bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inorganic arsenic exposure induces E2F‐dependent G0/G1 arrest via an increase in retinoblastoma family protein p130 in B‐cell lymphoma A20 cells
Authors: Okamura Kazuyuki , Miki Daisuke , Nohara Keiko
Published: July 2013

Inorganic arsenic exerts toxic effect on multiple systems including the immune system. We previously showed in a study on mouse thymocytes and B‐cell lymphoma A20 cells that arsenite induces cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 by suppressing expression of E2F‐target genes. In this study, we furthermore investigated the involvement of retinoblastoma (RB) family proteins in E2F‐dependent cell cycle arrest by arsenite. Arsenite exposure of A20 cells was showed to increase the protein level of p130, a RB family member, without changing the mRNA level. Suppression of arsenite‐induced p130 by siRNA reduced the G0/G1 phase, indicating that p130 accumulation is responsible for arsenite‐induced G0/G1 arrest. The accumulated p130 was shown to increase the p130 complex with E2F4, a transcription‐suppressing E2F. Comparison by Western blotting of arsenite‐induced p130 and p130 accumulated by a proteasome inhibitor suggested that arsenite‐induced p130 is hypophosphorylated and hypoubiquitinated and refractory to proteasome‐dependent degradation. We also showed that arsenite increases mRNA and protein of p16INK4a, an inhibitor of CDK4/6 that phosphorylates p130. Down‐regulation of arsenite‐induced p16INK4a by siRNA suppressed the p130 accumulation. We propose a novel mechanism in which arsenite inhibits phosphorylation/ubiquitin‐dependent proteasome degradation of p130 by inducing p16INK4a and the accumulated p130 causes cell cycle arrest with E2F4.
Cross‐Border Banking in Europe and Financial Stability
Authors: Schoenmaker Dirk , Wagner Wolf
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we propose country‐specific and systemic metrics that can be used to judge whether cross‐border banking in a country (or region) takes a desirable form. Applying these metrics to the EU countries, we find that the countries with the largest banking centres, the UK and Germany, are well diversified. By contrast, the New Member States (NMS) are highly dependent on a few West European banks and vulnerable to contagion effects. The Nordic and Baltic regions are closely interwoven with little diversification. At the system level, the EU banking system is weakly diversified, with an overexposure to the United States and an underexposure to Japan and China. This explains why the recent US‐originated financial crisis had such a significant impact on European banks.
Probing the Local Structure and Phase Transitions of Bi4V2O11‐Based Fast Ionic Conductors by Combined Raman and XRD Studies
Authors: Patwe Sadequa J. , Patra Atanu , Dey Rita , Roy Anushree , Kadam Ramakant M. , Achary Srungarpu N. , Tyagi Avesh K.
Published: July 2013

In this article, we report the structural phase transitions in Bi4V2O11 as observed from temperature‐dependent Raman scattering and X‐ray diffraction measurements. Four different types of highly disordered coordination polyhedra around the vanadium atoms with large dispersion of V–O bond lengths are observed in Bi4V2O11 at ambient temperature. The observed V–O bond lengths could be grouped into two categories, viz. shorter <1.7 Å and longer >1.7 Å. The Raman modes of Bi4V2O11 could be assigned to vibration of these bonds and V–O–V linkages. We could correlate the difference in degree of anharmonicity of the phonon modes with temperature to differences in V–O bond strength. The local structure of vanadium–oxygen network in Bi4V1.8Cu0.2O10.7 was also obtained by similar studies. The effect of highly disordered anion sublattice in the doped compound is reflected in the broadening of the Raman modes.
Factors with the management of incontinence and promotion of continence in older people in care homes
Authors: Flanagan Lisa , Roe Brenda , Jack Barbara , Shaw Christine , Williams Kate S. , Chung Alan , Barrett James
Published: July 2013

Aim

Review of intervention studies of associated factors with incontinence as the primary outcome in older people in care homes to identify and inform practice and future research.

Background

Incontinence is highly prevalent among care home populations. Previous reviews of descriptive and intervention studies have used urinary incontinence as the primary outcome.

Design

Systematic review and narrative summary.

Data sources

Electronic searches of English empirical studies undertaken using MEDLINE and CINAHL from January 1966–May 2010. All relevant empirical designs were selected from MEDLINE highly sensitive search strings from the Cochrane Incontinence Review Group, modified to exclude surgical and pharmacological studies

Review methods

The PRISMA statement was followed and established methods for systematic review to produce a narrative summary.

Results

Nine studies identified relating to associated factors with the management of incontinence in care homes. Factors included economic data, skin care, exercise studies, staff quality and prompted voiding adherence and the promotion of continence by the management of dehydration and incontinence.

