bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TIM-4 Has Dual Function in the Induction and Effector Phases of Murine Arthritis
Authors: Abe Yoshiyuki , Kamachi Fumitaka , Kawamoto Toshio , Makino Fumihiko , Ito Jun , Kojima Yuko , Moustapha Alaa El Din Hussein , Usui Yoshihiko , Yagita Hideo , Takasaki Yoshinari , Okumura Ko , Akiba Hisaya
Published: September 2013

T cell Ig and mucin domain (TIM)-4 is involved in immune regulation. However, the pathological function of TIM-4 has not been understood and remains to be clarified in various disease models. In this study, DBA/1 mice were treated with anti–TIM-4 mAb during the induction or effector phase of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Anti–TIM-4 treatment in the induction phase exacerbated the development of CIA. In vitro experiments suggest that CD4 T cells bind to TIM-4 on APCs, which induces inhibitory effect to CD4 T cells. In contrast, therapeutic treatment with anti–TIM-4 mAb just before or after the onset or even at later stage of CIA significantly suppressed the development and progression by reducing proinflammatory cytokines in the ankle joints without affecting T or B cell responses. Consistently, clinical arthritis scores of collagen Ab-induced arthritis, which is not mediated by T or B cells, were significantly reduced in anti–TIM-4–treated mice with a concomitant decrease of proinflammatory cytokines in the joints. In vitro, macrophages secreted proinflammatory cytokines in response to TIM-4-Ig protein and LPS, which were reduced by the anti–TIM-4 mAb. The anti–TIM-4 mAb also inhibited the differentiation and bone-resorbing activity of osteoclasts. These results indicate that TIM-4 has two distinct functions depending on the stage of arthritis. The therapeutic effect of anti–TIM-4 mAb on arthritis is mediated by the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine production by inflammatory cells, osteoclast differentiation, and bone resorption, suggesting that TIM-4 might be an appropriate target for the therapeutic treatment of arthritis.
Human Memory Helios− FOXP3+ Regulatory T Cells (Tregs) Encompass Induced Tregs That Express Aiolos and Respond to IL-1β by Downregulating Their Suppressor Functions
Authors: Raffin Caroline , Pignon Pascale , Celse Clotilde , Debien Emilie , Valmori Danila , Ayyoub Maha
Published: September 2013

FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical regulators of self-tolerance and immune homeostasis. In mice and humans, two subsets of FOXP3+ Tregs have been defined based on their differential expression of Helios, a transcription factor of the Ikaros family. Whereas the origin, specificity, and differential function of the two subsets are as yet a source of controversy, their characterization thus far has been limited by the absence of surface markers to distinguish them. In this article, we show that human memory Helios+ and Helios− Tregs are phenotypically distinct and can be separated ex vivo based on their differential expression of IL-1RI, which is restricted to Helios− Tregs, in combination with CCR7. The two populations isolated using this strategy are distinct with respect to the expression of other Ikaros family members. Namely, whereas Eos, which has been reported to mediate FOXP3-dependent gene silencing, is expressed in Helios+ Tregs, Aiolos, which is involved in the differentiation of TH17 and induced Tregs, is instead expressed in Helios− Tregs. In addition, whereas both subsets are suppressive ex vivo, Helios− Tregs display increased suppressive capacity in comparison to Helios+ Tregs, but respond to IL-1β by downregulating their suppressive activity. Together, these data support the concept that human Helios− memory Tregs encompass induced Tregs that can readily respond to changes in the environment by modulating their suppressive capacity.
Ebf1 and c-Myb Repress Rag Transcription Downstream of Stat5 during Early B Cell Development
Authors: Timblin Greg A. , Schlissel Mark S.
Published: September 2013

The temporal control of RAG (Rag) expression in developing lymphocytes prevents DNA breaks during periods of proliferation that could threaten genomic integrity. In developing B cells, the IL-7R and precursor B cell Ag receptor (pre-BCR) synergize to induce proliferation and the repression of Rag at the protein and mRNA levels for a brief period following successful Ig H chain gene rearrangement. Whereas the mechanism of RAG2 protein downregulation is well defined, little is known about the pathways and transcription factors that mediate transcriptional repression of Rag. Using Abelson murine leukemia virus–transformed B cells to model this stage of development, we identified early B cell factor 1 (Ebf1) as a strong repressor of Rag transcription. Short hairpin RNA–mediated knockdown of either Ebf1 or its downstream target c-Myb was sufficient to induce Rag transcription in these highly proliferative cells. Ebf1 and c-Myb antagonize Rag transcription by negatively regulating the binding of Foxo1 to the Rag locus. Ebf1 accomplishes this through both direct negative regulation of Foxo1 expression and direct positive regulation of Gfi1b expression. Ebf1 expression is driven by the IL-7R downstream effector Stat5, providing a link between the negative regulation of Rag transcription by IL-7 and a novel repressive pathway involving Ebf1 and c-Myb.
Erectile function after repeat saturation prostate biopsy: Our experience in 100 patients
Authors: Pepe Pietro , Pietropaolo Francesco , Dibenedetto Giuseppe , Aragona Francesco
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) incidence following repeat saturation prostate biopsy (SPBx) was evaluated. Materials and methods: From January 2011 to June 2012 295 patients underwent repeat transperineal SPBx (median 28 cores) under sedation. The indications for biopsy were: abnormal DRE, PSA > 10 ng/mL or included between 4.1-10 with free/total PSA < 25%. All patients were prospectively evaluated with the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) at baseline and 1, 3 and 6 months from SPBx. Results: 100/200 men with benign histology and normal sexual activity completed the study; median IIEF-5 score before and after SPBx was equal to 18.3 (baseline) vs 17.8 (1 month later) vs 18 (3 months later) vs 18.1 (6 months later) (p > 0.05); in detail, 1 month from biopsy 5 (5%) men referred a mild ED that disappeared at 3 and 6 months evaluation. Conclusions: Repeat transperineal SPBx under sedation did not significantly worsened erectile function; the minimal risk of temporary post-biopsy ED could be previously discussed (not emphasised) with potent patients.
Varicocele treatment: A 2-centers comparison between non microsurgical open correction, laparoscopic approach and retrograde percutaneous sclerotization on 463 cases
Authors: Ollandini Giangiacomo , Liguori Giovanni , Ziaran Stanislav , Málek Tomáš , Mazzon Giorgio , De Concilio Bernardino , Bucci Stefano , Benvenuto Sara , Belgrano Emanuele , Trombetta Carlo
Published: September 2013

