bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two phosphonodehydrotripeptides: Boc0–Gly1–Δ(Z)Phe2–α-Abu3PO3Me2and Boc0–Gly1–Δ(Z)Phe2–α-Nva3PO3Et2
Authors: Brzuszkiewicz Anna , Makowski Maciej , Lisowski Marek , Lis Elżbieta , Otręba Marta , Lis Tadeusz
Published: February 2013

The present paper reports the crystal structures of two short phosphonotripeptides (one in two crystal forms) containing one ΔPhe (dehydrophenylalanine) residue, namely dimethyl (3-{[tert-butoxycarbonylglycyl-α,β-(Z)-dehydrophenylalanyl]amino}propyl)phosphonate, Boc0–Gly1–Δ(Z)Phe2–α-Abu3PO3Me2, C21H32N3O7P, (I), and diethyl (4-{[tert-butoxycarbonylglycyl-α,β-(Z)-dehydrophenylalanyl]amino}butyl)phosphonate, Boc0–Gly1–Δ(Z)Phe2–α-Nva3PO3Et2, as the propan-2-ol monosolvate 0.122-hydrate, C24H38N3O7P·C3H8O·0.122H2O, (II), and the ethanol monosolvate 0.076-hydrate, C24H38N3O7P·C2H6O·0.076H2O, (III). The crystals of (II) and (III) are isomorphous but differ in the type of solvent. The phosphono group is linked directly to the last Cαatom in the main chain for all three peptides. All the amino acids aretranslinked in the main chains. The crystal structures exhibit no intramolecular hydrogen bonds and are stabilized by intermolecular hydrogen bonds only.
A helical coordination polymer of zinc(II), 4-hydroxybenzohydrazide and sulfate ions
Authors: Zasłona Halina , Drożdżewski Piotr , Barys Maciej
Published: February 2013

In the structure of the novel zinc complexcatena-poly[[diaqua(4-hydroxybenzohydrazide)zinc(II)]-μ-sulfato], [Zn(SO4)(C7H8N2O2)(H2O)2]n, the complex cations are linked by sulfate counter-ions into helical polymeric chains extending along thebaxis. Each helix is stabilized by six intrachain hydrogen bonds involving stronger O—H...O (1.83–2.06 Å) and weaker N—H...O (2.20–2.49 Å) interactions. The ZnIIatom displays a distorted octahedral geometry formed by the 4-hydroxybenzohydrazide ligand, two water molecules and two SO42−ions, which is very similar to the metal-atom environment in a previously reported CoIIcomplex [Zasłona, Drożdżewski & Kubiak (2010).J. Mol. Struct.982, 1–8], especially the Zn—O and Zn—N bond lengths of 2.0453 (12)–2.1602 (9) and 2.1118 (12) Å, respectively.
A two-dimensional silver–iodide organic network constructed from a unique [Ag6I6] hexagonal prism-based one-dimensional column motif
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Liu Shan-Shan , Lu Hai-Feng , Xu Meng-Zhen , Sun Di
Published: February 2013

A novel two-dimensional coordination polymer, poly[[μ2-1,3-bis(2-methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)propane]di-μ4-iodido-di-μ3-iodido-silver(I)], [Ag4I4(C11H16N4)]n, (I), has been synthesized by solvothermal reaction of AgNO3, KI and 1,3-bis(2-methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)propane (bmimp). In (I), the two unique AgIcations have AgNI3and AgI4four-coordinated tetrahedral geometries. The bmimp ligand has imposed twofold symmetry. The AgIcations and iodide anions form a unique one-dimensional polymeric column motif incorporating [Ag6I6] hexagonal prisms, which are then connected by bmimp ligands to form two-dimensional organic–inorganic layers. The layers are arranged in parallel in anABABfashion and are packed into the resultant three-dimensional supramolecular framework by van der Waals interactions.
Comparison of emergency medical services systems in the pan‐Asian resuscitation outcomes study countries: Report from a literature review and survey
Authors: Ong Marcus EH , Cho Jungheum , Ma Matthew Huei‐Ming , Tanaka Hideharu , Nishiuchi Tatsuya , Al Sakaf Omer , Abdul Karim Sarah , Khunkhlai Nalinas , Atilla Ridvan , Lin Chih‐Hao , Shahidah Nur , Lie Desiree , Shin Sang Do ,   PAROS Investigators
Published: February 2013

Objective

Asia–Pacific countries have unique prehospital emergency care or emergency medical services (EMS) systems, which are different from European or Anglo‐American models. We aimed to compare the EMS systems of eight Asia–Pacific countries/regions as part of the Pan Asian Resuscitation Outcomes Study (PAROS), to provide a basis for future comparative studies across systems of care.