Conclusion

Managing incontinence and promoting continence in care homes is complex, requiring time and cost‐efficient management procedures to contain the problem and deliver quality, achievable care. When developing and designing systems of care in care homes, it is important to also recognize the impact of associated factors. As with any healthcare intervention programme, resources are required to implement the protocols. Economic evaluation studies are limited, with further studies warranted alongside preventative studies to maintain long‐term continence in these populations.
Antihypertensive effects of inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibition in experimental pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Amaral Lorena M. , Pinheiro Lucas C. , Guimaraes Danielle A. , Palei Ana C.T. , Sertório Jonas T. , Portella Rafael L. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: July 2013

Upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) has been reported in both experimental and clinical hypertension. However, although pro‐inflammatory cytokines that up‐regulate iNOS contribute to pre‐eclampsia, no previous study has tested the hypothesis that a selective iNOS inhibitor (1400 W) could exert antihypertensive effects associated with decreased iNOS expression and nitrosative stress in pre‐eclampsia. This study examined the effects of 1400 W in the reduced uteroplacental perfusion pressure (RUPP) placental ischaemia animal model and in normal pregnant rats. Sham‐operated and RUPP rats were treated with daily vehicle or 1 mg/kg/day N‐[3‐(Aminomethyl) benzyl] acetamidine (1400 W) subcutaneously for 5 days. Plasma 8‐isoprostane levels, aortic reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)‐dependent ROS production were evaluated by ELISA, dihydroethidium fluorescence microscopy and lucigenin chemiluminescence respectively. Inducible nitric oxide synthase expression was assessed by western blotting analysis and aortic nitrotyrosine was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Mean arterial blood pressure increased by ~30 mmHg in RUPP rats, and 1400 W attenuated this increase by ~50% (P < 0.05). While RUPP increased plasma 8‐isoprostane levels, aortic ROS levels, and NADPH‐dependent ROS production (P < 0.05), treatment with 1400 W blunted these alterations (P < 0.05). Moreover, while RUPP increased iNOS expression and aortic nitrotyrosine levels (P < 0.05), treatment with 1400 W blunted these alterations (P < 0.05). These results clearly implicate iNOS in the hypertension associated with RUPP. Our findings may suggest that iNOS inhibitors could be clinically useful in the therapy of pre‐eclampsia, especially in particular groups of patients genetically more prone to express higher levels of iNOS. This issue deserves further confirmation.
Different Efforts in European Economic Integration: Implications of the EU Index
Authors: König Jörg , Ohr Renate
Published: July 2013

European integration is a multilayer process consisting of significant differences in efforts and capabilities of the Member State's individual EU participation. Hence, general statements about the national level of European economic integration are very vague. In order to fill this gap, this article presents a composite indicator measuring the extent of economic integration within the European Union – the EU Index. Existing composite indicators concerned with economic integration (globalization indices) were not designed to capture the specific European dimensions. The EU Index offers a unique basis, as now the national differences can be illustrated by one statistical measure. Large heterogeneities are found between the Member States with respect to overall European economic integration and to various sub‐indices. By using cluster analysis, it is also shown that the prevailing economic heterogeneities in the EU are combined with a strong and even growing clustering of its members, thereby challenging present and future steps of European integration.
Self‐calibrated concentration measurements of polydisperse nanoparticles
Authors: RÖDING M. , DESCHOUT H. , BRAECKMANS K. , SÄRKKÄ A. , RUDEMO M.
Published: July 2013

Quantitative characterization of nanoparticles, e.g. accurate estimation of concentration distributions, is critical to many pharmaceutical and biological applications. We present a method that enables for the first time highly accurate size and absolute concentration measurements of polydisperse nanoparticles in solution, based on fluorescence single particle tracking, that are self‐calibrated in the sense that the detection region volume is estimated based on the tracking data. The method is evaluated using simulations and experimental data of polystyrene nanospheres in water/sucrose solution. In addition, the method is used to quantify aggregation and clearance of different types of liposomes after intravenous injection in rats, where additional and more accurate information can be obtained that was previously unavailable, which can help elucidate their usefulness as drug carriers.
Mathematical classification of tight junction protein images
Authors: OGAWA K.H. , TROYER C.M. , DOSS R.G. , AMINIAN F. , BALREIRA E.C. , KING J.M.
Published: July 2013

We present the rationale for the development of mathematical features used for classification of images stained for selected tight junction proteins. The project examined localization of zonula occludens‐1, claudin‐1 and F‐actin in a model epithelium, Madin–Darby canine kidney II cells. Cytochalasin D exposure was used to perturb junctional localization by actin cytoskeleton disruption. Mathematical features were extracted from images to reliably reveal characteristic information of the pattern of protein localization. Features, such as neighbourhood standard deviation, gradient of pixel intensity measurement and conditional probability, provided meaningful information to classify complex image sets. The newly developed mathematical features were used as input to train a neural network that provided a robust method of individual image classification. The ability for researchers to make determinations concerning image classification while minimizing human bias is an important advancement for the field of tight junction cellular biology.
Shear Bond Strength of Denture Teeth to Two Chemically Different Denture Base Resins after Various Surface Treatments
Authors: Akin Hakan , Tugut Faik , Guney Umit , Akar Turker
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Debonding of acrylic teeth from the denture base remains a major problem in prosthodontics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of various surface treatments on the shear bond strength of the two chemically different denture base resins—polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA).