Objectives: To determine whether there are differences in sperm parameters improvement after different varicocele correction techniques. To determine the role of age in sperm parameters improvement. Methods: 2 different European centers collected pre- and postoperative sperm parameters of patients undergoing varicocele correction. Among 463 evaluated patients, 367 were included. Patients were divided in procedure-related and age-related groups. Ivanissevich inguinal open surgical procedure (OS), lymphatic-sparing laparoscopic approach (LSL) and retrograde percutaneous transfemoral sclerotization (RPS) were performed. As outcome measurements sperm count (millions/mL, SC) and percentage of mobile sperms were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate regression between the defined groups; bivariate regression analysis between age and sperm count and motility. Results: Number of patients: OS 78; LSL 85; RPS 204. Mean age 30.2 (SD 6.83); postoperative SC increased from 18.2 to 30.1 (CI 95% 27.3-32.9; p < 0,001); motility from 25.6 to 32.56% (30.9-34.2; p < 0.001). OS: SC varied from 16.9 to 18.2 (p < 0.001); sperm motility from 29% to 33% (p < 0.001). LSL: SC from 15.5 to 17.2 (p < 0.001); motility from 27 to 31% (p < 0.001). RPS: SC from 18.9 to 36.2 (p < 0.001); motility from 24% to 32% (p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate analysis confirmed the significant difference of SC variation in RPS, compared to the other groups (p < 0.001). No significance between LSL and OS (p = 0.826). No significant differences regarding motility (p = 0.8). Conclusions: Varicocele correction is confirmed useful in improving sperm parameters; sclerotization technique leads to a better sperm improvement compared to other studied procedures; improvement in seminal parameters is not affected by age of the patients treated.
Work-family enrichment and psychological health
Authors: Jaga Ameeta , Bagraim Jeffrey , Williams Zahira
Published: September 2013

Orientation: This study examines the beneficial aspects of the interface between work and family and its relationships with psychological health from a positive psychology perspective.Research purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate whether work-family enrichment helps to predict psychological health, specifically increased subjective well-being and decreased feelings of emotional exhaustion and depression.Motivation for the study: The burgeoning literature on the work-family interface contains little on the potentially positive benefits of maintaining work and family roles.Research approach, design and method: The authors used a descriptive research design. Employees in two national organisations in the financial retail and logistics industries completed a self-administered survey questionnaire. The authors analysed responses from those who reported both family and work responsibilities (N = 160).Main findings: Consistent with previous research, factor analysis revealed two distinct directions of work-family enrichment: from work to family (W2FE) and from family to work (F2WE). Multiple regression analysis showed that F2WE explained a significant proportion of the variance in subjective wellbeing, whilst W2FE explained a significant proportion of the variance in depression and emotional exhaustion.Practical/managerial implications: The findings of this study revealed the individual and organisational benefits of fostering work-family enrichment. Contributions/value add: This study presents empirical evidence for the need to focus on the positive aspects of the work-family interface, provides further support for a positive organisational psychology perspective in organisations and hopefully will encourage further research on interventions in organisations and families.
Design and Management Features of Everyday Technology That Challenge Older Adults
Authors: Patomella Ann-Helen , Kottorp Anders , Nygård Louise
Published: September 2013

Introduction:

The management of everyday technologies could present too difficult a challenge for older adults with cognitive impairments, leading to their exclusion from participation. The present study aims to identify and describe features that make everyday technologies more or less difficult for older adults, whether with or without cognitive difficulties.

Methods:

A pre-existent, empirically generated hierarchy of more to less difficult everyday technologies was analysed. A mixed methods design was used to investigate predefined assumptions.

Findings:

Correlation analysis indicated that the more difficult everyday technologies required a higher frequency of skill actions; a positive correlation between the difficulty of an everyday technology and the need to perform actions in a logical sequence when using it was identified. The analysis indicated that feedback provided to users by less difficult everyday technologies consisted of different modes of stimuli (visual, auditory and tactile), while that from more difficult everyday technologies provided a high frequency of complex visual feedback. The less difficult everyday technologies were designed in a manner that was more intuitive; the design guided the user and fewer errors could be made.

