bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strain engineering to control the magnetic and magnetotransport properties of La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 thin films
Authors: Yang F. , Kemik N. , Biegalski M. D. , Christen H. M. , Arenholz E. , Takamura Y.
Published: August 2010

Strain engineering can be used to tailor the magnetic and magnetotransport properties of La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 thin films by varying the tetragonal distortion (c/a ratio) between a compressive strain of 1.005 and a tensile strain of 0.962 through the choice of the substrate type and the presence of a buffer layer. We find that increasing the tensile tetragonal distortion of the La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 thin film decreases the saturation magnetization, changes the temperature dependence of the resistivity and magnetoresistance, and increases the resistivity by several orders of magnitude.
Solvent-mediated threshold voltage shift in solution-processed transparent oxide thin-film transistors
Authors: Kim Yong-Hoon , Kim Hyun Soo , Han Jeong-In , Park Sung Kyu
Published: August 2010

We investigated solvent-mediated threshold voltage (VTH) shift in solution-processed zinc–tin oxide (ZTO) thin film transistors (TFTs). The ZTO TFTs showed negative VTH shift when exposed to various organic solvents such as hexane, isopropanol, and chlorobenzene. Additionally the magnitude of the shift showed a close relationship with the dielectric constant or electronegativity of the solvent molecules. From the experiments, one of the origins of the VTH shift in the transparent oxide TFTs appears to be closely correlated with the dipole interaction of the solvent molecules and ZTO back channel surface.
Arrowleaf clover improves lamb growth rates in late spring and early summer compared with subterranean clover pastures in south-west Victoria
Authors: Thompson A. N. , Kennedy A. J. , Holmes J. , Kearney G.
Published: August 2010

The profitable production of lamb from pasture-based systems is dependent on high levels of pasture production being efficiently utilised by sheep of superior genetic merit. Pastures that can extend the pasture-growing season and provide high quality feed in late spring and summer have the potential to increase production efficiency and the proportion of lambs that meet market specifications. In this paper we tested the hypothesis that arrowleaf clover (cv. Arrotas), a cultivar selected for late maturity, would supply feed of higher nutritive value than conventional annual legumes and perennial ryegrass mixtures during December and January and this would improve lamb growth rates over this period. Two experiments were conducted to compare the nutritive value of pasture and growth rates of lambs grazing arrowleaf clover, subterranean clover (cv. Leura) or subterranean clover/perennial ryegrass mixtures at different stocking rates during late spring and early summer in south-west Victoria. In the second experiment an arrowleaf clover/perennial ryegrass treatment was also included. Lambs were removed from the plots when they could no longer maintain liveweight. Arrowleaf clover extended the growing season by 4–6 weeks and provided feed of significantly higher digestibility than subterranean clover during December and January. The digestibility of arrowleaf and perennial ryegrass was comparable, but arrowleaf had significantly higher crude protein content during this period. Lambs grazing arrowleaf clover at stocking rates up to 24 lambs/ha grew at or above 100 g/day until the end of January, whereas lambs grazing subterranean clover and perennial ryegrass mixed pastures could not maintain weight by mid-to-late December in both years and were removed from the pastures. At the highest stocking rates total lamb production from arrowleaf clover monoculture pastures in late spring and early summer was ~400 kg liveweight/ha, and was more than double that achieved from the subterranean clover and perennial ryegrass/subterranean clover mixed pastures. The perennial ryegrass/arrowleaf clover mixed pastures in the second experiment produced a similar quantity of lamb per hectare as the arrowleaf clover monoculture pastures at the same stocking rate. In this paper we demonstrated that late-maturing arrowleaf clover can be a profitable, special purpose lamb-finishing pasture. Arrowleaf clover was most suited to more elevated parts of the landscape where estimated carrying capacity was 20 to 40% greater than that from lower lying parts of the landscape that were more subject to water logging and weed infestation. The risks of including arrowleaf clover pastures into the farming system could be reduced by direct drilling arrowleaf clover, which has relatively poor winter production, into existing perennial ryegrass pastures.
Temporal relationships of the LH surge and ovulation to echotexture and power Doppler signals of blood flow in the wall of the preovulatory follicle in heifers
Authors: Siddiqui M. A. R. , Ferreira J. C. , Gastal E. L. , Beg M. A. , Cooper D. A. , Ginther O. J.
Published: August 2010

Changes in echotexture and blood flow in the wall of preovulatory follicles in heifers were studied in relation to the LH surge and ovulation in gonadotrophin-releasing hormone-induced (n = 7; Experiment 1) and spontaneous (n = 8; Experiment 2) ovulators. Ultrasonographic examinations and blood sampling were performed either every hour (Experiment 1) or every 6 h (Experiment 2). The interval from LH peak to ovulation in induced and spontaneous ovulators was 27.1 ± 0.3 and 34.5 ± 1.5 h, respectively. Follicle diameter did not increase between the LH peak and ovulation. In the induced ovulators, serration of the stratum granulosum was detected in one (14%), two (29%), three (43%) and four (57%) heifers at 4, 3, 2 and 1 h before ovulation, respectively. An initial increase in blood flow (P < 0.001) encompassed the LH peak in both experiments. In the induced ovulators, blood flow increased (P < 0.02) to maximum 3 h after the LH peak, maintained a plateau for 5 h, decreased (P < 0.05) between 9 and 14 h, increased (P < 0.05) again between 19 and 21 h and then decreased (P < 0.01) between 25 and 26 h (1 h before ovulation). The biphasic increase and decrease in blood flow and serration of the granulosum in the wall of the preovulatory follicle in cattle are novel findings.
Flow-sorted ram spermatozoa are highly susceptible to hydrogen peroxide damage but are protected by seminal plasma and catalase
Authors: Leahy T. , Celi P. , Bathgate R. , Evans G. , Maxwell W. M. C. , Marti J. I.
Published: August 2010