Materials and Methods

Two denture base resins, heat‐cured PMMA (Meliodent) and light‐activated UDMA (Eclipse), were used in this study. A total of 60 molar acrylic denture teeth were randomly separated into four groups (n = 15), according to surface treatment: acrylic untreated (group AC), Eclipse untreated (group EC), treated with eclipse bonding agent (group EB), and Er:YAG laser‐irradiated eclipse (group EL). Shear bond strength test specimens were prepared according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Specimens were subjected to shear bond strength test by a universal testing machine with a 1 mm/min crosshead speed. The data were analyzed with one‐way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey‐Kramer multiple comparison tests (α = 0.05).

Results

The highest mean bond strength was observed in specimens of group EB, and the lowest was observed in group EC specimens. A statistically significant difference in shear bond strength was found among all groups (p < 0.001), except between groups EC and EL (p = 0.61).

Conclusion

The two chemically different denture base polymers showed different shear bond strength values to acrylic denture teeth. Laser‐irradiation of the adhesive surface was found to be ineffective on improving bond strength of acrylic denture teeth to denture base resin. Eclipse bonding agent should be used as a part of denture fabrication with the Eclipse Resin System.
Evidence‐Based Criteria for Differential Treatment Planning of Implant Restorations for the Mandibular Edentulous Patient
Authors: Sadowsky Steven J. , Hansen Peter W.
Published: July 2013

Since the introduction of the ad modum Branemark prototype prosthesis for the mandibular edentulous patient more than 30 years ago, design permutations have met clinician and patient considerations. Dental student training and specialist continuing education often rely on anecdotal reports of success to determine the recommended design for patients. Decision‐making algorithms for treatment are optimally predicated on the best available evidence. The purpose of this article is to elucidate the benefit/risk calculus of various implant modalities for the mandibular edentulous patient.
Optimization of self-microemulsifying drug delivery system for telmisartan using Box–Behnken design and desirability function
Authors: Cho Hyuk Jun , Lee Dong Won , Marasini Nirmal , Poudel Bijay Kumar , Kim Jeong Hwan , Ramasamy Thiruganesh , Yoo Bong Kyu , Choi Han-Gon , Yong Chul Soon , Kim Jong Oh
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To develop and optimize the novel self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) formulation for enhanced water solubility and bioavailability of telmisartan (TMS) using the Box–Behnken design (BBD) and desirability function.

Method

TMS-SMEDDS formulation consisted of the mixture of oil (Peceol), surfactant (Labrasol), co-surfactant (Transcutol), TMS and triethanolamine. A three-level BBD was applied to explore the main effect, interaction effect and quadratic effect of three independent variables, including the amount of Peceol (X1), Labrasol (X2) and Transcutol (X3). Determined conditions were 20 < X1 < 40, 50 < X2 < 80 and 5 < X3 < 30. The response variables were droplet size (Y1), polydispersity index (Y2) and dissolution percentage of TMS after 15 min (Y3).

Key findings

The optimized conditions were 28.93, 80 and 28.08 (mg) for X1, X2 and X3, respectively, and the response variables were predicted to be 159.8 nm, 0.241 and 85.8% for Y1, Y2 and Y3, respectively. The actual values from the optimized formulation showed good agreement with predicted values. The optimized TMS-SMEDDS formulation showed faster drug dissolution rate and higher bioavailability than TMS powder.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that response surface methodology using BBD and desirability function is a promising approach to understand the effect of SMEDDS variables and to optimize the formulation.
Gene delivery to periodontal tissue using Bubble liposomes and ultrasound
Authors: Sugano M. , Negishi Y. , Endo‐Takahashi Y. , Hamano N. , Usui M. , Suzuki R. , Maruyama K. , Aramaki Y. , Yamamoto M.
Published: July 2013

Background and Objective

Periodontitis is the most common inflammatory disease caused by oral biofilm infection. For efficient periodontal treatment, it is important to enhance the outcome of existing regenerative therapies. The physical action of an ultrasound may be able to deliver a therapeutic gene or drugs into the local area of the periodontium being treated for periodontal regeneration. Previously, we developed “Bubble liposomes” as a useful carrier for gene or drug delivery, and reported that delivery efficiency was increased with high‐frequency ultrasound in vitro and in vivo. Hence, the aim of the present study was to examine the possibility of delivering genes into gingival tissues using Bubble liposomes and ultrasound.

Material and Methods

We attempted to deliver naked plasmid DNA encoding luciferase or enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) into the lower labial gingiva of Wistar rats using Bubble liposomes, with or without ultrasound exposure. Ultrasound parameters were optimized for intensity (0‐4.0 W/cm2) and exposure time (0–120 s) to establish the most efficient conditions for exposure. The efficacy and duration of gene expression in the gingiva were investigated using a luciferase assay and fluorescence microscopy.