Conclusion:

This study presents several features in the design of everyday technologies, and the skills required in using them, that could make their management more difficult for older adults.
A Survey Examining the Impact of Driving Cessation on People with Epilepsy in Ireland
Authors: Sullivan Clare , Buckley Sherrie
Published: September 2013

Introduction:

Driving is a job, a hobby and a form of transport that enables occupation. This research investigated the impact of the inability to drive due to epilepsy on community mobility and occupational participation, and compared both men and women's perceptions of the impact of driving cessation on romantic relationships and family involvement.

Method:

By means of an internet-based survey, data were collected concerning community mobility, personal impact of driving cessation, previous driving practices, epilepsy and demographics. Statistical analysis was performed on quantitative data and content analysis was used with responses to open questions. The survey received 95 eligible participants.

Findings:

Participants used public transport more than the general population; however, when unable to drive, being driving by friends or relatives was the main mode of transport. As a result, people experienced restricted access to the community, had to give up activities, had a reduced quality of life and a lowered self-esteem. Significantly more men than women felt that driving cessation had a negative impact on romantic relationships (p = 0.024) yet men and women did not differ significantly in their feelings about the impact of driving cessation on family involvement (p = 0.58).

Conclusion:

Independent access to the community is often dependent on the ability to drive.
The Effect of the Use of Discretion on Occupational Therapists' Professional Identity
Authors: Grant Aimee
Published: September 2013

Introduction:

In the United Kingdom, one strand of New Labour's welfare reform agenda was the introduction of the Condition Management Programme. In many areas of the United Kingdom, occupational therapists took a leading role in service delivery. This research article examines occupational therapists' use of discretion within the programme and its effect on their professional identity.

Method:

In-depth face-to-face interviews were undertaken with 13 staff members employed by the Condition Management Programme, including six occupational therapists. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti 6 software as a data management tool.

Findings:

Within Condition Management Programmes, managers had a large amount of freedom in service design and created a service staffed in the majority by occupational therapists. While some decisions were made as part of a multidisciplinary team, occupational therapists were allowed considerable clinical autonomy in delivering the service. The impact of this autonomy on their professional identity is discussed.

Conclusion:

As a central part of the Condition Management Programme service, occupational therapists and other allied health professionals were allowed considerable autonomy. Concurrently, occupational therapists reported a strong professional identity. There is a need for further research within mainstream National Health Service departments to examine how discretion affects professional identity.
Relative Performance Incentives and Price Bubbles in Experimental Asset Markets
Authors: Cheung Stephen L. , Coleman Andrew
Published: September 2013

We study experimental markets in which participants face incentives modeled upon those prevailing in markets for managed funds. Each participant's portfolio is periodically evaluated at market value and ranked by relative performance as measured by short‐term paper returns. Those who rank highly attract a larger share of new fund inflows. In an environment in which prices are typically close to intrinsic value, the effect of these incentives is mild. However, in an environment in which markets are prone to bubble, mispricing is greatly exacerbated by relative performance incentives and becomes even more pronounced with experience.
Systolic Anterior Motion: An Illustrative Case and Discussion of Management Strategy
Authors: Bardia Amit , Subramaniam Balachundhar
Published: September 2013

Systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the mitral leaflets can lead to hemodynamic instability following mitral valve repair. Perioperative echocardiography plays a crucial role in the management of SAM. Perioperative echocardiography helps to (a) identify patients at high risk for SAM before repair, (b) assess SAM and diagnose severity and (c) follow-up management efficacy. An illustrative case is shown in this report to take the reader through the current management strategy of SAM following mitral valve repair.

