bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the usage potential of SoilGen2 to predict clay translocation under forest and agricultural land uses
Authors: Finke P. A. , Samouëlian A. , Suarez‐Bonnet M. , Laroche B. , Cornu S. S.
Published: October 2014

Long‐term impacts of climate evolution and agricultural management on soil properties and thus soil functioning must be assessed by modelling studies. We focus on modelling of the clay depth distribution as a result of natural soil formation and agricultural management by using the soil genesis model SoilGen2 with loess‐derived Luvisols in northern France. An essential first step is the calibration of the processes concerning clay leaching (lessivage) in this model, for which we propose a reproducible method consisting of a screening for a realistic parameter range, a sensitivity analysis and finally a model calibration. To be able to separate the effects of natural soil evolution and more recent agricultural activities, we calibrated the model firstly on natural soils still under forest. Four parameters were the most sensitive and in need of calibration, representing the volume fraction of the soil in contact with macropores, a filter coefficient and physical weathering producing clay‐sized particles. These parameters were successfully calibrated, but independent validations at Belgian and Norwegian sites with Albeluvisols and Stagnosols developed in loess and marine clay did not always show an improvement on earlier calibrations. This can be related to several factors, most importantly the dominance of processes other than lessivage in Albeluvisols and uncertain reconstructions of the climate. After calibration, a functional sensitivity analysis was carried out to assess the effect of agricultural management on lessivage. Clear effects on clay loss in the topsoil were found for the length of the crop‐cover period and the ploughing depth and to a lesser extent for the intensity of soil mixing and the interception evaporation of the crops. As it is not feasible to reconstruct these factors for the entire period of agriculture in this region (several millennia), further analysis should take the form of scenario studies, but this should be preceded by use of field leaching experiments to calibrate SoilGen2 over short time‐scales.
Coloration, Paternity, and Assortative Mating in Western Bluebirds
Authors: Jacobs Anne C. , Fair Jeanne M. , Zuk Marlene
Published: October 2014

Coloration in birds can act as an important sexual signal in males, yet in many species, both sexes display bright colors. Social selection may account for this pattern, with more brightly colored individuals pairing together on the best territories. Mutual mate choice may also explain this, as males investing a great deal of parental care in the offspring should be choosy about their social mates. It is less clear whether this pattern of mate choice can apply to extra‐pair partners as well. We examined western bluebirds (Sialia mexicana) to determine whether more colorful individuals tended to pair with one another, both in social pairs and between females and their extra‐pair partners. Both male and female western bluebirds display both UV‐blue structural plumage and a melanin‐based chestnut breast patch, although females are duller than males. Social pairs mated assortatively with regard to UV‐blue brightness, but not chestnut coloration. There was no evidence that extra‐pair partners mated assortatively, but males with brighter UV‐blue coloration had fewer extra‐pair offspring in their nests. Older males were more successful at siring extra‐pair offspring, despite displaying no differences in coloration compared to younger males. Coloration did not play a role in determining extra‐pair male success. These results suggest that coloration plays a role in the formation of social pairs, but not mate choice for extra‐pair partners.
Leptin of dermal adipose tissue is differentially expressed during the hair cycle and contributes to adipocyte‐mediated growth inhibition of anagen‐phase vibrissa hair
Authors: Yang Chao‐Chun , Sheu Hamm‐Ming , Chung Pei‐Lun , Chang Chung‐Hsing , Tsai Yau‐Sheng , Hughes Michael W. , Tuan Tai‐Lan , Huang Lynn L. H.
Published: October 2014

Adipose tissue encircles the lower portion of anagen hair follicles and may regulate hair cycle progression. As leptin is a major adipokine, its level of expression from the dermal white adipose tissue during hair cycle progression was studied. The result shows that leptin level is differentially expressed during hair cycle, the lowest in early anagen phase, upregulated in late anagen phase and the highest in the telogen phase. On the other hand, leptin receptor is detected in keratin 15‐positive hair bulge epithelium of both anagen‐ and telogen‐phase hair follicles of mice pelage and vibrissa hair, and hair from human scalp. Leptin contributes to adipocyte‐mediated growth inhibition of anagen‐phase vibrissa hair as demonstrated in organ culture and coculture system. Our data suggest that leptin of dermal white adipose tissue might regulate hair growth and, therefore, hair cycle progression via leptin receptor on the hair follicle epithelium.
Characterization of the novel Sezary lymphoma cell line BKP1
Authors: Boudjarane John , Essaydi Arnaud , Farnault Laure , Popovici Cornel , Lafage‐Pochitaloff Marina , Beaufils Nathalie , Berda‐Haddad Yaël , Lacroix Romaric , Nicolino‐Brunet Corinne , Le Treut Thérèse , Zattara Hélène , Gabert Jean , Kahn‐Perlès Brigitte , Costello Régis
Published: October 2014

