bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chloroplast phylogeny of Cucurbita: Evolution of the domesticated and wild species
Authors: ZHENG Yi‐Hong , ALVERSON Andrew J. , WANG Qing‐Feng , PALMER Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2013

The genus Cucurbita (Cucurbitaceae) includes five species that were domesticated independently in the Americas, giving rise to an immense diversity of squashes, pumpkins, and gourds. To gain an improved understanding of the evolution of Cucurbita and its domesticated taxa, we used four chloroplast loci to estimate the phylogeny of 23 taxa that represent the broad‐level diversity within Cucurbita. Our results provide a strongly supported framework hypothesis for the phylogeny of the genus, robustly confirming the basal position of the C. digitata group of xerophytic perennials and the monophyly of a large group of mesophytic annuals that represent most of the known diversity in the genus, both wild and domesticated. The chloroplast evidence provides strong support for a novel grouping of the mesophytic annual C. ficifolia (known only from cultivation) with the xerophytic perennials C. foetidissima and C. pedatifolia. This study also provides the first DNA‐based evidence in support of the isozyme‐based hypothesis that C. pepo subsp. ovifera var. ovifera (represented by most ornamental gourds and several squashes) was domesticated from the wild taxon C. pepo subsp. ovifera var. ozarkana. This lends support to the hypothesis that var. ovifera was domesticated in the eastern United States and that this region served as one of about 10 independent centers of origin of human agriculture. Although the level of bootstrap support for this and certain other peripheral relationships in Cucurbita is low, definitive resolution of these issues is within reach, as next‐generation sequencing should soon deliver entire organelle genome sequences from a comprehensive sampling of the genus.
Analysis of genotype 2 and 3 hepatitis C virus variants in patients treated with telaprevir demonstrates a consistent resistance profile across genotypes
Authors: De Meyer S. , Ghys A. , Foster G. R. , Beumont M. , Van Baelen B. , Lin T.‐I. , Dierynck I. , Ceulemans H. , Picchio G.
Published: January 2013

Study C209 evaluated the activity of telaprevir in treatment‐naïve patients with genotypes 2 or 3 (G2, G3) hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Telaprevir monotherapy showed potent activity against HCV G2, but limited activity against G3. This analysis was performed to characterize HCV viral variants emerging during telaprevir‐based treatment of G2/G3 HCV‐infected patients. Patients were randomized to receive 2 weeks of treatment with telaprevir (telaprevir monotherapy), telaprevir plus peginterferon alfa‐2a and ribavirin (triple therapy), or placebo plus peginterferon alfa‐2a and ribavirin (control), followed by 22–24 weeks of peginterferon/ribavirin alone. Viral breakthrough was defined as an increase >1 log10 in HCV RNA from nadir, or HCV RNA >100 IU/mL in patients previously reaching <25 IU/mL. Twenty‐three patients (47%) had G2 and 26 (53%) had G3 HCV. Viral breakthrough occurred during the initial 2‐week treatment phase in six G2 patients (66.7%; subtypes 2, 2a and 2b) and three G3 patients (37.5%; all subtype 3a), all in the telaprevir monotherapy arm. Four breakthrough patients (three G2, one G3) subsequently achieved sustained virologic response (SVR). In all patients with breakthrough and available sequence data, mutations associated with reduced susceptibility to telaprevir in genotype 1 (G1) HCV were observed. No novel G2/G3‐specific mutations were associated with telaprevir resistance. The telaprevir resistance profile appeared consistent across HCV genotypes 1, 2 and 3. Although viral breakthrough with resistance occurred in patients receiving telaprevir monotherapy, half of these patients achieved an SVR upon addition of peginterferon/ribavirin highlighting the importance of combination therapy.
Plasma‐Free Metanephrine and Free Normetanephrine Measurement for the Diagnosis of Pheochromocytoma in Dogs
Authors: Gostelow R. , Bridger N. , Syme H.M.
Published: January 2013

Background

Measurement of plasma‐free metanephrines is the test of choice to identify pheochromocytoma in human patients.

Objectives

To establish the sensitivity and specificity of plasma‐free metanephrine (fMN) and free normetanephrine (fNMN) concentrations to diagnose pheochromocytoma in dogs.

Animals

Forty‐five client‐owned dogs (8 dogs with pheochromocytoma, 11 dogs with adrenocortical tumors, 15 dogs with nonadrenal disease, and 11 healthy dogs.)

Methods

A prospective study. EDTA plasma was collected from diseased and healthy dogs and submitted forfMNandfNMNmeasurement by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS).