How to cite this article

Bardia A, Subramaniam B. Systolic Anterior Motion: An Illustrative Case and Discussion of Management Strategy. J Perioper Echocardiogr 2013;1(2): 62-65.
The covariation of Northern Hemisphere summertime CO2 with surface temperature in boreal regions
Authors: Wunch D. , Wennberg P. O. , Messerschmidt J. , Parazoo N. C. , Toon G. C. , Deutscher N. M. , Keppel-Aleks G. , Roehl C. M. , Randerson J. T. , Warneke T. , Notholt J.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. We observe significant interannual variability in the strength of the seasonal cycle drawdown in northern midlatitudes from measurements of CO2 made by the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) and the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT). This variability correlates with surface temperature in the boreal regions. Using TCCON measurements, we find that the slope of the relationship between the XCO2 seasonal cycle minima and boreal surface temperature is 1.2 ± 0.7 ppm K−1. Assimilations from CarbonTracker 2011 and CO2 simulations using the Simple Biosphere exchange Model (SiB) transported by GEOS-Chem underestimate this covariation. Both atmospheric transport and biospheric activity contribute to the observed covariation.
Retrieval techniques for airborne imaging of methane concentrations using high spatial and moderate spectral resolution: application to AVIRIS
Authors: Thorpe A. K. , Frankenberg C. , Roberts D. A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Two quantitative retrieval techniques were evaluated to estimate methane (CH4) enhancement in concentrated plumes using high spatial and moderate spectral resolution data from the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS). An Iterative Maximum a Posteriori Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (IMAP-DOAS) algorithm performed well for an ocean scene containing natural CH4 emissions from the Coal Oil Point (COP) seep field near Santa Barbara, California. IMAP-DOAS retrieval precision errors are expected to equal between 0.31 to 0.61 ppm CH4 over the lowest atmospheric layer (height up to 1.04 km), corresponding to about a 30 to 60 ppm error for a 10 m thick plume. However, IMAP-DOAS results for a terrestrial scene were adveresly influenced by the underlying landcover. A hybrid approach using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) was particularly effective for terrestrial surfaces because it could better account for spectral variability in surface reflectance. Using this approach, a CH4 plume was observed immediately downwind of two hydrocarbon storage tanks at the Inglewood Oil Field in Los Angeles, California, with a maximum near surface enhancement of 8.45 ppm above background. At COP, the distinct plume had a maximum enhancement of 2.85 ppm CH4 above background and was consistent with known seep locations and local wind direction. A sensitivity analysis also indicates CH4 sensitivity should be more than doubled for the next generation AVIRIS sensor (AVIRISng) due to improved spectral resolution and sampling. AVIRIS-like sensors offer the potential to better constrain emissions on local and regional scales, including sources of increasing concern like industrial point source emissions and fugitive CH4 from the oil and gas industry.
Pine Island glacier ice shelf melt distributed at kilometre scales
Authors: Dutrieux P. , Vaughan D. G. , Corr H. F. J. , Jenkins A. , Holland P. R. , Joughin I. , Fleming A. H.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. By thinning and accelerating, West Antarctic ice streams are contributing about 10% of the observed global sea level rise. Much of this ice loss is from Pine Island Glacier, which has thinned since at least 1992, driven by changes in ocean heat transport beneath its ice shelf and retreat of the grounding line. Details of the processes driving this change, however, remain largely elusive, hampering our ability to predict the future behaviour of this and similar systems. Here, a Lagrangian methodology is developed to measure oceanic melting of such rapidly advecting ice. High-resolution satellite and airborne observations of ice surface velocity and elevation are used to quantify patterns of basal melt under the Pine Island Glacier ice shelf and the associated adjustments to ice flow. At the broad scale, melt rates of up to 100 m yr−1 occur near the grounding line, reducing to 30 m yr−1 just 20 km downstream. Between 2008 and 2011, basal melting was largely compensated by ice advection, allowing us to estimate an average loss of ice to the ocean of 87 km3 yr−1, in close agreement with 2009 oceanographically constrained estimates. At smaller scales, a network of basal channels typically 500 m to 3 km wide is sculpted by concentrated melt, with kilometre-scale anomalies reaching 50% of the broad-scale basal melt. Basal melting enlarges the channels close to the grounding line, but farther downstream melting tends to diminish them. Kilometre-scale variations in melt are a key component of the complex ice–ocean interaction beneath the ice shelf, implying that greater understanding of their effect, or very high resolution models, are required to predict the sea-level contribution of the region.
COMPARATIVE INVESTIGATION OF THE DEVULCANIZATION PARAMETERS OF TIRE RUBBERS
Authors: Saiwari S. , Dierkes W. K. , Noordermeer J. W. M.
Published: September 2013

The optimal process conditions for a high ratio of devulcanization to polymer degradation have been investigated for tire rubbers: styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR), butadiene rubber (BR), natural rubber (NR), and chloro-isobutylene–isoprene rubber (CIIR). These polymers all show their own particular breakdown characteristics. The temperature dependence of the breakdown mechanism was investigated by measuring sol fractions and cross-link densities. For SBR and BR, the highest reduction in cross-link density was found at a temperature of 220 °C, together with a moderate increase in sol content. According to the Horikx theory, which correlates sol fraction and a decrease in cross-link density, this is the result of a high degree of cross-link scission. Higher process temperatures result in a lower decrease in cross-link density due to recombination of active chain fragments. NR and CIIR show different behavior. Breakdown of NR in this temperature range results in an almost complete destruction of the polymer network; cross-link density is reduced to almost zero, and the sol fraction is close to 100%. The same result is found for CIIR at higher temperatures. Although different rubbers react via other devulcanization mechanisms, the best devulcanization conditions for whole passenger car tire material are optimized.
Determination of Methoxamine in Human Plasma and Urine by a Validated HPLC-Fluorescence Detection Method
Authors: Ulu Sevgi Tatar
Published: September 2013

A sensitive HPLC method for the determination of methoxamine in human plasma and urine is described. The method is based on derivatization of methoxamine with 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan in borate buffer of pH 9.5 to yield a yellow, fluorescent product. Isocratic HPLC separation was achieved on an Inertsil C18 column (250 × 4.6 mm id, 5 μm particle size) using the mobile phase methanol–water (60 + 40, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.2 mL/min. Fluorescence detection was used at excitation and emission wavelengths of 458 and 521 nm, respectively. The assay was linear over the concentration ranges of 10–250 and 20–300 ng/mL for plasma and urine, respectively. The LOD values were 3.3 and 6.8 ng/mL and the LOQ values were 10 and 20 ng/mL for plasma and urine, respectively. The extraction recoveries were more than 97.10%. After strict validation, the method indicated good performance in terms of linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy (recovery), robustness, and system suitability, and it was successfully applied to the determination of methoxamine in human plasma and urine.
Enantioselective Quantification of Atenolol in Mouse Plasma by High Performance Liquid Chromatography Using a Chiral Stationary Phase: Application to a Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Hefnawy Mohammed M , Al-Shehri Mona M , Abounassif Mohammed A , Mostafa Gamal A E
Published: September 2013

