bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What determines biogeographical ranges? Historical wanderings and ecological constraints in the danthonioid grasses
Authors: Peter Linder H. , Antonelli Alexandre , Humphreys Aelys M. , Pirie Michael D. , Wüest Rafael O.
Published: January 2013

Aim

We sought to understand the variables that limit the distribution range of a clade (here the danthonioid grasses). We tested time, area of origin, habitat suitability, disjunction width and nature, and wind direction as possible range determinants.

Location

Global, but predominantly the Southern Hemisphere.

Methods

We mapped the range of the subfamily Danthonioideae, and used 39,000 locality records and an ensemble modelling approach to define areas with suitable danthonioid habitat. We used a well‐sampled, dated phylogeny to estimate the number and direction of historical dispersal events, based on parsimony optimization. We tested for the impact of wind direction on dispersal rate using a likelihood approach, and for the effects of barrier width with a regression approach.

Results

We found 17 geographically isolated areas with suitable habitats for danthonioids. All currently suitable Southern Hemisphere areas have been occupied, but three apparently suitable areas in the Northern Hemisphere have not. We infer that southern Africa was first occupied in the Oligocene and that dispersal to the other areas was initiated in the middle Miocene. Inferred dispersal rate was correlated with the width of the disjunctions, up to a distance of 5000 km. There was no support for wind direction having influenced differences in dispersal rate.

Main conclusions

The current range of the Danthonioideae can be predicted ecologically (areas with suitable habitat) and historically (the width of the disjunctions separating the areas with suitable habitat and the area of origin). The direction of dispersal is dictated by the area of origin and by serendipity: there is no evidence for general patterns of dispersal, for example for dispersal occurring more frequently over land than over sea or in an easterly versus a westerly direction around the Southern Hemisphere. Thus the range and range‐filling of Danthonioideae can be accounted for by surprisingly few variables: habitat suitability, distance between suitable areas, and area of origin.
A fixed‐dose approach to conducting emamectin benzoate tolerance assessments on field‐collected sea lice, Lepeophtheirus salmonis
Authors: Whyte S K , Westcott J D , Elmoslemany A , Hammell K L , Revie C W
Published: January 2013

In New Brunswick, Canada, the sea louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis, poses an on‐going management challenge to the health and productivity of commercially cultured Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar. While the in‐feed medication, emamectin benzoate (SLICE®; Merck), has been highly effective for many years, evidence of increased tolerance has been observed in the field since late 2008. Although bioassays on motile stages are a common tool to monitor sea lice sensitivity to emamectin benzoate in field‐collected sea lice, they require the collection of large numbers of sea lice due to inherent natural variability in the gender and stage response to chemotherapeutants. In addition, sensitive instruments such as EC50 analysis may be unnecessarily complex to characterize susceptibility subsequent to a significant observed decline in efficacy. This study proposes an adaptation of the traditional, dose–response format bioassay to a fixed‐dose method. Analysis of 657 bioassays on preadult and adult stages of sea lice over the period 2008–2011 indicated a population of sea lice in New Brunswick with varying degrees of susceptibility to emamectin benzoate. A seasonal and spatial effect was observed in the robustness of genders and stages of sea lice, which suggest that mixing different genders and stages of lice within a single bioassay may result in pertinent information being overlooked. Poor survival of adult female lice in bioassays, particularly during May/June, indicates it may be prudent to consider excluding this stage from bioassays conducted at certain times of the year. This work demonstrates that fixed‐dose bioassays can be a valuable technique in detecting reduced sensitivity in sea lice populations with varying degrees of susceptibility to emamectin benzoate treatments.
Proteomic analysis of epidermal mucus from sea lice–infected Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.
Authors: Provan F , Jensen L B , Uleberg K E , Larssen E , Rajalahti T , Mullins J , Obach A
Published: January 2013

Health diets that contain immunostimulants and other functional ingredients can strengthen the immune response in Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, and thereby reduce sea lice, Lepeophtheirus salmonis, infection levels. Such diets can be used to supplement other treatments and will potentially reduce the need for delousing and medication. A sea lice infection trial was conducted on fish with an average weight of 215 g. One control diet and four experimental diets containing functional ingredients were produced. The diets were fed to salmon for 4 weeks before infection with sea lice copepodids. When lice had developed to chalimus III/IV, 88 fish per diet were examined for lice loads. Mucus samples from fish fed the different diets were taken before and after lice infection. Mass spectrometry–based proteomics was used to characterize the protein composition in the epidermal mucus of Atlantic salmon and to identify quantitative alterations in protein expression. Multivariate analysis of the generated data sets was performed to identify protein biomarkers. Putative biomarkers associated with functional feed intake and with sea lice infection have been identified and can form the basis for strategic validation experiments with selected functional feeds.
Development and assessment of a biophysical dispersal model for sea lice
Authors: Salama N K G , Collins C M , Fraser J G , Dunn J , Pert C C , Murray A G , Rabe B
Published: January 2013