Results

Free MN concentration (median [range]) was significantly higher in dogs with pheochromocytoma (8.15 [1.73–175.23] nmol/L) than in healthy dogs (0.95 [0.68–3.08] nmol/L;P < .01) and dogs with adrenocortical tumors (0.92 [0.25–2.51] nmol/L;P < .001), but was not different from dogs with nonadrenal disease (1.91 [0.41–6.57] nmol/L;P ≥ .05). Free NMN concentration was significantly higher in dogs with pheochromocytoma (63.89 [10.19–190.31] nmol/L) than in healthy dogs (2.54 [1.59–4.17] nmol/L;P < .001), dogs with nonadrenal disease (3.30 [1.30–10.10] nmol/L;P < .001), and dogs with adrenocortical tumors (2.96 [1.92–5.01] nmol/L);P < 0.01). When used to diagnose pheochromocytoma, afMNconcentration of 4.18 nmol/L had a sensitivity of 62.5% and specificity of 97.3%, and afNMNconcentration of 5.52 nmol/L had a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 97.6%.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

PlasmafNMNconcentration has excellent sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma in dogs, whereasfMNconcentration has moderate sensitivity and excellent specificity. Measurement of plasma‐free metanephrines provides an effective, noninvasive, means of identifying dogs with pheochromocytoma.
Growth patterns and masses of the heads and necks of male and female giraffes
Authors: Mitchell G. , Roberts D. , van Sittert S. , Skinner J. D.
Published: January 2013

We have analyzed the growth patterns of the head and neck of 65 male and 71 female giraffes from two different populations of giraffes, and also the dimensions of 19 different components of the head and neck in 8 female and 13 male giraffes, to establish if they showed sexual dimorphism and if sexual selection for a weapon was a possible origin of the long neck of giraffes. We found that in both genders, the rate of increase in head mass was hypoallometric with respect to body mass. The rate of increase in neck length was similar in both genders and faster than the rate of increase in body mass. Increases in neck mass tend to be isometric relative to increases in body mass in both genders before puberty (c. 650 kg body mass in male and 700 kg in female giraffes), but in giraffes of greater body mass increases in neck mass are iso‐ to hyperallometric in both genders, with final neck, body and head mass being greater in male giraffes. The only significant gender difference we found for the dimensions of the 19 different head and neck components was that ossicones and skulls were heavier in mature male than in mature female giraffes, but increases in skull mass did not alter the growth pattern of head mass significantly. These data suggest that the morphology and growth patterns of the heads and necks of male and female giraffes are similar, that sexual dimorphism of the head and neck is minimal and can be attributed to secretion of sex steroids. We have concluded that there is no evidence that sexual selection was a factor in the evolution of giraffe morphology and that the long neck of giraffes did not evolve as a weapon in males. The more likely selective advantage of a long neck was improvement of access to high‐level browse.
The MEMIN research unit: Scaling impact cratering experiments in porous sandstones
Authors: POELCHAU Michael H. , KENKMANN Thomas , THOMA Klaus , HOERTH Tobias , DUFRESNE Anja , SCHÄFER Frank
Published: January 2013

Abstract– The MEMIN research unit (Multidisciplinary Experimental and Modeling Impact research Network) is focused on analyzing experimental impact craters and experimental cratering processes in geological materials. MEMIN is interested in understanding how porosity and pore space saturation influence the cratering process. Here, we present results of a series of impact experiments into porous wet and dry sandstone targets. Steel, iron meteorite, and aluminum projectiles ranging in size from 2.5 to 12 mm were accelerated to velocities of 2.5–7.8 km s−1, yielding craters with diameters between 3.9 and 40 cm. Results show that the target’s porosity reduces crater volumes and cratering efficiency relative to nonporous rocks. Saturation of pore space with water to 50% and 90% increasingly counteracts the effects of porosity, leading to larger but flatter craters. Spallation becomes more dominant in larger‐scale experiments and leads to an increase in cratering efficiency with increasing projectile size for constant impact velocities. The volume of spalled material is estimated using parabolic fits to the crater morphology, yielding approximations of the transient crater volume. For impacts at the same velocity these transient craters show a constant cratering efficiency that is not affected by projectile size.
Linking Hyperpolarization to Endothelial Cell Calcium Events in Arterioles
Authors: Dora Kim A. , Garland Chris J.
Published: January 2013

Our understanding of the relationship between EC membrane potential and Ca2+ entry has been shaped historically by data from cells in culture. Membrane hyperpolarization was associated with raised cytoplasmic [Ca2+] ascribed to the increase in the inward electrochemical gradient for Ca2+, as ECs are generally thought to lack VGCC. Ca2+ influx was assumed to reflect the presence of an undefined Ca2+ “leak” channel, although the original research articles with isolated ECs did not elucidate which Ca2+ influx channel was involved or indeed if a transporter might contribute. Overall, these early studies left many unanswered questions, not least whether a similar mechanism operates in native ECs that are coupled to each other and, in many smaller arteries and arterioles, to the adjacent vascular SMCs via gap junctions. This review discusses whether Ca2+ leak through constitutively active EC Ca2+ channels or a more defined, gated pathway might underlie the reported link between enhanced Ca2+ entry and hyperpolarization. Electrophysiological evidence from ECs in isolation is compared with those in intact arteries and arterioles and the possible physiological relevance of EC Ca2+ entry driven by hyperpolarization discussed.
What Role for Store‐Operated Ca2+ Entry in Muscle?
Authors: Trebak Mohamed , Zhang Wei , Ruhle Brian , Henkel Matthew M. , González‐Cobos José C. , Motiani Rajender K. , Stolwijk Judith A. , Newton Rachel L. , Zhang Xuexin
Published: January 2013