Enantiomeric resolution of atenolol was achieved on the HPLC vancomycin macrocyclic antibiotic chiral stationary phase Chirobiotic V. The polar ionic mobile phase consisted of methanol–glacial acetic acid–triethylamine (100 + 0.025 + 0.75, v/v/v) at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. Fluorescence detection at 275/305 nm for excitation and emission, respectively, was used. Plasma samples were purified using SPE on Oasis HLB cartridges. The calibration curves in plasma were linear over the range of 5–400 ng/mL (r = 0.999) for each enantiomer with an LOD of 1.0 ng/mL. The proposed method was validated in compliance with International Conference of Harmonization guidelines in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision, LOD, LOQ, and selectivity. The overall recoveries for S-(–)- and R-(+)-atenolol enantiomers from plasma were 95.0–99.5%; RSD ranged from 2.5 to 3.3%. The developed method was applied for the trace analysis of atenolol enantiomers in plasma and for the pharmacokinetic investigation of atenolol enantiomers in mouse plasma.
A Novel Validated Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Method for Separation of Eszopiclone Impurities and its Degradants in Drug Products
Authors: Sharma Nitish , Rao Surendra Singh , Kumar Namala Durga Atchuta , Reddy Annarapu Malleswara
Published: September 2013

A selective, specific, and sensitive ultra-performance LC (UPLC) method was developed for determination of eszopiclone and its degradation products. The chromatographic separation was performed with a Waters ACQUITY UPLC system and BEH C18 column using gradient elution with mobile phases A and B. Mobile phase A was 0.01 M phosphate buffer with 0.2% (w/v) 1-octane sulfonic acid sodium salt as an ion pair reagent, adjusted pH 2.2 with orthophosphoric acid–acetonitrile (85 + 15, v/v). Mobile phase B was pH 2.2 buffer–acetonitrile (20 + 80, v/v). UV detection was performed at 303 nm. Eszopiclone and its impurities were chromatographed with a total run time of 13 min. A calibration study showed that the response for each of the impurities A, B, C, and D was linear between concentrations of 0.02 and 7.2 μg/mL (r2 ≥ 0.999). The method was validated over this range for precision, intermediate precision, accuracy, linearity, and specificity. For the precision study, RSD of each impurity was <5% (n = 6). The method was found to be precise, accurate, linear, and specific. The proposed method was successfully used for determination of eszopiclone impurities in pharmaceutical preparations.
Simultaneous Determination of 12 Coumarins in Bamboo Leaves by HPLC
Authors: Wang Shuying , Tang Feng , Yue Yongde , Yao Xi , Wei Qi , Yu Jin
Published: September 2013

A simple, rapid, and sensitive HPLC-UV method was developed for qualitative and quantitative analysis of 12 coumarin compounds (skimin, scopolin, scopoletin, umbelliferone, 6,7-dimethoxycoumarin, coumarin, psoralen, xanthotoxin, 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin, pimpinellin, imperatorin, and osthole) in bamboo leaves. The samples were extracted with ethanol–water (70 + 30, v/v) by ultrasonication and purified by Florisil SPE. The method was validated for linearity, LOD, LOQ, accuracy, precision, and recovery. The standard curves in the corresponding ranges had good linearity. LOD was at the range of 0.19 to 0.85 mg/kg and LOQ 0.64 to 2.82 mg/kg. The values of RSD for accuracy and intraday and interday precision were less than 3%, except for 6,7-dimethoxycoumarin. Recoveries from spiked samples at 30, 20, and 10 mg/kg in Dendrocalamus giganteus Munro were higher than 70%, except for scopoletin, 6,7-dimethoxycoumarin, and coumarin. The method was validated using field-collected samples taken from Beijing and Changning Counties, SiChuan, China. Six coumarins, namely, skimin, scopolin, scopoletin, umbelliferone, coumarin, and pimpinellin, were found in the extracts of 11 species of bamboo leaves. The concentrations of total coumarins were in the range of 8.67 to 99.2 mg/kg. The maximum concentration of total coumarins was found in Bambusa pervariabilis, and the minimum was in Phyllostachys spectabilis.
ELISA Kit for Peanut Protein Determination: Collaborative Study
Authors: Lexmaulová Hana , Gabrovská Dana , Rysová Jana , Štumr František , Netušilová Kateřina , Blažková Martina , Bulawová Hana , Brychta Josef , Šubrtová Zdeňka , Pavelka Jiri , Iametti Stefania , Barco Jorge Antonio Guisantes Del , Quesada Jorge Martínez , Pardo Esther Suñen , Resa Idoia Postigo , Takkinen Kristiina , Laukkanen Marja-Leena , Piknová Lubica , Langerholc Tomaz , Čenčič Avrelija , Baršová Soňa , Cuhra Petr , Plicka Jan
Published: September 2013