Salmon aquaculture in Scotland continues to increase; however, one of the potential limitations to its further sustainable growth is the ectoparasitic sea louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis. The industry in Scotland undertakes coordinated management procedures to control the levels of sea lice on farms in designated production areas. We developed a biophysical sea lice dispersal model for Loch Linnhe, one of the largest fjords on the west coast of Scotland, to provide further information to help establish more effective farm management areas. We successfully extend modelling principles previously applied to a small Scottish fjordic system. Modelling scenarios demonstrate heterogeneity in the distribution of sea lice within the system and simulations, suggesting that lice could be transmitted up to 30 km. The scenarios are assessed by comparing model predictions against lice sampled by both planktonic trawls and settlement on sentinel caged fish. The model predicts the ranked abundance of both planktonic and settled lice assuming that the lice input to the system is relative to host biomass. Data collection is ongoing for undertaking and assessing additional scenarios.
Patterns of Comorbidity in Older Adults with Heart Failure: The Cardiovascular Research Network PRESERVE Study
Authors: Saczynski Jane S. , Go Alan S. , Magid David J. , Smith David H. , McManus David D. , Allen Larry , Ogarek Jessica , Goldberg Robert J. , Gurwitz Jerry H.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To examine whether the total burden of comorbidity and pattern of co‐occurring conditions varies in individuals with heart failure (HF) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HF‐P) or HF with reduced LVEF (HF‐R).

Design

Cross‐sectional cohort study.

Setting

Four participating health plans within the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute–sponsored Cardiovascular Research Network.

Participants

All members aged 65 and older with HF based on hospital discharge and ambulatory visit diagnoses.

Measurements

Participants with a LVEF of 50% or greater were classified as having HF‐P. Presence of cardiac and noncardiac comorbidities was obtained from health plan administrative databases.

Results

Of 23,435 individuals identified with HF and LVEF information, 53% (12,407) had confirmed HF‐P (mean age 79.6; 60% female). More than three‐quarters of the sample had three or more co‐occurring conditions in addition to HF, and half had five or more cooccurring conditions. Participants with HF‐P had a slightly higher burden of comorbidity than those with HF‐R (mean 4.5 vs 4.4, P = .002). Patterns of how specific conditions co‐occurred did not vary in participants with preserved or reduced systolic function.

Conclusion

There is a high degree of comorbidity and multiple morbidity in individuals with HF. The burden and pattern of comorbidity varies only slightly in individuals with preserved or reduced LVEF.
Pulmonary Function Impairment May Be an Early Risk Factor for Late‐Life Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Vidal Jean‐Sébastien , Aspelund Thor , Jonsdottir Maria K. , Jonsson Palmi V. , Harris Tamara B. , Lopez Oscar L. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Launer Lenore J.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To determine the association between change in pulmonary function (PF) and mid‐ and late‐life cognitive function.

Design

Prospective population‐based cohort study that included measures of pulmonary function in midlife and brain magnetic resonance imaging data acquired in late life.

Setting

The Age, Gene/Environment Susceptibility—Reykjavik Study.

Participants

Three thousand six hundred sixty‐five subjects who had at least one measure of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and were cognitively tested on average 23 years later. A subset of 1,281 subjects had two or three measures of FEV1 acquired over a 7.8‐year period.

Measurements

Pulmonary function was estimated as FEV1/height2. Rate of PF decline was estimated as the slope of decline over time. Cognitive status was measured with continuous scores of memory, speed of processing, and executive function and as the outcome of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.

Results

Lower PF measured in midlife predicted poorer memory, slower speed of processing, poorer executive function, and greater likelihood of MCI and dementia 23 years later. Decrease in PF over a 7.8‐year period in midlife was not associated with MCI or dementia.

Conclusion

Low PF measured in midlife may be an early marker of later cognitive problems. Additional studies characterizing early and late PF changes are needed.
Association Between Body Size and Composition and Erectile Dysfunction in Older Men: Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study
Authors: Garimella Pranav S. , Paudel Misti L. , Ensrud Kristine E. , Marshall Lynn M. , Taylor Brent C. , Fink Howard A.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To examine the association between body size and composition and erectile dysfunction (ED) in older men.

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men study.

Setting

Six U.S. clinical sites.

Participants

Community‐dwelling men aged 65 and older.

Measurements

Body composition measures using anthropometry (body weight, body mass index (BMI)) and dual X‐ray absorptiometry (total body fat percentage, trunk fat percentage, ratio of trunk and total body fat). ED was assessed using the single‐item Massachusetts Male Aging Study (MMAS) scale and the five‐item International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF‐5).

Results

In men completing the MMAS scale (n = 4,108), prevalence of complete ED was 42%. In sexually active men completing the IIEF‐5 questionnaire (n = 1,659), prevalence of moderate to severe ED was 56%. In multivariate‐adjusted analyses reporting prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), the prevalence of MMAS‐defined complete ED was significantly greater in men in the highest quartile of body weight (PR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.16–1.34), total body fat percentage (PR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.13–1.40), and trunk fat percentage (PR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.15–1.38), and was greater in men with a BMI greater than 30.0 kg/m2 than in those with BMI of 22.0 to 24.9 kg/m2 (PR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.05–1.31). Associations appeared similar for IIEF‐5–defined moderate to severe ED in analyses adjusted for age and study site.

