bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of riparian buffer strips on ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) within an agricultural landscape
Authors: Stockan Jenni A. , Baird John , Langan Simon J. , Young Mark R. , Iason Glenn R.
Published: May 2013

Current restoration of stream and lotic freshwater systems to ‘good ecological status’ has focused on the creation of vegetated riparian buffer strips. Yet, despite this constituting a major land‐use change, surprisingly little is known about the effects of these strips on riparian organisms. We investigated the effect that widespread adoption of buffer strips may have on activity density, species diversity, and assemblage composition of ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae).

Over 2 years, we sampled carabids from 41 riparian margins within two river catchments in north‐east Scotland. We compared three types of riparian margin: unbuffered (i.e. ‘unimproved’), vegetated buffer strips, and wooded, the latter acting as reference sites. A range of site parameters including characteristics of soil, water, and vegetation were recorded and the extent to which they correlated with ground beetle assemblages was explored.

Catchment and treatment effects were detected on ground beetle activity density and species diversity with unbuffered sites showing higher activity density and species richness. The assemblage structure differed according to catchment, treatment, and local characteristics. Multivariate analysis suggested that soil and vegetation parameters and stream width, together with buffer strip age and length were determinants of assemblage structure. Few riparian species were found in large numbers.

This study shows that in intensively managed agricultural landscapes riparian buffer strips do not create the quality of habitat required by truly riparian species. They do, however, provide habitat for woodland and stenotopic species and with more careful planning could play a role in increasing habitat heterogeneity at a landscape scale.
Investigations on Material and Mechanical Properties, Air‐Permeation Behavior and Filtration Performance of Mullite‐Bonded Porous SiC Ceramics
Authors: Dey Atanu , Kayal Nijhuma , Chakrabarti Omprakash , Caldato Rafael Falchi , Innocentini Murilo Daniel de Mello , Guerra Vadila Giovana
Published: May 2013

A theoretical relation between processing parameters and porosity (29–56%) of mullite‐bonded porous SiC ceramics was derived and validated with experimental data. Porosity‐dependent variation of fracture strength (9–34 MPa) and elastic modulus (7–28 GPa) was explained by the minimum solid area model. At room temperature, the Darcian, k1 (1.2 × 10−13–1.6 × 10−12 m2) and the non‐Darcian, k2 (4.6 × 10−9–2.7 × 10−7 m) permeability coefficients showed linear variation with porosity. Tests conducted up to 650°C indicated an increase in k1 with temperature and a reverse trend for k2. Airborne NaCl nanoparticle filtration tests showed good performance of SiC ceramics with fractional collection efficiency of >99% at 46–56% porosity levels.
Silicon Carbide Whisker‐Reinforced Ceramic Tape for High‐Power Components
Authors: Doo Sae Han Na , Lim Won Bae , Lee Jun Seok , Han Chan Su , Cho Yong Soo , Yoo Chang Geun
Published: May 2013

An attempt to enhance both mechanical strength and thermal conductivity of glass‐based tapes is described. Flexural strength of ~420 MPa and thermal conductivity of ~10.3 W/m/K have been achieved in fully densified tape comprising calcium aluminoborosilicate glass, aluminum nitride, and silicon carbide whiskers. Silicon carbide whiskers aligned parallel to the casting direction contributed significantly to the reinforcement of the microstructure with accompanying extensive densification over a broad temperature range. These results are compared with the more typical alumina filler substituted for the aluminum nitride.
Association of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D with anemia risk in patients scheduled for cardiac surgery
Authors: Zittermann Armin , Kuhn Joachim , Dreier Jens , Knabbe Cornelius , Prokop Sylvana , Gummert Jan F. , Börgermann Jochen
Published: May 2013

Introduction

There is emerging data that vitamin D plays a role in erythropoiesis. Low 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels may therefore be a risk factor for anemia in patients scheduled for cardiac surgery.

Methods

We investigated 4428 consecutive cardiac surgical patients to determine an association between anemia (hemoglobin concentration <12.5 g/dL, 27.1% of the study cohort) and circulating 25OHD.

Results

In patients with severe vitamin D deficiency (25OHD < 12.5 nm), mean hemoglobin concentrations were 0.80 g/dL lower compared with patients with adequate 25OHD levels (50.0–100 nm). Hemoglobin levels were not significantly different at 25OHD levels above 100 nm compared with 50.0–100 nm. In multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression analyses, the odds ratios for anemia of the groups with severe and moderate vitamin D deficiency (12.5–29.9 nm) were 1.70 (95% CI:1.09–2.63) and 1.41 (95% CI:1.02–1.96), respectively, compared with patients who had circulating 25OHD levels of 75–100 nm. Prevalence of deficient circulating 25OHD levels was highest in anemia of chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion

This cross‐sectional study demonstrates an independent association between vitamin D status and anemia risk with optimal 25OHD levels of 75–100 nm. Randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify whether this association is causal.
Self-reported risk factors for chlamydia: a survey of pharmacy-based emergency contraception consumers
Authors: Gudka Sajni , Bourdin Aline , Watkins Kim , Eshghabadi Atefeh , Everett Alan , Clifford Rhonda M
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To investigate the self-reported risk factors for Chlamydia trachomatis in pharmacy-based emergency contraception (EC) consumers, evaluate their pharmacy experience and determine whether they would be willing to accept a chlamydia test from the pharmacy.