Methods

In the first phase, a systematic literature review of EMS system within the eight PAROS countries/regions of interest was conducted. In the second phase, PAROS site directors were surveyed for additional information about the demographics and characteristics of EMS services at their sites.

Results

The database and bibliography search identified 25 eligible articles. The survey of EMS systems was completed by seven PAROS directors. By combining information sources from phases 1 and 2, we found that all PAROS EMS systems were single‐tiered, and most were public (vs private) and fire‐based (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, Korea). Ambulance personnel were primarily emergency medical technicians and paramedics, except for Thailand and Turkey, whose personnel include nurses and physicians. Personnel were trained to use automated external defibrillators and have basic cardiac life support certification. The service capability of each EMS system in terms of dispatch, airway management and medications, for example, varied greatly.

Conclusion

We found variation in the EMS systems across the eight Asia–Pacific countries/regions studied. The findings will inform the construction of a multinational Asia–Pacific research network for future comparative studies and could serve as a model for international research networks.
Natural history and imaging of subtalar and midfoot joint disease in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Chan Pui‐Shan Julia , Kong Kok Ooi
Published: February 2013

Foot involvement is not uncommon and occurs early in the disease course of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Inflammation and ongoing synovitis of foot joints lead to joint destruction and instability, tendon dysfunction, and eventually collapse of the medial longitudinal arch and pes planovalgus that contributes to difficulty in walking and gait abnormalities. This article reviews foot‐related problems in patients with RA, focusing on the prevalence, natural history and role of imaging in both diagnosis and management of midfoot and subtalar joint disease in RA.
Healing properties of implants inserted concomitantly with anorganic bovine bone. A histomorphometric human study
Authors: Menicucci G , Mussano F , Schierano G , Rizzati A , Aimetti M , Gassino G , Traini T , Carossa S
Published: February 2013

Background

The present prospective, randomized, double‐blind study evaluated the bone‐forming process around implants inserted simultaneously with anorganic bovine bone (ABB) in sinus grafting.

Methods

A total of 18 threaded mini‐implants with Osseotite (O) and Nanotite (N) surfaces were placed in seven patients (nine sites). After 12 months, the implants were retrieved and processed for histological analysis. A total of 18 cutting and grinding sections were investigated with bright‐field light microscopy, circularly polarized light microscopy (CPLM), confocal scanning laser microscope (CSLM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS).

Results

The bone‐to‐implant contact rate in native crestal bone was 62.6 ± 0.4% for N implants and 54.3 ± 0.5% for the O implants (p = 0.001). The collagen fibre density, as assessed by CPLM, was 79.8 ± 6.0 nm for the N group and 74.6 ± 4.6 nm for the O group (p < 0.05). Line scan EDS starting from ABB to newly formed bone showed a decrease in calcium content and an increase of carbon while phosphorus content was constant.

Conclusions

While the N surface improved the peri‐implant endosseous healing properties in the native bone, when compared to the O surface, it did not improve the healing properties in the bone‐graft area.
Anti‐eosinophil activity and clinical efficacy of the CRTH2 antagonist OC000459 in eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Straumann A. , Hoesli S. , Bussmann Ch. , Stuck M. , Perkins M. , Collins L. P. , Payton M. , Pettipher R. , Hunter M. , Steiner J. , Simon H.‐U.
Published: February 2013

Background

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, Th2‐type inflammatory disease. Chemoattractant receptor‐homologous molecule on Th2 cells (CRTH2) is a prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) receptor, expressed by Th2 cells and other inflammatory cells, including eosinophils and basophils, that mediates chemotaxis and activation. OC000459 is a selective CRTH2 antagonist and would be expected to suppress eosinophilic tissue inflammation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an OC000459 monotherapy in adult patients with active, corticosteroid‐dependent or corticosteroid‐refractory EoE.

Methods

In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 26 adult patients (m/f = 22/4; mean age 41 years, range 22–69 years) with active EoE, dependent or resistant to corticosteroids, were treated either with 100 mg OC000459 (n = 14) or placebo (n = 12) twice daily. Pre‐ and post‐treatment disease activity was assessed clinically, endoscopically, histologically, and via biomarkers. The primary end point was the reduction in esophageal eosinophil infiltration.