Conclusion

In a cohort of older men, high body weight, BMI, and total body fat percentage were independently associated with greater prevalence of moderate to severe and complete ED. Future studies should investigate whether interventions to promote weight loss and fat loss will improve erectile function in older men.
Tuning the mechanical properties of self‐assembled mixed‐peptide tubes
Authors: SEDMAN V.L. , CHEN X. , ALLEN S. , ROBERTS C.J. , KOROLKOV V.V. , TENDLER S.J.B.
Published: January 2013

In this study, nano‐ and microscale fibrillar and tubular structures formed by mixing two aromatic peptides known to self‐assemble separately, (diphenylalanine and di‐D‐2‐napthylalanine) have been investigated. The morphology, mechanical strength and thermal stability of the tubular structures formed have been studied. The tubes are shown to consist of both peptides with some degree of nanoscale phase separation. The ability of the mixed peptides to form structures, which display variable mechanical properties dependent on the percentage composition of the peptides is presented. Such materials with tuneable properties will be required for a range of applications in nanotechnology and biotechnology.
Preclinical drug evaluation system in the Plasmodium knowlesi baboon model of malaria: the methotrexate study
Authors: Ichagichu M. , Ngotho M. , Karanja S.M. , Kokwaro G. , Kariuki T. , Nzila A. , Ozwara H.
Published: January 2013

Background

Drug resistance against first‐line antimalarials warrants search for new lead compounds and repurposing of drugs such as methotrexate. Animal models are required for preclinical drug development before clinical testing. This study aimed to develop a preclinical drug development system in baboons infected with Plasmodium knowlesi.

Methods

Protocols for drug administration, pharmacokinetics, clinical chemistry and haematology were developed in the baboon model. Baboons were infected with P. knowlesi and methotrexate administered orally for 5 days. Clinical signs, parasitaemia, gross and histopathology examinations were conducted to determine effect of methotrexate in baboons.

Results

No major clinical chemistry, haematology and pathological changes attributable to methotrexate were observed. Parasitaemia suppression of 77.67% was achieved at a methotrexate dose of 3.0 mg/kg.

Conclusions

A protocol for preclinical drug development in the baboon was optimized. Methotrexate suppressed P. knowlesi malaria in baboons. These findings warrant further characterization of methotrexate for use in combination therapy.
Kant and Kantian Themes in Recent Analytic Philosophy
Authors: Howell Robert
Published: January 2013

This article notes six advances in recent analytic Kant research: (1) Strawson's interpretation, which, together with work by Bennett, Sellars, and others, brought renewed attention to Kant through its account of space, time, objects, and the Transcendental Deduction and its sharp criticisms of Kant on causality and idealism; (2) the subsequent investigations of Kantian topics ranging from cognitive science and philosophy of science to mathematics; (3) the detailed work, by a number of scholars, on the Transcendental Deduction; (4) the clearer understanding of transcendental idealism sparked by reactions to Allison's epistemic account; (5) the resulting need—prompted also by new studies of the thing in itself—to face up to the old question of the philosophical defensibility of such idealism; and (6) the active engagement with Kant's ethics and political philosophy that derives from Rawls's and others' work.
Kant's Neoplatonism: Kant and Plato on Mathematical and Philosophical Method
Authors: Rescher Nicholas
Published: January 2013

Both Plato and Kant devote much attention and care to deliberating about their method of philosophizing. And, interestingly, both seek to expand and explain their view of philosophical method by one selfsame strategy: explaining the contrast between rational procedure in mathematics and in philosophy. Plato and Kant agree on a fundamental point of philosophical method that is at odds with the mathematico‐demonstrative methodology of philosophy found in Spinoza and present in Christian Wolff. Both reject the axiomatic approach with its insistence on fundamental truths postulated from the outset. Both alike insist that philosophizing—unlike mathematics—is an exercise in theorizing where the questions of basicness and foundations come into view only after the inquiry has gone on for a long, long time—and certainly not at its start.
Meno and the Monist
Authors: Ahlstrom‐Vij Kristoffer
Published: January 2013

Recent critiques of veritistic value monism, or the idea that true belief is unique in being of fundamental epistemic value, typically invoke a claim about the surplus value of knowledge over mere true belief, in turn traced back to Plato's Meno. However, to the extent Plato at all defends a surplus claim in the Meno, it differs from that figuring in contemporary discussions with respect to both its scope and the kind of value at issue, and is under closer scrutiny fully compatible with veritistic value monism. Consequently, contrary to what seems to be supposed in the literature, the critics of monism have little to gain from turning to the Meno for support.
Diversity in Mechanisms of Endothelium‐Dependent Vasodilation in Health and Disease
Authors: Durand Matthew J. , Gutterman David D.
Published: January 2013