Store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is a receptor‐regulated Ca2+ entry pathway that is both ubiquitous and evolutionarily conserved. SOCE is activated by depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores through receptor‐mediated production of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IP3). The depletion of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ is sensed by stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1). On store depletion, STIM1 aggregates and moves to areas where the ER comes close to the plasma membrane (PM; within 25 nm) to interact with Orai1 channels and activate Ca2+ entry. Ca2+ entry through store‐operated Ca2+ (SOC) channels, originally thought to mediate the replenishment of Ca2+ stores, participate in active downstream signaling by coupling to the activation of enzymes and transcription factors that control a wide variety of long‐term cell functions such as proliferation, growth, and migration. SOCE has also been proposed to contribute to short‐term cellular responses such as muscle contractility. While there are significant STIM1/Orai1 protein levels and SOCE activity in adult skeletal muscle, the precise role of SOCE in skeletal muscle contractility is not clear. The dependence on SOCE during cardiac and smooth muscle contractility is even less certain. Here, we will hypothesize on the contribution of SOCE in muscle and its potential role in contractility and signaling.
ShigellaIpaD has a dual role: signal transduction from the type III secretion system needle tip and intracellular secretion regulation
Authors: Roehrich A. Dorothea , Guillossou Enora , Blocker Ariel J. , Martinez‐Argudo Isabel
Published: January 2013

Type III secretion systems (T3SSs) are protein injection devices essential for the interaction of many Gram‐negative bacteria with eukaryotic cells. While Shigella assembles its T3SS when the environmental conditions are appropriate for invasion, secretion is only activated after physical contact with a host cell. First, the translocators are secreted to form a pore in the host cell membrane, followed by effectors which manipulate the host cell. Secretion activation is tightly controlled by conserved T3SS components: the needle tip proteins IpaD and IpaB, the needle itself and the intracellular gatekeeper protein MxiC. To further characterize the role of IpaD during activation, we combined random mutagenesis with a genetic screen to identify ipaD mutant strains unable to respond to host cell contact. Class II mutants have an overall defect in secretion induction. They map to IpaD's C‐terminal helix and likely affect activation signal generation or transmission. The Class I mutant secretes translocators prematurely and is specifically defective in IpaD secretion upon activation. A phenotypically equivalent mutant was found in mxiC. We show that IpaD and MxiC act in the same intracellular pathway. In summary, we demonstrate that IpaD has a dual role and acts at two distinct locations during secretion activation.
CsrA activates flhDC expression by protecting flhDC mRNA from RNase E‐mediated cleavage
Authors: Yakhnin Alexander V. , Baker Carol S. , Vakulskas Christopher A. , Yakhnin Helen , Berezin Igor , Romeo Tony , Babitzke Paul
Published: January 2013

Csr is a conserved global regulatory system that controls expression of several hundred Escherichia coli genes. CsrA protein represses translation of numerous genes by binding to mRNA and inhibiting ribosome access. CsrA also activates gene expression, although an activation mechanism has not been reported. CsrA activates flhDC expression, encoding the master regulator of flagellum biosynthesis and chemotaxis, by stabilizing the mRNA. Computer modelling, gel mobility shift and footprint analyses identified two CsrA binding sites extending from positions 1–12 (BS1) and 44–55 (BS2) of the 198 nt flhDC leader transcript. flhD′–′lacZ expression was reduced by mutations in csrA and/or the CsrA binding sites. The position of BS1 suggested that bound CsrA might inhibit 5′ end‐dependent RNase E cleavage of flhDC mRNA. Consistent with this hypothesis, CsrA protected flhDC leader RNA from RNase E cleavage in vitro and protection depended on BS1 and BS2. Primer extension studies identified flhDC decay intermediates in vivo that correspond to in vitro RNase E cleavage sites. Deletion of these RNase E cleavage sites resulted in increased flhD′–′lacZ expression. Data from mRNA decay studies and quantitative primer extension assays support a model in which bound CsrA activates flhDC expression by inhibiting the 5′ end‐dependent RNase E cleavage pathway.
Nonstructural leaf carbohydrate dynamics of Pinus edulis during drought‐induced tree mortality reveal role for carbon metabolism in mortality mechanism
Authors: Adams Henry D. , Germino Matthew J. , Breshears David D. , Barron‐Gafford Greg A. , Guardiola‐Claramonte Maite , Zou Chris B. , Huxman Travis E.
Published: January 2013

Vegetation change is expected with global climate change, potentially altering ecosystem function and climate feedbacks. However, causes of plant mortality, which are central to vegetation change, are understudied, and physiological mechanisms remain unclear, particularly the roles of carbon metabolism and xylem function.

We report analysis of foliar nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs) and associated physiology from a previous experiment where earlier drought‐induced mortality of Pinus edulis at elevated temperatures was associated with greater cumulative respiration. Here, we predicted faster NSC decline for warmed trees than for ambient‐temperature trees.

Foliar NSC in droughted trees declined by 30% through mortality and was lower than in watered controls. NSC decline resulted primarily from decreased sugar concentrations. Starch initially declined, and then increased above pre‐drought concentrations before mortality. Although temperature did not affect NSC and sugar, starch concentrations ceased declining and increased earlier with higher temperatures.