Methods

A survey for women to complete after their EC consultation was developed from themes identified in a literature search. Nineteen pharmacies in the Perth metropolitan region and 13 pharmacies in rural, regional and remote Western Australia (WA) participated in this study.

Key findings

From the 113 surveys completed (n = 75 from Perth metropolitan; n = 38 from rural, regional and remote WA), 85% of respondents were between 16 and 29 years of age and all (100%) of the women had inconsistent barrier contraception. Almost all (94%) of the women had at least two, and nearly half (47%) had at least three out of the four risk factors for chlamydia. Nearly 70% of the women found it very easy/easy to access a pharmacy and felt very comfortable/comfortable discussing EC with the pharmacist. Significantly more women said they would be willing to accept a chlamydia test from a rural, regional and remote WA pharmacy than from a Perth metropolitan pharmacy (P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Pharmacy-based EC consumers are at high risk of chlamydia and would be willing to accept a chlamydia test from the pharmacy. There is an urgent need to re-orientate health services in Australia so that all EC consumers, including those obtaining EC from pharmacies, have the opportunity to be tested for chlamydia.
Bat cells from Pteropus alecto are susceptible to influenza A virus infection and reassortment
Authors: Dlugolenski Daniel , Jones Les , Tompkins S. Mark , Crameri Gary , Wang Lin‐Fa , Tripp Ralph A.
Published: May 2013

Waterfowl are primary hosts for influenza A viruses (IAVs); however, there is sporadic infection of swine and other species that pose a risk of zoonotic spread. Yellow‐shouldered bats were shown to be hosts of an IAV, thereby constituting a potential novel reservoir. We show that Pteropus alecto kidney cells (PaKi) are susceptible to infection and sustain replication of A/WSN/33 (H1N1) and A/Vietnam/1203/04 (H5N1). Importantly, we show that co‐infection of PaKi cells results in novel reassortants.
Microbiology and immunology of fish larvae
Authors: Vadstein Olav , Bergh Øivind , Gatesoupe François‐Joel , Galindo‐Villegas Jorge , Mulero Victoriano , Picchietti Simona , Scapigliati Giuseppe , Makridis Pavlos , Olsen Yngvar , Dierckens Kristof , Defoirdt Tom , Boon Nico , De Schryver Peter , Bossier Peter
Published: May 2013

For most marine aquaculture species, one of the main bottlenecks is the stable production of high quality juveniles. The high and unpredictable mortality in the first weeks after hatching of marine fish larvae remains a challenging problem that needs to be solved. The severity of the problem differs between species, but cannot be considered adequately solved for any species. Both scientific evidence and experience in hatcheries for a variety of fish, shrimp and shellfish species are accumulating as support for the hypothesis that detrimental fish–microbe interactions are the cause of these problems. Host–microbe interactions in reared fish are still poorly understood, except for a few pathogens, and empirical data of the quality required to test this hypothesis, are lacking. This article provides an overview on the current knowledge of the microbial environment of fish larvae, including methodological aspects to characterize the microbial community (both using culture‐dependent and culture‐independent methods). Further, the current knowledge of the immunology of fish larvae is reviewed, including recent advances in the understanding of toll‐like receptors, inflammatory cytokines, mast cells and piscidins, and the ontogeny of the adaptive immune system. Finally, we provide an overview of the state of the art with respect to steering of microbial communities associated with fish larvae – both steering of community composition and of its activity (e.g. by quorum sensing interference).
Epitypification and ecological notes for the Malagasy holoparasite Hydnora esculenta (Hydnoraceae)
Authors: Bolin Jay F. , Musselman Lytton J.
Published: May 2013

The root holoparasite, Hydnora esculenta is a poorly known perennial herb described from southwestern Madagascar. The key character in the original diagnosis was floral dimorphism, a hermaphroditic form and an apparently thinner and longer sterile form. Other useful diagnostic characters are lacking. The type specimens consist only of slices of fruit, and lack important diagnostic characters, thus, an epitype is designated here. The original description is amplified based on field collections and examination of available herbarium material. Flowers of H. esculenta are variable in size (11.6–26.9 cm long) and merosity (3–6), but are uniformly hermaphroditic like all other Hydnoraceae. Osmophores situated on tepal apices combined with angular rhizomes separate H. esculenta from other known Hydnora spp. Additionally, ribbed tepal margins for H. esculenta are diagnostic and are preserved on herbarium specimens. Pollination biology follows the general pattern for the genus, brood‐site mimicry with insect imprisonment and release. Floral mobbing events by the putative pollinator, a scavenger scarab beetle (Kuijtenous laviceps) are reported. The most common observed host of H. esculenta was the invasive tree Pithocellobium dulce. The range of H. esculenta maybe increasing due to the spread of P. dulce in riparian areas and disturbed habitats in southern Madagascar.
Overexpression of sema3a in myocardial infarction border zone decreases vulnerability of ventricular tachycardia post‐myocardial infarction in rats
Authors: Chen Ren‐Hua , Li Yi‐Gang , Jiao Kun‐Li , Zhang Peng‐Pai , Sun Yu , Zhang Li‐Ping , Fong Xiang‐Fei , Li Wei , Yu Yi
Published: May 2013