A collaborative study in 10 laboratories was performed to validate an ELISA method developed for the quantitative determination of peanut protein in foods. The ELISA kit used for this study is based on rabbit polyclonal antibody. This kit does not produce any false-positive results or cross-reactivity with a broad range of peanut-free food matrixes. All participants obtained the peanut ELISA kit with standard operational procedures, a list of samples, the samples, and a protocol for recording test results. The study included 15 food samples. Three food matrix samples of zero peanut content showed peanut protein content lower than the first standard (0.10 mg/kg). Three samples with peanut declared as an ingredient revealed peanut protein content outside the calibration curve (absorbance was above the highest standard) in all laboratories, and three samples had the peanut content reported either above the highest standard or within the calibration curve, depending on the laboratory. Six samples with peanut declared as an ingredient gave the peanut protein content within the calibration curve. Only these six samples, together with a positive control sample (CS2), were used for statistical evaluation. The statistical tests (Cochran, Grubbs, and Mandel) and analysis of variance were used for the evaluation of the collaborative study results. Repeatability and reproducibility limits, as well as an LOQ (LOQcollaborative 0.22 mg peanut proteins/kg) and an LOD (LODcollaborative 0.07 mg peanut proteins/kg) for the kit were calculated.
The Need for Harmonization in Detection of Human Noroviruses in Food
Authors: Stals Ambroos , Uyttendaele Mieke , Coillie Els Van
Published: September 2013

Noroviruses (NoV) have been recognized worldwide as a leading cause of foodborne gastroenteritis over the last decade. A broad range of foods—shellfish, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat/catered foods—has been implicated in NoV foodborne outbreaks. The recognition of NoV as an important food pathogen has been aided by the development of sensitive molecular methods for detection of the NoV genome. However, despite advances, NoV detection is still hampered by several limitations. First, NoV detection can often only be implemented by expert laboratories due to the complexity of the virus extraction step, which in most protocols is cumbersome and labor-intensive. Moreover, a very wide selection of automated methods for virus extraction from foods is available, so selection of an adequate method is not straightforward. On the other hand, automated systems have been made available or the RNA purification and real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) is considered the gold standard for detection of NoV. Second, correct interpretation of real-time PCR results is often difficult. From a technical point of view, the interpretation of the often nonsigmoidal amplification curves remains difficult, even for experts. From a food safety perspective, interpretation of very high Cq (or Ct) values—and thus, of low viral genomic copy numbers—is not straightforward, as RT-(q)PCR merely detects the presence of viral genomic material that is not necessarily linked to the presence of infectious viral particles. Despite efforts, both limitations have not completely resolved thus far. Harmonization may be a first step to comprehend and deal with these limitations. The current review provides an overview of a number of validated methods that have been published by food safety and other authorities.
Modified AOAC Three Step Method (Official Method 2008.05): Consolidation of Fractions B and C
Authors: Rastogi Vipin K , Smith Lisa S , Wallace Lalena , Tomasino Stephen F
Published: September 2013

The AOAC Quantitative Three Step Method (TSM; AOAC Official MethodSM 2008.05) is validated for testing the efficacy of liquid sporicides against spores of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus anthracis on selected hard, nonporous, and porous surfaces. The TSM uses 5 × 5 × 1 mm inoculated coupons (carriers), which are placed in 400 μL liquid sporicidal agent contained in a microcentrifuge tube. Following exposure of inoculated carriers to the test chemical and subsequent neutralization, viable spores are recovered in three fractions: A (gentle tapping), B (sonication), and C (gentle agitation). The spores in suspension are serially diluted and plated on a recovery medium for enumeration. The plate counts are summed over the three fractions to provide the number of viable spores per carrier, which is log10-transformed to generate a mean log density (LD) value across carriers. As a measure of product efficacy, a log reduction (LR) value is calculated by subtracting the mean LD for treated carriers from the mean LD for control carriers. This paper reports on the comparative evaluation of the current and modified versions of the TSM in order to support a modification to simplify the procedure. The proposed modified TSM (mTSM) consolidates fractions B and C in the same tube. Thus, the sonication (fraction B) and gentle agitation (fraction C) steps are carried out in the same tube, thereby reducing the number of tubes and associated resources and time necessary to complete the test. Glass, steel, pine wood, and ceramic tile carriers were included in the comparative study. Inoculated carriers were evaluated against two preparations of sodium hypochlorite to generate two presumed levels of efficacy (intermediate and high); the control LD and LR values associated with testing each carrier type for the TSM and the mTSM were compared. For control carriers, the mean log densities per carrier (for each carrier material) were not significantly different based on the TSM compared to the mTSM. Furthermore, the treated carrier data showed comparable LR values for the TSM and mTSM. The data provided in this report demonstrate equivalency between the TSM and mTSM and support the proposed procedural modification to consolidate fractions B and C.
QuickTox™ Kit for QuickScan Ochratoxin-A
Authors: Davis Alan H , Roberts Russell W
Published: September 2013