To determine whether flow sorting increased the susceptibility of spermatozoa to reactive oxygen species (ROS), ram semen was either diluted with Tris medium (100 × 106 spermatozoa mL–1; D) or highly diluted (106 spermatozoa mL–1) before being centrifuged (DC) at 750g for 7.5 min at 21°C or flow-sorted (S) before cryopreservation. Thawed spermatozoa were resuspended in graded concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to induce oxidative stress. In Experiment 1, following exposure to 30 or 45 μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), the total motility (%) of DC (41.0 ± 7.3 or 25.7 ± 6.7, respectively) and S spermatozoa (33.8 ± 6.3 or 20.1 ± 6.3, respectively) was lower (P < 0.001) than that of D spermatozoa (58.7 ± 5.6 or 44.5 ± 6.7, respectively). In Experiment 2, supplementation of samples containing H2O2 with catalase (150 IU mL–1) or seminal plasma proteins (4 mg protein per 108 spermatozoa) negated oxidative stress, resulting in comparable values to samples receiving no H2O2in terms of the proportion of spermatozoa with stable plasmalemma (as determined using merocyanine-540 and Yo-Pro-1) in the D and S groups, the proportion of viable, acrosome-intact spermatozoa (as determined by fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide staining) in the D group and the motility of control (undiluted) and S spermatozoa. Neither H2O2 nor sperm type (i.e. D, DC or S) had any effect on intracellular concentrations of ROS. These results show that flow sorting increases the susceptibility of spermatozoa to ROS, but the inclusion of anti-oxidants or seminal plasma as part of the sorting protocol improves resistance to oxidative stress.
A molecular phylogeny of the subtribe Pterostylidinae (Orchidaceae): resolving the taxonomic confusion
Authors: Janes Jasmine K. , Steane Dorothy A. , Vaillancourt René E. , Duretto Marco F.
Published: August 2010

In the past decade, two major classification schemes of the subtribe Pterostylidinae have resulted in taxonomic confusion because a single well known genus was split into a large number of new genera and subgenera, many of which are difficult to discriminate accurately. These classifications have not been accepted widely among systematists because of poor phylogenetic support for several genera. Analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear rDNA in a large number of species and samples facilitate further clarification of the relationships within the Pterostylidinae. The phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using parsimony and Bayesian methods. These phylogenetic trees indicate that subtribe Pterostylidinae is monophyletic, and support the concept of a single genus, Pterostylis R.Br. sensu lato within the Pterostylidinae. Two clades representing subgenera correlate with the morphology of the lateral sepals, whereas several of the previously erected genera consistently have poor support. The proposed subgenera are divided further into 10 sections. Several closely related taxa with identical ITS sequences require further scrutiny by population-level molecular techniques to determine their taxonomic status.
Alterations in choice behavior by manipulations of world model
Authors: Green C. S. , Benson C. , Kersten D. , Schrater P.
Published: August 2010

How to compute initially unknown reward values makes up one of the key problems in reinforcement learning theory, with two basic approaches being used. Model-free algorithms rely on the accumulation of substantial amounts of experience to compute the value of actions, whereas in model-based learning, the agent seeks to learn the generative process for outcomes from which the value of actions can be predicted. Here we show that (i) “probability matching”—a consistent example of suboptimal choice behavior seen in humans—occurs in an optimal Bayesian model-based learner using a max decision rule that is initialized with ecologically plausible, but incorrect beliefs about the generative process for outcomes and (ii) human behavior can be strongly and predictably altered by the presence of cues suggestive of various generative processes, despite statistically identical outcome generation. These results suggest human decision making is rational and model based and not consistent with model-free learning.
Preference of RIG-I for short viral RNA molecules in infected cells revealed by next-generation sequencing
Authors: Baum Alina , Sachidanandam Ravi , García-Sastre Adolfo
Published: August 2010

Intracellular detection of virus infections is a critical component of innate immunity carried out by molecules known as pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs). Activation of PRRs by their respective pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) leads to production of proinflamatory cytokines, including type I IFN, and the establishment of an antiviral state in the host. Out of all PRRs found to date, retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG-I) has been shown to play a key role in recognition of RNA viruses. On the basis of in vitro and transfection studies, 5′ppp RNA produced during virus replication is thought to bind and activate this important sensor. However, the nature of RNA molecules that interact with endogenous RIG-I during the course of viral infection has not been determined. In this work we use next-generation RNA sequencing to show that RIG-I preferentially associates with shorter, 5′ppp containing viral RNA molecules in infected cells. We found that during Sendai infection RIG-I specifically bound the genome of the defective interfering (DI) particle and did not bind the full-length virus genome or any other viral RNAs. In influenza-infected cells RIG-I preferentially associated with shorter genomic segments as well as subgenomic DI particles. Our analysis for the first time identifies RIG-I PAMPs under natural infection conditions and implies that full-length genomes of single segmented RNA virus families are not bound by RIG-I during infection.
An aberrant island-dwelling theropod dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous of Romania
Authors: Csiki Zoltán , Vremir Mátyás , Brusatte Stephen L. , Norell Mark A.
Published: August 2010