Results

The strongest relative luciferase activity was observed when rats were treated under the following ultrasound conditions: 2.0 W/cm2 intensity and 30 s of exposure time. Relative luciferase activity, 1 d after gene delivery, was significantly higher in gingiva treated using Bubble liposomes and ultrasound than in gingiva of the other treatment groups. Histological analysis also showed that distinct EGFP‐expressing cells were observed in transfected gingiva when rats were treated under optimized conditions.

Conclusion

From these results, the combination of Bubble liposomes and ultrasound provides an efficient technique for delivering plasmid DNA into the gingiva. This technique can be applied for the delivery of a variety of therapeutic molecules into target tissue, and may serve as a useful treatment strategy for periodontitis.
The structure, coherence and limits of inchoate liability: the new ulterior element
Authors: Child JJ
Published: July 2013

This paper explores the role of ulterior intention (and ulterior mens rea more generally) within the criminal law. Divided into three sections, we first question the role and location of ulterior mens rea within the offence elements of acts, circumstances and results. Concluding that such accommodation is conceptually unsound, we highlight the problems this has caused in the context of inchoate liability, where the separation of elements is now essential to the application of the law. Central to this discussion is the problematic attempts case of AG Ref (No. 3 of 1992) [1994] 1 WLR 409. We contend that best way forward is to recognise a new ulterior mens rea element. Such an element has the potential to maintain conceptual coherence between offence elements and resolve substantive problems arising in the context of inchoate liability, as well as creating a new method for limiting inchoate liability (and infinite inchoate liability) from the potential for over-criminalisation.
Elderly age is not a negative predictive factor for virological response to therapy with pegylated interferon‐α and ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C virus patients
Authors: Frei Pascal , Leucht Anna‐Kathrin , Held Ulrike , Kofmehl Reto , Manser Christine N. , Schmitt Johannes , Mertens Joachim , Rau Monika , Baur Katharina , Gerlach Tilman , Negro Francesco , Heim Markus , Moradpour Darius , Cerny Andreas , Dufour Jean‐François , Müllhaupt Beat , Geier Andreas ,   on behalf of the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study Group
Published: July 2013

Background & Aims

Age is frequently discussed as negative host factor to achieve a sustained virological response (SVR) to antiviral therapy of chronic hepatitis C. However, elderly patients often show advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis as known negative predictive factor. The aim of this study was to assess age as an independent predictive factor during antiviral therapy.

Methods

Overall, 516 hepatitis C patients were treated with pegylated interferon‐α and ribavirin, thereof 66 patients ≥60 years. We analysed the impact of host factors (age, gender, fibrosis, haemoglobin, previous hepatitis C treatment) and viral factors (genotype, viral load) on SVR per therapy course by performing a generalized estimating equations (GEE) regression modelling, a matched pair analysis and a classification tree analysis.

Results

Overall, SVR per therapy course was 42.9 and 26.1%, respectively, in young and elderly patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1/4/6. The corresponding figures for HCV genotypes 2/3 were 74.4 and 84%. In the GEE model, age had no significant influence on achieving SVR. In matched pair analysis, SVR was not different in young and elderly patients (54.2 and 55.9% respectively; P = 0.795 in binominal test). In classification tree analysis, age was not a relevant splitting variable.

Conclusions

Age is not a significant predictive factor for achieving SVR, when relevant confounders are taken into account. As life expectancy in Western Europe at age 60 is more than 20 years, it is reasonable to treat chronic hepatitis C in selected elderly patients with relevant fibrosis or cirrhosis but without major concomitant diseases, as SVR improves survival and reduces carcinogenesis.
Genomic dissection of variation in clutch size and egg mass in a wild great tit (Parus major) population
Authors: Santure Anna W. , De Cauwer Isabelle , Robinson Matthew R. , Poissant Jocelyn , Sheldon Ben C. , Slate Jon
Published: July 2013

Clutch size and egg mass are life history traits that have been extensively studied in wild bird populations, as life history theory predicts a negative trade‐off between them, either at the phenotypic or at the genetic level. Here, we analyse the genomic architecture of these heritable traits in a wild great tit (Parus major) population, using three marker‐based approaches – chromosome partitioning, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). The variance explained by each great tit chromosome scales with predicted chromosome size, no location in the genome contains genome‐wide significantQTL, and no individualSNPs are associated with a large proportion of phenotypic variation, all of which may suggest that variation in both traits is due to many loci of small effect, located across the genome. There is no evidence that any regions of the genome contribute significantly to both traits, which combined with a small, nonsignificant negative genetic covariance between the traits, suggests the absence of genetic constraints on the independent evolution of these traits. Our findings support the hypothesis that variation in life history traits in natural populations is likely to be determined by many loci of small effect spread throughout the genome, which are subject to continued input of variation by mutation and migration, although we cannot exclude the possibility of an additional input of major effect genes influencing either trait.
Big boys get big girls: Factors influencing pupping site and territory location in Australian fur seals
Authors: Lourie Holly J. , Hoskins Andrew J. , Arnould John P.Y.
Published: July 2013