Small arterioles (40–150 μm) contribute to the majority of vascular resistance within organs and tissues. Under resting conditions, the basal tone of these vessels is determined by a delicate balance between vasodilator and vasoconstrictor influences. Cardiovascular homeostasis and regional tissue perfusion is largely a function of the ability of these small blood vessels to constrict or dilate in response to the changing metabolic demands of specific tissues. The endothelial cell layer of these microvessels is a key modulator of vasodilation through the synthesis and release of vasoactive substances. Beyond their vasomotor properties, these compounds importantly modulate vascular cell proliferation, inflammation, and thrombosis. Thus, the balance between local regulation of vascular tone and vascular pathophysiology can vary depending upon which factors are released from the endothelium. This review will focus on the dynamic nature of the endothelial released dilator factors depending on species, anatomic site, and presence of disease, with a focus on the human coronary microcirculation. Knowledge how endothelial signaling changes with disease may provide insights into the early stages of developing vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis, or related vascular pathologies.
Pitfall scarring alopecia: Favus closely mimicking lichen planus
Authors: Poppe Heiko , Kolb‐Mäurer Annette , Wobser Marion , Trautmann Axel
Published: January 2013

We describe a woman presenting primarily with slowly progressing scarring alopecia. Course, symptoms, and clinical picture were highly suggestive for lichen planus. But mycological investigations revealed that cicatricial alopecia was caused by a specific infection with Trichophyton schoenleinii running a chronic course with minimal skin inflammation.
Exploiting PI3K/mTOR signaling to accelerate epithelial wound healing
Authors: Castilho RM , Squarize CH , Gutkind JS
Published: January 2013

The molecular circuitries controlling the process of skin wound healing have gained new significant insights in recent years. This knowledge is built on landmark studies on skin embryogenesis, maturation, and differentiation. Furthermore, the identification, characterization, and elucidation of the biological roles of adult skin epithelial stem cells and their influence in tissue homeostasis have provided the foundation for the overall understanding of the process of skin wound healing and tissue repair. Among numerous signaling pathways associated with epithelial functions, the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling route has gained substantial attention with the generation of animal models capable of dissecting individual components of the pathway, thereby providing a novel insight into the molecular framework underlying skin homeostasis and tissue regeneration. In this review, we focus on recent findings regarding the mechanisms involved in wound healing associated with the upregulation of the activity of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR circuitry. This review highlights critical findings on the molecular mechanisms controlling the activation of mTOR, a downstream component of the PI3K–PTEN pathway, which is directly involved in epithelial migration and proliferation. We discuss how this emerging information can be exploited for the development of novel pharmacological intervention strategies to accelerate the healing of critical size wounds.
Association between age and high‐risk human papilloma virus in Mexican oral cancer patients
Authors: González‐Ramírez I , Irigoyen‐Camacho ME , Ramírez‐Amador V , Lizano‐Soberón M , Carrillo‐García A , García‐Carrancá A , Sánchez‐Pérez Y , Méndez‐Martínez R , Granados‐García M , Ruíz‐Godoy LM , García‐Cuellar CM
Published: January 2013

Objective

Studies reporting low prevalence of HPV in OSCC with declining age at presentation are increasing. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HPV in a group of OSCC cases and controls in a Mexican population.

Methods

The matched case‐control study included 80 OSCC cases and 320 controls. HPV/DNA presence was evaluated through PCR amplification using three sets of consensus primers for the L1 gene. A conditional logistic regression analysis was carried out for the matched OSCC cases and controls. Interactions between risk factors and OCSS were tested in the construction process of the models.

Results

HPV prevalence was 5% in OSCC cases and 2.5% in controls. HPV‐detected types were 16, 18 and 56. According to conditional logistics regression model, an association was detected between HR‐HPV and OSCC. All HR‐HPV‐positive OSCC cases corresponded to young patients (<45 years), non‐smokers and non‐alcohol drinkers.

Conclusions

The HR‐HPV can be a contributing factor to oral carcinogenesis, especially in younger individuals without known risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol.
A dual role of tobacco hexokinase 1 in primary metabolism and sugar sensing
Authors: KIM YOUNG‐MIN , HEINZEL NICOLAS , GIESE JENS‐OTTO , KOEBER JULIA , MELZER MICHAEL , RUTTEN TWAN , VON WIRÉN NICOLAUS , SONNEWALD UWE , HAJIREZAEI MOHAMMAD‐REZA
Published: January 2013