Islands are noted for the occurrence of aberrant, endemic, and dwarfed taxa (the “island effect”). Late Cretaceous vertebrate assemblages of Romania and elsewhere in Europe are classic examples of island faunas in the fossil record, and are characterized by dwarfed herbivorous dinosaurs and other endemic taxa that are noticeably primitive relative to their mainland contemporaries. Fossils of the predators inhabiting the European paleoislands, however, are exceptionally rare and fragmentary. We describe a new dromaeosaurid theropod, based on an articulated skeleton from the Maastrichtian of Romania, which represents the most complete predatory dinosaur from the middle to Late Cretaceous of Europe. This taxon is characterized by a peculiar body plan, most notably extensive fusion in the hand and distal hindlimb, a highly retroverted pelvis with enlarged femoral muscle attachments, and a pair of hyperextensive pedal claws. However, unlike the island-dwelling herbivorous dinosaurs, its closest relatives are contemporary similar-sized Laurasian taxa, indicating faunal connections between Asia and the European islands late into the Cretaceous. This theropod provides support for the aberrant nature of the Late Cretaceous European island-dwelling dinosaurs, but indicates that predators on these islands were not necessarily small, geographically endemic, or primitive.
Enhancement of antigen-specific Treg vaccination in vivo
Authors: Daniel Carolin , Wennhold Kerstin , Kim Hye-Jung , von Boehmer Harald
Published: August 2010

The conversion of naive T cells into Treg can be achieved in vivo by delivery of antigen under subimmunogenic conditions. Here we have examined several drugs for their ability to enhance the conversion process in vivo and have found that the rapamycin analog everolimus potently enhances Treg conversion by interfering with T-cell costimulation, reducing cell division and thereby activation of DNA methyltransferase 1 as well as by reducing T-cell activation through the ATP-gated P2×7 receptor controlling Ca2
+
influx. The resulting Tregs exhibit increased stability of Foxp3 expression even when generated in TGFβ-containing media in vitro. Thus the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus in addition to inhibiting immune responses enhances Treg conversion by several distinct pathways. The converted Tregs can be further expanded by injection of IL-2/IL-2ab complexes. These complexes also increase the number of CD25
+
Foxp3
−
cells that, however, do not represent cytokine secreting effector cells but anergic cells, some of which can secrete IL-10 and can themselves be considered regulatory T cells as well. The combined use of everolimus and IL-2/IL-2ab complexes in vivo makes it feasible to achieve highly effective antigen-driven conversion of naive T cells into Treg and their expansion in vivo and thereby the described protocols constitute important tools to achieve immunological tolerance by Treg vaccination.
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is involved in the induction and maintenance of primitive hematopoiesis in the vertebrate embryo
Authors: Tran Hong Thi , Sekkali Belaïd , Van Imschoot Griet , Janssens Sylvie , Vleminckx Kris
Published: August 2010

The formation of primitive (embryonic) blood in vertebrates is mediated by spatio-temporally restricted signaling between different tissue layers. In
Xenopus
, in which primitive blood originates in the ventral blood island, this involves the secretion of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) ligands by the ectoderm that signal to the underlying mesoderm during gastrulation. Using novel transgenic reporter lines, we report that the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway is also activated in the blood islands in
Xenopus
. Furthermore, Wnt-reporter activity was also detected in the blood islands of the mouse yolk sac. By using morpholino-mediated depletion in
Xenopus
, we identified Wnt4 as the ligand that is expressed in the mesoderm of the ventral blood island and is essential for the expression of hematopoietic and erythroid marker genes. Injection of an inducible Wnt-interfering construct further showed that, during gastrulation, Wnt/β-catenin signaling is required both in the mesoderm and in the overlying ectoderm for the formation of the ventral blood island. Using recombination assays with embryonic explants, we document that ectodermal BMP4 expression is dependent on Wnt4 signals from the mesoderm. Our results thus reveal a unique role for Wnt4-mediated canonical signaling in the formation and maintenance of the ventral blood island in
Xenopus
.
Lees and Moonshine: Remembering Richard III, 1485–1635*
Authors: Schwyzer Philip
Published: August 2010

Not long after Shakespeare's birth in 1564, the last witnesses to the reign of Richard III (1483–85) would have reached the end of their lives.Richard III(ca. 1592) occupies a distinctive historical moment in relation to its subject, the period after the extinction of living memory, but still within the horizon of secondhand or communicative memory. This essay explores how memories and postmemories of Richard's reign were preserved, transmitted, and transformed over the course of the sixteenth century and into the seventeenth. While registering the powerful influence of emerging contexts, including the Reformation and, ultimately, Shakespeare's play, these memories remained distinct from, and sometimes at odds with, textual history. They survived because they offered their bearers a resource for interpreting and resisting the predicaments of the present, from the problem of tyranny to the legacies of the Reformation.
Plasma parathyroid hormone and risk of congestive heart failure in the community
Authors: Hagström Emil , Ingelsson Erik , Sundström Johan , Hellman Per , Larsson Tobias E. , Berglund Lars , Melhus Håkan , Held Claes , Michaëlsson Karl , Lind Lars , Ärnlöv Johan
Published: August 2010

Aims

In experimental studies parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been associated with underlying causes of heart failure (HF) such as atherosclerosis, left ventricular hypertrophy, and myocardial fibrosis. Individuals with increased levels of PTH, such as primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism patients, have increased risk of ischaemic heart disease and HF. Moreover, increasing PTH is associated with worse prognosis in patients with overt HF. However, the association between PTH and the development HF in the community has not been reported.

