bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volatiles from non‐host aromatic plants repel tea green leafhopper Empoasca vitis
Authors: Zhang Zhengqun , Luo Zongxiu , Gao Yu , Bian Lei , Sun Xiaoling , Chen Zongmao
Published: October 2014

The tea green leafhopper, Empoasca vitis Göthe (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), is a serious pest of tea crops in China. The effectiveness of five aromatic non‐host plants, Corymbia citriodora (Hook.) (Myrtaceae), Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae), Lavandula pinnata L. (Lamiaceae), Ruta graveolens L. (Rutaceae), and Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Lamiaceae), was investigated to determine their ability to suppress E. vitis on tea plants. Volatile organic compounds derived from L. pinnata, R. officinalis, and C. citriodora were found to repel leafhoppers and to mask the host's odors. Intercropping L. pinnata and C. citriodora with tea plants significantly reduced the E. vitis population levels in the tea plantation associated with higher population densities of generalist predators. The volatile compounds from the five non‐host plants were collected by headspace absorption under field conditions, and the 10 major components were identified. Qualitative and quantitative differences were found among the five odor profiles. Moreover, the emission dynamics of non‐host volatiles were monitored. Non‐host volatile emissions showed two peak periods, one in the spring and one in the autumn period. These peaks were almost consistent with the population dynamics of E. vitis. Our findings suggested that this newer approach to ecologically based, sustainable pest management implemented via intercropping with non‐host aromatic plants such as L. pinnata and C. citriodora offers a promising alternative to chemical control of the leafhopper population.
Survival for patients with chronic leukemias in the US and Britain: Age‐related disparities and changes in the early 21st century
Authors: Pulte Dianne , Redaniel Maria Theresa , Bird Jenny , Jeffreys Mona
Published: October 2014

Background

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) are highly treatable conditions occurring primarily in older patients. Lower survival among older people has been reported in both conditions, but newer treatments may change both the overall survival rate and the relative risk associated with aging. Here, we examine survival for patients with CLL and CML in the United States (US) and England.

Methods

Patients with CLL and CML were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (US) and National Cancer Registry (England). Five‐year relative survival was calculated by major age group. Excess hazard ratios (EHR) by age were calculated for each condition, and multivariable analysis was performed to adjust for the following potential confounders: gender, race or ethnic group (US only), period of diagnosis, and a measure of socioeconomic deprivation (England only).

Results

Five‐year relative survival increased for both CLL and CML in both England and the US between 1996–2000 and 2006–2010. However, relative age‐related disparities persisted. For CLL, the EHR for death was 9.44 (7.84–11.36) in the US and 6.14 (5.65–6.68) in England for ages 85+ compared to ages 55–64. For CML, the EHR was 3.52 (3.17–3.90) in the US and 4.54 (4.13–4.98) in England for ages 75+ compared to ages 45–64.

Conclusions

Survival improved for patients with chronic leukemias in the early 21st century. However, age‐related disparities persist, despite clinical trial evidence that treatment in older adults with chronic leukemia can be safe and effective. Further research to determine the reasons for the lower survival in older patients and greater awareness of this problem may improve survival for older patients with chronic leukemia.
Clinical outcome after failure of hypomethylating therapy for myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Lee Je‐Hwan , Choi Yunsuk , Kim Sung‐Doo , Kim Dae‐Young , Lee Jung‐Hee , Lee Kyoo‐Hyung , Lee Sang‐Min , Lee Won‐Sik , Joo Young‐Don
Published: October 2014

Around half of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) fail to respond to hypomethylating therapy (HMT) and most responders progress within 2 yr. Retrospective studies report poor outcomes after HMT failure. Here, we analyzed the outcomes of patients suffering HMT failure. Of 149 patients with MDS treated with either azacitidine or decitabine, 91 who experienced HMT failure were included in the study. Median overall survival (OS) was 12.1 months: 16.2 months for lower‐risk MDS and 9.3 months for higher‐risk MDS. Disease status and progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) at the time of HMT failure were independent prognostic factors for OS. Fifty‐four patients received one or more treatment modalities, and 23 received allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). The objective response to non‐transplant treatments was poor (11–17%), whereas 17 transplanted patients showed a complete response. OS probability at 2 yr post‐HCT was 60.9%: 78.6% for patients receiving HCT during MDS and 33.3% for those receiving HCT after developing AML. In conclusion, the clinical outcome of patients after HMT failure was poor. Long‐term disease‐free survival was observed in approximately 50% of patients who received allogeneic HCT. Therefore, allogeneic HCT should be performed early in appropriate patients, and particularly before progression to AML.
Human‐caused habitat fragmentation can drive rapid divergence of male genitalia
Authors: Heinen‐Kay Justa L. , Noel Holly G. , Layman Craig A. , Langerhans R. Brian
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study rests on three premises: (i) humans are altering ecosystems worldwide, (ii) environmental variation often influences the strength and nature of sexual selection, and (iii) sexual selection is largely responsible for rapid and divergent evolution of male genitalia. While each of these assertions has strong empirical support, no study has yet investigated their logical conclusion that human impacts on the environment might commonly drive rapid diversification of male genital morphology. We tested whether anthropogenic habitat fragmentation has resulted in rapid changes in the size, allometry, shape, and meristics of male genitalia in three native species of livebearing fishes (genus:Gambusia) inhabiting tidal creeks across six Bahamian islands. We found that genital shape and allometry consistently and repeatedly diverged in fragmented systems across all species and islands. Using a model selection framework, we identified three ecological consequences of fragmentation that apparently underlie observed morphological patterns: decreased predatory fish density, increased conspecific density, and reduced salinity. Our results demonstrate that human modifications to the environment can drive rapid and predictable divergence in male genitalia. Given the ubiquity of anthropogenic impacts on the environment, future research should evaluate the generality of our findings and potential consequences for reproductive isolation.
Evolutionary conservation—evaluating the adaptive potential of species
Authors: Eizaguirre Christophe , Baltazar‐Soares Miguel
Published: October 2014