The expression of the chemorepellent Sema3a is inversely related to sympathetic innervation. We investigated whether overexpression of Sema3a in the myocardial infarction (MI) border zone could attenuate sympathetic hyper‐innervation and decrease the vulnerability to malignant ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VT) in rats. Survived MI rats were randomized to phosphate buffered saline (PBS, n = 12); mock lentivirus (MLV, n = 13) and lentivirus‐mediated overexpression of Sema3a (SLV, n = 13) groups. Sham‐operated rats served as control group (CON, n = 20). Cardiac function and electrophysiological study (PES) were performed at 1 week later. Blood and tissue samples were collected for histological analysis, epinephrine (EPI), growth‐associated factor 43 (GAP43) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) measurements. QTc intervals were significantly shorter in SLV group than in PBS and MLV groups (168.6 ± 7.8 vs. 178.1 ± 9.5 and 180.9 ± 8.2 ms, all P < 0.01). Inducibility of VT by PES was significantly lower in the SLV group [30.8% (4/13)] than in PBS [66.7% (8/12)] and MLV [61.5% (8/13)] groups (P < 0.05). mRNA and protein expressions of Sema3a were significantly higher and the protein expression of GAP43 and TH was significantly lower at 7 days after transduction in SLV group compared with PBS, MLV and CON groups. Myocardial EPI in the border zone was also significantly lower in SLV group than in PBS and MLV group (8.73 ± 1.30 vs. 11.94 ± 1.71 and 12.24 ± 1.54 μg/g protein, P < 0.001). Overexpression of Sema3a in MI border zone could reduce the inducibility of ventricular arrhythmias by reducing sympathetic hyper‐reinnervation after infarction.
Efficacy and safety of teneligliptin in combination with pioglitazone in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kadowaki Takashi , Kondo Kazuoki
Published: May 2013

Aim

To confirm the efficacy and safety of teneligliptin in combination with pioglitazone in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled with pioglitazone monotherapy.

Materials and Methods

In an initial 12‐week, double‐blind, placebo controlled, parallel‐group study, patients (n = 204) were randomized to teneligliptin 20 mg or placebo once daily added to their stable pioglitazone therapy. This was followed by a 40‐week, open‐label period during which all patients received teneligliptin once daily. The primary end‐point was the change in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) from baseline to week 12.

Results

Patients in the teneligliptin group showed significantly greater reductions in HbA1c compared with the placebo group at week 12 (P < 0.001). The changes in HbA1c from baseline to week 12 were −0.9 ± 0.0% (least‐squares mean ± standard error) in the teneligliptin group and −0.2 ± 0.0% in the placebo group. The change in fasting plasma glucose from baseline to week 12 was greater in the teneligliptin group than in the placebo group (P < 0.001). The blood glucose lowering effects of teneligliptin were sustained throughout the 40‐week open‐label period. Adverse events and adverse drug reactions occurred slightly more frequently in the teneligliptin group than in the placebo group, although the incidence of hypoglycemia was low. Bodyweight was unchanged in the double‐blind period, but was slightly increased in the open‐label period.

Conclusions

Add‐on therapy with teneligliptin was effective and generally well tolerated throughout the study period in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled with pioglitazone monotherapy. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (no. NCT01026194).
Risk factors associated with PICC‐related upper extremity venous thrombosis in cancer patients
Authors: Yi Xiao‐lei , Chen Jie , Li Jia , Feng Liang , Wang Yan , Zhu Jia‐An , Shen E , Hu Bing
Published: May 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate the incidence and risk factors for peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related upper extremity venous thrombosis in patients with cancer.

Background

With the widespread use of peripherally inserted central venous catheters, peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related upper extremity venous thrombosis in patients with cancer leads to increasing morbidity and mortality. It is very important to further explore the incidence and risk factors for peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related venous thrombosis.

Design and methods

Consecutive patients with cancer who were scheduled to receive peripherally inserted central venous catheters, between September 2009 and May 2012, were prospectively studied in our centre. They were investigated for venous thrombosis by Doppler sonography three times a day within 30 days after catheter insertion. Univariable and multivariable logistic regressions' analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related thrombosis.

Results

A total of 89 patients with cancer were studied in our research. Of these, 81 patients were followed up within one month. The mean interval between catheter insertion and the onset of thrombosis was 12·45 ± 6·17 days. The multivariable analyses showed that chemotherapy history, less activities and diabetes were the key risk factors for thrombosis.

Conclusions

Peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related upper extremity venous thrombosis had high incidence rate, and most cases had no significant symptoms. The history of chemotherapy, less activities and diabetes were found to be the key risk factors. It should be routinely scanned in high‐risk patients every 3–5 days after catheter insertion, which would then find blood clots in time and reduce the incidence of pulmonary embolism.