Cutaneous T‐cell lymphomas (CTCL) are a heterogeneous group of lymphomas primarily involving the skin. The most common types are mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary Syndrome (SS). We report a novel long‐term fast‐growing SS line termed BKP1 that was characterized by flow cytometry (FC), conventional and molecular cytogenetic [FISH/multi‐FISH together with array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH)]. FC immunophenotype of the BKP1 is CD2+CD5+CD3+CD4+CD8−CD7−CD25−CD26−CD30−CD158k+. The TCRγ characterization of BKP1 by PCR identified a clonal rearrangement. The conventional cytogenetic and Multi‐FISH analysis showed complex chromosomal rearrangements. aCGH analysis highlighted the loss of genes involved in cell cycle control, in immune response (HLA, complement complex) and DNA damage repair mechanisms. The BKP1 is another lymphoma cell line thoroughly characterized that can be a valuable tool for both basic and applied research such as identification of deregulated genes and/or pathways and screening for new antilymphoma drugs.
Development and heritability of subcortical brain volumes at ages 9 and 12
Authors: Swagerman S. C. , Brouwer R. M. , de Geus E. J. C. , Hulshoff Pol H. E. , Boomsma D. I.
Published: October 2014

Subcortical brain structures are involved in a variety of cognitive and emotional functions and follow different trajectories of increase and decrease in volume from childhood to adulthood. The heritability of development of subcortical brain volumes during adolescence has not been studied comprehensively. In a longitudinal twin study, we estimated to what extent subcortical brain volumes are influenced by genetic factors at ages 9 and 12. In addition, we assessed whether new genes are expressed at age 12 and whether there is evidence for genotype by sex interaction. Brain scans were acquired for 112 and 89 twin pairs at 9 and 12 years of age. In both boys and girls, there was an increase in volumes of the thalamus, hippocampus, amygdala and pallidum, and a decrease in volumes of the caudate and nucleus accumbens. The putamen showed a decrease in boys bilaterally and an increase in girls in the left hemisphere. Heritability was high (>50%) for all structures – except for the left nucleus accumbens – with heritabilities ranging from 0.50 to 0.91 at age 9, and from 0.59 to 0.88 at age 12. There were no significant new genetic effects coming into play at age 12, and there was no evidence for genotype by sex interactions. These findings suggest that despite their sensitivity to environmental effects, the heritability of subcortical brain structures is high from childhood on, resembling estimates found in adult samples.
Spatial variability in photosynthetic and heterotrophic activity drives localized δ13Corg fluctuations and carbonate precipitation in hypersaline microbial mats
Authors: Houghton J. , Fike D. , Druschel G. , Orphan V. , Hoehler T. M. , Des Marais D. J.
Published: October 2014

Modern laminated photosynthetic microbial mats are ideal environments to study how microbial activity creates and modifies carbon and sulfur isotopic signatures prior to lithification. Laminated microbial mats from a hypersaline lagoon (Guerrero Negro, Baja California, Mexico) maintained in a flume in a greenhouse at NASA Ames Research Center were sampled for δ13C of organic material and carbonate to assess the impact of carbon fixation (e.g., photosynthesis) and decomposition (e.g., bacterial respiration) on δ13C signatures. In the photic zone, the δ13Corg signature records a complex relationship between the activities of cyanobacteria under variable conditions of CO2 limitation with a significant contribution from green sulfur bacteria using the reductive TCA cycle for carbon fixation. Carbonate is present in some layers of the mat, associated with high concentrations of bacteriochlorophyll e (characteristic of green sulfur bacteria) and exhibits δ13C signatures similar to DIC in the overlying water column (−2.0‰), with small but variable decreases consistent with localized heterotrophic activity from sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB). Model results indicate respiration rates in the upper 12 mm of the mat alter in situ pH and concentrations to create both phototrophic CO2 limitation and carbonate supersaturation, leading to local precipitation of carbonate minerals. The measured activity of SRB with depth suggests they variably contribute to decomposition in the mat dependent on organic substrate concentrations. Millimeter‐scale variability in the δ13Corg signature beneath the photic zone in the mat is a result of shifting dominance between cyanobacteria and green sulfur bacteria with the aggregate signature overprinted by heterotrophic reworking by SRB and methanogens. These observations highlight the impact of sedimentary microbial processes on δ13Corg signatures; these processes need to be considered when attempting to relate observed isotopic signatures in ancient sedimentary strata to conditions in the overlying water column at the time of deposition and associated inferences about carbon cycling.
The Art of Writing Place
Authors: Ward Miranda
Published: October 2014

This paper provides an overview of recent work by academic geographers who use creative approaches to writing, both structurally and linguistically, to explore and advance themes relating to space and place. It places this work in the context of other contemporary engagements with creative practices in cultural geography and sets out some of the possibilities for, as well as the challenges associated with, a “creative‐critical” approach to writing geography. It outlines several ways in which this approach can help cultural geographers engage with certain ideas about place through a focus on three particular themes: (1) the idea of place as something fluid and always‐becoming; (2) the relationship between the body and place; and (3) the spatiality of text.
Age‐associated decrease of senescence marker protein‐30/gluconolactonase in individual mouse liver cells: Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence
Authors: Ishigami Akihito , Masutomi Hirofumi , Handa Setsuko , Maruyama Naoki
Published: October 2014

Aim

Senescence marker protein‐30 (SMP30)/gluconolactonase (GNL) is an age‐associated protein in that its presence decreases with aging. Here, we used immunohistochemical analysis to investigate the changes of SMP30/GNL in individual cells of the liver from progressively aged mice.

Methods

Male C57BL/6 strain mice at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 30 months‐of‐age were the source of hepatic cells used to detect SMP30/GNL. Liver sections from these mice were subjected to immunohistochemical staining with anti‐SMP30/GNL antibody. For immunofluorescent staining, primary cultured hepatocytes from mice at various ages were stained with SMP30/GNL and albumin.