Quantitative, reader-based lateral flow technology is utilized for determination of ochratoxin contamination levels in wheat by the QuickTox Kit for QuickScan Ochratoxin-A. Naturally contaminated wheat samples were used to challenge the assay in the range of 0–100 ppb in linearity, selectivity, robustness, and stability, and in internal and external matrix studies. Performance was judged against criteria established by the AOAC Research Institute Performance Tested MethodSM program prior to beginning the validation studies. All data produced during this work conformed to the acceptance criteria. Linear dose responses with R2 exceeding 0.97 and RSDr values between 6.22 and 17.10% for positive samples were observed in linearity and internal and external matrix studies. Ochratoxin A (OTA) and ochratoxin B (OTB) were detected by the assay. Assay sensitivity towards OTB was approximately 50% relative to OTA detection. Other common mycotoxins did not affect assay results. Variations in assay timing, temperature, and sample volume encompassed in the robustness study did not yield results outside the acceptable range. Determination of ochratoxin in wheat is facilitated using the QuickTox Kit for QuickScan Ochratoxin-A kit.
Free and Total Carnitine in Infant and Adult/Pediatric Nutritional Formulas by Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry: First Action 2012.17
Authors: Starkey Dustin E , Denison James E , Seipelt C Thomas , Jacobs Wesley A , Dowell Dawn
Published: September 2013

Data from a previously published study in J.AOAC Int. 91, 130–142 (2008) was presented to the Stakeholder Panel on Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals (SPIFAN) during the AOAC Annual Meeting held in Las Vegas, NV, from September 30 to October 3, 2012. The panel reviewed the data submitted and concluded that the method satisfied the standard method performance requirements established by SPIFAN. Based on this information, the panel approved the method as AOAC First Action. The determination of free carnitine involves dilution and filtration of the sample, followed by determination of L-carnitine by LC/MS/MS. The determination of total carnitine includes a saponification procedure prior to dilution and filtration.
Vitamin C in Infant Formula and Adult/Pediatric Nutritional Formula by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Ultraviolet Detection: First Action 2012.22
Authors: Campos-Giménez Esther , Fontannaz Patric , Redeuil Karine , Kilinc Tamara , Dowell Dawn
Published: September 2013

During the AOAC Annual Meeting held in Las Vegas, NV from September 30 to October 3, 2012, the Stakeholder Panel on Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals convened to review single-laboratory validation data submitted for the method, Vitamin C in Adult/Pediatric Formula by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Ultraviolet Detection. This method is a modified version of the method "HPLC-UV Determination of Total Vitamin C in a Wide Range of Fortified Food Products" previously published in Food Chem., 94, 626–631 (2006). The SLV data from the modified method were reviewed and compared to the standard method performance requirements (SMPR 2012.012), and it was concluded that the method meets the requirements. The method was approved as AOAC Official First Action. The method is based on the acidic extraction of ascorbic acid in the presence of Tris[2-carboxyethyl] phosphine (TCEP) as a reducing agent. Separation was achieved on a C18 column with a sodium acetate eluent (pH 5.4) combined with TCEP and decylamine as an ion-pairing agent. Accuracy rates were between 90 and 100%. Repeatability RSD (RSDr) ranged from 1.4 to 2.5%, and intermediate reproducibility RSD (RSDiR) ranged from 1.3 to 7.5%.
Repeated Autologous Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Injections Improve Radiation-Induced Proctitis in Pigs
Authors: Linard Christine , Busson Elodie , Holler Valerie , Strup-Perrot Carine , Lacave-Lapalun Jean-Victor , Lhomme Bruno , Prat Marie , Devauchelle Patrick , Sabourin Jean-Christophe , Simon Jean-Marc , Bonneau Michel , Lataillade Jean-Jacques , Benderitter Marc
Published: September 2013

The management of proctitis in patients who have undergone very-high-dose conformal radiotherapy is extremely challenging. The fibrosis-necrosis, fistulae, and hemorrhage induced by pelvic overirradiation have an impact on morbidity. Augmenting tissue repair by the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be an important advance in treating radiation-induced toxicity. Using a preclinical pig model, we investigated the effect of autologous bone marrow-derived MSCs on high-dose radiation-induced proctitis. Irradiated pigs received repeated intravenous administrations of autologous bone marrow-derived MSCs. Immunostaining and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis were used to assess the MSCs' effect on inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and angiogenesis, in radiation-induced anorectal and colon damages. In humans, as in pigs, rectal overexposure induces mucosal damage (crypt depletion, macrophage infiltration, and fibrosis). In a pig model, repeated administrations of MSCs controlled systemic inflammation, reduced in situ both expression of inflammatory cytokines and macrophage recruitment, and augmented interleukin-10 expression in rectal mucosa. MSC injections limited radiation-induced fibrosis by reducing collagen deposition and expression of col1a2/col3a1 and transforming growth factor-β/connective tissue growth factor, and by modifying the matrix metalloproteinase/TIMP balance. In a pig model of proctitis, repeated injections of MSCs effectively reduced inflammation and fibrosis. This treatment represents a promising therapy for radiation-induced severe rectal damage.
"Are we to go literally to the hot dogs?" Parking Lots, Drive-ins, and the Critique of Progress in Toronto’s Suburbs, 1965–1975
Authors: Penfold Steve
Published: September 2013