Despite intense efforts, biodiversity around the globe continues to decrease. To cease this phenomenon, we urgently need a better knowledge not only of the true extent of biodiversity, but also of the evolutionary potential of species to respond to environmental change. These aims are the heart of the developing field of Evolutionary conservation. Here, after describing problems associated with implementing evolutionary perspectives into management, we outline how evolutionary principles can contribute to efficient conservation programmes. We then introduce articles from this special issue on Evolutionary conservation, outlining how each study or review provides tools and concepts to contribute to efficient management of species or populations. Ultimately, we highlight what we believe can be future research avenues for evolutionary conservation.
Genome modification by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Ma Yuanwu , Zhang Lianfeng , Huang Xingxu
Published: October 2014

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)–CRISPR‐associated protein (Cas)9‐mediated genome modification enables us to edit the genomes of a variety of organisms rapidly and efficiently. The advantages of the CRISPR–Cas9 system have made it an increasingly popular genetic engineering tool for biological and therapeutic applications. Moreover, CRISPR–Cas9 has been employed to recruit functional domains that repress/activate gene expression or label specific genomic loci in living cells or organisms, in order to explore developmental mechanisms, gene expression regulation, and animal behavior. One major concern about this system is its specificity; although CRISPR–Cas9‐mediated off‐target mutation has been broadly studied, more efforts are required to further improve the specificity of CRISPR–Cas9. We will also discuss the potential applications of CRISPR–Cas9.
The controversial role of the Polycomb group proteins in transcription and cancer: how much do we not understand Polycomb proteins?
Authors: Scelfo Andrea , Piunti Andrea , Pasini Diego
Published: October 2014

Polycomb group proteins (PcGs) are a large protein family that includes diverse biochemical features assembled together in two large multiprotein complexes. These complexes maintain gene transcriptional repression in a cell type specific manner by modifying the surrounding chromatin to control development, differentiation and cell proliferation. PcGs are also involved in several diseases. PcGs are often directly or indirectly implicated in cancer development for which they have been proposed as potential targets for cancer therapeutic strategies. However, in the last few years a series of discoveries about the basic properties of PcGs and the identification of specific genetic alterations affecting specific Polycomb proteins in different tumours have converged to challenge old dogmas about PcG biological and molecular functions. In this review, we analyse these new data in the context of the old knowledge, highlighting the controversies and providing new models of interpretation and ideas that will perhaps bring some order among apparently contradicting observations.
Relationships between each category of 25‐item frailty risk assessment (Kihon Checklist) and newly certified older adults under Long‐Term Care Insurance: A 24‐month follow‐up study in a rural community in Japan
Authors: Fukutomi Eriko , Okumiya Kiyohito , Wada Taizo , Sakamoto Ryota , Ishimoto Yasuko , Kimura Yumi , Chen Wen‐Ling , Imai Hissei , Kasahara Yoriko , Fujisawa Michiko , Otsuka Kuniaki , Matsubayashi Kozo
Published: October 2014

Aim

The 25‐item Kihon Checklist (KCL) is the official self‐administered questionnaire tool to screen frail older adults, consisting of seven categories: physical strength, nutritional status, oral function, houseboundness, cognitive function, depression risk and a score of more than 9 out of 1–20 items. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationships between each category of the KCL and newly certified cases under the Long‐Term Care Insurance (LTCI) in Japan during 24 months.

Method

The study population consisted of 883 community‐dwelling adults aged 65 years or older uncertified by LTCI completing a questionnaire, which included the KCL and scales of basic/advanced activities of daily living (ADL), quality of life (QOL), and depressive symptoms. The participants were categorized into the risk or non‐risk group depending on the official criteria of each KCL category. The outcome was the incidence of newly certified cases by LTCI during 24 months. The difference between the risk and non‐risk group was analyzed by Cox regression hazard models.

Results

Scores in basic/advanced ADL and QOL were higher, and the score in the geriatric depression scale was lower in the non‐risk than the risk group in KCL criteria. In men, the incidence of newly certified cases was higher in the risk group of the physical strength category after adjusting for age and the other categories of the KCL.