Hexokinase (HXK) is present in all virtually living organisms and is central to carbohydrate metabolism catalysing the ATP‐dependent phosphorylation of hexoses. In plants, HXKs are supposed to act as sugar sensors and/or to interact with other enzymes directly supplying metabolic pathways such as glycolysis, the nucleotide phosphate monosaccharide (NDP‐glucose) pathway and the pentose phosphate pathway. We identified nine members of the tobacco HXK gene family and observed that among RNAi lines of these nine NtHXKs, only RNAi lines of NtHXK1 showed an altered phenotype, namely stunted growth and leaf chlorosis. NtHXK1 was also the isoform with highest relative expression levels among all NtHXKs. GFP‐tagging and immunolocalization indicated that NtHXK1 is associated with mitochondrial membranes. Overexpression of NtHXK1 resulted in elevated glucose phosphorylation activity in leaf extracts or chloroplasts. Moreover, NtHXK1 was able to complement the glucose‐insensitive Arabidopsis mutant gin2‐1 suggesting that NtHXK1 can take over glucose sensing functions. RNAi lines of NtHXK1 showed severely damaged leaf and chloroplast structure, coinciding with an excess accumulation of starch. We conclude that NtHXK1 is not only essential for maintaining glycolytic activity during respiration but also for regulating starch turnover, especially during the night.
Plant sugars are crucial players in the oxidative challenge during abiotic stress: extending the traditional concept
Authors: KEUNEN ELS , PESHEV DARIN , VANGRONSVELD JACO , VAN DEN ENDE WIM , CUYPERS ANN
Published: January 2013

Plants suffering from abiotic stress are commonly facing an enhanced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with damaging as well as signalling effects at organellar and cellular levels. The outcome of an environmental challenge highly depends on the delicate balance between ROS production and scavenging by both enzymatic and metabolic antioxidants. However, this traditional classification is in need of renewal and reform, as it is becoming increasingly clear that soluble sugars such as disaccharides, raffinose family oligosaccharides and fructans – next to their associated metabolic enzymes – are strongly related to stress‐induced ROS accumulation in plants. Therefore, this review aims at extending the current concept of antioxidants functioning during abiotic stress, with special focus on the emanate role of sugars as true ROS scavengers. Examples are given based on their cellular location, as different organelles seem to exploit distinct mechanisms. Moreover, the vacuole comes into the picture as important player in the ROS signalling network of plants. Elucidating the interplay between the mechanisms controlling ROS signalling during abiotic stress will facilitate the development of strategies to enhance crop tolerance to stressful environmental conditions.
Transpiration rate relates to within‐ and across‐species variations in effective path length in a leaf water model of oxygen isotope enrichment
Authors: SONG XIN , BARBOUR MARGARET M. , FARQUHAR GRAHAM D. , VANN DAVID R. , HELLIKER BRENT R.
Published: January 2013

Stable oxygen isotope ratio of leaf water (δ18OL) yields valuable information on many aspects of plant–environment interactions. However, current understanding of the mechanistic controls on δ18OL does not provide complete characterization of effective path length (L) of the Péclet effect, – a key component of the leaf water model. In this study, we collected diurnal and seasonal series of leaf water enrichment and estimated L in six field‐grown angiosperm and gymnosperm tree species. Our results suggest a pivotal role of leaf transpiration rate (E) in driving both within‐ and across‐species variations in L. Our observation of the common presence of an inverse scaling of L with E in the different species therefore cautions against (1) the conventional treatment of L as a species‐specific constant in leaf water or cellulose isotope (δ18Op) modelling; and (2) the use of δ18Op as a proxy for gs or E under low E conditions. Further, we show that incorporation of a multi‐species L‐E scaling into the leaf water model has the potential to both improve the prediction accuracy and simplify parameterization of the model when compared with the conventional approach. This has important implications for future modelling of oxygen isotope ratios.
The response of Asterochloris erici (Ahmadjian) Skaloud et Peksa to desiccation: a proteomic approach
Authors: GASULLA FRANSCICO , JAIN RENUKA , BARRENO EVA , GUÉRA ALFREDO , BALBUENA TIAGO S. , THELEN JAY J. , OLIVER MELVIN J.
Published: January 2013

The study of desiccation tolerance of lichens, and of their chlorobionts in particular, has frequently focused on the antioxidant system that protects the cell against photo‐oxidative stress during dehydration/rehydration cycles. In this study, we used proteomic and transcript analyses to assess the changes associated with desiccation in the isolated phycobiont Asterochloris erici. Algae were dried either slowly (5–6 h) or rapidly (<60 min), and rehydrated after 24 h in the desiccated state. To identify proteins that accumulated during the drying or rehydration processes, we employed two‐dimensional (2D) difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE) coupled with individual protein identification using trypsin digestion and liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Proteomic analyses revealed that desiccation caused an increase in relative abundance of only 11–13 proteins, regardless of drying rate, involved in glycolysis, cellular protection, cytoskeleton, cell cycle, and targeting and degradation. Transcripts of five Hsp90 and two β‐tubulin genes accumulated primarily at the end of the dehydration process. In addition, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images indicate that ultrastructural cell injuries, perhaps resulting from physical or mechanical stress rather than metabolic damage, were more intense after rapid dehydration. This occurred with no major change in the proteome. These results suggest that desiccation tolerance of A. erici is achieved by constitutive mechanisms.
Reversible Conformational Switching of i‐Motif DNA Studied by Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Choi Jungkweon , Majima Tetsuro
Published: January 2013