To examine the factors influencing birth site selection and territory location in Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus), habitat variables (slope, substrate, and elevation) were quantified in seven zones within a breeding colony on Kanowna Island (39º15′S, 146º18′E), southeastern Australia. Distribution across the colony was not uniform with zones at low elevations (i.e., close to water) being preferred areas, having earlier occupancies and greater female densities. Body length of females and territorial adult males was assessed using laser‐metrics. Average female length increased throughout the breeding season, within zones and across the colony, with larger females arriving to give birth later. Larger females also occupied areas of lower elevation close to water. Adult male body length had no influence on territory size, but was positively correlated with the number of females in harems (r2 = 0.70, P < 0.05) and female length (r2 = 0.87, P < 0.01) within harems. By monopolizing larger females, adult males may enhance their reproductive success as these individuals are more likely to give birth and have greater weaning success.
Inhibition of cereal rust fungi by both class I and II defensins derived from the flowers of Nicotiana alata
Authors: Dracatos Peter M. , van der Weerden Nicole L. , Carroll Kate T. , Johnson Elizabeth D. , Plummer Kim M. , Anderson Marilyn A.
Published: July 2013

Defensins are a large family of small, cysteine‐rich, basic proteins, produced by most plants and plant tissues. They have a primary function in defence against fungal disease, although other functions have been described. This study reports the isolation and characterization of a class I secreted defensin (NaD2) from the flowers of Nicotiana alata, and compares its antifungal activity with the class II defensin (NaD1) from N. alata flowers, which is stored in the vacuole. NaD2, like all other class I defensins, lacks the C‐terminal pro‐peptide (CTPP) characteristic of class II defensins. NaD2 is most closely related to Nt‐thionin from N. tabacum (96% identical) and shares 81% identity with MtDef4 from alfalfa. The concentration required to inhibit in vitro fungal growth by 50% (IC50) was assessed for both NaD1 and NaD2 for the biotrophic basidiomycete fungi Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae (Pca) and P. sorghi (Ps), the necrotrophic pathogenic ascomycetes Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (Fov), F. graminearum (Fgr), Verticillium dahliae (Vd) and Thielaviopsis basicola (Tb), and the saprobe Aspergillus nidulans. NaD1 was a more potent antifungal molecule than NaD2 against both the biotrophic and necrotrophic fungal pathogens tested. NaD2 was 5–10 times less effective at killing necrotrophs, but only two‐fold less effective on Puccinia species. A new procedure for testing antifungal proteins is described in this study which is applicable to pathogens with spores that are not amenable to liquid culture, such as rust pathogens. Rusts are the most damaging fungal pathogens of many agronomically important crop species (wheat, barley, oats and soybean). NaD1 and NaD2 inhibited urediniospore germination, germ tube growth and germ tube differentiation (appressoria induction) of both Puccinia species tested. NaD1 and NaD2 were fungicidal on Puccinia species and produced stunted germ tubes with a granular cytoplasm. When NaD1 and NaD2 were sprayed onto susceptible oat plants prior to the plants being inoculated with crown rust, they reduced the number of pustules per leaf area, as well as the amount of chlorosis induced by infection. Similar to observations in vitro, NaD1 was more effective as an antifungal control agent than NaD2. Further investigation revealed that both NaD1 and NaD2 permeabilized the plasma membranes of Puccinia spp. This study provides evidence that both secreted (NaD2) and nonsecreted (NaD1) defensins may be useful for broad‐spectrum resistance to pathogens.
In vitro susceptibility of dermatophytes isolated from patients with end‐stage renal disease: a case–control study
Authors: Irimie Marius , Tătaru Alexandru , Oantă Alexandru , Moga Marius
Published: July 2013

Although the therapeutic efficacy of antifungals is well known for dermatophytosis in general population, limited data exist for patients with chronic kidney disease. The objectives of this study were to determine the dermatophyte species causing infection in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and in vitro susceptibility of isolated dermatophytes to antifungals. A total of 87 patients with ESRD who undergoing haemodialysis and 105 patients with normal renal function suspected with dermatophytosis were included. Skin scrapings or nail clippings were examined by direct microscopy and cultured on Sabouraud agar. In vitro antifungal susceptibility tests were performed using a broth microdilution method. Dermatophyte infections were identified in 32.2% of haemodialysis patients and in 29.5% of controls (P > 0.05). In both groups, Trichophyton rubrum was the most frequently isolated. Mean MIC values of the all studied antifungals for all of isolated dermatophyte strains from patients with ESRD were similar to those obtained in control group (P > 0.05). Terbinafine (TBF) had the lowest mean MIC values for all tested dermatophytes in both groups. We consider that TBF should be the treatment of choice for dermatophytosis in patients with chronic kidney disease, but the dose should be adjusted according to creatinine clearance and should be monitored for side effects.
Structure of floral galls of Byrsonima sericea (Malpighiaceae) induced by Bruggmanniella byrsonimae (Cecidomyiidae, Diptera) and their effects on host plants
Authors: Guimarães A. L. A. , Cruz S. M. S. , Vieira A. C. M.
Published: July 2013