Conclusion

The physical strength category in men was the only significant predictor of the incidence of newly certified cases by LTCI. Further studies are required to improve the assessment item of cognitive function in KCL under LTCI. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 864–871.
Regulatory T cells in B‐cell‐deficient and wild‐type mice differ functionally and in expression of cell surface markers
Authors: Ellis Jason S. , Braley‐Mullen Helen
Published: October 2014

NOD.H‐2h4 mice develop spontaneous autoimmune thyroiditis (SAT) with chronic inflammation of thyroids by T and B cells. B‐cell deficient (B–/–) mice are resistant to SAT but develop SAT if regulatory T (Treg) cells are transiently depleted. We established a transfer model using splenocytes from CD28–/– B–/– mice (effector cells and antigen‐presenting cells) cultured with or without sorted Treg cells from Foxp3‐GFP wild‐type (WT) or B–/– mice. After transfer to mice lacking T cells, mice given Treg cells from B–/– mice had significantly lower SAT severity scores than mice given Treg cells from WT mice, indicating that Treg cells in B–/– mice are more effective suppressors of SAT than Treg cells in WT mice. Treg cells from B–/– mice differ from WT Treg cells in expression of CD27, tumour necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) II p75, and glucocorticoid‐induced TNFR‐related protein (GITR). After transient depletion using anti‐CD25 or diphtheria toxin, the repopulating Treg cells in B–/– mice lack suppressor function, and expression of CD27, GITR and p75 is like that of WT Treg cells. If B–/– Treg cells develop with B cells in bone marrow chimeras, their phenotype is like that of WT Treg cells. Addition of B cells to cultures of B–/– Treg and T effector cells abrogates their suppressive function and their phenotype is like that of WT Treg cells. These results establish for the first time that Treg cells in WT and B–/– mice differ both functionally and in expression of particular cell surface markers. Both properties are altered after transient depletion and repopulation of B–/– Treg cells, and by the presence of B cells during Treg cell development or during interaction with effector T cells.
Transcriptomic analysis of mononuclear phagocyte differentiation and activation
Authors: Hume David A. , Freeman Tom C.
Published: October 2014

Monocytes and macrophages differentiate from progenitor cells under the influence of colony‐stimulating factors. Genome‐scale data have enabled the identification of the sets of genes that are associated with specific functions and the mechanisms by which thousands of genes are regulated in response to pathogen challenge. In large datasets, it is possible to identify large sets of genes that are coregulated with the transcription factors that regulate them. They include macrophage‐specific genes, interferon‐responsive genes, early inflammatory genes, and those associated with endocytosis. Such analyses can also extract macrophage‐associated signatures from large cancer tissue datasets. However, cluster analysis provides no support for a signature that distinguishes macrophages from antigen‐presenting dendritic cells, nor the classification of macrophage activation states as classical versus alternative, or M1 versus M2. Although there has been a focus on a small subset of lineage‐enriched transcription factors, such as PU.1, more than half of the transcription factors in the genome can be expressed in macrophage lineage cells under some state of activation, and they interact in a complex network. The network architecture is conserved across species, but many of the target genes evolve rapidly and differ between mouse and human. The data and publication deluge related to macrophage biology require the development of new analytical tools and ways of presenting information in an accessible form.
Control of macrophage 3D migration: a therapeutic challenge to limit tissue infiltration
Authors: Maridonneau‐Parini Isabelle
Published: October 2014

Macrophages are professional migrating cells found in all body tissues from the early embryonic stages till the end of the adult life. Tissue macrophages do not only play beneficial roles. In several diseases, macrophages recruited from blood monocytes have a deleterious action such as favoring cancer progression and destroying tissues in chronic inflammation. To migrate in 3D environments, all leukocytes use the amoeboid movement while macrophages use the amoeboid and the mesenchymal migration modes. Mesenchymal migration takes place in dense matrices and involves podosomes and proteolysis of the extracellular matrix to create paths. Podosome disruption has been correlated with reduced mesenchymal migration of macrophages and unaffected amoeboid migration. Therefore, podosomes are proposed as a therapeutic target. Inhibiting podosome regulators that are only expressed in macrophages and few cell types would avoid collateral effects often encountered when ubiquitous proteins are used as drug targets. With the current status of our knowledge on human macrophage podosomes and 3D migration, the tyrosine kinase Hck appears to be a good candidate.
Beyond macrophages: the diversity of mononuclear cells in tuberculosis
Authors: Srivastava Smita , Ernst Joel D. , Desvignes Ludovic
Published: October 2014