Methods and Results

In a prospective, community‐based study of 864 elderly men without HF or valvular disease at baseline (mean age 71 years, the ULSAM study) the association between plasma (P)‐PTH and HF hospitalization was investigated adjusted for established HF risk factors (myocardial infarction, hypertension, diabetes, electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy, smoking, and hypercholesterolaemia) and variables reflecting mineral metabolism (S‐calcium, S‐phosphate, P‐vitamin D, S‐albumin, dietary calcium and vitamin D intake, physical activity, glomerular filtration rate, and blood draw season). During follow‐up (median 8 years), 75 individuals were hospitalized due to HF. In multivariable Cox‐regression analyses, higher P‐PTH was associated with increased HF hospitalization (hazard ratio for 1‐SD increase of PTH, 1.41, 95% CI 1.12–1.77, P = 0.003). Parathyroid hormone also predicted hospitalization in participants without apparent ischaemic HF and in participants with normal P‐PTH.

Conclusion

In a large community‐based sample of elderly men, PTH predicted HF hospitalizations, also after accounting for established risk factors and mineral metabolism variables.

 Our data suggest a role for PTH in the development of HF even in the absence of overt hyperparathyroidism.
Comparative Analysis of FcεRI Expression Patterns in Patients With Eosinophilic and Reflux Esophagitis
Authors: Yen Elizabeth H , Hornick Jason L , Dehlink Eleonora , Dokter Maarten , Baker Alexandra , Fiebiger Edda , Nurko Samuel
Published: August 2010

Background and Objective:

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic disease of the esophagus. The IgE receptors on immune cells that infiltrate the esophagus are poorly defined. The high‐affinity receptor for IgE, FcεRI, may play a role in EoE. The objective of the present study is to identify and compare the IgE receptors in the esophageal epithelium of patients with EoE, reflux esophagitis (RE), and normal controls.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective case‐control study of 62 patients (19 EoE, 22 RE, 21 normal controls) was conducted. Biopsies were immunostained for FcεRI, CD23, galectin‐3, c‐kit, CD1a, and langerin.

Results:

FcεRI was the only IgE receptor present in the esophageal epithelium of patients with EoE. The FcεRI‐positive cell count varied by diagnosis (proximal biopsies EoE 32.6 ± 19.0 cells/high‐power field, RE 26.7 ± 16.6, controls 15.6 ± 8.3, ANOVA P = 0.005; distal biopsies EoE 24.2 ± 16.2, RE 35.7 ± 27.6, controls 15.3 ± 8.4, P = 0.006). In the proximal esophagus, the FcεRI count was higher in EoE than in controls (P = 0.006); in the distal esophagus, the FcεRI count was higher in RE than in controls (P = 0.004). EoE and RE had similar FcεRI‐positive cell counts. A subset of FcεRI‐positive cells was similar in morphology and distribution to Langerhans cells (CD1a and langerin positive).

Conclusions:

The presence of FcεRI‐positive cells in high numbers in the esophageal epithelium implies this receptor must be critical in the IgE‐mediated activation of immune cells in the esophagus. Langerhans cells in the esophageal epithelium appear to express FcεRI. The role of Langerhans cells in the pathophysiology of EoE needs to be elucidated.
The role of threats in animal cooperation
Authors: Cant Michael A.
Published: August 2010

In human societies, social behaviour is strongly influenced by threats of punishment, even though the threats themselves rarely need to be exercised. Recent experimental evidence suggests that similar hidden threats can promote cooperation and limit within-group selfishness in some animal systems. In other animals, however, threats appear to be ineffective. Here I review theoretical and empirical studies that help to understand the evolutionary causes of these contrasting patterns, and identify three factors—impact, accuracy and perception—that together determine the effectiveness of threats to induce cooperation.
Perturbation of Indole-3-Butyric Acid Homeostasis by the UDP-GlucosyltransferaseUGT74E2ModulatesArabidopsisArchitecture and Water Stress Tolerance
Authors: Tognetti Vanesa B. , Van Aken Olivier , Morreel Kris , Vandenbroucke Korneel , van de Cotte Brigitte , De Clercq Inge , Chiwocha Sheila , Fenske Ricarda , Prinsen Els , Boerjan Wout , Genty Bernard , Stubbs Keith A. , Inzé Dirk , Van Breusegem Frank
Published: August 2010

Reactive oxygen species and redox signaling undergo synergistic and antagonistic interactions with phytohormones to regulate protective responses of plants against biotic and abiotic stresses. However, molecular insight into the nature of this crosstalk remains scarce. We demonstrate that the hydrogen peroxide–responsive UDP-glucosyltransferase UGT74E2 of Arabidopsis thaliana is involved in the modulation of plant architecture and water stress response through its activity toward the auxin indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). Biochemical characterization of recombinant UGT74E2 demonstrated that it strongly favors IBA as a substrate. Assessment of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), IBA, and their conjugates in transgenic plants ectopically expressing UGT74E2 indicated that the catalytic specificity was maintained in planta. In these transgenic plants, not only were IBA-Glc concentrations increased, but also free IBA levels were elevated and the conjugated IAA pattern was modified. This perturbed IBA and IAA homeostasis was associated with architectural changes, including increased shoot branching and altered rosette shape, and resulted in significantly improved survival during drought and salt stress treatments. Hence, our results reveal that IBA and IBA-Glc are important regulators of morphological and physiological stress adaptation mechanisms and provide molecular evidence for the interplay between hydrogen peroxide and auxin homeostasis through the action of an IBA UGT.
Comparison of familial and sporadic chronic lymphocytic leukaemia using high resolution array comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Setlur Sunita R. , Ihm Chunhwa , Tchinda Joelle , Shams Soheil , Werner Lillian , Cho Eun Kyung , Thompson Christina , Phillips Kimberly , Rassenti Laura Z. , Kipps Thomas J. , Neuberg Donna , Freedman Arnold S. , Lee Charles , Brown Jennifer R.
Published: August 2010