Results

In liver cells from mice of all ages, SMP30/GNL staining appeared in some but not all parenchymal cells, and localized in both the nuclei and cytoplasm. Moreover, SMP30/GNL‐positive staining of parenchymal cells was present only around central vein areas, but not at sites of portal veins. Furthermore, the number of SMP30/GNL‐positive cells increased as mice aged from 1 to 12 months, then decreased from the 12th to 24th month. Results were similar in primary cultured hepatocytes from mice of various ages.

Conclusions

SMP30/GNL‐positive cells localized mainly around the central veins in the livers of mice and decreased numerically with aging, although there was no age‐related change in counts of albumin‐positive cells. SMP30/GNL protein occupied the nuclei and cytoplasm. Therefore, nuclear SMP30/GNL protein might be a regulatory factor specific for genes whose expression governs transcription and the aging process. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 804–810.
Tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes and expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in melanoma brain metastases
Authors: Berghoff Anna Sophie , Ricken Gerda , Widhalm Georg , Rajky Orsolya , Dieckmann Karin , Birner Peter , Bartsch Rupert , Höller Christoph , Preusser Matthias
Published: October 2014

Aims

In this study we aimed to characterize immune infiltrates and expression of programmed death 1 (PD‐1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in a series of melanoma BM to provide a basis for experimental therapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Methods and results

We investigated expression of PD‐1, PD‐L1, CD3, CD8, CD45RO, forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3), CD20 and BRAF V600E by immunohistochemistry in melanoma BM samples. Forty‐three specimens [27 of which (62.8%) were BRAF V600E‐positive] were available. CD3+ tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were evident in 33 specimens (76.7%), CD8+ in 39 (90.7%), CD45RO+ in 32 (74.4%), PD‐1+ in 27 (62.8%), FoxP3+ in 21 (48.8%) and CD20+ TILs in 19 (44.2%). Tumour PD‐L1 expression was observed in 22 specimens (51.1%), and in nine of these (40.9%) expression was observed in more than 5% of tumour cells. PD‐L1 expression was associated with higher density of PD‐1+ (P < 0.001), CD3+ (P = 0.014) and FoxP3+ (P < 0.001) TIL infiltration. Density of CD3+ TILs was associated with density of CD8+ (P < 0.001), PD‐1+ (P < 0.001) and CD45RO+ (P < 0.001) TILs. PD‐L1 expression or PD‐1+, CD3+, CD8+ or CD45RO+ TILs density did not correlate with BRAF V600E status, previous systemic therapy or survival (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Melanoma BM showed considerable lymphocytic infiltrates and expression of PD‐L1 in the majority of investigated specimens, with high PD‐L1 expression found predominantly in regions of abundant inflammation. Our data indicate that clinical studies should investigate the value of checkpoint inhibitors in patients with melanoma BMs.
Update on infectious enterocolitides and the diseases that they mimic
Authors: Lamps Laura W
Published: October 2014

The anatomic pathologist's ability to diagnose infections, including gastrointestinal infections, in tissue sections has improved greatly in recent years. With the increasing number and availability of new molecular assays and immunostains, pathologists' understanding of the correlation between histologic patterns of inflammation and specific organisms or groups of organisms has expanded, as well as our understanding of how closely infections can mimic other frequently encountered diseases in gastrointestinal pathology (such as chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease and ischemia). Anatomic pathologists continue to play a critical role in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal infections, as the examination of slides may provide a much more rapid result than microbiological cultures or other laboratory assays, and often cultures are not obtained before the patient is treated with antibiotics. Because many gastrointestinal infections are acquired through contaminated water and food, this review will focus primarily on food and water‐borne infectious enterocolitides.
TNF‐α and LPS activate angiogenesis via VEGF and SIRT1 signalling in human dental pulp cells
Authors: Shin M. R. , Kang S. K. , Kim Y. S. , Lee S. Y. , Hong S. C. , Kim E.‐C.
Published: October 2014

Aim

To assess whether SIRT1 and VEGF are responsible for tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced angiogenesis and to examine the molecular mechanism(s) of action in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs).

Methodology

Immortalized HDPCs obtained from Prof. Takashi Takata (Hiroshima University, Japan) were treated with LPS (1 μg mL−1) and TNF‐α (10 ng mL−1) for 24 h. mRNA and protein levels were examined by RT‐PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Migration and tube formation were examined in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The data were analysed by one‐way anova. Statistical analysis was performed at α = 0.05.

Results

LPS and TNF‐α upregulated VEGF and SIRT1 mRNA and protein levels. Inhibition of SIRT1 activity by sirtinol and SIRT1 siRNA or inhibition of the VEGF receptor by CBO‐P11 significantly attenuated LPS + TNF‐α‐stimulated MMPs production in HDPCs, as well as migration and tube formation in HUVECs (P < 0.05). Furthermore, sirtinol, SIRT1 siRNA and CBO‐P11 attenuated phosphorylation of Akt, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), p38 and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and the nuclear translocation of NF–κB p65. Pre‐treatment with inhibitors of p38, ERK, JNK, PI3K and NF‐κB decreased LPS + TNF‐α‐induced VEGF and SIRT1 expression, MMPs activity in HDPCs and angiogenesis (P < 0.05) in HUVECs.