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB), is an intracellular pathogen of mononuclear phagocytes. Although M. tuberculosis has traditionally been thought to survive and replicate in macrophages, recent work in our laboratory and others has revealed that M. tuberculosis infects multiple subsets of mononuclear phagocytes in vivo and in vitro. In experimental animals, M. tuberculosis infects no fewer than five distinct cell subsets in the lungs, including resident alveolar macrophages and 4 types of cells that recruited to the lungs in response to inflammatory signals: neutrophils, monocytes, interstitial macrophages, and dendritic cells. A characteristic of the adaptive immune response in TB is that it is delayed for several weeks following infection, and we have determined that this delay is due to prolonged residence of the bacteria in lung phagocytes prior to acquisition of the bacteria by dendritic cells. Among the mechanisms used by M. tuberculosis to delay acquisition by dendritic cells is to inhibit apoptosis of alveolar macrophages and neutrophils, which sequester the bacteria and prevent their acquisition by dendritic cells in the early stages of infection. We hypothesize that each infected cell subset makes a distinct contribution to the overall biology of M. tuberculosis and allows the bacteria to evade elimination by T‐cell responses and to avoid rapid killing by antimycobacterial drugs.
Macrophage phenotypes in atherosclerosis
Authors: Colin Sophie , Chinetti‐Gbaguidi Giulia , Staels Bart
Published: October 2014

Initiation and progression of atherosclerosis depend on local inflammation and accumulation of lipids in the vascular wall. Although many cells are involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, macrophages are fundamental contributors. For nearly a decade, the phenotypic heterogeneity and plasticity of macrophages has been studied. In atherosclerotic lesions, macrophages are submitted to a large variety of micro‐environmental signals, such as oxidized lipids and cytokines, which influence the phenotypic polarization and activation of macrophages resulting in a dynamic plasticity. The macrophage phenotype spectrum is characterized, at the extremes, by the classical M1 macrophages induced by T‐helper 1 (Th‐1) cytokines and by the alternative M2 macrophages induced by Th‐2 cytokines. M2 macrophages can be further classified into M2a, M2b, M2c, and M2d subtypes. More recently, additional plaque‐specific macrophage phenotypes have been identified, termed as Mox, Mhem, and M4. Understanding the mechanisms and functional consequences of the phenotypic heterogeneity of macrophages will contribute to determine their potential role in lesion development and plaque stability. Furthermore, research on macrophage plasticity could lead to novel therapeutic approaches to counteract cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. The present review summarizes our current knowledge on macrophage subsets in atherosclerotic plaques and mechanism behind the modulation of the macrophage phenotype.
Regulation and consequences of monocytosis
Authors: Dutta Partha , Nahrendorf Matthias
Published: October 2014

Monocytes are part of the vertebrate innate immune system. Blood monocytes are produced by bone marrow and splenic progenitors that derive from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In cardiovascular disease, such as atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction, HSCs proliferate at higher levels that in turn increase production of hematopoietic cells, including monocytes. Once produced in hematopoietic niches, monocytes intravasate blood vessels, circulate, and migrate to sites of inflammation. Monocyte recruitment to atherosclerotic plaque and the ischemic heart depends on various chemokines, such as CCL2, CX3CL1, and CCL5. Once in tissue, monocytes can differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells. Macrophages are end effector cells that regulate the steady state and tissue healing, but they can also promote disease. At sites of inflammation, monocytes and macrophages produce inflammatory cytokines, which can exacerbate disease progression. Macrophages can also phagocytose tissue debris and produce pro‐healing cytokines. Additionally, macrophages are antigen‐presenting cells and can prime T cells. The tissue environment, including cytokines and types of inflammation, instructs macrophage specialization. Understanding monocytosis and its consequences in disease will reveal new therapeutic opportunities without compromising steady state functions.
Megakaryocytes: origin of bleeding and thrombotic disorders
Authors: SCHNEIDER W. , GATTERMANN N.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Thrombocytes of lower vertebrates are nucleated diploid cells, which differentiate directly from stem cells without an interposed megakaryocytic maturation program. With increased complexity of circulatory systems and higher blood pressures, more efficient haemostasis was required. In higher vertebrates and man, megakaryocytes developed which, by way of endomitotic polyploidization, can amplify genes relevant for haemostasis and adapt platelets to different haemostatic demands. As endomitotic polyploidization is regulated by cytokines, it is also influenced by inflammatory or malignant cell growth. The responsiveness of the megakaryocyte system to various stimuli is a possible explanation for the high incidence of thrombohaemorrhagic and thromboembolic disorders in man. For example, thrombotic complications in tumour patients are due to pathologic overstimulation of megakaryocytes. Atherosclerosis is another process which may be caused by inappropriate stimulation of the megakaryocyte system. As this complication does not manifest itself during reproductive ages, it is not going to be corrected by evolution.
Platelet turnover in advanced diabetes
Authors: WINOCOUR P. D.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. There is considerable information to indicate that when there is vessel injury, platelets can play a major role in the development of atherosclerosis and its thromboembolic complications in the non‐diabetic population. Diabetes is a disease associated with an increased risk of vascular complications, but the nature of this association is unclear. Platelets from diabetic humans and animals are hypersensitive to agonists in vitro, but it is unclear if this hypersensitivity persists in vivo. Platelet survival and turnover in the circulation have been used as indicators of platelet behaviour in vivo, but platelet survival measurements do not necessarily correlate with platelet sensitivity in vitro and these measurements may be too insensitive to reflect platelet turnover on injured vessels or in thrombi, unless there is extensive vascular disease. Studies in rats and rabbits indicate that diabetes causes increased platelet interaction with experimentally‐injured vessels and accumulation in thrombi. It is unclear, however, whether this altered behaviour of platelets at the injured vessel surface reflects changes in the platelets or in the vessel wall and whether it contributes to the increased risk for vascular complications in diabetic patients.
Salinity as a Limiting Factor for Biological Condition in Mining‐Influenced Central Appalachian Headwater Streams
Authors: Timpano Anthony J. , Schoenholtz Stephen H. , Soucek David J. , Zipper Carl E.
Published: October 2014