Approximately 10% of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) have a family history of the disease or a related lymphoproliferative disorder, yet the relationship of familial CLL to genomic abnormalities has not been characterized in detail. We therefore studied 75 CLL patients, half familial and half sporadic, using high‐resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), in order to better define the relationship of genomic abnormalities to familial disease and other biological prognostic factors. Our results showed that the most common high‐risk deletion in CLL, deletion 11q, was significantly associated with sporadic disease. Comparison of familial to sporadic disease additionally identified a copy number variant region near the centromere on 14q, proximal to IGH@, in which gains were associated both with familial CLL, and with mutated IGHV and homozygous deletion of 13q. Homozygous deletion of 13q was also found to be associated with mutated IGHV and low expression of ZAP‐70, and a significantly longer time to first treatment compared to heterozygous deletion or lack of alteration. This study is the first high resolution effort to investigate and report somatic genetic differences between familial and sporadic CLL.
Implications of coagulation factor VIII and IX pharmacokinetics in the prophylactic treatment of haemophilia
Authors: COLLINS P. W. , FISCHER K. , MORFINI M. , BLANCHETTE V. S. , BJÖRKMAN S. ,   ON BEHALF OF INTERNATIONAL PROPHYLAXIS STUDY GROUP (IPSG) PHARMACOKINETICS EXPERT WORKING GROUP
Published: August 2010

Summary. The pharmacokinetic (PK) response to factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX varies between patients and this has important clinical implications for treatment. Although PK is affected by patient characteristics, this relationship is too weak to infer a result for an individual and, if required, PK must be measured. An important determinant of the efficacy of prophylaxis is the length of time an individual spends with a low level of coagulation factor. This time is more dependent on the patient’s coagulation factor half‐life and the frequency of dosing thanin vivorecovery and dose infused. Improved understanding of the effect of PK and dose frequency on factor levels in patients on prophylaxis will help tailor regimens to individuals better and allow more cost effective use of coagulation factor concentrates. Calculations suggest that adults need less FVIII per kg body weight than children. The effect of half‐life on trough levels questions the logic of Monday, Wednesday, Friday dosing and suggests a role for innovative regimens including low‐dose daily treatment which leads to either higher trough levels or decreased FVIII requirement. This may expand access to prophylaxis in healthcare systems with limited resources and potentially improve patient outcomes. The ideal trough level will vary between individuals and at different times of their lives and may be <1 IU dL−1. If PK is to be used in routine clinical practice, a simplified method for its measurement is required and this methodology is becoming available.
Reaction rate of NaOCl in contact with bovine dentine: effect of activation, exposure time, concentration and pH
Authors: Macedo R. G. , Wesselink P. R. , Zaccheo F. , Fanali D. , Van Der Sluis L. W. M.
Published: August 2010

Macedo RG, Wesselink PR, Zaccheo F, Fanali D, van der Sluis LWM. Reaction rate of NaOCl in contact with bovine dentine: effect of activation, exposure time, concentration and pH. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To determine the influence of activation method (ultrasound or laser), concentration, pH and exposure time on the reaction rate (RR) of NaOCl when in contact with dentinal walls.

Methodology  The walls from standardized root canals in bovine incisors were exposed to a standardized volume of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) with different concentrations (2% and 10%), pH (5 and 12) and exposure times (1 and 4 min). Two irrigation protocols were tested: passive ultrasonic irrigation or laser activated irrigation with no activation as the control. The activation interval lasted 1 min followed by a rest interval of 3 min with no activation. The RR was determined by measuring the iodine concentration using an iodine/thiosulfate titration method.

Results  Exposure time, concentration and activation method influenced the reaction rate of NaOCl whereas pH did not.

Conclusions  Activation is a strong modulator of the reaction rate of NaOCl. During the rest interval of 3 min, the consumption of available chlorine increased significantly. This effect seems to be more pronounced after irrigant activation by laser. pH did not affect the reaction rate of 2% NaOCl.
The anatomy of the root canal system of three‐rooted maxillary premolars analysed using high‐resolution computed tomography
Authors: Vier‐Pelisser F. V. , Dummer P. M. H. , Bryant S. , Marca C. , Só M. V. R. , Figueiredo J. A. P.
Published: August 2010

Vier‐Pelisser FV, Dummer PMH, Bryant S, Marca C, Só MVR, Figueiredo JAP. The anatomy of the root canal system of three‐rooted maxillary premolars analysed using high‐resolution computed tomography. International Endodontic Journal

Aim  To analyse the anatomy of the root canal system of maxillary premolars with three distinct roots using high‐resolution computed tomography (μCT).

Methodology  Ten three‐rooted human maxillary premolars were scanned transversally from crown to apex at 42 μm intervals using a high‐resolution desktop μTC system (Skyscan 1072). The images were processed and analysed for the following features: cross section of the roots and canals in the apical, middle and coronal thirds; location of the apical foramen; distance from the pulp chamber roof to the bifurcation and trifurcation of the canals and anatomic variations of the root canal system. The results were expressed descriptively.