Galls are anomalies in plant development from parasitic origin, and affect cellular differentiation or growth of plants. This parasite–plant interaction occurs in many environments and typically in vegetative organs of plants. The existence of galls in reproductive organs and their effects on the host plant are seldom described in the literature. In this paper, we present a novel study of galls in plants of the neotropical region. Galls of Bruggmmaniella byrsonimae develop in the flower buds of Byrsonima sericea DC. (Malpighiaceae) and affect development of the reproductive organs and the reproductive effort of these plants. The sepals and petals show hypertrophy of parenchyma tissues after differentiation, and the stamens exhibit degeneration of the sporogenic tissue. The gynoecium is not entirely developed; ovary and ovules are often absent. Changes in vascular tissues are also frequent, which may indicate high demand for nutrient resources by the new tissues initiated by the larva. We compared the amount of inflorescences, galls and fruits to evaluate possible effects on host reproduction. The results suggest that the Cecidomyiidae galls in flower organs affect fruit set and the reproductive success of B. sericea.
Pollination and seed dispersal of Melocactus ernestii Vaupel subsp. ernestii (Cactaceae) by lizards: an example of double mutualism
Authors: Gomes V. G. N. , Quirino Z. G. M. , Machado I. C.
Published: July 2013

Recent studies show that the mutualistic role of lizards as pollinators and seed dispersers has been underestimated, with several ecological factors promoting such plant–animal interactions, especially on oceanic islands. Our aim is to provide a quantitative assessment of pollination and seed dispersal mutualisms with lizards in continental xeric habitats. We carried out focal observations of natural populations of Melocactus ernestii (Cactaceae) in the Caatinga, a Brazilian semiarid ecosystem, in order to record the frequency of visits, kind of resource searched and behaviour of visiting animals towards flowers and/or fruits. We made a new record of the lizard Tropidurus semitaeniatus foraging on flowers and fruits of M. ernestii. During the search for nectar, T. semitaeniatus contacted the reproductive structures of the flowers and transported pollen attached to its snout. Nectar production started at 14:00 h, with an average volume of 24.4 μl and an average concentration of solutes of 33%. Approximately 80% of the seeds of M. ernestii found in the faeces of T. semitaeniatus germinated under natural conditions. The roles of T. semitaeniatus as pollinator and seed disperser for M. ernestii show a clear relationship of double mutualism between two endemic species, which may result from the environmental conditions to which both species are subject. Seasonality, low water availability and arthropod supply in the environment, high local lizard densities, continuous nectar production by the flower and fruits with juicy pulp may be influencing the visits and, consequently, pollination and seed dispersal by lizards in this cactus.
‘Here, we don't just trade goods, we also “sell” people's lives’: Sari‐sari stores as nodes of partial surveillance in a Philippine fishing community
Authors: Turgo Nelson
Published: July 2013

Home‐based neighbourhood stores (locally known in the Philippines as sari‐sari stores) are a ubiquitous feature of most Philippine communities. They are small to medium‐size trade stores not unlike convenience stores in the West where people buy goods in small quantities. In the Philippines, these stores play a vital role in providing everyday economic sustenance to low‐income communities. But more than an economic hub, sari‐sari stores also function as a social hub that connects people and acts as eyes and ears of the community through the people who make use of their services. In a sense, sari‐sari stores are the community's ‘myopticon’ where people's day‐to‐day dealings with everyone in the community and its environs are reported and discursively brought under the gaze of the ‘entire community’. Being myopticon as opposed to Foucault's panopticon, surveillance in sari‐sari stores is partial, non‐hierarchicalized and could be resisted by people in the community. Nonetheless, regardless of the ‘myoptic’ features of sari‐sari stores, their presence in the community ‘interpellates’ everyone's daily existence and instantiates a discursive space from which a structure of informal social control is enacted among community members. Sari‐sari stores then are an important reminder of how our built environment is also about contestation and negotiation of everyday life as we make use of space and as the architectonics of space both constrain and empower our manoeuvring in places.
Mechanical properties of human skin in vivo: a comparative evaluation in 300 men and women
Authors: Luebberding S. , Krueger N. , Kerscher M.
Published: July 2013

Background

Previous studies have shown that the clinical genesis and onset of facial wrinkles as well as the morphology of the extracellular matrix differ between the sexes. The aim of this present clinical study was to do the first systematic assessment of gender‐related differences in skin elasticity, with special focus on age‐related changes.

Material and Methods

300 healthy male and female subjects (20–74 years) were selected following strict criteria including age, sun behavior or smoking habits. Skin mechanical properties were assessed at the cheek, neck, volar forearm and dorsum of the hand using a non‐invasive suction device.

Results

Data analysis shows a significant negative correlation for all parameters and subject's age. At young age results of the relative parameters are higher for women, whereas absolute parameters are higher for men. Parameters referring to the recovery phase change stronger with aging.