Recent studies have found that Appalachian coal mining causes increased surface water salinity, and that benthic macroinvertebrate communities in salinized mining‐influenced streams differ from communities in streams draining unmined areas. Understanding the role of salinity in shaping these communities is challenging because such streams are often influenced by a variety of stressors in addition to salinity. We characterized associations of salinity with biotic condition while isolating salinity from other stressors through rigorous site selection. We used a multimetric index of biotic condition to characterize benthic macroinvertebrate communities in headwater streams in the Central Appalachian Ecoregion of Virginia across a gradient of sulfate‐dominated salinity. We found strong negative seasonal correlations between biotic condition and three salinity measures (specific conductance, total dissolved solids, and SO42− concentration). We found no evidence to suggest stressors other than salinity as significant influences on biotic condition in these streams. Our results confirm negative associations of salinity with benthic macroinvertebrate community condition, as observed in other studies. Thus, our findings demonstrate that elevated salinity is an important limiting factor for biological condition in Central Appalachian headwater streams.
Prediction of Total Sediment Load in Sand‐Bed Rivers in Korea Using Lateral Distribution Method
Authors: Choi Sung‐Uk , Lee Jinhwi
Published: October 2014

A new method for numerically predicting the total sediment load in a river is proposed. The method can be used to predict the total sediment load with information on channel geometry and slope, flow, and bed materials. The conventional method uses a 1D approach that assumes the channel has a wide rectangular shape. However, the proposed method computes depth‐averaged velocity over the width and predicts the total sediment load based on the flow computations. The new method, therefore, is expected to predict better if the flow changes significantly in the lateral direction. The proposed method was applied to three large sand‐bed rivers in Korea, where information is available regarding suspended sediment. Five formulas were tested of use in making total sediment load computations, namely Engelund‐Hansen's, Ackers‐White's, Yang's, Brownlie's, and Karim's formulas. The predicted total sediment loads are compared not only with measured data but also with results calculated using the 1D approach. Discrepancy ratios between the predicted and measured total sediment loads are given and the results are discussed.
Caring about the clinician who seems uncaring: the ‘as if’ approach
Authors: Buetow Stephen
Published: October 2014

This paper suggests how a patient may be able to give and receive the caring he/she wants with respect to a clinician whose (in)action he/she perceives to be uncaring. The approach suggested draws on the philosophy and psychology of framing and adopting Hans Vaihinger's ‘as if’ theory. I draw on my own experience as a patient to apply this approach that requires imagining and acting as if an apparently uncaring clinician is caring. This fiction need not be objectively true but nor is it necessarily false because the as if theory assumes that the only world anyone can know is one of appearances. At least when the lack of caring appears objectively minor and uncertain to the person feeling it, the caring fiction can be morally important, both for its own sake and for its utility to the patient, the clinician and the maintenance of their relationship. Lastly I discuss the strengths and limitations of the as if approach for clinical practice.
Temporal patterns in the intertidal faunal community at the mouth of a tropical estuary
Authors: Lacerda C. H. F. , Barletta M. , Dantas D. V.
Published: October 2014

The use of intertidal sandy beaches by fish and macrocrustaceans was studied at different temporal scales at the mouth of a tropical estuary. Samples were taken along the lunar and diel cycles in the late dry and rainy seasons. Fish assemblage (number of species, density and biomass), crustaceans and wrack biomass, showed significant interactions among all studied factors, and the combination of moon phase and diel cycle, resulting in different patterns of environmental variables (depth, water temperature and dissolved oxygen), affected habitat use by the different species. Variances in faunal community were detected between seasons, stimulated by salinity fluctuations from freshwater input during the rainy season. These differences suggest an important cycling of habitats and an increase in connectivity between adjacent habitats (estuary and coastal waters). Moreover, the results showed that this intertidal sandy beach also provides an alternative nursery and protected shallow‐water area for the initial development phase of many marine and estuarine species. In addition, this intertidal habitat plays an important role in the maintenance of the ecological functioning of the estuarine–coastal ecosystem continuum.
Statistical and Physical Characteristics for Separation Defective Berries of Seeded and Seedless Raisin Varieties
Authors: Karimi Navab , Karimi Mohsen , Karimi Mortaza , Hüseynov Raqif
Published: October 2014

Selected physical properties of intact and defective berries of two seeded and seedless raisin varieties were evaluated at safe moisture content. The size of intact and defective seeded and seedless raisin berries was statistically analyzed using three‐parameter Weibull and radar distributions in order to simulate separation and classification processes and to estimate the sieve hole size. Separation tests were also carried out in order to determine the actual hole size and screening efficiency. The results showed that physical properties of intact and defective berries are useful in the separating process. The statistical results indicated that the distributions are relevant for modeling the probability distribution of size parameters of the berries. Using the results of statistical and experimental tests, the optimum hole size and screening efficiency of separator sieve for both raisin varieties were obtained. Finally, a two‐stage circuit for separation and classification of the raisins was presented.