Conclusions

TNF‐α and LPS led to upregulation of VEGF and SIRT1, and subsequent upregulation of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 production, and promote angiogenesis via pathways involving PI3K, p38, ERK, JNK and NF‐κB. The results suggest that inhibition of SIRT1 and VEGF might attenuate pro‐inflammatory mediator‐induced pulpal disease.
Comparative trial of a novel botulinum neurotoxin type A versus onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of glabellar lines: A multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, active‐controlled study
Authors: Won Chong Hyun , Kim Hyun Kyu , Kim Beom Joon , Kang Hoon , Hong Joon Pio , Lee Su‐Young , Kim Chung‐Sei
Published: October 2014

A novel botulinum neurotoxin type A (DWP450; Daewoong Pharmaceutical, Seoul, Korea) has recently been introduced for the treatment of facial wrinkles. The efficacy of this agent has previously been demonstrated in an in vivo study using an electrophysiological protocol in a rat model. To compare the efficacy and safety of DWP450 with onabotulinumtoxinA (OBoNT) for use in the treatment of glabellar lines, we performed a multicenter, double‐blind, randomized, active‐controlled trial comparing DWP450 and OBoNT (Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, USA). A total of 268 subjects with moderate to severe glabellar lines were randomized at a 1 : 1 ratio. Each patient received treatment with 20 U of study medication. Maximum frown responder rates at week 4 were measured to analyze the primary efficacy endpoint. To evaluate secondary efficacy endpoints, response rates were measured at weeks 8, 12, and 16, at maximum frown and rest. Specifically, responder rates at both maximum frown and at rest were assessed based on clinical photography. Subject degree of satisfaction and self‐assessed rate of response were also measured. Adverse events (AEs) were documented to evaluate safety. Responder rate by physician‐rating severity at maximal contraction at week 4 was 93.89% in the DWP450 group and 88.64% in OBoNT group. As the lower limit of the 97.5% one‐sided confidence interval (– 1.53%) surpassed the – 15% threshold, we determined that DWP450 was not inferior to OBoNT. For the secondary efficacy endpoint analyses, no significant differences were observed between the two groups for any variable at any point in time. The incidences of AEs were similar for the two groups. Most of AEs were considered mild. DWP450 and OBoNT were comparable in efficacy and safety in the treatment of glabellar lines.
Circulating level of CD4+ CD25+ FOXP3+ T cells in patients with chronic urticaria
Authors: Arshi Saba , Babaie Delara , Nabavi Mohammad , Tebianian Majid , Ghalehbaghi Babak , Jalali Farhad , Ahmadvand Alireza , Gholami Reza
Published: October 2014

Background

CD4+ CD25+ T‐regulatory (Treg) cells play critical roles in maintaining peripheral tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. As characteristics of Treg cells have not been precisely investigated in chronic urticaria (CU) yet, this study was performed.

Objective

To determine the frequencies of circulating CD4+ CD25+ FOXP3+ T cells and serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐10, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, and IL‐17 in patients with chronic autoimmune urticaria and chronic idiopathic urticaria compared to healthy controls.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from patients with CU and healthy controls. The frequency of CD4+ CD25+ T cells in PBMCs and expression levels of FOXP3 were detected by flow cytometry. The serum levels of IL‐10, TGF‐β, and IL‐17 were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

A significant decrease in the percentage of circulating CD4+ CD25+ FOXP3+ T cells was detected in patients with CU, compared to control subjects. However, no significant difference was detected on the serum levels of IL‐10, TGF‐β, and IL‐17 between patients with CU and control subjects.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the frequency of Treg cells in PBMCs was decreased in patients with CU. Further studies are needed to clarify the exact role of Treg cells in the pathogenesis of CU and factors regulating their function.
A bioactive molecule in a complex wound healing process: platelet‐derived growth factor
Authors: Kaltalioglu Kaan , Coskun‐Cevher Sule
Published: October 2014

Wound healing is considered to be particularly important after surgical procedures, and the most important wounds related to surgical procedures are incisional, excisional, and punch wounds. Research is ongoing to identify methods to heal non‐closed wounds or to accelerate wound healing; however, wound healing is a complex process that includes many biological and physiological events, and it is affected by various local and systemic factors, including diabetes mellitus, infection, ischemia, and aging. Different cell types (such as platelets, macrophages, and neutrophils) release growth factors during the healing process, and platelet‐derived growth factor is a particularly important mediator in most stages of wound healing. This review explores the relationship between platelet‐derived growth factor and wound healing.
Multifunctional cytomegalovirus (CMV)‐specific CD8+ T cells are not restricted by telomere‐related senescence in young or old adults
Authors: Riddell Natalie E. , Griffiths Stephen J. , Rivino Laura , King David C. B. , Teo Guo H. , Henson Sian M. , Cantisan Sara , Solana Rafael , Kemeny David M. , MacAry Paul A. , Larbi Anis , Akbar Arne N.
Published: October 2014