Non‐B DNAs, which can form unique structures other than double helix of B‐DNA, have attracted considerable attention from scientists in various fields including biology, chemistry and physics etc. Among them, i‐motif DNA, which is formed from cytosine (C)‐rich sequences found in telomeric DNA and the promoter region of oncogenes, has been extensively investigated as a signpost and controller for the oncogene expression at the transcription level and as a promising material in nanotechnology. Fluorescence techniques such as fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and the fluorescence quenching are important for studying DNA and in particular for the visualization of reversible conformational switching of i‐motif DNA that is triggered by the protonation. Here, we review the latest studies on the conformational dynamics of i‐motif DNA as well as the application of FRET and fluorescence quenching techniques to the visualization of reversible conformational switching of i‐motif DNA in nano‐biotechnology.
Age‐Matched Dendritic Cell Subpopulations Reference Values in Childhood
Authors: Heinze A. , Elze M. C. , Kloess S. , Ciocarlie O. , Königs C. , Betz S. , Bremm M. , Esser R. , Klingebiel T. , Serban M. , Hutton J. L. , Koehl U.
Published: January 2013

Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen‐presenting cells and are the key link between the innate and adaptive immune response. Only a few reports with study populations of up to 50 individuals have been published with age‐based reference values for DC subpopulations in healthy children. Therefore, we aimed to establish reference ranges in a larger study population of 100 healthy children, which allowed age‐matched subgroups. Most previous studies were performed using a dual‐platform approach. In this study, a single‐platform approach in a lyse no‐wash procedure was used. DC subpopulations were defined as follows: CD45+CD85k+HLA‐DR+CD14−CD16−CD33+ cells as myeloid DCs (mDCs) and CD45+CD85k+HLA‐DR+CD14−CD16−CD123+ cells as plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). Reference ranges were established using a semi‐parametric regression of age‐matched absolute and relative DC counts. We found a significant decline with increasing age in the medians of mDCs (P = 0.0003) and pDCs per μl peripheral blood (PB) (P = 0.004) and in the 50%, 90% and 95% reference ranges. We also identified significantly lower absolute cell counts of mDCs per μl PB in girls than in boys for all age groups (P = 0.0015). Due to the larger paediatric study population and single‐platform approach, this study may give a more precise overview of the normal age‐matched development of DC subpopulations and may provide a basis for analyzing abnormal DC counts in different illnesses or therapies such as post stem cell transplantation.
Comparing Formal Unemployment Compensation Systems in 15OECD Countries
Authors: Ozkan Umut Riza
Published: January 2013

This study contributes to the welfare regime literature by analyzing unemployment compensation programmes – unemployment insurance (UI)/assistance (UA) programmes and redundancy pay schemes – of welfare state/occupational welfare regimes. It covers 15 countries of theOrganisation forEconomicCo‐operation andDevelopment (OECD) selected fromSouthernEuropean,Liberal,Continental‐corporatist andSocialDemocratic country clusters. In contrast to the common argument thatSouthernEuropean countries have underdeveloped formal unemployment compensation systems, this study argues that they (especially inSpain,Portugal, and to some extent Italy) are comparable in strength to those inContinental‐corporatist countries if occupational welfare programmes – notably redundancy pay – are considered alongside welfare state programmes for unemployment protection. The study also outlines the characteristics of redundancy pay schemes in the four country clusters and shows how different redundancy pay schemes are linked toUI/UAschemes in these clusters.
The Effect of Hurricane Katrina on Adolescent Feelings of Social Isolation
Authors: Teasdale Brent , Stephens Peggy C. , Sloboda Zili , Stephens Richard C. , Grey Scott F.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

This study investigates the effect of Hurricane Katrina on adolescent feelings of social isolation. Much anecdotal evidence suggests that individuals who continued to reside in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina struck felt isolated from the rest of the country. Based on Durkheim's concept of anomie, we suggest that adolescents in New Orleans (and the Gulf region) may experience social isolation as a result of the hurricane.

Methods

We test this hypothesis with data from the Adolescent Substance Abuse Prevention Study, a multisite longitudinal study of adolescents in six cities around the United States.

Results

We find that students in New Orleans are no different from students in the other five cities in their level of social isolation prior to the hurricane. In contrast, our posthurricane survey reveals significant differences between New Orleans (and Gulf region) students and students in the other five (comparison) cities in social isolation.

Conclusions

Our findings lend contemporary support to the concept of anomie and suggest the importance of mental health interventions for adolescents immediately following a natural disaster.
Experimental Characterisation of Aluminium 6082 at Varying Temperature and Strain Rate
Authors: Lemanski S. L. , Petrinic N. , Nurick G. N.
Published: January 2013