Reduced foliar NSC during lethal drought indicates a carbon metabolism role in mortality mechanism. Although carbohydrates were not completely exhausted at mortality, temperature differences in starch accumulation timing suggest that carbon metabolism changes are associated with time to death. Drought mortality appears to be related to temperature‐dependent carbon dynamics concurrent with increasing hydraulic stress in P. edulis and potentially other similar species.
Belowground biotic complexity drives aboveground dynamics: a test of the soil community feedback model
Authors: Pendergast Thomas H. , Burke David J. , Carson Walter P.
Published: January 2013

Feedbacks between soil communities and plants may determine abundance and diversity in plant communities by influencing fitness and competitive outcomes. We tested the core hypotheses of soil community feedback theory: plant species culture distinct soil communities that alter plant performance and the outcome of interspecific competition.

We applied this framework to inform the repeated dominance of Solidago canadensis in old‐field communities. In glasshouse experiments, we examined the effects of soil communities on four plant species' performance in monoculture and outcomes of interspecific competition. We used terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (TRFLP) analysis to infer differences in the soil communities associated with these plant species.

Soil community origin had strong effects on plant performance, changed the intensity of interspecific competition and even reversed whether plant species were limited by conspecifics or heterospecifics. These plant–soil feedbacks are strong enough to upend winners and losers in classic competition models. Plant species cultured significantly different mycorrhizal fungal and bacterial soil communities, indicating that these feedbacks are likely microbiotic in nature.

In old‐fields and other plant communities, these soil feedbacks appear common, fundamentally alter the intensity and nature of plant competition and potentially maintain diversity while facilitating the dominance of So. canadensis.
Genetic architecture of flowering time differentiation between locally adapted populations of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Grillo Michael A. , Li Changbao , Hammond Mark , Wang Lijuan , Schemske Douglas W.
Published: January 2013

To gain an understanding of the genetic basis of adaptation, we conducted quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for flowering time variation between two winter annual populations of Arabidopsis thaliana that are locally adapted and display distinct flowering times.

QTL mapping was performed with large (n = 384) F2 populations with and without vernalization, in order to reveal both the genetic basis of a vernalization requirement and that of variation in flowering time given vernalization.

In the nonvernalization treatment, none of the Sweden parents flowered, whereas all of the Italy parents and 42% of the F2s flowered. We identified three QTLs for flowering without vernalization, with much of the variation being attributed to a QTL co‐localizing with FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC). In the vernalization treatment, all parents and F2s flowered, and six QTLs of small to moderate effect were revealed, with underlying candidate genes that are members of the vernalization pathway. We found no evidence for a role of FRIGIDA in the regulation of flowering times.

These results contribute to a growing body of evidence aimed at the identification of ecologically relevant genetic variation for flowering time in Arabidopsis, and set the stage for functional studies to determine the link between flowering time loci and fitness.
Adaptive divergence in seed color camouflage in contrasting soil environments
Authors: Porter Stephanie S.
Published: January 2013

Although adaptive plant population divergence across contrasting soil conditions is often driven by abiotic soil factors, natural enemies may also contribute. Cryptic matching to the native soil color is a form of defensive camouflage that seeds can use to avoid detection by seed predators.

The legume Acmispon wrangelianus occurs across a variety of gray–green serpentine soils and brown nonserpentine soils. Quantitative digital image analysis of seed and soil colors was used to test whether genetically based seed color is a closer match to the color of the native soil than to the color of other nearby soils.

Lineages bear seeds that more closely match the color of their native serpentine or nonserpentine soil type than the opposing soil type. Further, even within a soil type, lineages bear seeds with a closer color match to the soil at their native site than to other sites.

The striking concordance between seed and native soil color suggests that natural selection for locally camouflaged seed color morphs, probably driven by seed predators, may maintain adaptive divergence in pigmentation, despite the opportunity for migration between soil environments.
Fiberotomy enhances orthodontic tooth movement and diminishes relapse in a rat model
Authors: Young L. , Binderman I. , Yaffe A. , Beni L. , Vardimon A. D.
Published: January 2013

Structured Abstract

Objectives

Accelerated orthodontic tooth movement is triggered by procedures that include mucoperiosteum flap surgery and surgical scarring of cortical bone. Our aim was to test whether fiberotomy by itself will accelerate orthodontic tooth movement and diminish relapse.

Materials and Methods

In 34 Wistar rats, alveolar bone resorption and molar tooth movement were measured after fiberotomy, apical full‐thickness flap without detachment of gingiva from the roots, or no surgery. Orthodontic appliance was installed at time of surgery and activated for 14 days, generating movement of the first maxillary molar buccal and then removed.

Results

Percent of sections in which alveolar bone resorption was detected was significantly higher (p < 0.05) after fiberotomy (27%) in comparison with apical flap surgery (12%) or no surgery (6%), after 30 days. Also, at the end of active phase, the molar moved significantly faster (p < 0.01) and twice the distance after fiberotomy (0.54 ± 0.33) in comparison with apical surgery (0.26 ± 0.12) or no surgery (0.3 ± 0.09). Sixteen days after the appliance was removed, only 12% relapse was recorded in the fiberotomy group, while almost total relapse in other two groups.