Antigen‐specific multifunctional T cells that secrete interferon‐γ, interleukin‐2 and tumour necrosis factor‐α simultaneously after activation are important for the control of many infections. It is unclear if these CD8+ T cells are at an early or late stage of differentiation and whether telomere erosion restricts their replicative capacity. We developed a multi‐parameter flow cytometric method for investigating the relationship between differentiation (CD45RA and CD27 surface phenotype), function (cytokine production) and replicative capacity (telomere length) in individual cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells. This involves surface and intracellular cell staining coupled to fluorescence in situ hybridization to detect telomeres (flow‐FISH). The end‐stage/senescent CD8+ CD45RA+ CD27− T‐cell subset increases significantly during ageing and this is exaggerated in CMV immune‐responsive subjects. However, these end‐stage cells do not have the shortest telomeres, implicating additional non‐telomere‐related mechanisms in inducing their senescence. The telomere lengths in total and CMV (NLV)‐specific CD8+ T cells in all four subsets defined by CD45RA and CD27 expression were significantly shorter in old compared with young individuals in both a Caucasian and an Asian cohort. Following stimulation by anti‐CD3 or NLV peptide, similar proportions of triple‐cytokine‐producing cells are found in CD8+ T cells at all stages of differentiation in both age groups. Furthermore, these multi‐functional cells had intermediate telomere lengths compared with cells producing only one or two cytokines after activation. Therefore, global and CMV (NLV)‐specific CD8+ T cells that secrete interferon‐γ, interleukin‐2 and tumour necrosis factor‐α are at an intermediate stage of differentiation and are not restricted by excessive telomere erosion.
Microscopic and Spectroscopic Characterization of Stacking‐Sequence Disordered SiC
Authors: Ohyanagi Manshi , Imai Takahito , Toyofuku Naoki , Nakagawa Daisuke , Munir Zuhair A.
Published: October 2014

Nanometric silicon carbide (SiC) powder (~5 nm) with a stacking‐sequence disordered structure (SD‐SiC), synthesized from elemental powders of Si and C, was investigated by microscopic and several spectroscopic methods. The structure of SD‐SiC was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), 13C, and 29Si‐NMR, and by infrared (IR), Raman, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods. TEM characterizations showed relatively large deviations of the lattice parameters in the as‐synthesized SiC, indicative of the presence of stacking‐sequence disorder. IR analysis showed a weaker Si‐C bond in the SD‐SiC than in the 3C‐SiC. XPS determinations showed that C and Si in SD‐SiC are similar to those in 3C‐SiC. Broader peaks of 29Si and 13C MAS‐NMR also indicate that the structure of SD‐SiC is different from that of 3C‐SiC. Raman spectroscopy exhibited activities for the crystalline polytypes and the amorphous of SiC but lack of them for the SD‐SiC. The inactivity of Raman spectroscopy for the SD‐SiC along with large deviation of the lattice constant and the extremely broad X‐ray diffraction peaks would indicate that SD‐SiC is a possible intermediate state between conventional polytype SiC and amorphous SiC, that is, a possible new type of SiC.
In Situ Thermally Induced Attenuation in Sapphire Optical Fibers Heated to 1400°C
Authors: Petrie Christian M. , Blue Thomas E.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this work was to determine the spectral loss of sapphire optical fibers as a function of temperature to determine the suitability of using sapphire optical fiber‐based instrumentation in extremely high‐temperature applications such as coal gasifers, or potentially in advanced high‐temperature nuclear reactors. In this work, the broadband (450–2200 nm) optical attenuation of two commercially available sapphire optical fibers was monitored in situ as the fibers were heated in steps to temperatures up to 1400°C. The results presented in this work are the first known reporting of the broadband spectral loss in sapphire fibers (as opposed to bulk sapphire) as a function of temperature. The added attenuation in the sapphire fibers seemed to reach a steady‐state at temperatures of 1300°C and below, and remained below 3.7 dB/m at all measurable wavelengths. At 1400°C, rapid increases in attenuation were observed that appeared to increase as the square root of heating time, indicating a diffusion‐limited process. Cooling to room temperature in steps resulted in recovery of a large portion of the thermally induced attenuation, suggesting that the effects caused by heating at 1400°C introduced additional attenuation that was very temperature dependent. Based on comparison with previous work and on the spectral features of the added attenuation observed in this work, heating at 1400°C could have caused high‐temperature oxidation of the sapphire fibers, which resulted in a temperature‐dependent scattering loss mechanism.
Satellite glial cells in dorsal root ganglia are activated in streptozotocin‐treated rodents
Authors: Hanani Menachem , Blum Erez , Liu Shuangmei , Peng Lichao , Liang Shangdong
Published: October 2014

Neuropathic pain is a very common complication in diabetes mellitus (DM), and treatment for it is limited. As DM is becoming a global epidemic it is important to understand and treat this problem. The mechanisms of diabetic neuropathic pain are largely obscure. Recent studies have shown that glial cells are important for a variety of neuropathic pain types, and we investigated what are the changes that satellite glial cells (SGCs) in dorsal root ganglia undergo in a DM type 1 model, induced by streptozotocin (STZ) in mice and rats. We carried out immunohistochemical studies to learn about changes in the activation marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in SGCs. We found that after STZ‐treatment the number of neurons surrounded with GFAP‐positive SGCs in dorsal root ganglia increased 4‐fold in mice and 5‐fold in rats. Western blotting for GFAP, which was done only on rats because of the larger size of the ganglia, showed an increase of about 2‐fold in STZ‐treated rats, supporting the immunohistochemical results. These results indicate for the first time that SGCs are activated in rodent models of DM1. As SGC activation appears to contribute to chronic pain, these results suggest that SGCs may participate in the generation and maintenance of diabetic neuropathic pain, and can serve as a potential therapeutic target.
Differential uPAR recruitment in caveolar‐lipid rafts by GM1 and GM3 gangliosides regulates endothelial progenitor cells angiogenesis
Authors: Margheri Francesca , Papucci Laura , Schiavone Nicola , D'Agostino Riccardo , Trigari Silvana , Serratì Simona , Laurenzana Anna , Biagioni Alessio , Luciani Cristina , Chillà Anastasia , Andreucci Elena , Del Rosso Tommaso , Margheri Giancarlo , Del Rosso Mario , Fibbi Gabriella
Published: October 2014

