcl‐2/Bax was significantly improved when cells were transfected with a DNA construct of N‐terminal FAK‐Myc. These results suggest that the N‐terminal FAK positively regulates survival signalling in early phases of oxidative stress in the cultured myoblasts.
The Influence of Chromium Oxide on the Sintering Behavior of Silicon Nitride
Authors: Alem Ali , Pugh Martin D.
Published: July 2012

In this study, pressureless sintering of silicon nitride via the addition of chromium oxide was investigated. Silicon nitride samples containing additives from the Cr–Cr2O3–SiO2 system were sintered under different conditions. The phase transformation, the degree of densification and the in situ reactions between Si3N4 and chromium compounds were investigated and the reactions were validated thermodynamically. It was found that Si3N4 reacts with Cr2O3 and Cr and these in situ reactions lead to Si3N4 decomposition and consequently formation of a series of chromium silicides including Cr3Si, Cr5Si, and CrSi2. Due to the presence of chromium silicides as liquid phases during sintering, the α‐Si3N4 to β‐Si3N4 phase transformation started around 1400°C and was completed around 1800°C. On the other hand, densification of Si3N4 samples with chromium oxide addition was not observed. The participation of Cr2O3 in these in situ reactions prevents sufficient formation of chromium silicate and leads to insufficient liquid phase with poor wettability during sintering, resulting in poor densification.
The minimum variability time-scale and its relation to pulse profiles of Fermi GRBs
Authors: MacLachlan G. A. , Shenoy A. , Sonbas E. , Dhuga K. S. , Eskandarian A. , Maximon L. C. , Parke W. C.
Published: July 2012

We present a direct link between the minimum variability time-scales extracted through a wavelet decomposition and the rise times of the shortest pulses extracted via fits of 34 Fermi Gamma-ray Burst Monitor (GBM) Gamma-Ray Burst (GRB) light curves comprised of 379 pulses. Pulses used in this study were fitted with lognormal functions, whereas the wavelet technique used employs a multiresolution analysis that does not rely on identifying distinct pulses. By applying a corrective filter to published data fitted with pulses, we demonstrate agreement between these two independent techniques and offer a method for distinguishing signal from noise.
Evaluation of smear layer removal by bicarbonate soda, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid with cetrimide and sodium hypochlorite with a new model
Authors: Leow Natalie , Abbott Paul , Castro Salgado Jacqueline , Firth Laura
Published: July 2012

Various methods are used to evaluate irrigants. The primary aim was to develop a model for preliminary testing of potential irrigants. The second aim was to investigate the effect of bicarbonate soda on smear layer by comparing it with ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid with cetrimide (EDTAC) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Extracted human single‐canal teeth were halved, and a uniform filing method was used to create smear layer. The following solutions were then applied – distilled water (control), 1% NaOCl, 17% EDTAC and bicarbonate soda at concentrations of 1%, 5%, 10% and 15%. Some samples had multiple solutions in different sequences. Samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Representative images were scored based on the degree of smear layer remaining. Results were analysed with the SAS system, using the GENMOD procedure. Complete smear layer was found in samples treated with all solutions except EDTAC used alone. There were no significant differences between the sequences, EDTAC/NaOCl/EDTAC and NaOCl/EDTAC/NaOCl. There were no significant differences between groups with and without bicarbonate soda. In conclusion, the model was effective for testing chemical effects on solutions on smear layer. Bicarbonate soda did not remove smear layer and provided no additional cleaning effects after EDTAC and NaOCl.
Visceral adipose tissue: emerging role of gluco‐ and mineralocorticoid hormones in the setting of cardiometabolic alterations
Authors: Boscaro Marco , Giacchetti Gilberta , Ronconi Vanessa
Published: July 2012

Several clinical and experimental lines of evidence have highlighted the detrimental effects of visceral adipose tissue excess on cardiometabolic parameters. Besides, recent findings have shown the effects of gluco‐and mineralocorticoid hormones on adipose tissue and have also underscored the interplay existing between such adrenal steroids and their respective receptors in the modulation of adipose tissue biology. While the fundamental role played by glucocorticoids on adipocyte differentiation and storage was already well known, the relevance of the mineralocorticoids in the physiology of the adipose organ is of recent acquisition. The local and systemic renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) acting on adipose tissue seems to contribute to the development of the cardiometabolic phenotype so that its modulation can have deep impact on human health. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of the adipose organ is of crucial importance in order to identify possible therapeutic approaches that can avoid the development of such cardiovascular and metabolic sequelae.
Quo vadis, data privacy?
Authors: Gehrke Johannes
Published: July 2012