Relevance to clinical practice

Risk factors associated with peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related upper extremity venous thrombosis are of critical importance in improving the quality of patients' life. It is very important to grasp the indications to reduce the incidence rate of peripherally inserted central venous catheters‐related upper extremity venous thrombosis.
Enteroviral myocarditis in neonates
Authors: Schlapbach Luregn J , Ersch Joerg , Balmer Christian , Prêtre René , Tomaske Maren , Caduff Rosmarie , Morwood Jim , Provenzano Sylvio , Stocker Christian
Published: May 2013

Enteroviruses are a leading cause of viral infections in children. While most enteroviral infections are mild and self‐limiting, severe disease such as a viral sepsis syndrome, myocarditis, hepatitis and meningoencephalitis may occur. We present two cases of neonatal enteroviral myocarditis. Cardiorespiratory failure occurred in both cases, and severe shock refractory to conventional treatment required support with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). One child with coxsackievirus B3 myocarditis failed to recover and died after 3 weeks on ECMO, while one child could be decannulated successfully after 9 days of ECMO and recovered completely subsequently. In conclusion, neonatal myocarditis has a very high mortality, and ECMO should be considered early in neonates with rapid clinical and echocardiographic deterioration despite adequate inotropic support.
Acemannan sponges stimulate alveolar bone, cementum and periodontal ligament regeneration in a canine class II furcation defect model
Authors: Chantarawaratit P. , Sangvanich P. , Banlunara W. , Soontornvipart K. , Thunyakitpisal P.
Published: May 2013

Background and Objective

Periodontal disease is a common infectious disease, found worldwide, causing the destruction of the periodontium. The periodontium is a complex structure composed of both soft and hard tissues, thus an agent applied to regenerate the periodontium must be able to stimulate periodontal ligament, cementum and alveolar bone regeneration. Recent studies demonstrated that acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe vera gel, stimulated both soft and hard tissue healing. This study investigated effect of acemannan as a bioactive molecule and scaffold for periodontal tissue regeneration.

Material and Methods

Primary human periodontal ligament cells were treated with acemannan in vitro. New DNA synthesis, expression of growth/differentiation factor 5 and runt‐related transcription factor 2, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein‐2 and type I collagen, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralized nodule formation were determined using [3H]‐thymidine incorporation, reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay, biochemical assay and alizarin red staining, respectively. In our in vivo study, premolar class II furcation defects were made in four mongrel dogs. Acemannan sponges were applied into the defects. Untreated defects were used as a negative control group. The amount of new bone, cementum and periodontal ligament formation were evaluated 30 and 60 d after the operation.

Results

Acemannan significantly increased periodontal ligament cell proliferation, upregulation of growth/differentiation factor 5, runt‐related transcription factor 2, vascular endothelial growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein 2, type I collagen and alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineral deposition as compared with the untreated control group in vitro. Moreover, acemannan significantly accelerated new alveolar bone, cementum and periodontal ligament formation in class II furcation defects.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that acemannan could be a candidate biomolecule for periodontal tissue regeneration.
Migration of human dental follicle cells in vitro
Authors: Felthaus O. , Gosau M. , Ettl T. , Prantl L. , Morsczeck C.
Published: May 2013

Background and objectives

The objective of this study was to elucidate the effects of different growth factors on the migration of dental follicle cells (DFCs). DFCs are ectomesenchymally derived easily accessible multipotent stem cells. Cell migration is a crucial step in many biological processes but also for tissue engineering. Growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP2) or transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) can be used to modify the behavior of cells.

Material and Methods

We used different migration assays (gel spot assay, scratch assay, transwell assay) to evaluate the influence of EGF, BMP2 and TGF‐β1 on the migration of DFCs. We investigated the expression of migration‐related genes after growth factor stimulation using the PCR array human cell motility.

Results

DFCs treated with BMP2 or TGF‐β1 migrated faster than DFCs treated with EGF. Additionally, more migration‐related genes are regulated after treatment with BMP2 or TGF‐β1 than with EGF. TGF‐β1 additionally functions as a chemoattractant for DFCs. Osteogenic differentiation markers were regulated after BMP2 treatment only.

Conclusion

Whereas the strong migration induced by BMP2 was accompanied by beginning osteogenic differentiation the strong migration induced by TGF‐β1 was directional. EGF exhibited not only the weakest migration stimulation but also the weakest induction of differentiation into mineralizing cells.
Periodontitis in pregnant baboons: systemic inflammation and adaptive immune responses and pregnancy outcomes in a baboon model
Authors: Ebersole J. L. , Holt S. C. , Cappelli D.
Published: May 2013

Background/Objectives

Chronic periodontal infections have been suggested to contribute to the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Material and Methods

This study describes the relationship of patterns of systemic inflammatory mediators and IgG antibody to 20 oral bacteria in pregnant female baboons (Papio anubis) coupled with clinical features of ligature‐induced periodontitis, as risk indicators for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Animals showing a preterm delivery and/or low birth weight newborns, as well as those pregnancies resulting in spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, or fetal demise were tabulated as adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Results

A significantly greater frequency of the periodontitis group neonates had a low birth weight (18.1%; p = 0.008) and decreased gestational age (9.8%). Spontaneous abortion/stillbirth/fetal demise were increased in the periodontitis (8.7%) versus the control group (3.8%) (p = 0.054). The baseline oral clinical presentation of the experimental animals did not relate to the adverse pregnancy outcomes. Animals with the greatest extent/severity of periodontitis progression during the initial ½ of gestation (ie. to mid‐pregnancy) had the greatest risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Baseline biological parameters indicating historical responses of the animals to periodontal challenge demonstrated individual variation in selected mediators, some of which became more differential during ligature‐induced periodontitis. The relationship of clinical parameters to systemic inflammatory responses was consistent with a temporal contribution to adverse pregnancy outcomes in a subset of the animals.