Abstract:  This article describes the experimental methodology used in overcoming the challenges of performing tests and recording results on specimens, which are suitable for such a wide range of test conditions. Uniaxial tensile tests were conducted on aluminium alloy 6082‐T352 at varying temperatures and strain rates to validate testing techniques and to determine the effect of these parameters upon this material. The applied strain rate varied over several orders of magnitude – using a screw‐driven tensometer for quasi‐static loading (6.9 × 10−4 s−1), a hydraulic piston rig for moderate strain rate (4.0 × 101 s−1) and a tensile Hopkinson bar for high strain rate (1.5 × 103 s−1). Temperature was varied using a heat gun, and the air temperature was measured using a thermocouple in the hot air stream. Specimen temperature is determined by finite element modelling, and this correlates well with other work. Although it would have been possible to improve the design of individual tests for specific test conditions, an important objective was to conduct the entire series of tests in as consistent a manner as possible. The procedure for characterising the stress–strain behaviour for this material under these different loading conditions is also considered in some detail, as the real material behaviour deviates from simplified elasto‐plastic material models. Results presented for Al 6082 samples show a slight increase in yield stress with increasing strain rate, and a decrease in yield stress with increasing temperature.
Reduction of Noise‐Induced Bias in Displacement Estimation by Linear Off‐Pixel Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Tong W.
Published: January 2013

Abstract:  A linear digital image correlation algorithm is proposed to eliminate noise‐induced bias in one‐dimensional translation estimation using noisy images. The algorithm uses linear interpolation for both initial and current images at off‐pixel positions and solves directly the displacement parameter by minimizing a sum‐of‐squared‐differences coefficient. Both analytical results and numerical simulations using synthetic image sets show that there is indeed no noise‐induced bias in the displacement estimation using the proposed algorithm if the off‐pixel positions in both images are chosen properly according to the relative displacement between two images. When the displacement is only known initially within a range of ±0.5 pixels from the actual displacement, an iterative procedure using the algorithm is able to obtain the displacement estimation with a residual bias that converges to the noiseless subpixel approximation bias. A further refinement of the off‐pixel analysis algorithm will be needed so the remaining residual bias due to subpixel approximation can also be significantly reduced.
Revisiting the tectonic evolution of South China: interaction between the Rodinia superplume and plate subduction?
Authors: Zhang Chuan‐Lin , Li Huai‐Kun , Santosh M.
Published: January 2013

New field observations and zircon U‐Pb age data, combined with previous studies, are employed here to evaluate the process of assembly of the Yangtze and Cathaysia Blocks. We show that the process started from the west prior to 1.0 Ga and migrated eastward with the final amalgamation along the suture at around 830–820 Ma. During the period of 850–820 Ma, both the mantle plume which possibly started at 850 Ma and the north‐directed plate subduction along the southern margin of the Yangtze Block controlled the formation and closure of a back‐arc basin along the middle to eastern segment of the Yangtze Block, as well as the diverse and complex magmatic activities. The closure of the back‐arc basin and almost synchronous rift basin overlying the folded “basement” sequence mark the termination of subduction when the Rodinia plume exerted a dominant control on the evolution of the middle to late Neoproterozoic basin and the related magmatic pulses.
Myelodysplastic syndrome incidence, transfusion dependence, health care use, and complications: an Australian population‐based study 1998 to 2008
Authors: McQuilten Zoe K. , Polizzotto Mark N. , Wood Erica M. , Sundararajan Vijaya
Published: January 2013

Background

We investigated the incidence of myelodysplasia (MDS), its transfusion requirements, and complications of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion dependence (TD) using a hospitalization data set from a population of 5.3 million.

Study Design and Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort analysis of a population data set that captures diagnostic and procedure data on all hospitalizations from more than 300 hospitals within the Australian state of Victoria from 1998 to 2008.

Results

There were 3149 incident cases of MDS. The age‐standardized incidence rate was higher than reported from local cancer registries (for 2007 9.6 per 100,000 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 9.2‐10.0] vs. 4.8). Median age was 79 years, 56.3% were males, and 34.6% were TD‐MDS. Overall number of hospitalizations with transfusion increased over the study period, but not median transfusion episodes per patient. TD‐MDS was associated with new diagnoses of congestive heart failure (CHF; incident rate ratio [IRR], 1.92; 95% CI, 1.41‐2.60), but not diabetes (IRR, 1.29; 95% CI, 0.54‐3.04) or liver disease (IRR, 1.91; 95% CI, 0.63‐5.78). TD‐MDS was associated with bacterial (IRR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.37‐2.24) and fungal infections (IRR, 3.13; 95% CI, 1.70‐5.75) and leukemia (relative risk [RR], 1.42; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.88) and sepsis as cause of death (RR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.47) but not CHF (RR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.71‐1.32).

Conclusion

There was a higher incidence of MDS compared with that reported by cancer registries. Overall hospitalizations increased over the study period with no change in transfusion episodes per patient. There were more incident cases of CHF and infections in TD‐MDS; however, CHF was not a more frequent cause of death.
Extracorporeal photopheresis for the treatment of acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host disease in adults and children: best practice recommendations from an Italian Society of Hemapheresis and Cell Manipulation (SIdEM) and Italian Group for Bone Marrow Transplantation (GITMO) consensus process
Authors: Pierelli Luca , Perseghin Paolo , Marchetti Monia , Messina Chiara , Perotti Cesare , Mazzoni Alessandro , Bacigalupo Andrea , Locatelli Franco , Carlier Paolo , Bosi Alberto ,   Società Italiana di Emaferesi and Manipolazione Cellulare (SIdEM) and Gruppo Italiano Trapianto Midollo Osseo (GITMO)
Published: January 2013

Background

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is an effective treatment for both acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) in children and adults. Despite the large use of this treatment, a large heterogeneity in current application of ECP has been reported so far and recent evidence brought novel issues into some specific topics. Consensus‐based recommendations ameliorate the appropriateness in daily clinical practice and, in turn, optimize the use of health care resources.