Society can gain much value from Big Data. We can study census data to learn where to allocate public resources, medical records from hospitals to fight diseases, or data about students and teachers to evaluate the effectiveness of various approaches to learning and teaching. In all of these scenarios, we need to limit statistical disclosure: we want to release accurate statistics about the data while preserving the privacy of the individuals who contributed it. This paper gives an overview of recent advances and open challenges in the field, focusing on methods that probably limit how much an adversary can learn from a data release.
Comprehensive Assessment of Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils
Authors: Anthony Kevin P. , Deolu‐Sobogun Suziat A. , Saleh Mahmoud A.
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  Essential oils have been studied for their unique ability to act as antioxidants. Antioxidant activities of 423 essential oils of 48 different botanical families were evaluated for their antioxidant activities as free radical scavenging agents using the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl method. Seventy‐three oils showed 50% or more inhibition at a concentration of 1.25 mg/mL. The 73 most active oil samples were further evaluated for their scavenging activities using series of dilutions to estimate their EC50. The EC50 of the 73 most active oils ranged from 4 to 2000 μg/mL. Oils having an EC50 of less than 300 μg/mL (20 selected samples) were subjected to β‐carotene bleaching antioxidant activity test and more detailed analysis including thin layer chromatography, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, high performance liquid chromatography and bioautography. Essential oils of the botanical families Lamiaceae and Myrtaceae were the most effective antioxidants. Thymol and carvacrol were the major constituents in most of the essential oils of the family Lamiaceae and eugenol was the major terpene in all of the essential oils of the family Myrtaceae.

Practical Applications:  Supplementation of food with spices containing essential oils may counteract and retard the process of oxidative damage, lipid oxidation and elevate antioxidant activity of the final product.
Chemometric Analysis for the Detection of Biogenic Amines in Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon Wines: A Comparative Study between Organic and Nonorganic Production
Authors: Yañez L. , Saavedra J. , Martínez C. , Córdova A. , Ganga M.A.
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  In this work, the presence of biogenic amines (BAs) was correlated with the type of wine grape culture (traditional or organic) and their concentration in the different stages of winemaking (must, alcoholic fermentation [AF] and malolactic fermentation [MLF]). The formation of BA occurred mainly during MLF in which the percentages for putrescine, cadaverine, phenylethylamine, histamine, and tyramine were 100%, 70%, 13%, 61%, and 44% for the wines produced with traditional grapes and 100%, 94%, 25%, 88%, and 13% for the wines produced with organic grapes, respectively. In general, these latter wines exhibited a lower concentration of total amines. The principal component analysis and partial least‐square discriminate analysis indicated that the generation of BA has a certain behavioral pattern in the wines analyzed, which is associated with the different stages of wine production and with the type of culture (traditional or organic) used in the wine grapes.

Practical Application:  Chemometrics tools can be useful as a method of characterization and classification in a global overview of the process variables involved in the development of toxic chemicals in foods, such as the production of BA in wine.
Effect of High‐Pressure Processing and Thermal Treatment on Quality Attributes and Nutritional Compounds of “Songold” Plum Purée
Authors: González‐Cebrino Francisco , García‐Parra Jesús , Contador Rebeca , Tabla Rafael , Ramírez Rosario
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  The application of hydrostatic high pressure on a “Songold” plum purée was assessed in comparison with heat pasteurization. To simulate industrial conditions, one‐half of the total purée was manufactured with a pretreatment of thermal blanching (TB) and the other half without it (nonthermally blanched, NTB). Changes after thermal treatment and high‐pressure processing (HPP: 400, 600 MPa) and after 20 d of refrigerated storage were evaluated. HPP maintained the microbial stability of the purées until the end of the storage period. Polyphenol oxidase activity was lower in TB purées than NTB purées. No treatment was completely effective to stop the enzyme activity, although a significant reduction was reached. Thermally treated purées showed more intense color changes after processing and storage than HP‐treated purées. After processing, high‐pressure (HP) purées treated at 600 MPa (TB and NTB) increased the extractability of carotenoids compared with initial untreated purée. Nevertheless, at the end of the storage, the highest carotenoid content was found in the TB purée treated at 400 MPa. After processing, total polyphenol levels were similar in all purées. TB and 600 MPa processing was more effective in the maintenance of the polyphenols than the other purées. TB increased the level of antioxidants after storage, compared to NTB purées. A previous TB step is necessary to inactivate browning enzymes before HPP to maintain the levels of bioactive compounds. HPP of plum purée could be a suitable alternative to traditional thermal processing, but more studies are necessary to ensure a major inactivation of polyphenol oxidase.