Results  The cross‐sectional shape of canals was heterogeneous along the length of the roots. The location of the apical foramen varied, tending to lie palatally or distally. The buccal pulp horn was larger than the palatal. The mean distance from the most cervical region of the pulp chamber roof to the bifurcation and trifurcation of the canals was 3.13 and 5.08 mm, respectively.

Conclusions  Features of the internal anatomy of the pulp cavity of three‐rooted maxillary premolars were identified with the use of μCT. The results revealed the heterogeneity of three‐rooted maxillary premolars.
Genetic regulation of pristane‐induced oil granuloma responses
Authors: Chen Huaiyong , Liao Dongmei , Matt Holl T. , Snowden Pilar , Ueda Yoshihiro , Kelsoe Garnett
Published: August 2010

Oil granuloma (OG) induced by intraperitoneal injection of pristane represents a non‐infectious granuloma. Oil granuloma has been characterized, but the regulation of its formation still remains unknown. To address this, we injected pristane into various mice deficient for genes including, linker for activation of T cells (LAT), μMT, LTα, TNFα, IL‐6. T cell deficient mice (LAT−/−) responded to pristane by developing serosal granuloma and mesenteric granuloma (MG) as in wild type mice. The absence of B cells blocked serosal granuloma (SG) formation and diminished MG development in response to pristane. However, even when a comparable number of B cells were present in the mesentery, the absence of TNFα resulted in similar defects in OG formation after pristane treatment, demonstrating that both B cells and TNFα are very crucial for pristane‐induced OG formation. Interestingly, IL‐6−/− mice had intact MG formation; however, SG organization was impaired. These studies provide insight into granulomateous pathology induced by non‐infectious substances for example, biomedical sutures.
Direct and indirect root defences of milkweed (Asclepias syriaca): trophic cascades, trade‐offs and novel methods for studying subterranean herbivory
Authors: Rasmann Sergio , Erwin Alexis C. , Halitschke Rayko , Agrawal Anurag A.
Published: August 2010

1. Entomopathogenic nematodes can function as indirect defence for plants that are attacked by root herbivores. By releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), plants signal the presence of host insects and thereby attract nematodes.

2. Nonetheless, how roots deploy indirect defences, how indirect defences relate to direct defences, and the ecological consequences of root defence allocation for herbivores and plant biomass are essentially unknown.

3. We investigate a natural below‐ground tritrophic system, involving common milkweed, a specialist root‐boring beetle and entomopathogenic nematodes, and asked whether there is a negative genetic correlation between direct defences (root cardenolides) and indirect defences (emission of volatiles in the roots and nematode attraction), and between constitutive and inducible defences.

4. Volatiles of roots were analysed using two distinct sampling methods. First, we collected emissions from living Asclepias syriaca roots by dynamic headspace sampling. This method showed that attacked A. syriaca plants emit five times higher levels of volatiles than control plants. Secondly, we used a solid phase micro‐extraction (SPME) method to sample the full pool of volatiles in roots for genetic correlations of volatile biosynthesis.

5. Field experiments showed that entomopathogenic nematodes prevent the loss of biomass to root herbivory. Additionally, suppression of root herbivores was mediated directly by cardenolides and indirectly by the attraction of nematodes. Genetic families of plants with high cardenolides benefited less from nematodes compared to low‐cardenolide families, suggesting that direct and indirect defences may be redundant. Although constitutive and induced root defences traded off within each strategy (for both direct and indirect defence, cardenolides and VOCs, respectively), we found no trade‐off between the two strategies.

6.
Synthesis. Constitutive expression and inducibility of defences may trade off because of resource limitation or because they are redundant. Direct and indirect defences do not trade off, likely because they may not share a limiting resource and because independently they may promote defence across the patchiness of herbivore attack and nematode presence in the field. Indeed, some redundancy in strategies may be necessary to increase effective defence, but for each strategy, an economy of deployment reduces overall costs.
What influences pre‐hospital cannulation intentions in paramedics? An application of the theory of reasoned action
Authors: Banerjee Smita C , Siriwardena A Niroshan , Iqbal Mohammad
Published: August 2010

Background  Intravenous cannulation is a common and important intervention undertaken by paramedics for administration of fluids and drugs in the pre‐hospital setting. This study was a partial application of the theory of reasoned action to the prediction of pre‐hospital cannulation intentions as part of an evaluation of an educational intervention to change cannulation behaviour in paramedics in line with national guidance.

Methods  In 2008 a self‐completion questionnaire was sent to paramedics from Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire divisions of East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust, UK. This included measures of prior behaviour related to cannulation, attitude towards cannulation, normative influence related to cannulation and intention to cannulate as well as demographic information.

Results  Of the 323 paramedics sent questionnaires 137 (42.2%) responded. Attitude towards cannulation (but not normative or peer influence) was a necessary factor for prediction of intention to cannulate in respondents. Past cannulation behaviour was indirectly related to intention to cannulate through the mediation of attitude towards cannulation.