Discussion

The present study verifies the progressive decline of the skin mechanical properties with aging. However, the elastic ability of the skin to recover after stretching is more strongly affected by the aging process than the firmness of the skin. Further, the mechanical properties change differently in men and woman over lifetime.
Distinct differences in platelet production and function between neonates and adults: implications for platelet transfusion practice
Authors: Ferrer‐Marin Francisca , Stanworth Simon , Josephson Cassandra , Sola‐Visner Martha
Published: July 2013

Thrombocytopenia is a common problem among sick neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. Among neonates, preterm infants are the subgroup at highest risk for thrombocytopenia and hemorrhage, which is frequently intracranial. Although there is no evidence of a relationship between platelet (PLT) count and occurrence of major hemorrhage, preterm infants are commonly transfused prophylactically when PLT counts fall below an arbitrary limit, and this threshold is usually higher than for older infants or adults. This liberal practice has been influenced by the observation that, in vitro, neonatal PLTs are hyporeactive in response to multiple agonists. However, full‐term infants exhibit normal to increased primary hemostasis due to factors in neonatal blood that enhance the PLT–vessel wall interaction. Additionally, cardiorespiratory problems are considered the main etiologic factors in the development of neonatal intraventricular hemorrhage. In this review, we will discuss the developmental differences that exist in regard to PLT production and function, as well as in primary hemostasis in preterm and term neonates, and the implications of these developmental differences to transfusion medicine. PLT transfusions are not exempt of risk, and a better understanding of the PLT function and the hemostatic profile of premature infants and their changes over time and in response to illness is the starting point to design randomized controlled trials to define optimal use of PLT transfusions in premature neonates. Without these future trials, the marked disparities in PLT transfusion practice in neonates between hospitals and countries will remain over time.
Transfusion complications in thalassemia patients: a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CME)
Authors: Vichinsky Elliott , Neumayr Lynne , Trimble Sean , Giardina Patricia J. , Cohen Alan R. , Coates Thomas , Boudreaux Jeanne , Neufeld Ellis J. , Kenney Kristy , Grant Althea , Thompson Alexis A. ,   CDC Thalassemia Investigators
Published: July 2013

Background

Transfusions are the primary therapy for thalassemia but have significant cumulative risks. In 2004, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) established a national blood safety monitoring program for thalassemia. This report summarizes the population and their previous nonimmune and immune transfusion complications.

Study Design and Methods

The CDC Thalassemia Blood Safety Network is a consortium of centers longitudinally following patients. Enrollment occurred from 2004 through 2012. Demographics, transfusion history, infectious exposures, and transfusion and nontransfusion complications were summarized. Logistic regression analyses of factors associated with allo‐ and autoimmunization were employed.

Results

The race/ethnicity of these 407 thalassemia patients was predominantly Asian or Caucasian. The mean ± SD age was 22.3 ± 13.2 years and patients had received a mean ± SD total number of 149 ± 103.4 units of red blood cells (RBCs). Multiorgan dysfunction was common despite chelation. Twenty‐four percent of transfused patients had previous exposure to possible transfusion‐associated pathogens including one case of babesia. As 27% were immigrants, the infection source cannot be unequivocally linked to transfusion. Transfusion reactions occurred in 48%, including allergic, febrile, and hemolytic; 19% were alloimmunized. Common antigens were E, Kell, and C. Years of transfusion was the strongest predictor of alloimmunization. Autoantibodies occurred in 6.5% and were associated with alloimmunization (p < 0.0001). Local institutional policies, not patient characteristics, were major determinants of blood preparation and transfusion practices.

Conclusion

Hemosiderosis, transfusion reactions, and infections continue to be major problems in thalassemia. New pathogens were noted. National guidelines for RBC phenotyping and preparation are needed to decrease transfusion‐related morbidity.
Measuring Global Economic Interdependence: A Hierarchical Network Approach
Authors: Gomez David Matesanz , Torgler Benno , Ortega Guillermo J.
Published: July 2013

This paper investigates the business cycle co‐movement across countries and regions since 1950 as a measure for quantifying the economic interdependence in the ongoing globalisation process. Our methodological approach is based on analysis of a correlation matrix and the networks it contains. Such an approach summarises the interaction and interdependence of all elements, and it represents a more accurate measure of the global interdependence involved in an economic system. Our results show (1) the dynamics of interdependence has been driven more by synchronisation in regional growth patterns than by the synchronisation of the world economy, and (2) world crisis periods dramatically increase the global co‐movement in the world economy.
Movements of People for Movements of Goods?
Authors: Brau Rinaldo , Maria Pinna Anna
Published: July 2013