Practical Application:  High‐pressure processing is one of the most successful technologies to obtain high‐quality fruit purées without appreciable losses in taste, flavor, color, and nutritive value. However, for the introduction of a new technology, some advantages compared to the traditional thermal treatment need to be emphasized. The application of this technology could be reduced due to resistance of certain enzymes to pressurization. For this reason, in some cases the application of a previous thermal blanching can be necessary at industrial level. However, this can reduce the advantages of HPP application. This paper provides interesting information about the storage stability of plum purées after high‐pressure treatments and assesses the need for applying heat pretreatments.
Bitter Taste Inhibiting Agents for Whey Protein Hydrolysate and Whey Protein Hydrolysate Beverages
Authors: Leksrisompong Pattarin , Gerard Patrick , Lopetcharat Kannapon , Drake MaryAnne
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  Whey protein hydrolysates (WPH) are known for bioactivity and functionality, but WPH also have a distinct bitter taste. Identification of effective bitter taste inhibiting agents for WPH would broaden the use of this ingredient. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of 24 documented bitter taste inhibitors for WPH. Two spray‐dried WPH with different levels of hydrolysis (DH) were evaluated with each potential inhibitor. Quinine hydrochloride (quinine) was presented as a control with each WPH. Percent bitter taste inhibition was reported relative to quinine bitterness. Effective bitter taste inhibitors were subsequently evaluated in WPH beverages with vanilla and chocolate flavoring followed by descriptive analysis. The compounds evaluated did not inhibit bitter taste of quinine and the 2 WPH in a similar manner (P < 0.05). Effective bitter taste inhibitors (P < 0.05) of both WPH were sucralose, fructose, sucrose, adenosine 5’ monophosphate (5’AMP), adenosine 5’monophosphate disodium (5’AMP Na2), sodium acetate, monosodium glutamate, and sodium gluconate. Sodium chloride inhibited bitter taste of WPH with high DH but not WPH with low DH. Amino acids (l‐Lysine, l‐arginine) inhibited bitter taste of quinine but not WPH. All effective inhibitors in rehydrated WPH were also effective in the beverage applications. Sweeteners (fructose, sucralose, and sucrose) enhanced vanilla and chocolate flavors in beverages. Most salts and a nucleotide, while effective for bitter taste inhibition, suppressed vanilla and chocolate flavors and potentiated other flavors (that is, sour aromatic), and basic tastes (salty, sour).

Practical Applications:  The bitter taste of whey protein hydrolysates (WPH) limits their use as ingredients. This study identified effective bitter taste inhibitors of WPH with different peptide composition and provides insights for effective bitter inhibitors for product applications with WPH.
Predicting local adaptation in fragmented plant populations: implications for restoration genetics
Authors: Pickup Melinda , Field David L. , Rowell David M. , Young Andrew G.
Published: July 2012

Understanding patterns and correlates of local adaptation in heterogeneous landscapes can provide important information in the selection of appropriate seed sources for restoration. We assessed the extent of local adaptation of fitness components in 12 population pairs of the perennial herbRutidosis leptorrhynchoides(Asteraceae) and examined whether spatial scale (0.7–600 km), environmental distance, quantitative (QST) and neutral (FST) genetic differentiation, and size of the local and foreign populations could predict patterns of adaptive differentiation. Local adaptation varied among populations and fitness components. Including all population pairs, local adaptation was observed for seedling survival, but not for biomass, while foreign genotype advantage was observed for reproduction (number of inflorescences). Among population pairs, local adaptation increased withQSTand local population size for biomass.QSTwas associated with environmental distance, suggesting ecological selection for phenotypic divergence. However, lowFSTand variation in population structure in small populations demonstrates the interaction of gene flow and drift in constraining local adaptation inR. leptorrhynchoides. Our study indicates that for species in heterogeneous landscapes, collecting seed from large populations from similar environments to candidate sites is likely to provide the most appropriate seed sources for restoration.
Community psychiatric service in Hong Kong: Moving towards recovery‐oriented personalized care
Authors: Chui William W.H. , Mui Jolene H.C. , Cheng Koi Man , Cheung Eric F.C.
Published: July 2012

Mental health service in Hong Kong has traditionally been hospital‐based. Over the past three decades, community psychiatric service in Hong Kong had been developed into a highly efficient system characterized by high service throughput, with a primary focus on reacting to risk. In 2009, the Government committed substantial resources to increase the manpower and developed a recovery‐oriented multidisciplinary case management model with a primary focus on patients with severe mental illness. The implementation of individualized service plans allows the care delivery process to be more focused and person‐centered. Collaboration with community care partners has been enhanced to deliver holistic care and maintain a sustainable service

Future developments should address both service structure and service content. In service structure, community psychiatric service should be integrated into general adult service for facilitating continuity of care when patients move between inpatient and community settings. To meet the fluctuating needs of patients with severe mental illnesses that run a chronic and relapsing course, the service should have the flexibility to provide different levels of case management within one team. In service content, precise description of service, accompanied by robust quality‐assurance mechanism, are mandatory. A wider range of evidence‐based therapeutic modalities should be available. Empowerment and self‐determination should be realized as the key elements of recovery. Effort is also needed beyond the team level; combating stigma of mental illness in society is an essential component of community psychiatric service.