Gangliosides and the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) tipically partition in specialized membrane microdomains called lipid‐rafts. uPAR becomes functionally important in fostering angiogenesis in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) upon recruitment in caveolar‐lipid rafts. Moreover, cell membrane enrichment with exogenous GM1 ganglioside is pro‐angiogenic and opposite to the activity of GM3 ganglioside. On these basis, we first checked the interaction of uPAR with membrane models enriched with GM1 or GM3, relying on the adoption of solid‐supported mobile bilayer lipid membranes with raft‐like composition formed onto solid hydrophilic surfaces, and evaluated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) the extent of uPAR recruitment. We estimated the apparent dissociation constants of uPAR‐GM1/GM3 complexes. These preliminary observations, indicating that uPAR binds preferentially to GM1‐enriched biomimetic membranes, were validated by identifying a pro‐angiogenic activity of GM1‐enriched EPCs, based on GM1‐dependent uPAR recruitment in caveolar rafts. We have observed that addition of GM1 to EPCs culture medium promotes matrigel invasion and capillary morphogenesis, as opposed to the anti‐angiogenesis activity of GM3. Moreover, GM1 also stimulates MAPKinases signalling pathways, typically associated with an angiogenesis program. Caveolar‐raft isolation and Western blotting of uPAR showed that GM1 promotes caveolar‐raft partitioning of uPAR, as opposed to control and GM3‐challenged EPCs. By confocal microscopy, we have shown that in EPCs uPAR is present on the surface in at least three compartments, respectively, associated to GM1, GM3 and caveolar rafts. Following GM1 exogenous addition, the GM3 compartment is depleted of uPAR which is recruited within caveolar rafts thereby triggering angiogenesis.
Local control of the host immune response performed with mesenchymal stem cells: perspectives for functional intracerebral xenotransplantation
Authors: Lévêque Xavier , Mathieux Elodie , Nerrière‐Daguin Véronique , Thinard Reynald , Kermarrec Laetitia , Durand Tony , Haudebourg Thomas , Vanhove Bernard , Lescaudron Laurent , Neveu Isabelle , Naveilhan Philippe
Published: October 2014

Foetal pig neuroblasts are interesting candidates as a cell source for transplantation, but xenotransplantation in the brain requires the development of adapted immunosuppressive treatments. As systemic administration of high doses of cyclosporine A has side effects and does not protect xenotransplants forever, we focused our work on local control of the host immune responses. We studied the advantage of cotransplanting syngenic mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) with porcine neuroblasts (pNb) in immunocompetent rat striata. Two groups of animals were transplanted, either with pNb alone or with both MSC and pNb. At day 63, no porcine neurons were detected in the striata that received only pNb, while four of six rats transplanted with both pNb and MSC exhibited healthy porcine neurons. Interestingly, 50% of the cotransplanted rats displayed healthy grafts with pNF70+ and TH+ neurons at 120 days post‐transplantation. qPCR analyses revealed a general dwindling of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines in the striata that received the cotransplants. Motor recovery was also observed following the transplantation of pNb and MSC in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. Taken together, the present data indicate that the immunosuppressive properties of MSC are of great interest for the long‐term survival of xenogeneic neurons in the brain.
Sirt3 is essential for apelin‐induced angiogenesis in post‐myocardial infarction of diabetes
Authors: Hou Xuwei , Zeng Heng , He Xiaochen , Chen Jian‐Xiong
Published: October 2014

Heart failure following myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of death in diabetic patients. Angiogenesis contributes to cardiac repair and functional recovery in post‐MI. Our previous study shows that apelin (APLN) increases Sirtuin 3 (Sirt3) expression and ameliorates diabetic cardiomyopathy. In this study, we further investigated the direct role of Sirt3 in APLN‐induced angiogenesis in post‐MI model of diabetes. Wild‐type (WT) and Sirt3 knockout (Sirt3KO) mice were induced into diabetes by i.p. streptozotocin (STZ). STZ mice were then subjected to MI followed by immediate intramyocardial injection with adenovirus‐apelin (Ad‐APLN). Our studies showed that Sirt3 expression was significantly reduced in the hearts of STZ mice. Ad‐APLN treatment resulted in up‐regulation of Sirt3, angiopoietins/Tie‐2 and VEGF/VEGFR2 expression together with increased myocardial vascular densities in WT‐STZ+MI mice, but these alterations were not observed in Sirt3KO‐STZ+MI mice. In vitro, overexpression of APLN increased Sirt3 expression and angiogenesis in endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) from WT mice, but not in EPC from Sirt3KO mice. APLN gene therapy increases angiogenesis and improves cardiac functional recovery in diabetic hearts via up‐regulation of Sirt3 pathway.
Light emitting diode(LED)‐based trapping of the greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum)
Authors: Stukenberg N. , Gebauer K. , Poehling H.‐M.
Published: October 2014