Conclusion

We conclude that fiberotomy solely accelerated orthodontic tooth movement and diminished relapse.
Can lower aldehyde dehydrogenase activity in saliva be a risk factor for oral cavity cancer?
Authors: Giebułtowicz J , Wroczyński P , Samolczyk‐Wanyura D
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Salivary ALDH3A1 protects the oral cavity from aromatic and medium‐chain aliphatic aldehydes originating from food and air pollution and generated during oxidative stress. Due to their reactivity, aldehydes may exhibit an irritating effect as well as cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic and even carcinogenic effects. The aim of this study was to verify whether lower ALDH3A1 activity is a risk factor for oral cavity cancer.

Subjects and methods

Fasting saliva samples were collected one day before and about one week after surgery from patients with oral cancer (OCC) (n = 59), other tumours (cysts, neoplasms) (n = 108), gnathic defects and fractures (controls after the surgery) (n = 63), and from healthy volunteers (n = 116). Enzyme activity was measured using a fluorometric method.

Results

Total ALDH3A1 activity [U g−1] in patients with OCC was statistically lower than in patients with keratocystic odontogenic tumour (KCOT) (P = 0.00697), odontogenic cysts (OC) (P < 0.00001), neoplasms (P = 0.03343) and the healthy volunteers up to and over 40 years old (P < 0.00001; P = 0.00019). The activity in the saliva of OCC after surgery was lower than in the healthy volunteers (P < 0.00001) and in the groups with fractures (P = 0.00303) and gnathic defects (P = 0.00538).

Conclusion

Low salivary ALDH activity may be a risk factor for oral cancer development.
Animal models for bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws ‐ an appraisal
Authors: Sharma D , Hamlet S , Petcu E , Ivanovski S
Published: January 2013

The prolonged use of bisphosphonates has been shown to cause a condition termed ‘bisphosphonate related osteonecrosis of the jaws’ (BRONJ). BRONJ is a disease entity which has only been described relatively recently, and its multi‐factorial aetiology is yet to be fully elucidated. Therefore, the treatment of BRONJ lesions remains a challenge, and animal models are necessary to assist researchers in better understanding the disease. This has led to the recent publication of a number of studies utilising a variety of animal models of BRONJ. This review outlines the factors to be considered when selecting an animal model for BRONJ and discusses the current literature in this rapidly progressing field of research. It is important to consider the applicability of a given model to the clinical condition presenting in humans, and to this end, thorough characterisation of the clinical, histological, radiographic and systemic features is necessary. The development of a clinical lesion is an important consideration in terms of choosing a relevant model, and it appears clear that surgical manipulation, generally involving tooth extraction, is necessary for successful induction of the classic ‘clinical’ lesion of BRONJ.
Evaluation of the expression of p53,MDM2, andSUMO‐1 in oral lichen planus
Authors: Oliveira Alves MG , Balducci I , Rodarte Carvalho Y , Cabral LAG , Nunes FD , Almeida JD
Published: January 2013

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare the expression of proteins p53,MDM2, andSUMO‐1 in oral lichen planus (OLP) lesions, epithelial dysplasia, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and Methods

The sample consisted of the following five groups of cheek mucosa lesions: normal mucosa (NM), inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia (IFH), lichen planus, epithelial dysplasia, and squamous cell carcinoma. The tissue samples were stained with hematoxylin‐eosin and submitted to immunohistochemistry using anti‐p53, anti‐MDM2, and anti‐SUMO‐1 antibodies.

Results

The results of this study demonstrated similar expression of p53 andMDM2 betweenOLP, oral epithelial dysplasia and, to a lesser extent, betweenOLPand oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, forSUMO‐1 a similar expression was observed inOLP,NM, andIFH.

Conclusions

The results demonstrated overexpression of important proteins (p53 andMDM2) related to regulatory mechanisms of apoptosis inOLP, suggesting that there is a favorable environment for malignant transformation. The expression ofSUMO‐1 inOLPwas similar toNMandIFH, suggesting that alterations of this protein occur at later stages of carcinogenesis, because important overexpression occurred in oral epithelial dysplasia andOSCC.
Regulation‐by‐information in areas of limited statehood: Lessons from thePhilippines' environmental regulation
Authors: Lee Eungkyoon , Lejano Raul P. , Connelly Robert J.
Published: January 2013

This research examines conditions under which environmental regulatory disclosure is more versus less likely to work, with focus on the case of thePhilippines. Two major findings arise out of a case study. First, we observe a mismatch between the nature of information and the main addressees of the disclosed information, which led the operation of the subject disclosure program to deviate from its targets. Second, this institutional deficiency has to do with the organizational culture and routine practice of the implementing agency. The second finding challenges a major justification of information‐based environmental regulation (IBER) administered in weak states and underscores the role that administrative capacity plays in making novel regulations come into effect. Contrary to the popular belief thatIBERcreates non‐governmental forces that offset a limited statehood, it may be less likely to work where state administrative capacity is weak.
Dynamics and stabilization of soil organic carbon after nineteen years of afforestation in valley‐type savannah in southwest China
Authors: Tang G. , Li K. , Sun Y. , Zhang C.
Published: January 2013