Conclusions

These results support a link between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes in the baboons and provide a prospective experimental model for delineating the biologic parameters that contribute to a causal relationship between chronic oral infections and birth events.
CTassessment of the influence of dynamic loading on physiological incongruency of the canine elbow
Authors: Burton N. J. , Warren‐Smith C. M. R. , Roper D. P. , Parsons K. J.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To present a novel technique for loading of the canine elbow joint and to quantify changes in congruency with increasing load using computed tomography.

Materials and Methods

Five pairs of thoracic limbs were mounted at a mid stance angle in a custom made jig. Elbow joints were loaded to 0, 33, 66 and 100% of total individual cadaver bodyweight. At each load computed tomography of the elbow was performed. Joint space measurement was performed on sagittal plane central, lateral and medial compartment images at humero‐radial (R1, R2, R3), humero‐ulnar (U1,U2) and radio‐ulnar loci. The effect of loading on joint spaces was assessed (P<0·05).

Results

With increasing load; for central an increase inR1and radio‐ulnar distance and decreasedR3 occurred; for medialR1increased; and for lateralR1and radio‐ulnar distance increased. The largest increases were seen in the lateral compartment.

Clinical Significance

Significant changes in humero‐radio‐ulnar congruency occurred suggesting pronation of the radius with respect to the ulna was induced during loading. This movement may influence the load experienced by the medial coronoid process and could play a role in the aetiopathogenesis of medial coronoid process disease.
Distribution of ejecta from small impact craters
Authors: Shuvalov Valery , Dypvik Henning
Published: May 2013

The present study focuses both on the influence of impact scale on ejecta expansion and on specific features of ejecta deposits around relatively small craters (i.e., those a few kilometers in width). The numerical model is based on the SOVA multimaterial multidimensional hydrocode, considering subaerial vertical impacts only, applying a 2‐D version of the code to projectiles of 100, 300, and 1000 m diameter. Ejecta can roughly be divided into two categories: “ballistic” ejecta and “convective” ejecta; the ballistic ejecta are the ejecta with which the air interacts only slightly, while the convective ejecta motion is entirely defined by the air flow. The degree of particle/air interaction can be defined by the time/length of particle travel before deceleration. Ejecta size‐distributions for the impacts modeled can be described by the same power law, but the size of maximum fragment increases with scale. There is no qualitative difference between the 100 m diameter projectile case and the 300 m diameter projectile impact. In both cases, fine ejecta decelerate in the air at a small distance from launching point and then rise to the stratosphere by air flows induced by the impacts. In the 1000 m‐scale impact, the mass of ejecta is so large that it moves the atmosphere itself to high altitudes. Thus, the atmosphere cannot decelerate even the fine ejecta and they consequently expand to the rarefied upper atmosphere. In the upper atmosphere, even fine ejecta move more or less ballistically and therefore may travel to high altitudes.
In situ laser ablation ICP‐MS analyses of dimict diogenites: Further evidence for harzburgitic and orthopyroxenitic lithologies
Authors: Beck Andrew W. , McSween Harry Y. , Bodnar Robert J.
Published: May 2013

Trace element concentrations in pyroxene, plagioclase, and olivine were measured in five diogenite breccias previously identified as containing distinct harzburgitic (ol+opx) and orthopyroxenitic (opx) lithologies (dimict). Three samples show two distinct populations of pyroxene trace element abundances, supporting their classification as dimict. These three meteorites show increases in Y, Yb, and HREE concentrations from harzburgitic to orthopyroxenitic pyroxenes, supporting the hypothesis that the lithologies are related through fractional crystallization whereby harzburgite olivine and pyroxene crystallized from the magma first followed by orthopyroxenite pyroxene. Depletions in LREE and Eu concentrations in the orthopyroxenitic lithology are most likely due to equilibration with LREE and Eu‐rich phases, likely plagioclase, which is found primarily in that lithology.

Two samples do not show evidence supporting a dimict classification. Large pyroxene trace element variation in one sample indicates that it is polymict, while uniform trace element distribution in the other suggests that it may be a monomict breccia.
Population biology of establishment in New Zealand hedgehogs inferred from genetic and historical data: conflict or compromise?
Authors: Bolfíková Barbora , Konečný Adam , Pfäffle Miriam , Skuballa Jasmin , Hulva Pavel
Published: May 2013