Visual traps like yellow sticky card traps are used for monitoring and control of the greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum). However, reflected intensity (brightness) and hence, attractiveness depend on the ambient light conditions, and the colour (wavelength) might not fit with the sensitivity of whitefly photoreceptors. The use of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is a promising approach to increase the attractiveness, specificity and adaptability of visual traps. We constructed LED‐based visual traps equipped with blue and green high‐power LEDs and ultraviolet (UV) standard LEDs according to the putative spectral sensitivities of the insects' photoreceptors. In a series of small‐scale choice and no‐choice recapture experiments, the factors time of day as well as light intensity and light quality (colour) of LED traps were studied in terms of attractiveness compared to yellow traps without LEDs. Green LED traps (517 nm peak wavelength) were comparably attractive in no‐choice experiments but clearly preferred over yellow traps in all choice experiments. The time of day had a clear effect on the flight activity of the whiteflies and thereby on the trapping success. Blue LEDs (474 nm) suppressed the attractiveness of the light traps when combined with green LEDs suggesting that a yet undetected photoreceptor, sensitive for blue light, and an inhibiting interaction with the green receptor, might exist in T. vaporariorum. In choice experiments between LED traps emitting green light only or in combination with UV (368 nm), the green‐UV combination was preferred. In no‐choice night‐time experiments, UV LEDs considerably increased whitefly flight activity and efficacy of trapping. Most likely, the reason for the modifying effect of UV is the stimulating influence on flight activity. In conclusion, it seems that the use of green LEDs alone or in combination with UV LEDs could be an innovative option for improving attractiveness of visual traps.
Field evaluation of the efficacy of neem oil (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) and Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. in cotton production
Authors: Togbé C. E. , Haagsma R. , Zannou E. , Gbèhounou G. , Déguénon J. M. , Vodouhê S. , Kossou D. , van Huis A.
Published: October 2014

Neem oil (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) alone and combined with the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (isolate Bb11) was applied to control cotton pests. The efficacy of these treatments was compared with that of synthetic insecticides applied either in a calendar‐based application or in the ‘Lutte Etagée Ciblée’ (LEC) strategy, consisting of using first calendar‐based (half‐dose) applications followed by threshold‐based treatments. The experiment was carried out in collaborative research with farmers in three cotton agro‐ecological zones differing in rainfall, pest prevalence, and farming practices. The neem oil and neem oil‐Bb11 treatments required 2 to 6 applications, while conventional and LEC received 6 to 8 applications. The percentage of damaged reproductive organs in plots treated with neem oil and neem oil plus Bb11 was higher than that recorded under the conventional and LEC strategy, with exception of the zone with the highest rainfall; this resulted in yields being 25% and 39% lower, respectively. Yields in the biopesticide plots were 26–42% higher and in the conventional and LEC plots 44–59% higher than those in the control plots that received only water. Overall, the LEC regime scored best, both in yield and profitability. The incidence of natural enemies was highest in the control and in the plots treated with biopesticides. Although the use of entomopathogen Bb11 and neem oil avoids many problems associated with the application of synthetic insecticides, their efficacy needs to be enhanced by improved formulation or by combining them with other pesticides.
Patients' substantialization of disease, the hybrid symptom and metaphysical care
Authors: Pârvan Alexandra
Published: October 2014

In the context of current scholarship concerned with facilitating integration between the biomedical and the patient‐centred models of care, the article suggests that disease brings about an ontological disruption in patients, which is not directly addressed in either model, and may interfere with treatment and therapy outcomes if not met with a type of care termed here as ‘metaphysical’. The receipt of diagnosis and medical care can give patients the sense that they are ontologically diminished, or less of a human, and along with physicians' approaches to and discourses about disease, may prompt them to seek ontological restoration or security in the same way as psychologically traumatized patients sometimes do: by treating the disease and/or the experience of harm associated with it as a thing that exists per se. I call this ‘substantialization’ of disease (or harm) and draw on Augustine's theory of non‐substantial deficiencies (physiological and moral) and on Plato's and Plotinus's different takes on such defects in order to discuss what substantialization can do for patients. Based on literature that examines patients' ways of talking about and living with their disease, I speculate that substantialization can generate a ‘hybrid symptom’, consisting in patterns of exercising agency which may predispose to non‐adherence. Ways in which physicians could provide metaphysical care are proposed, along with an understanding of chronic patients as hybrid ontological and agentic units, which draws on theories of enactive cognition. I opine that metaphysical care may facilitate integration between the depersonalized and personalized models of care.
Natural history of HFE simple heterozygosity for C282Y and H63D: A prospective 12‐year study
Authors: Zaloumis Sophie G , Allen Katrina J , Bertalli Nadine A , Turkovic Lidija , Delatycki Martin B , Nicoll Amanda J , McLaren Christine E , English Dallas R , Hopper John L , Giles Graham G , Anderson Gregory J , Olynyk John K , Powell Lawrie W , Gurrin Lyle C ,   HealthIron Study Investigators
Published: October 2014

Background and Aim

The risk of hemochromatosis‐related morbidity for HFE simple heterozygosity for either the C282Y or H63D substitutions in the HFE protein was assessed using a prospective community‐based cohort study.

Methods

HFE genotypes were measured for 31 192 persons of northern European descent, aged between 40 and 69 years when recruited to the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study, and subjects were followed for an average of 12 years. For a random sample of 1438 participants stratified according to HFE genotype, two sets of biochemical iron indices performed 12 years apart and, at follow‐up only, the presence/absence of six disease features associated with hereditary hemochromatosis were obtained. Summary data for 257 (139 female) C282Y simple heterozygotes and 123 (74 female) H63D simple heterozygotes were compared with 330 (181 female) controls with neither HFE mutation.