Serious concerns about carbon (C) sequestration capacity and the stabilization of sequestered C in forested soils have emerged in the context of global climate change. The organic C in soil and in soil fractions at four sampling times in Acacia auriculiformis plantations afforested in 1991 were investigated with a combination of density fractionation and acid hydrolysis techniques. The results showed that the accumulation of C in the forested soils had accelerated because the afforestation of wasteland with A. auriculiformis. The C accumulation rates of the surface and subsurface soils averaged 0.38 and 0.17 t C/ha/yr, respectively, during the 19 yr following the afforestation. The percentage of organic C in heavy fraction relative to total soil organic C at the surface soil was 71% in 2003. This value was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that in 2010 (68%). The chemical recalcitrant C index of light fraction was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of heavy fraction in 2003 regardless of soil depth, but both decreased with time. ca. 58–68% of the newly sequestered C was protected by physical mechanism, and 41–50% was transferred into the acid nonhydrolysable fraction during the 12–19 yr after the trees were planted. The chemical stability of the physically protected C remained lower than that of the unprotected C following the afforestation in the valley‐type savannah. However, both the stability values showed a decline with time.
Proteomic analysis of platelets treated with gamma irradiation versus a commercial photochemical pathogen reduction technology
Authors: Marrocco Cristina , D'Alessandro Angelo , Girelli Gabriella , Zolla Lello
Published: January 2013

Background

Several strategies are currently being tested to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission associated with platelet (PLT) transfusion. Within the framework of the Italian Platelet Technology Assessment Study, we investigated the variations of the protein profiles (proteomics) of apheresis PLT concentrates (PCs) upon treatment with riboflavin and ultraviolet (UV) light (Mirasol; 6.24 J/mL; 280‐400 nm).

Study Design and Methods

Control, gamma‐irradiated, and Mirasol‐treated apheresis PCs were assayed on Days 1 and 5 of storage by means of gel‐based analytical approaches (two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis) and mass spectrometry–based identification of significant (p < 0.05 analysis of variance) differential proteins. Supernatants were then assayed for metabolism and oxidative stress‐related metabolites through multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry.

Results

Only a handful of modifications could be observed in the PLT proteome profiles in response to the Mirasol treatment, which included proteins involved in oxidative stress responses, PLT metabolism, and activation. Results confirmed increased metabolic rate and oxidative stress in the supernatants of treated PLTs (both gamma irradiated and Mirasol treated).

Conclusion

From this investigation, it emerges that, from a proteomics standpoint, gamma irradiation results in the acceleration of PLT storage lesions and the Mirasol treatment only moderately exacerbates these phenomena.
Mononuclear cell collection for extracorporeal photochemotherapy: a study comparing an automatic and a semiautomatic apheresis device
Authors: Del Fante Claudia , Scudeller Luigia , Viarengo Gianluca , Cervio Marila , Perotti Cesare
Published: January 2013

Background

Extracorporeal photochemotherapy (ECP) is an effective cell therapy employed in several diseases, including graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) and organ rejection after transplantation. When ECP is performed using the off‐line technique, mononuclear cell (MNC) collection by leukapheresis is necessary for further manipulation. Semiautomated apheresis systems require experienced personnel to obtain a good MNC collection; an automated device, able to efficiently collect MNCs with high purity, is desirable. We compared the semiautomated COBE Spectra MNC and the new automated Spectra Optia v.5.0 MNC (Terumo BCT) devices in terms of efficacy and safety.

Study Design and Methods

Adult patients with GVHD or bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) after lung transplant undergoing ECP at our center were alternatively assigned, within the same ECP cycle (composed by two procedures each), to MNC collection with either device. Patients' characteristics, procedure, and product‐related variables were compared.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients (24 with GVHD and 15 with BOS) underwent a total of 126 ECP procedures, with good compliance to both devices. Product volume and platelet (PLT) and red blood cell contamination were significantly lower with the Spectra Optia. MNC collection efficiency (CE), purity, and PLT loss were similar between the two devices, while white blood cells CE was in favor of the COBE Spectra.

Conclusion

The Spectra Optia device proved to be a good option for MNC collection in the difficult ECP setting, since it ensures high‐quality MNC collection, while at the same time saving personnel's time, guaranteeing optimal monitoring and care to this frail patient population.
Donor anxiety, needle pain, and syncopal reactions combine to determine retention: a path analysis of two‐year donor return data
Authors: France Christopher R. , France Janis L. , Wissel Mary Ellen , Ditto Blaine , Dickert Tara , Himawan Lina K.
Published: January 2013

Background

Efforts to expand the donor pool by recruiting younger donors have resulted in higher numbers of initial donations, but retention of young donors continues to be challenging.

Study Design and Methods

Path analysis was used to examine the simultaneous relationships among syncopal reactions, donation anxiety, needle pain, donor satisfaction, and donation intention in predicting repeat donation. Participants included 421 first‐ and second‐time donors recruited for a study comparing the effects of predonation water loading with and without the use of applied muscle tension during donation (52% female, 60.8% first‐time donor, mean age 20.3 years). For this longitudinal follow‐up study, donor database records were accessed 2 years after the index donation to assess repeat donation.