The crucial steps in biological invasions, related to the shaping of genetic architecture and the current evolution of adaptations to a novel environment, usually occur in small populations during the phases of introduction and establishment. However, these processes are difficult to track in nature due to invasion lag, large geographic and temporal scales compared with human observation capabilities, the frequent depletion of genetic variance, admixture and other phenomena. In this study, we compared genetic and historical evidence related to the invasion of the West European hedgehog to New Zealand to infer details about the introduction and establishment. Historical information indicates that the species was initially established on the South Island. A molecular assay of populations from Great Britain and New Zealand using mitochondrial sequences and nuclear microsatellite loci was performed based on a set of analyses including approximate Bayesian computation, a powerful approach for disentangling complex population demographies. According to these analyses, the population of the North Island was most similar to that of the native area and showed greatest reduction in genetic variation caused by founder demography and/or drift. This evidence indicated the location of the establishment phase. The hypothesis was corroborated by data on climate and urbanization. We discuss the contrasting results obtained by the molecular and historical approaches in the light of their different explanatory power and the possible biases influencing the description of particular aspects of invasions, and we advocate the integration of the two types of approaches in invasion biology.
Conserving genetic diversity in the honeybee: Comments on Harpur et al. (2012)
Authors: De la Rúa Pilar , Jaffé Rodolfo , Muñoz Irene , Serrano José , Moritz Robin F. A. , Kraus F. Bernhard
Published: May 2013

The article by Harpur et al. (2012) ‘Management increases genetic diversity of honey bees via admixture’ concludes that ‘…honey bees do not suffer from reduced genetic diversity caused by management and, consequently, that reduced genetic diversity is probably not contributing to declines of managed Apis mellifera populations’. In the light of current honeybee and beekeeping declines and their consequences for honeybee conservation and the pollination services they provide, we would like to express our concern about the conclusions drawn from the results of Harpur et al. (2012). While many honeybee management practices do not imply admixture, we are convinced that the large‐scale genetic homogenization of admixed populations could drive the loss of valuable local adaptations. We also point out that the authors did not account for the extensive gene flow that occurs between managed and wild/feral honeybee populations and raise concerns about the data set used. Finally, we caution against underestimating the importance of genetic diversity for honeybee colonies and highlight the importance of promoting the use of endemic honeybee subspecies in apiculture.
A Generalized Integrated Corridor Diversion Control Model for Freeway Incident Management
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Peng , Wehner Kevin , Yu Jie
Published: May 2013

This article presents a generalized diversion control model for freeway incident management that is capable of concurrently optimizing the detour rates and arterial signal timings over multiple roadway corridor segments between the freeway and its neighboring arterial. To capture various operational complexities due to the interactions between multiple diversions, this study has developed an extended corridor traffic flow model and integrated it in the overall optimization process. A biobjective control model is developed to maximize the utilization of available corridor capacity while not significantly increasing the total time spent by travelers on the detour route to ensure their compliance to the routing guidance. Genetic algorithm integrated with the rolling time horizon approach is employed to solve the proposed model. Case studies with a stretch of the I‐94 corridor westbound from downtown Milwaukee to Waukesha have demonstrated the potential of the developed model for use in nonrecurrent congestion management.
Ve1‐mediated resistance against Verticillium does not involve a hypersensitive response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Zhao , van Esse H. Peter , van Damme Mireille , Fradin Emilie F. , Liu Chun‐Ming , Thomma Bart P. H. J.
Published: May 2013

The recognition of pathogen effectors by plant immune receptors leads to the activation of immune responses that often include a hypersensitive response (HR): rapid and localized host cell death surrounding the site of attempted pathogen ingress. We have demonstrated previously that the recognition of the Verticillium dahliae effector protein Ave1 by the tomato immune receptor Ve1 triggers an HR in tomato and tobacco. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that tomato Ve1 provides Verticillium resistance in Arabidopsis upon Ave1 recognition. In this study, we investigated whether the co‐expression of Ve1 and Ave1 in Arabidopsis results in an HR, which could facilitate a forward genetics screen. Surprisingly, we found that the co‐expression of Ve1 and Ave1 does not induce an HR in Arabidopsis. These results suggest that an HR may occur as a consequence of Ve1/Ave1‐induced immune signalling in tomato and tobacco, but is not absolutely required for Verticillium resistance.
Heidegger's Critique of Aquinas on Truth: A Critical Assessment
Authors: Orr James
Published: May 2013

Few more sophisticated or more divergent treatments of the relation between truth and the divine are to be found than those offered in the writings of Thomas Aquinas and Martin Heidegger. This paper traces the differing approaches of these two thinkers in order to attempt a partial elucidation of that relation. One motivation for this contrastive analysis is the conviction that recent treatments of Heidegger's readings of Aquinas have tended too hastily to deny the possibility of fruitful or substantive dialogue between them. In contrast to these accounts, I argue that Heidegger's three central criticisms of Aquinas’ conception of truth – that it posits a subject-oriented and representionalist theory of knowledge, an unwarranted intellectualism, and an ontotheological grounding of truth's objectivity – paradoxically expose vulnerable flanks in his own constructive account. The argument proceeds by way of: (i) an exposition of these three strands of Heidegger's critique, focusing inter alia on some overlooked lectures delivered during the composition of Sein und Zeit; and (ii) a critical assessment of those strands by reference to relevant passages in Aquinas’ writings on truth.
Interaction between Cardioverter Defibrillator and Enhanced External Counterpulsation Device
Authors: CELIK OMER , AYDIN ALPER , YILMAZER MUSTAFA S. , SARIGUL NEDIM U. , GUROL TAYFUN , DAGDEVIREN BAHADIR
Published: May 2013

Background

Potential interference between implanted cardiac devices and other medical instruments is an important concern. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the possible device interaction between implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and external enhanced counterpulsation (EECP) treatment.