This paper examines reactions to drive-in restaurants in the suburbs of Toronto, Ontario, in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It begins by laying out the main themes of a suburban critique of drive-ins, which were seen as symbols of larger problems of automobile landscapes, urban sprawl, runaway progress, and honky-tonk modernity. Next, the paper focuses more closely on an extended anti-drive-in campaign in Bronte, Ontario, one of many villages swept into the growing suburban sprawl around Toronto after World War II. There, a vocal group of activists rebelled against the nature of development in the area, mounting vigorous resistance to high-rise apartments, increased traffic, gas stations, and fast food restaurants. Drawing on the "pro-people,"participatory democracy rhetoric of urban reform movements, Bronte activists pressed their case on municipal institutions and scored some important political victories. In the end, however, the drive-ins remained, since activist ratepayers could not overcome the limitations of zoning as a tool of redevelopment or the decline of citizen activism over the course of the 1970s. More importantly, they had to confront the continued popularity of the car itself, a commodity upon which their own suburban lifestyle depended.
La culture urbaine au Canada et les formes de la culture de l’imprimé aux XVIIIe et XIXe siècles
Authors: Lamonde Yvan
Published: September 2013

La culture de l’imprimé constitue une des formes d’expression et de communication de l’homme. Faisant appel à l’instruction et à l’alphabétisation, elle présuppose une possibilité économique d’accès à ce médium qu’est le livre ou le journal. Avoir, savoir et pouvoir allant souvent de pair, la culture de l’imprimé fut longtemps celle d’un segment social privilégié, d’une élite faite de marchands, de gens de professions libérales, de militaires et de membres du clergé. L’imprimé ne représente donc qu’un pan de la culture, celui de l’expression des idées et des représentations. La culture ou l’expression peut aussi être orale, celle des légendes, des contes, des chansons; elle peut être gestuelle, utiliser le corps et prendre des formes variées de manifestations; la culture matérielle recourt aux artefacts comme moyens d’expression tandis que la culture médiatique passe par les médias de communication de masse, elle-même portée par la technologie et les industries culturelles. Chacune de ces formes d’expression n’est évidemment pas cloisonnée et peut entretenir un rapport à une autre forme, le cas de figure le plus exploré étant celui des rapports entre la culture de l’oralité et la culture de l’imprimé. Les travaux d’Elizabeth Eisenstein, de Roger Chartier et de Robert Darnton l’ont montré : les modes d’appropriation populaire de l’imprimé prennent les formes les plus variées et l’accès permanent à l’imprimé est une activité avec des allers et retours.
L’histoire urbaine en France. Nouvel objet, nouvelles approches
Authors: Backouche Isabelle
Published: September 2013

L’article analyse les difficultés de constitution d’un champ de recherches autonome autour de la ville en France tout en repérant les fructueuses pistes ouvertes par les recherches récentes pour cerner la spécificité de l’urbain. Trois d’entre elles sont approfondies : l’entrée par l’espace, l’attention à la diversité des acteurs, la valorisation du changement urbain. Ces trois interrogations sont déclinées sur des terrains urbains variés et des époques différentes, montrant que les convergences de la recherche en histoire urbaine passent par un intérêt primordial pour l’expérimentation et le dialogue avec d’autres disciplines.
L’histoire urbaine au Canada : l’espace, les citadins et les gouvernants
Authors: Poitras Claire
Published: September 2013

Cet article dresse un bilan des développements récents en histoire urbaine au Canada. Au cours des dernières années, les travaux ont porté sur différents aspects de la vie urbaine : logement, travail, culture, ethnicité, etc. En dépit de la fragmentation du champ disciplinaire, il est possible de regrouper les questionnements en quatre thématiques principales : Vétude du processus de suburbanisation, la question de Vethnicité et des classes sociales, la redéfinition des rapports hommes/femmes et sa portée eu égard à l’usage de l’espace urbain, la question de la gouverne et du pouvoir. Ces choix thématiques sont analogues à ceux qu’on retrouve dans le domaine des études urbaines, champ interdisciplinaire où les études culturelles, ethniques et féministes sont employées pour comprendre le fait urbain contemporain.
Taking Stock: Perspectives on British Urban History
Authors: Rodger Richard
Published: September 2013

Drawing on an unprecedented volume of recent scholarship on the urban history of Britain, this paper seeks to identify areas for future academic research. These in-elude a closer alignment of intellectual disciplines to cross-fertilise approaches to the historical study of towns and cities; a more resolute engagement by urban historians with audio and visual sources and a generally more coherent archival policy for the contemporary period; further integration of Irish perspectives into the study of British urban history; and a more imaginative analytical framework than town typologies by which to understand the process of urban change. In addition, a number of other areas are suggested, and the article concludes on a positivist note by reflecting on the extent to which the field of British urban history has been consolidated and rendered accessible to specialist historians and general public alike.
Dundas Street Haunts, East and West at the Art Gallery of Ontario
Authors: Marshall Amy
Published: September 2013

Scholars of urban history may not normally frequent the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) as a research institution, or, if there, may not consider a single painting as a primary source. The current exhibition, "Dundas Street Haunts, East and West," in the AGO's Canadian historical galleries may change that. In this one-painting installation, Curator Anna Hudson has brought a major work by Ontario painter Frederick Hagan (b. 1918) into focus, situating the canvas among historical photographs and an audio commentary by the artist, and demonstrating the richness of visual evidence and archival contextualization. The minimal size of the exhibition means that it has no catalogue and virtually no public profile, but may be an incidental pleasure for some gallery visitors during its run (April 25—Fall 2002).