Whilst it is well established to think of international tourism as a type of exports, namely ‘home’ exports, the potential of tourism flows as an engine for fostering trade among countries is a poorly studied topic. In this paper, we show that this relationship can be studied at a very detailed level by exploiting the disaggregation of existing information on international trade and inbound tourism. We consider a sample of 25 countries belonging to the European Union, a region that has been interested by common shocks such as the establishment of the euro as the new currency for many countries and the liberalisation in the air transport market. We carry out a panel data analysis by means of which we assess whether international tourist arrivals by a given country activate additional exports towards the same country. We find not only that tourism can promote exports, but also that this effect displays important differences depending on whether or not consumption goods are considered. This finding is consistent with the idea that the experience of tourists in a given destination reduces the fixed costs of trade, thus facilitating access to the advantages of international trade for more peripheral economies.
Chinese Box turtle (Cuora flavomarginata) with lymphoid leukemia characterized by immunohistochemical and cytochemical phenotyping
Authors: Bezjian Marisa , Diep Anh N. , de Matos Ricardo , Schaefer Deanna
Published: July 2013

Lymphoid leukemia of T‐cell origin was diagnosed in a male Chinese Box turtle,Cuora flavomarginata, of approximately 25 years of age. The turtle presented with a history of anorexia, open‐mouth breathing, and lethargy for one week. TheCBCfindings included a mildly increasedPCV, and severe leukocytosis due to high numbers of atypical cells interpreted to be blasts. The blasts were medium‐sized cells with round to pleomorphic nuclei, slightly clumped chromatin, indistinct nucleoli, and scant moderate‐to‐dark blue cytoplasm with occasional red‐to‐purple cytoplasmic granulation. Cytochemical and immunohistochemical staining indicated that the neoplastic cells were positive forCD3 and α‐naphthyl butyrate esterase (ANBE), leading to the diagnosis of T‐cell lymphoid leukemia. Histology of tissues collected at necropsy showed multifocal infiltrations of neoplastic round cells in the liver, spleen, kidneys, testicles, pancreas, thyroid, duodenum, bone marrow, epicardium, and myocardium. Transmission electron microscopy failed to identify viral particles within the neoplastic cells. This article describes the hematologic, histologic, and ultrastructural abnormalities associated with lymphoid leukemia in this turtle, and advanced diagnostic methods used for phenotyping the T‐cell origin.
A CFD Investigation of Heat Transfer in a Diesel Fueled PPC Engine Applying Design of Experiments
Authors: Fridriksson Helgi S. , Hajireza Shahrokh , Tunér Martin , Sunén Bengt
Published: July 2013

Due to the nature of the engine cycle, heat transfer has a significant role in the estimation of engine efficiency. The effects are quite well known in the classic combustion concepts, compression ignition (CI) and spark ignition (SI) combustion. But for the newer, low temperature combustion (LTC) concepts, these effects are not that well known. In this paper, a commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, AVL FIRE, is used to evaluate engine performance and emissions for different thermal settings in the engine cylinder of a LTC engine. Design of experiments (DoE) methodology is applied to model the response variables and quantify the effects from different model variables on the response. The results show that, within the parameter space chosen for this work, the strongest effect on the in-cylinder heat transfer and engine performance comes from the temperature and pressure at inlet valve closing, as well as the piston wall temperature. The values giving the best combination of low heat loss and high performance are high temperature walls along with cold inflowing air and high boost pressure.
Ion Current Detection During Cold Starting and Idling in Diesel Engines
Authors: Gujarathi Sanket , Badawy Tamer , Henein Naeim
Published: July 2013

Cold starting of diesel engines is characterized by inherent problems such as long cranking periods and combustion instability leading to an increase in fuel consumption and the emission of high concentrations of hydrocarbons which appear as white smoke. The ion current signal has been considered for the feedback control of both gasoline and diesel engines. However, the ion current signal produced from the combustion of the heterogeneous charge in diesel engines is weaker compared to that produced from the combustion of the homogeneous charge in gasoline engines. This presents a problem in the detection of the ion current signal in diesel engines, particularly during starting and idling operations. This paper investigates and addresses the ion current detection problems pertaining to cold starting and various idling speeds. Also, different approaches have been investigated to improve the signal detection under these conditions.
A Phenomenological Approach to Dual Fuel Combustion Modelling
Authors: Johnson S. L. , Clarke A. , Fletcher T. , Hylands D.
Published: July 2013

Dual fuel engines offer the potential for considerable reductions in emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), as well as reducing emissions of particulate matter (PM). However, the combustion processes occurring inside a dual fuel engine are complex. This is due to the ignition of a homogeneous lean premixed charge by a pilot fuel spray, which combines elements of both conventional spark ignition and diesel combustion.

Combustion models provide an effective means of investigating the phenomena taking place inside the cylinder. This paper describes a phenomenological model used for performance and emissions predictions in a dual fuel engine. The pilot fuel spray is described using a packet model approach, which includes sub-models for spray development and mixing, swirl, spray wall impingement, ignition and combustion. Flame growth is coupled to the burning zones in the cylinder and is described using a turbulent entrainment model. Oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and PM are also evaluated.

Simulated in-cylinder pressures and rates of heat release are in good agreement with experimental data obtained from a naturally aspirated, in-line, four-cylinder, direct injection diesel engine operating with methane (CH4) as the gaseous fuel. Crank angle resolved emissions of NOx and PM are also presented. The model results give good confidence in the current approach for the description of premixed combustion following the ignition of the pilot.