Conclusion  The theory of reasoned action provides a parsimonious way to predict intentions to cannulate. This study suggests that design and evaluation of interventions to reduce inappropriate cannulation should be targeted towards changing attitudes of paramedics, rather than towards addressing behavioural norms. Future research could utilize social‐psychological theories to better understand clinical behaviour prior to implementation of complex educational or organizational interventions.
Exchange‐rate pass‐through at the product level
Authors: Gaulier Guillaume , Lahrèche‐Révil Amina , Méjean Isabelle
Published: August 2010

Abstract. We use a detailed database to investigate exchange‐rate pass‐through at the product level for a large number of countries. The empirical analysis suggests that pricing behaviours are dichotomous, with complete pass‐through in around 25% of sectors and significant pricing‐to‐market in the remaining ones. Average long‐run pass‐through coefficient is close to 80%; this result hides a strong heterogeneity of pass‐through behaviours across sectors. Even when composition effects are controlled for, average pass‐through varies across importing countries. The econometric analysis shows that pass‐through tends to be higher in volatile environments; in less developed countries; in weakly integrated markets.
The effects of in vitro hemodilution with 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) (130/0.4) solution on thrombelastograph analysis in patients undergoing liver transplantation
Authors: Bang Si Ra , Kim Yoon Hee , Kim Gaab Soo
Published: August 2010

Bang SR, Kim YH, Kim GS. The effects of in vitro hemodilution with 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) (130/0.4) solution on thrombelastograph analysis in patients undergoing liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 450–456. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Introduction:  The aim of this study was to determine the effects of in vitro hemodilution with 6% HES (130/0.4) solution on thrombelastograph® (TEG) parameters in whole blood samples from patients with end‐stage liver disease (ESLD).

Methods:  Enrollment consisted of 95 patients with ESLD undergoing liver transplantation. Blood was diluted by 11%, 22%, and 33% with 6% HES (130/0.4) solution. Normal saline was used as a control diluent.

Results:  When blood was diluted by 33% with normal saline, only the reaction time (r) was increased (p < 0.0001) compared to the baseline value. When blood was diluted with 6% HES (130/0.4), 11% dilution decreased maximum amplitude (MA) (p = 0.003) compared to baseline. At 33% dilution, the r (p < 0.0001, vs. baseline) and K (p < 0.0001, vs. baseline; p < 0.0001, vs. normal saline) increased, and the MA, alpha angle, and coagulation index (p < 0.0001, vs. baseline; p < 0.0001, vs. normal saline) decreased.

Conclusion:  Hemodilution with 6% HES (130/0.4) solution results in TEG abnormalities even with 11% hemodilution, in whole blood samples of patients with ESLD undergoing liver transplantation.
Expression of Putative Stem Cell Markers Related to Developmental Stage of Sheep Mammary Glands
Authors: Colitti M.
Published: August 2010

With 2 figures and 2 tables

It is thought that the regenerative capacity of the mammary gland following post‐lactation involution resides in multipotent stem cells within the luminal tissue. Adult stem cells make up a small percentage of the cells found in mature organ systems, however to define useful markers has long been a challenge. c‐Kit (KIT) and its ligand stem cell factor (KITLG), ATP‐binding cassette sub‐family G member 2 (ABCG2) and Musashi 1 (MSI1) are good candidate to identify progenitor cells in their niche. Using real‐time PCR we showed that KIT, KITLG and MSI1 expressions were up regulated before lambing and at involution relatively to prepubertal stage. The in situ hybridization analysis for KIT gene confirmed and localized the expression in luminal epithelial cells. The changes in the expression profile of putative stem cell markers in mammary glands of sheep suggest that they modify with the progression of lactation cycle, being up regulated during differentiation and down regulated during lactation.
Effects of Prostaglandin F2a on Blood Constituents and Certain Hormones in Najdi Sheep
Authors: Abdo Mohamed Sami , Tayeb I. B. El , Manna M. M. El , Tayeb F. A. El , Ibrahim M. M.
Published: August 2010

Experiments were conducted to show the effect of injection of prostaglandin F2a on some blood constituents of Najdi sheep. The constituents studied were red and white cell counts, haemoglobin content, haematocrit, sedimentation rate and electrophoresis of serum proteins. Biological assays of thyroid, thyrotrophic, gonadotrophic and adrenocorticotrophic hormones were also made.

The results indicated that PGF2a causes a significant increase in the number of red and white cells as well as in the levels of the hormones studied. On the other hand, PGF2a did not affect significantly the other haematological parameters.

Einfluß von Prostaglandin F2a auf einige Blutparameter und Hormone beim Schaf

Bei Schafen (Najdi Rasse) wurde der Einfluß von Prostaglandin F2a auf einige Blutparameter (Zahl der roten und weißen Blutkörperchen, Hämoglobingehalt, Hämatokrit, Erythrozytensenkung, Elektrophorese der Plasma‐proteine) untersucht. Mittels Tierversuche wurde zudem der Gehalt folgender Hormone geprüft: Schilddrüsenhormone, Thyreotropin, Gonadotropine, Adrenocorticotropin.

Ergebnisse: Signifikante Erhöhung der Erythrozyten, Leukozyten sowie der erwähnten Hormone. Die anderen Blutparameter wurden durch PGF2a nicht signifikant verändert.

Influence de la prostaglandine F2a sur quelques paramètres sanguins et des hormones chez le mouton

On a examiné l'influence de la prostaglandine F2a sur quelques paramètres sanguins (nombre des globules rouges et blancs, taux de l'hémoglobine, hématocrit, sédimentation des érythrocytes, électrophorèse des protéines du plasma) chez des moutons de la race Najdi. On a testé également grâce à des essais sur animaux le taux des hormones suivantes: thyroxine, thyreotropine, gonadotropine, adrénocorticotropine.

Résultats: augmentation significative des érythrocytes, des leucocytes et des hormones évoquées. Les autres paramètres sanguins ne sont pas significativement modifiés par PGF2a.