Practical Applications

We measured physical properties of seeded and seedless raisins at safe moisture content. We classified both raisin berries as a function of bivariable Weibull distribution. We simulate and stipulate how to obtain appropriate hole size of a separator sieve. We calculated the efficiency of separator screen for both raisin varieties. We configured a two‐stage circuit for separation and classification of the raisin types.
Effect of Emulsification Process on Multiple Lipid Particles Encapsulating Both Coenzyme Q10 and Tea Polyphenols
Authors: Zhao Guodong , Hu Caibiao , Sun Rui , Ni Shilei , Xia Qiang
Published: October 2014

A novel drug delivery system called multiple lipid particles containing both coenzyme Q10 and tea polyphenols were proposed for the stabilization of water‐in‐oil‐in‐water emulsions. The effects of the type and concentration of lipophilic and hydrophilic emulsifier, and drug concentration on multiple lipid particles were investigated. The experimental results revealed that it is possible to stabilize the primary emulsions of multiple lipid particles with mixtures of lecithin, polyglycerol polyricinoleate and PEG 30 dipolyhydroxystearate. Polyglyceryl‐10 laurate as proper hydrophilic emulsifier exhibited terrific compatibility with polyglycerol polyricinoleate. In vitro release study displayed a sustained drug release and the obtained outcomes also suggested that multiple lipid particles could enhance loading capacity of both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs with high level of encapsulation efficiency and long‐term stability.

Practical Applications

Multiple emulsions are a complex system that could incorporate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs. However, the destabilization of multiple emulsions with time limits their application. To obtain a stable formulation for encapsulation of both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs, a novel drug delivery system, called multiple lipid particles, was proposed, which combines the advantages of multiple emulsions and solid lipid nanoparticles. This study investigated the emulsification process of multiple lipid particles to obtain stable formulation. The results revealed that multiple lipid particles could encapsulate both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs with high loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency. The solid state of multiple lipid particles is more stable than that of multiple emulsions. Thus, multiple lipid particles have potential application in food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
Exploring the Use of Ecological Footprint in Life Cycle Impact Assessment
Authors: Lee Seung‐Jin , Hawkins Troy R. , Ingwersen Wesley W. , Young Douglas M.
Published: October 2014

Ecological footprint (EF) is a metric that estimates human consumption of biological resources and products, along with generation of waste greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in terms of appropriated productive land. There is an opportunity to better characterize land occupation and effects on the carbon cycle in life cycle assessment (LCA) models using EF concepts. Both LCA and EF may benefit from the merging of approaches commonly used separately by practitioners of these two methods. However, few studies have compared or integrated EF with LCA. The focus of this research was to explore methods for improving the characterization of land occupation within LCA by considering the EF method, either as a complementary tool or impact assessment method. Biofuels provide an interesting subject for application of EF in the LCA context because two of the most important issues surrounding biofuels are land occupation (changes, availability, and so on) and GHG balances, two of the impacts that EF is able to capture. We apply EF to existing fuel LCA land occupation and emissions data and project EF for future scenarios for U.S. transportation fuels. We find that LCA studies can benefit from lessons learned in EF about appropriately modeling productive land occupation and facilitating clear communication of meaningful results, but find limitations to the EF in the LCA context that demand refinement and recommend that EF always be used along with other indicators and metrics in product‐level assessments.
Increasing Precision in Greenhouse Gas Accounting Using Real‐Time Emission Factors
Authors: Spork Charlie C. , Chavez Abel , Gabarrell Durany Xavier , Patel Martin K. , Villalba Méndez Gara
Published: October 2014

For many companies, the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their purchased and consumed electricity form one of the largest contributions to the GHG emissions that result from their activities. Currently, hourly variations in electricity grid emissions are not considered by standard GHG accounting protocols, which apply a national grid emission factor (EF), potentially resulting in erred estimates for the GHG emissions. In this study, a method is developed that calculates GHG emissions based on real‐time data, and it is shown that the use of hourly electricity grid EFs can significantly improve the accuracy of the GHG emissions that are attributed to the purchased and consumed electricity of a company. A model analysis for the electricity delivered to the Spanish grid in 2012 reveals that, for companies operating during the day, GHG emissions calculated by the real‐time method are estimated to be up to 5% higher (and in some special cases up to 9% higher) than the emissions calculated by the conventional method in which a national grid EF is applied, whereas for companies operating during nightly hours, GHG emissions are estimated to be as low as 3% below the GHG emissions determined by the conventional method. A significant error can therefore occur in the organizational carbon footprint (CF) of a company and, consequently, also in the product CF. It is recommended that hourly EFs be developed for other countries and power grids.
Hospital Patient‐Care and Outside‐the‐Hospital Energy Profiles for Hemodialysis Services
Authors: Soltani Seyed A. , Overcash Michael R. , Twomey Janet M. , Esmaeili M. Amin , Yildirim Bayram
Published: October 2014