Results

Results of a series of path analyses demonstrated the influential role of donor anxiety in shaping donor retention (final model χ2 = 35.75, root mean square error of approximation 0.03, comparative fit index 0.98, weighted root mean square residual 0.74). First, anxiety exerted a direct negative influence on donation intention, the proximal and sole direct predictor of repeat donation. Second, anxiety increased the likelihood of donor‐reported needle pain, adversely affecting donation satisfaction and, subsequently, donation intention. Finally, anxiety was associated with donor ratings of syncopal reactions through its impact on needle pain, which also contributed to decreased donation intention.

Conclusion

These results provide novel evidence that donation anxiety plays a central role in shaping future donation behavior. Individual differences in anxiety must be considered when developing and testing strategies to enhance blood donor retention.
Antibody of undetermined specificity: frequency, laboratory features, and natural history
Authors: Liu Chang , Grossman Brenda J.
Published: January 2013

Background

In pretransfusion testing at our institution, unexplained reactions are reported as antibody of undetermined specificity (AUS) after antibodies against Food and Drug Administration–specified red blood cell antigens have been ruled out. The frequency, laboratory features, and natural history of these reactions are not well defined.

Study Design and Methods

We retrospectively examined AUS reported at a single institution between July 1, 2009, and December 31, 2011. For AUS reported in the first quarter of 2012, the reference workup and antibodies identified during subsequent testing were reviewed to characterize the laboratory features and natural history of AUS.

Results

A total of 8121 antibodies were detected in 6058 patients during the study period. AUS was reported 1442 times (18%) and was the single most reported event, followed by anti‐E (18%) and anti‐K (14%). In the first quarter of 2012, AUS was reported in 174 unique patients. Most AUS (78%) reacted with two cells or less tested in gel and most reactions (98%) were 1+ or weaker. Forty‐five patients presenting with AUS for the first time had repeated antibody workup later. AUS persisted in 31 cases for 2 to 60 days. AUS disappeared in 14 cases, seven of which developed a total of 10 new antibodies (three anti‐E; one anti‐D; one anti‐C; two anti‐Jkb; and one each of anti‐Lea, anti‐s, and warm autoantibody) in 3 to 21 days (median, 8 days).

Conclusion

AUS is a common finding with our pretransfusion testing method. These reactions are heterogeneous and may represent antibodies against low‐prevalence antigens, non‐RBC antigens, or developing antibodies that are clinically significant.
Impacts and Waves in Dyneema® HB80 Strips and Laminates
Authors: Chocron S. , King N. , Bigger R. , Walker J. D. , Heisserer U. , van der Werff H.
Published: January 2013

Single-yarn impact results have been reported by multiple authors in the past, providing insight on the fundamental physics involved in fabric impact. This insight allowed developing full fabric models that were able to reproduce properly wave propagation, deflection, and ballistic limits. This paper proposes a similar experimental methodology but for a specific composite material made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. The presence of the polyurethane matrix in the composite is expected to slow down wave propagation. But the high-speed photographic tests reported in this paper indicate that wave propagation in strips and single-layer material is similar to that expected for dry fiber. An explanation is proposed for this unexpected result. This paper also reports the critical velocities (i.e., impact velocities that fail the fibers immediately) measured for the composite material and compares them to the velocities expected from the theory. The velocity is accurately predicted when taking into account wave interactions in front of the projectile. Finally, tests on multilayer composites are presented. In particular, a flash produced under the projectile during the first few microseconds was recorded with high-speed video cameras. A simplified study of the temperature increment upon impact indicates that the material may be reaching the autoignition point. This mechanism is speculated to be the origin of the flash systematically observed.
Determination and Modeling of the Inelasticity Over the Length of the Porcine Carotid Artery
Authors: García Alberto , Martínez Miguel A. , Peña Estefanía
Published: January 2013

The study of the mechanical properties of swine carotids has clinical relevance because it is important for the appropriate design of intravascular devices in the animal trial phases. The inelastic properties of porcine carotid tissue were investigated. Experimental uniaxial cyclic tests were performed along the longitudinal and circumferential directions of vessels. The work focused on the determination, comparison, and constitutive modeling of the softening properties and residual stretch set of the swine carotid artery over long stretches and stress levels in both proximal and distal regions. It was observed that the residual strain depends on the maximum stretch in the previous load cycle. The strain was higher for distal than for proximal samples and for circumferential than for longitudinal samples. In addition, a pseudoelastic model was used to reproduce the residual stretch and softening behavior of the carotid artery. The model presented a good approximation of the experimental data. The results demonstrate that the final results in animal trial studies could be affected by the location studied along the length of the porcine carotid.
A Model of the Recruitment-Derecruitment and Volume of Lung Units in an Excised Lung as it is Inflated-Deflated Between Minimum and Maximum Lung Volume
Authors: Frazer D. G. , Lindsley W. G. , McKinney W. , Reynolds J. S. , Franz G. N. , Jackson M. , Goldsmith W. T.
Published: January 2013