El influjo de la protaglandina F2a sobre algunos parámetros hematológicos y hormonas en la oveja

Se examinó en ovejas (raza Najdi) el influjo de la inyección de prostaglandina F2a sobre algunos parámetros hematológicos (cantidad de glóbulos sanguíneos rojos y blancos, contenido en hemoglobina, hematocrito, sedimentación de hematíes, electroforesis de las proteínas plasmáticas). Mediante ensayos en animales se valoraron además los niveles de las hormonas siguientes: tiroxina, tireotropina, gonadotropina y adrenocorticotropina.

Resultados: Aumentos significantes de los eritrocitos, leucocitos y hormonas mencionadas. Los parámetros hematológicos restantes no fueron modificados significantemente por la PGF2a.
Cytogenetic Investigations in Austrian Bulls and Boars
Authors: Mayr B. , Schleger W.
Published: August 2010

Cytogenetic investigations were performed in Austrian bulls and boars. Robertsonian translocations, a reciprocal translocation and gonosomal chimerisms were detected. NOR studies revealed chromosomes nos. 2, 3, 4, 11 and 28 as the major rRNA sites in the Fleckvieh breed. Chromosomes 8 and 10 carried the NORs at their secondary constrictions in the pigs. Differences in the NOR expression were established between individual pigs, especially in a few Pietrains.

Zytogenische Untersuchungen bei österreichischen Bullen und Ebern

Zytogenetische Untersuchungen wurden an österreichischen Stieren und Ebern durchgeführt. Robertson'sche Translokationen, eine reziproke Translokation und gonosomale Chimärismen wurden erkannt. NOR‐Studien zeigten die Chromosomen Nr. 2, 3, 4, 11 und 28 als die Haupt‐NOR‐Sitze in der Fleckviehrasse. Chromosom Nr. 8 und Nr. 10 trugen bei den Schweinen die NORs an ihren sekundären Konstriktionen. Unterschiede in der NOR Expression zwischen einzelnen Schweinen, insbesondere einer geringen Anzahl von Pietrain, wurden gefunden.

Recherches cytogénétiques chez des tareaux et des verrats en Autriche

Des recherches cytogénétiques ont été faites chez des taureaux et des verrats en Autriche. Des translocations de Robertson, une translocation réciproque et des chimérismes gonosomaux ont été trouvés. Des études NOR ont montré que les chromosomes No. 2, 3, 4, 11 et 28 étaient les principaux sites NOR dans la race tachetée. Les chromosomes No. 8 et 10 portaient les NORs sur leur constrictions secondaires chez les porcs. On a trouvé des differences dans l'expression NOR entre quelques porcs, en particulier chez quelques‐uns de la race Piétrain.

Investigaciones citogenéticas en toros y verracos austríacos

En toros y verracos de la región montañosa de Austria se llevaron a cabo estudios citogenéticos. Se apreciaron translocaciones de Robertson, una translocación reciproca y quimerismos gonosomales. Los estudios NOR mostraron los cromosomas no 2, 3, 4, 11 y 28 como los lugares principales del rRNA en la raza manchada de las alturas. Los cromosomas no 8 y 10 contribuyeron en los cerdos a sus constricciones secundarias. Se hallaron diferencias en la expresión NOR entre los cerdos individuates, sobre todo en una cantidad escasa de ejemplares Pietrain.
Glucose Tolerance Test in Goats
Authors: Prasad M. C. , Kaul P. L.
Published: August 2010

The glucose tolerance test was carried out in five apparently healthy goats of nondescript breed in the 4–6 months age group. In the oral glucose tolerance test the peak of blood glucose concentration was reached in two hours while in the intravenous glucose tolerance test it took only thirty minutes. The pre‐test blood glucose concentration was achieved at the eighth hour in the oral glucose tolerance test and at the second/third hour in the intravenous glucose tolerance test.

Glukose‐Toleranz‐Test bei Ziegen

Bei 5 klinisch gesunden, 4 bis 6 Monate alten Ziegen unbestimmter Rasse wurde ein Glukose‐Toleranz‐Test überprüft. Nach oraler Verabreichung der Glukose wurde das Maximum der Blutglukosekonzentration nach 2 Stunden beobachtet, beim intravenösen Glukose‐Toleranz‐Test bereits nach 30 Minuten. Die Blutzucker‐Ausgangswerte wurden beim oralen Test in der 8. Stunde, beim intravenösen Test zwischen der 2. und 3. Stunde wieder erreicht.

Test de tolérance au glucose chez des chèvres

Un test de tolérance au glucose a été fait chez 5 chèvres cliniquement saines, âgées de 4 à 6 mois et de race indéterminée. La concentration maximale de glucose dans le sang a été observée 2 heures après une application orale du glucose et déjà après 30 minutes après un test de tolerance au glucose par voie intraveineuse. Les valeurs de sortie du sucre sanguin ont été à nouveau atteintes dans la huitième heure lors d'un test par voie orale et entre la deuxième et la troisième heure suivant un test par voie intraveineuse.

Prueba de la tolerancia a la glucosa en cabras

Se contrastó en 5 cabras sanas clínicamente, de 4 a 6 semanas de edad, de raza indefinida, una prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa. Tras administrar glucosa por vía oral, se observó la concentración máxima de glucemia al cabo de 2 horas, mientras que ya a los 30 minutos en la prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa intravenosa. Los valores de glucemia de partida se volvieron a alcanzar en la prueba oral durante la hora octava, mientras que en la prueba intravenosa entre la segunda y la tercer hora.