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with an implanted ICD or cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator (CRT‐D) were enrolled into the study. EECP had applied as two sessions of 5 minutes. Data from device interrogations before and after the first EECP session and during second EECP session were recorded and analyzed for signs of possible device interaction.

Results

There was no sign of inappropriate sensing or noise during EECP session. There was no difference regarding electrode impedance, pacing, and sensing values before and after EECP. There was a statistically significant difference regarding heart rates during EECP therapy between rate response off and on modes (68.69 ± 5.92 beats/min and 90.32 ± 11.05 beats/min, respectively P = 0,001). In four patients with CRT‐D and unipolar left ventricular pacing, counterpulsation could not be done because of QRS sensing problems.

Conclusions

EECP seems to be a safe treatment modality in patients with implanted ICD and CRT‐D devices. It should be kept in mind that in those patients with CRT‐D, rate responsive mode is on; inappropriate sinus tachycardia can be seen during EECP therapy. Also in patients with CRT‐D using a unipolar sensing mode, problems of QRS complex sensing by the EECP may occur and, therefore, this effects synchronization and success of EECP therapy.
Assessment of Interleukin‐1 Gene Cluster Polymorphisms in Lone Atrial Fibrillation: New Insight into the Role of Inflammation in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: GUNGOR BARIS , EKMEKCI AHMET , ARMAN AHMET , OZCAN KAZIM S. , UCER EKREM , ALPER AHMET T. , CALIK NAZMI , YILMAZ HALE , TEZEL TUNA , COKER AJDA , BOLCA OSMAN
Published: May 2013

Background

Systemic inflammation is accepted as one of the pathophysiological mechanisms of atrial fibrillation (AF). The role of inflammation has been shown previously. Interleukin (IL) system is the main modulator of the inflammatory responses and genetic polymorphisms of IL‐1 cluster genes are associated with increased risk for inflammatory diseases.

Objectives

To investigate the association between polymorphisms of IL‐1 cluster genes and lone AF.

Subjects and Methods

DNA samples were collected from 70 proven lone AF patients and 70 healthy subjects. Genomic DNA was typed for the variable number of the tandem repeat (VNTR) IL‐1 receptor antagonist (RN) gene polymorphism, IL‐1B –511 C > T(rs16944) promoter polymorphism, and +3953 C > T(rs1143634) polymorphism in exon 5 by polymerase chain reaction.

Results

In lone AF group the frequency of IL‐1RN2/2 and IL‐1RN1/2 genotypes were higher than in the control group (7.2% vs 4.3% and 48.5% vs 22.8%, respectively; χ2 = 14.1; P = 0.028). The frequency of allele 2 was significantly higher in the lone AF group (32.1% vs 15.7%; χ2 = 10.7; P = 0.005). Allele and genotype distribution of IL‐1B –511 C > T and +3953 C > T polymorphisms were not statistically different between the groups. C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels were higher in lone AF patients compared to the control group (median = 1.25, interquartile range [IQR] = 0.85 vs median = 1.08, IQR 0.46 mg/L, respectively; P = 0.02). In multivariate regression analysis, presence of allele 2 of IL‐1 VNTR polymorphism and elevated plasma high‐sensitive‐CRP levels were the independent predictors of lone AF.

Conclusion

Presence of allele 2 of VNTR polymorphism of IL‐1RN gene may cause increased risk for lone AF probably due to the inadequate limitation of inflammatory reactions.
Meta‐analysis of functional brain imaging in specific phobia
Authors: Ipser Jonathan C. , Singh Leesha , Stein Dan J.
Published: May 2013

Although specific phobia is a prevalent anxiety disorder, evidence regarding its underlying functional neuroanatomy is inconsistent. A meta‐analysis was undertaken to identify brain regions that were consistently responsive to phobic stimuli, and to characterize changes in brain activation following cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). We searched the PubMed, SCOPUS and PsycINFO databases to identify positron emission tomography and functional magnetic resonance imaging studies comparing brain activation in specific phobia patients and healthy controls. Two raters independently extracted study data from all the eligible studies, and pooled coordinates from these studies using activation likelihood estimation, a quantitative meta‐analytic technique. Resulting statistical parametric maps were compared between patients and healthy controls, in response to phobic versus fear‐evoking stimuli, and before and after therapy. Thirteen studies were included, comprising 327 participants. Regions that were consistently activated in response to phobic stimuli included the left insula, amygdala, and globus pallidus. Compared to healthy controls, phobic subjects had increased activation in response to phobic stimuli in the left amygdala/globus pallidus, left insula, right thalamus (pulvinar), and cerebellum. Following exposure‐based therapy widespread deactivation was observed in the right frontal cortex, limbic cortex, basal ganglia and cerebellum, with increased activation detected in the thalamus. Exposure to phobia‐specific stimuli elicits brain activation that is consistent with current understandings of the neuroanatomy of fear conditioning and extinction. There is evidence that the effects of CBT in specific phobia may be mediated through the same underlying neurocircuitry.
Multi‐modal brain imaging showing brain damage to the orbitofrontal cortex and left hemisphere, in a case of prolonged hypoglycemia‐induced transient hemiplegia followed by persistent encephalopathy
Authors: Koike Shinsuke , Sasaki Ryuichi
Published: May 2013