Results

At baseline, mean transferrin saturation (TS) (95% confidence interval) and prevalence of TS > 55% were 35.14% (33.25, 37.04) and 3/112 (3%), 33.03% (29.9, 36.15) and 0/39 (0%), and 29.67% (27.93, 31.4) and 3/135 (2%) for C282Y, H63D and wild‐type male participants, respectively. At follow‐up, mean TS levels remained similar to baseline levels for both men and women irrespective of simple heterozygosity for either mutation. No HFE C282Y or H63D simple heterozygotes had documented iron overload (based on hepatic iron measures or serum ferritin greater than 1000 mg/L at baseline with documented therapeutic venesection).

Conclusion

No documented iron overload was observed for HFE simple heterozygotes for either C282Y or H63D, and morbidity for both HFE simple heterozygote groups was similar to that of HFE wild‐type participants.
Decreased carbon shunting from glucose toward oxidative metabolism in diet‐induced ketotic rat brain
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Zhang Shenghui , Marin‐Valencia Isaac , Puchowicz Michelle A.
Published: October 2014

The mechanistic link of ketosis to neuroprotection under certain pathological conditions continues to be explored. We investigated whether chronic ketosis induced by ketogenic diet results in the partitioning of ketone bodies toward oxidative metabolism in brain. We hypothesized that diet‐induced ketosis results in increased shunting of ketone bodies toward citric acid cycle and amino acids with decreased carbon shunting from glucose. Rats were fed standard (STD) or ketogenic (KG) diets for 3.5 weeks and then infused with [U‐13C]glucose or [U‐13C]acetoacetate tracers. Concentrations and13C‐labeling pattern of citric acid cycle intermediates and amino acids were analyzed from brain homogenates using stable isotopomer mass spectrometry analysis. The contribution of [U‐13C]glucose to acetyl‐CoA and amino acids decreased by ~ 30% in theKGgroup versusSTD, whereas [U‐13C]acetoacetate contributions were more than two‐fold higher. The concentration ofGABAremained constant across groups; however, the13C labeling ofGABAwas markedly increased in theKGgroup infused with [U‐13C]acetoacetate compared toSTD. This study reveals that there is a significant contribution of ketone bodies to oxidative metabolism andGABAin diet‐induced ketosis. We propose that this represents a fundamental mechanism of neuroprotection under pathological conditions.

image

We investigated glucose versus ketone bodies contributions to citric acid (CAC) intermediates and brain amino acids. We found decreased carbon shunting from glucose toward oxidative metabolism in diet‐induced ketotic rat brain, whereas the carbon shunting from ketone bodies toward oxidative metabolism increased, toward gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA). The partitioning of ketone bodies toward GABA in ketotic brain represents a fundamental mechanism of neuroprotection under pathological conditions, such as with stroke or seizures.
18F‐fluoromisonidazole (FMISO) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Predicts Early Infarct Growth in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lee Gha‐hyun , Kim Jae Seung , Oh Seung Jun , Kang Dong‐Wha , Kim Jong S. , Kwon Sun U.
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

18F‐fluoromisonidazole (FMISO) positron emission tomography (PET) is used to image metabolically compromised but viable hypoxic tissue. We hypothesized that FMISO PET might predict early infarct growth in acute ischemic stroke patients with perfusion‐diffusion mismatch in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled acute ischemic stroke patients who visited the emergency room within 48 hours after stroke onset and had perfusion‐diffusion mismatch (>20%), as shown MRI. Infarct growth was defined as >20% increase of initial infarct volume or >5 mL in follow‐up diffusion‐weighted image 5 ± 2 days after stroke. The association between FMISO uptake and infarct growth was explored.

RESULTS

Of 19 enrolled patients, 10 (52.6%) showed increased FMISO uptake, with 8 of the latter showing infarct growth. None of the 9 patients who did not show FMISO uptake had infarct growth. FMISO uptake was significantly associated with infarct growth (Fisher's exact test; P < .01). FMISO PET scan had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 82% (AUC = .909) in predicting infarct growth.

CONCLUSIONS

FMISO PET scan can predict early infarct growth in acute ischemic stroke patients with perfusion‐diffusion mismatch in MRI.
The Effect of Porcelain Firing on Electrochemical Behavior of a Dental Alloy in Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Tamam Evşen , Aydın A. Kevser , Bilgiç Semra
Published: October 2014

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in electrochemical corrosion properties of porcelain firing simulated nickel‐chromium dental casting alloy exposed to a 10% hydrogen peroxide bleaching agent.

Materials and Methods

The electrochemical corrosion behavior of a Ni‐Cr alloy was evaluated by cyclic polarization test in the aerated electrolyte (pH = 6.5). Test groups were produced in as‐cast (group 1, control group) and simulated porcelain firing (group 2: heat‐treated/mean value; group 3: heat‐treated/cycle) conditions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was also used to examine the alloy surfaces before and after the corrosion test.

Results

The ranking of the groups with respect to Ecorr and Icorr was as follows: 1, 2, 3 and 3, 1, 2, respectively. Group 3 exhibited the greatest and group 2 displayed the least corrosion tendencies. An increase in corrosion rates was observed after heat treatment/cycle state. Post‐corrosion SEM photographs were also consistent with the test results.

Conclusion

Within the parameters of this study, a single heat treatment is insufficient to cause upheaval in corrosion behavior of a Ni‐Cr alloy subjected to 10% hydrogen peroxide.