Studies investigated the patient‐care (in‐hospital) and outside‐the‐hospital energy consumptions for delivering the hemodialysis (HD) service. A life cycle inventory methodology was used for this patient‐based analysis for two hospitals located in Wichita, Kansas. It was found that, for both hospitals, the actual HD machines consumed approximately 3.5 kilowatt‐hours (kWh) of electrical energy per HD, only 8% to 16% of the total energy used for delivering the HD service (in hospital). This increases to 9.6 to 28.9 kWh of hospital billable energy for the whole system of HD machine, auxiliaries, and dialysis water treatment. Converting these hospital direct electrical energy values to natural resource energy (nre) then adding the cradle‐to‐gate natural resource energy for the manufacturing and supply chain of all the HD consumables, the total is 78 to 149 kWh nre/HD. The nre measures all the direct fuel burned to generate energy and is thus directly related to emissions to the air, water, and land and is a direct secondary impact on public health from HD. The ratio of outside‐the‐hospital energy to direct hospital HD electrical energy consumption is 4:1 to 7:1, so a broader base exists for improvement than just the hospital.
α‐synuclein‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction in isolated preparation and intact cells: Implications in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Bir Aritri , Sen Oishimaya , Anand Shruti , Khemka Vineet Kumar , Banerjee Priyanjalee , Cappai Roberto , Sahoo Arghyadip , Chakrabarti Sasanka
Published: October 2014

This study has shown that purified recombinant human α‐synuclein (20 μM) causes membrane depolarization and loss of phosphorylation capacity of isolated purified rat brain mitochondria by activating permeability transition pore complex. In intact SHSY5Y (human neuroblastoma cell line) cells, lactacystin (5 μM), a proteasomal inhibitor, causes an accumulation of α‐synuclein with concomitant mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death. The effects of lactacystin on intact SHSY5Y cells are, however, prevented by knocking down α‐synuclein expression by specific siRNA. Furthermore, in wild‐type (non‐transfected) SHSY5Y cells, the effects of lactacystin on mitochondrial function and cell viability are also prevented by cyclosporin A (1 μM) which blocks the activity of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Likewise, in wild‐type SHSY5Y cells, typical mitochondrial poison like antimycin A (50 nM) produces loss of cell viability comparable to that of lactacystin (5 μM). These data, in combination with those from isolated brain mitochondria, strongly suggest that intracellularly accumulated α‐synuclein can interact with mitochondria in intact SHSY5Y cells causing dysfunction of the organelle which drives the cell death under our experimental conditions. The results have clear implications in the pathogenesis of sporadic Parkinson's disease.

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α‐Synuclein is shown to cause mitochondrial impairment through interaction with permeability transition pore complex in isolated preparations. Intracellular accumulation of α‐synuclein in SHSY5Y cells following proteasomal inhibition leads to mitochondrial impairment and cell death which could be prevented by knocking down α‐synuclein gene. The results link mitochondrial dysfunction and α‐synuclein accumulation, two key pathogenic mechanisms of Parkinson's disease, in a common damage pathway.
Involvement of TG‐interacting factor in microglial activation during experimental traumatic brain injury
Authors: Chio Chung‐Ching , Chang Ching‐Ping , Lin Mao‐Tsun , Su Fang‐Cheng , Yang Chung‐Zhing , Tseng Hong‐Yu , Liu Zi‐Miao , Huang Huei‐Sheng
Published: October 2014

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex injury involving several physiological alterations, potentially leading to neurological impairment. Previous mouse studies using high‐density oligonucleotide array analysis have confirmed the upregulation of transforming growth‐interacting factor (TGIF) mRNA in TBI. TGIF is a transcriptional corepressor of transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) signaling which plays a protective role in TBI. However, the functional roles of TGIF in TBI are not well understood. In this study, we used confocal microscopy after immunofluorescence staining to demonstrate the increase of TGIF levels in the activated microglia of the pericontusional cortex of rats with TBI. Intracerebral knockdown of TGIF in the pericontusional cortex significantly downregulated TGIF expression, attenuated microglial activation, reduced the volume of damaged brain tissue, and facilitated recovery of limb motor function. Collectively, our results indicate that TGIF is involved in TBI‐induced microglial activation, resulting in secondary brain injury and motor dysfunction.