A 21‐year‐old left‐handed male patient was admitted with a 19‐h history of coma after substantial insulin injection for suicide attempt. Although the patient recovered from coma 3 days after injury, he experienced transient hemiplegia followed by permanent brain damage. Electroencephalogram (EEG), brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and brain single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) identified the localization of this dysfunction, but consistency between clinical symptoms and brain images changed depending on the course of treatment. Transient hemiplegia corresponded to abnormal waveforms on EEG and decreased cerebral blood flow on SPECT, whereas persistent dysfunctions corresponded to abnormal brain regions on MRI and SPECT.
Gamete quality and broodstock management in temperate fish
Authors: Migaud Herve , Bell Gordon , Cabrita Elsa , McAndrew Brendan , Davie Andrew , Bobe Julien , Herráez M.P. , Carrillo Manuel
Published: May 2013

The ability to fully control sexual maturation and spawning and to produce large numbers of high quality seeds ‘on demand’ (i.e. all year long) is a primary requirement for the successful development of aquaculture. This relies on optimal broodstock management practices based on extensive knowledge of the nutritional and environmental requirements of fish in captivity. However, for many established, emerging and new farmed fish species, such knowledge is limited or not available yet. The level of domestication also plays an essential role as stocks with improved traits in farming conditions are selected. Importantly, reliable indicators of egg quality are still lacking and hatcheries still rely on wild harvested broodstocks in many farmed fish species. These key challenges must be addressed urgently to ensure the sustainable development of the European fish farming sector. This review gives an overview of methods to assess egg/sperm quality and many of the most important factors affecting gamete production and quality, including broodstock nutrition, environmental and spawning induction protocols, genetic management, gamete preservation and new reproductive strategies.
Evolution and architecture of a West Mediterranean Upper Pleistocene to Holocene coastal apron‐fan system
Authors: Andreucci Stefano , Panzeri Laura , Martini I. Peter , Maspero Francesco , Martini Marco , Pascucci Vincenzo
Published: May 2013

The Quaternary deposits of tectonically stable areas are a powerful tool to investigate high‐frequency climate variations (<10 ka) and to distinguish allogenic and autogenic factors controlling deposition. Therefore, an Upper Pleistocene–Holocene coastal apron‐fan system in north–western Sardinia (Porto Palmas, Italy) was studied to investigate the relations between climate changes, sea‐level fluctuations and sediment source‐supply that controlled its development. The sedimentary sequence records the strong influence of local (wet/dry) and worldwide (sea‐level) environmental variations in the sedimentation and preservation of the deposits. A multi‐disciplinary approach allowed subdivision of the succession into four major, unconformity‐bounded stratigraphic units: U1 U2, U3 and U4. Unit U1, tentatively dated to the warm and humid Marine Isotopic Stage (MIS) 5, consists of sandy, gravelly coastal/beach deposits developed during high sea‐level in low‐lying areas. Unit U2 consists of debris‐flow dominated fan‐deposits (ca 74 ka; MIS 4), preserved as partial fills of small valleys and coves. Unit U2 is mainly composed of reddish silty conglomerate to pebbly siltstones sourced from the Palaeozoic metamorphic inland hills (bedrock), superficially disintegrated during the preceding warm, vegetation‐rich MIS 5. The cold and semi‐arid climate strongly reduced vegetation cover along the valley flanks. Therefore, sediment gravity‐flow processes, possibly activated by rainstorms, led to deposition of debris‐flow dominated fans. Unit U3 consists of water‐flow dominated alluvial‐fan deposits (ca 47 to 23 ka; MIS 3), developed on a slightly inclined coastal plain. Unit U3 is composed of sandstone and sandy conglomerate fed from two main sediment sources: metamorphic inland bedrock and Quaternary bioclastic‐rich shelf‐derived sands. During this cold phase, sea‐level dropped sufficiently to expose bioclastic sands accumulated on the shelf. Frequent climate fluctuations favoured inland aeolian transport of sand during dry phases, followed by reworking of the aeolian bodies by flash floods during wet phases. Bedrock‐derived fragments mixed with water‐reworked, wind‐blown sands led to the development of water‐flow dominated fans. The Dansgaard–Oeschger events possibly associated with sand landward deflation and main fan formations are Dansgaard–Oeschger 13 (ca 47 ka), Dansgaard–Oeschger 8 (ca 39 ka) and Dansgaard–Oeschger 2 (ca 23 ka). No record of sedimentation during MIS 2 was observed. Finally, bioclastic‐rich aeolianites (Unit U4, ca 10 to 5 ka; MIS 1), preserved on a coastal slope, were developed during the Holocene transgression (ca 10 to 5 ka; MIS 1). The studied sequence shows strong similarities with those of other Mediterranean sites; it is, however, one of the few where the main MIS 4 and MIS 3 climatic fluctuations are registered in the sedimentary record.