The role of the recruitment-derecruitment of small structures in the lung (lung units) as the lung increases and decreases in volume has been debated. The objective of this study was to develop a model to estimate the change in the number and volume of open lung units as an excised lung is inflated-deflated between minimum and maximum lung volume. The model was formulated based on the observation that the compliance of the slowly changing quasi-static pressure-volume (P-V) curve of an excised rat lung can differ from the compliance of a faster changing small sinusoidal pressure volume perturbations superimposed on the curve. In those regions of the curve where differences in compliance occur, the lung tissue properties exhibit nonlinear characteristics, which cannot be linearized using “incremental” or “small signal” analysis. The model attributes the differences between the perturbation and quasi-static compliance to an additional nonlinear compliance term that results from the sequential opening and closing of lung units. Using this approach, it was possible to calculate the normalized average volume and the normalized number of open units as the lung is slowly inflated-deflated. Results indicate that the normalized average volume and the normalized number of open units are not linearly related to normalized lung volume, and at equal lung volumes the normalized number of open units is greater and the normalized average lung unit volume is smaller during lung deflation when compared to lung inflation. In summary, a model was developed to describe the recruitment-derecruitment process in excised lungs based on the differences between small signal perturbation compliance and quasi-static compliance. Values of normalized lung unit volume and the normalized number of open lung units were shown to be nonlinear functions of both transpulmonary pressure and normalized lung volume.
Little Emperors: Behavioral Impacts of China's One-Child Policy
Authors: Cameron L. , Erkal N. , Gangadharan L. , Meng X.
Published: January 2013

Assessing Singletons

The one-child policy introduced by the government of China in 1979 increased the proportion of urban families with an only child; later referred to as "little emperors" in media reports. In 2010,

Cameron
et al.

(p.
953
, published online 10 January) recruited approximately 400 residents of Beijing who had been born either before the implementation of the policy (1975 and 1978) or after (1980 and 1983). Using economic games to measure trust, risk, and willingness to compete, they found that the post-1979 cohorts were less trusting and less willing to compete and also more risk averse.
A Clock Directly Linking Time to a Particle's Mass
Authors: Lan Shau-Yu , Kuan Pei-Chen , Estey Brian , English Damon , Brown Justin M. , Hohensee Michael A. , Müller Holger
Published: January 2013

Linking Mass and Time

The precision of atomic clocks is based on the transitions between two well-defined energy levels—the frequency of oscillation. We know from relativity that mass and energy are equivalent and from quantum mechanics that energy relates to frequency. Therefore, the ticking of a clock can be related, in principle, to the mass of a particle. The oscillation frequency of a particle is known as its Compton frequency and, because of the high frequency involved and stability of atoms, it has been argued that a clock linking mass and time would offer very high precision. Ordinarily, the Compton frequency is extremely high and not accessible to direct excitation.

Lan
et al.

(p.
554
, published online 10 January; see the Perspective by Debs et al.) demonstrate the operation of a Compton clock exploiting a related parameter, the phase accumulation rate of cold cesium atoms. Using an atom interferometer and an optical frequency comb to bring the Compton frequency into an experimentally accessible regime, mass and time could be directly linked.
Hitch-hiker taken for a ride: an unusual cause of myocarditis, septic shock and adult respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Kushawaha Anurag , Brown Mark , Martin Ismael , Evenhuis Walther
Published: January 2013

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a serious tick-borne illness caused byRickettsia rickettsiithat is endemic in southeastern USA. Although RMSF has been described as causing the classic clinical triad of fever, headache and a characteristic rash, serious and potentially life-threatening manifestations can occur. Cardiopulmonary involvement, although infrequent, may occur with severe cases of RMSF. Rickettsial myocarditis is an uncommon occurrence. We present a case of a previously healthy 26-year-old man, who was hitch-hiking across the southeastern USA, with serologically proven RMSF causing adult respiratory distress syndrome, septic shock and myocarditis manifested by elevated cardiac enzymes and decrease in myocardial function. After treatment with antibiotics, the myocarditis resolved. Therefore, although unusual, clinicians should be aware of possible myocardial involvement in patients with appropriate tick-exposure histories or other clinical signs of RMSF.
Osteopetrosis of the mandible masquerading as tubercular osteomyelitis
Authors: Sharma Subramanya S , Saravanan C , Sathyabama V , Satish C
Published: January 2013

Osteopetrosis is a rare congenital (autosomal type) disorder of the skeletal system. Several variants have been described in the literature with grossly variant prognosis and clinical behaviour. Several reports of intractable osteomyelitis of the jaw bones secondary to osteopetrosis, particularly the mandible, have been published widely. However, there is no published report of the complete mandible sequestrating de novo, in the literature. An overview of this spectrum of sclerotic bone disease, its presentation in the oro-facial region, the diagnostic challenge it poses and the management dilemma it offers to the maxillofacial surgeon is discussed and a protocol for managing this disease effectively is presented. A clinical illustration of the complexities of management of osteopetrosis-induced osteomyelitis of jaw bones is demonstrated with a very rare case in which the entire mandible had sequestrated.