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This study investigated the roles of transforming growth‐interacting factor (TGIF) in a traumatic brain injury (TBI)‐rat model. We demonstrated the increase of TGIF levels in the activated microglia of the pericontusional cortex of rats with TBI. Intracerebral knockdown of TGIF in the pericontusional cortex of the TBI rats significantly attenuated micoglial activation, reduced the volume of damaged brain tissue, and facilitated recovery of limb motor function. We suggest that inhibition of TGIF might provide a promising therapeutic strategy for TBI.
Jugular Venous Flow Abnormalities in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Compared to Normal Controls
Authors: Sethi Sean K. , Utriainen David T. , Daugherty Ana M. , Feng Wei , Hewett J. Joseph , Raz Naftali , Haacke E. Mark
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

To determine if extracranial venous structural and flow abnormalities exist in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

Magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess the anatomy and function of major veins in the neck in 138 MS patients and 67 healthy controls (HC). Time‐of‐flight MR angiography (MRA) was used to assess stenosis while 2‐dimensional phase‐contrast flow quantification was used to assess flow at the C2/C3 and C5/C6 levels. Venous flow was normalized to the total arterial flow. The MS patients were divided into stenotic (ST) and nonstenotic (NST) groups based on MRA assessment, and each group was compared to the HC group in anatomy and flow.

RESULTS

The MS group showed lower normalized internal jugular vein (IJV) blood flow (tIJV/tA) than the HC group (P < .001). In the MS group, 72 (52%) were classified as ST while 66 (48%) were NST. In the HC group, 11 (23%) were ST while 37 (77%) were NST. The ST‐MS group had lower IJV flow than both HC and NST‐MS groups.

CONCLUSION

After categorizing the MS population into two groups based upon anatomical stenosis, as determined from an absolute quantification of IJV cross section, clear differences in IJV flow between the ST‐MS and HC samples became evident. Despite the unknown etiology of MS, abnormal venous flow was noted in a distinct group of MS patients compared to HC.
Disease Associated with Equine Coronavirus Infection and High Case Fatality Rate
Authors: Fielding C.L. , Higgins J.K. , Higgins J.C. , McIntosh S. , Scott E. , Giannitti F. , Mete A. , Pusterla N.
Published: October 2014

Background

Equine coronavirus (ECoV) is associated with clinical disease in adult horses. Outbreaks are associated with a low case fatality rate and a small number of animals with signs of encephalopathic disease are described.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological and clinical features of two outbreaks of ECoV infection that were associated with an high case fatality rate.

Animals

14 miniature horses and 1 miniature donkey testing fecal positive for ECoV from two related disease outbreaks.

Methods

Retrospective study describing the epidemiological findings, clinicopathological findings, and fecal viral load from affected horses.

Results

In EcoV positive horses, 27% (4/15) of the animals died or were euthanized. Severe hyperammonemia (677 μmol/L, reference range ≤60 μmol/L) was identified in one animal with signs of encephalopathic disease that subsequently died. Fecal viral load (ECoV genome equivalents per gram of feces) was significantly higher in the nonsurvivors compared to animals that survived (P = .02).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Equine coronavirus had a higher case fatality rate in this group of miniature horses than previously reported in other outbreaks of varying breeds. Hyperammonemia could contribute to signs of encephalopathic disease, and the fecal viral load might be of prognostic value in affected horses.
How Big Is “Big”? Interpreting Effect Sizes in L2 Research
Authors: Plonsky Luke , Oswald Frederick L.
Published: October 2014

The calculation and use of effect sizes—such asdfor mean differences andrfor correlations—has increased dramatically in second language (L2) research in the last decade. Interpretations of these effects, however, have been rare and, when present, have largely defaulted to Cohen's levels of small (d= .2,r= .1), medium (.5, .3), and large (.8, .5), which were never intended as prescriptions but rather as a general guide. As Cohen himself and many others have argued, effect sizes are best understood when interpreted within a particular discipline or domain. This article seeks to promote more informed and field‐specific interpretations ofdandrby presenting a description of L2 effects from 346 primary studies and 91 meta‐analyses (N> 604,000). Results reveal that Cohen's benchmarks generally underestimate the effects obtained in L2 research. Based on our analysis, we propose a field‐specific scale for interpreting effect sizes, and we outline eight key considerations for gauging relative magnitude and practical significance in primary and secondary studies, such as theoretical maturity in the domain, the degree of experimental manipulation, and the presence of publication bias.
Linguistic Relativity in SLA: Toward a New Research Program
Authors: Bylund Emanuel , Athanasopoulos Panos
Published: October 2014

The purpose of the current article is to support the investigation of linguistic relativity in second language acquisition and sketch methodological and theoretical prerequisites toward developing the domain into a full research program. We identify and discuss three theoretical‐methodological components that we believe are needed to succeed in this enterprise. First, we highlight the importance of using nonverbal methods to study linguistic relativity effects in second language (L2) speakers. The use of nonverbal tasks is necessary in order to avoid the circularity that arises when inferences about nonverbal behavior are made on the basis of verbal evidence alone. Second, we identify and delineate the likely cognitive mechanisms underpinning cognitive restructuring in L2 speakers by introducing the theoretical framework of associative learning. By doing so, we demonstrate that the extent and nature of cognitive restructuring in L2 speakers is essentially a function of variation in individual learners’ trajectories. Third, we offer an in‐depth discussion of the factors (e.g., L2 proficiency and L2 use) that characterize those trajectories, anchoring them to the framework of associative learning, and reinterpreting their relative strength in predicting L2 speaker cognition.