Study Design and Methods

Two Italian scientific societies, the Italian Society of Hemapheresis and Cell Manipulation (SIdEM) and the Italian Group for Bone Marrow Transplantation (GITMO), joined to develop and disseminate recommendations on appropriate application of ECP treatment in patients with GVHD. Accordingly, SIdEM and GITMO named an expert panel that first selected 16 questions that were considered relevant for clinical practice: the questions were subsequently addressed through a revision of the available literature and in consensus meetings. The whole group discussed the proposed recommendations according to the nominal group technique.

Results

The above‐described approach in turn allowed the panel to agree on 47 practice recommendations. SIdEM and GITMO will disseminate such recommendations to the national transplant centers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SIdEM and GITMO have made a scientific effort to provide a useful tool to physicians involved in the field, thus supporting daily clinical practice, as well as strategic decisions in the setting of ECP treatment of GVHD.
Ascertainment of iron deficiency and depletion in blood donors through screening questions for pica and restless legs syndrome
Authors: Bryant Barbara J. , Yau Yu Ying , Arceo Sarah M. , Hopkins Julie A. , Leitman Susan F.
Published: January 2013

Background

Pica and restless legs syndrome (RLS) are associated with iron depletion and deficiency. The presence of pica and RLS was prospectively assessed in blood donors.

Study Design and Methods

During a 39‐month period, 1236 donors deferred for fingerstick hemoglobin (Hb) level of less than 12.5 g/dL and 400 nondeferred “control” donors underwent health screening and laboratory testing (complete blood count, ferritin, iron, transferrin). Pica and RLS were assessed by direct questioning. Deferred donors and iron‐deficient control donors were given 325 mg of ferrous sulfate daily for 60 days. Reassessments were performed and additional iron tablets dispensed at subsequent visits.

Results

Pica was reported in 11% of donors with iron depletion or deficiency, compared with 4% of iron‐replete donors (p < 0.0001). Pagophagia (ice pica) was most common and often of extraordinary intensity. Female sex, younger age, and lower mean cell volume and transferrin saturation values were strongly associated with pica. Donors with pica given iron reported a marked reduction in the desire to consume the nonnutritive substance by Days 5 to 8 of therapy, with disappearance of symptoms by Days 10 to 14. RLS was reported in 16% of subjects with iron depletion or deficiency compared with 11% of iron‐replete donors (p = 0.012). Iron replacement generally resulted in improvement of RLS symptoms; however, at least 4 to 6 weeks of iron therapy was necessary.

Conclusion

The presence of pica is associated with a high probability of iron depletion or deficiency in blood donors; however, RLS lacks a strong correlation in this population. Screening questions for pagophagia may be useful in the ascertainment of iron deficiency in donors and may identify those who would benefit from oral iron.
An analysis of risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus infection among Chinese blood donors
Authors: Wang Jingxing , Liu Jing , Huang Yi , Yang Tonghan , Yao Fuzhu , Dong Xiangdong , Wen Guoxin , Bi Xinhong , Zhao Mingjiang , Wen Xiuqiong , Huang Mei , Lü Yunlai , Ma Hongli , Yu Qilu , Wright David , Guo Nan , Ness Paul , Shan Hua ,   National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study‐II (REDS‐II), International Component
Published: January 2013

Background

Information regarding the risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among Chinese donors is important for understanding the trend of HIV transmission routes and for developing effective donor behavioral screening policies.

Study Design and Methods

In 2009 to 2011, a total of 77 HIV‐positive and 649 HIV‐negative consented donors who screened nonreactive for hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, syphilis, and alanine aminotransferase in four Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study‐II Chinese regions received and completed a questionnaire by mail regarding their recent and past medical procedures, drug use, and sexual behaviors, etc. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses grouped questions into three risk factors. Multivariable logistic regression analysis examined the relationship between risk factors and HIV status adjusting for center, age, sex, and education.

Results

The three risk factors were test‐seeking tendency, medical‐related risks, and behavioral risks. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, greater test‐seeking tendency and behavioral risks were associated with HIV infection, with the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) being 2.2 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2‐4.1) and 3.8 (95% CI, 1.8‐7.9), respectively, but medical risks were not (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.6‐2.2). In comparison to less high school education, high school and more education was associated with lower risks for HIV infection, with the ORs being 0.35 (95% CI, 0.17‐0.70) and 0.17 (95% CI, 0.09‐0.33), respectively.

Conclusions

Test‐seeking tendency and high‐risk sexual behaviors are important predictors of HIV infection in Chinese blood donors, suggesting that the health history inquiry used in donor selection process needs improvement to defer high‐risk donors more effectively.