Results

After an 8‐week OC000459 treatment, the esophageal eosinophil load decreased significantly, from 114.83 to 73.26 eosinophils per high‐power field [(eos/hpf), P = 0.0256], whereas no reduction was observed with placebo (102.80–99.47 eos/hpf, P = 0.870). With OC000459, the physician's global assessment of disease activity improved from 7.13 to 5.18 (P = 0.035). OC000459 likewise reduced extracellular deposits of eosinophil peroxidase and tenascin C, the effects not seen with placebo. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

An 8‐week treatment with the CRTH2‐antagonist, OC000459, exerts modest, but significant, anti‐eosinophil and beneficial clinical effects in adult patients with active, corticosteroid‐dependent or corticosteroid‐refractory EoE and is well tolerated.
First Finding of Early Medieval Iron Slags in Sardinia (Italy): A Geochemical–Mineralogical Approach to Insights into Ore Provenance and Work Activity
Authors: Mameli P. , Mongelli G. , Oggiano G. , Rovina D.
Published: February 2013

At Santa Filitica, a Roman settlement in north‐western Sardinia occupied until the ninth century ad, archaeological excavations have found the remnants of a furnace consisting of a semi‐circular base made of stony slabs and tiles bound with clay. The furnace is attached to a wall of Roman age. Layers of the sixth century ad, bearing several variously oxidized slags, were found close to the furnace. These findings first testify to an ironworks in Sardinia, within a well‐defined context. XRPD and SEM–EDS mineralogical and textural analyses suggest that the slags derive from a bloomery and smithing work that was the first evidence of this type documented in Sardinia during the Early Middle Ages. Chemical analyses (performed with ICP and INAA) of rare earth elements and trace elements in two slags and in two Sardinian iron deposits allow some conclusions to be drawn on the local provenance of the ore. Our comparison of the Sardinian findings and some slags representative of archaeological smelting sites at the front of Elba island—the largest and longest lived iron‐working sites in the Mediterranean—also improves the methodology with which iron slags derived from different ores are compared.
Pollen evidence for major shifts in forest composition since the mid‐nineteenth‐century in the vicinity of Sudbury, Ontario
Authors: Dirszowsky Randy W. , Finkelstein Sarah A. , Davis Anthony M.
Published: February 2013

Numerous anthropogenic stressors have impacted the region surrounding Sudbury, Ontario, leading to pronounced vegetation and landscape change. Few long‐term records exist to understand the nature or timing of this change. We use pollen analysis from radiometrically dated sediments of Clearwater Lake to compare pre‐ and post‐settlement vegetation. Beginning ∼1850 CE, the record shows major shifts in forest composition, coincident with settlement and the beginnings of lumbering. These changes are unprecedented for the past ∼5000 years, and consist of increases in diversity and abundance of deciduous tree taxa and herbaceous disturbance indicators. While evidence of mining appears as early as 1900 CE, little effect is seen in the pollen record until ∼1930 CE, when sedimentation rates increased and acidification of the lake also began. At this time, further increases in palynological disturbance indicators and minimum sediment organic matter levels indicate the period of maximum vegetation loss. As a result of reduced emissions since the 1970s, water quality began to improve in Clearwater Lake and there are some decreases in the abundances of shade‐intolerant disturbance indicators in the pollen record. However, the fact that the pollen assemblages do not resemble those prior to 1850 suggests lasting vegetation changes.
Tourists as colonizers in Quintana Roo, Mexico
Authors: Brown Denise Fay
Published: February 2013

Spatial appropriation is an age‐old strategy for domination by one group over another. In the context of national states, territorial expansion is a common manifestation of this. Spain's colonization process began in the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico in the sixteenth century but remained incomplete in this area. Independent Mexico's struggle for control over the Mayan landscape of the Yucatan continued through the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It is my contention that the assault has continued in recent times. Today, it is not the conventional notion of nation state colonialism but a much more subtle invasion brought about by the ability of tourists from richer nations to travel south. Using the paradigm of settler colonization, this article proposes that relationships of power underlying this new infiltration parallel those of conventional colonialism, and that the tourist is, in fact, an unwitting colonizer. The case of Quintana Roo, Mexico illustrates how the tourist can be seen as a pawn in a larger political project. Exposure of this predatory nature of tourism reveals processes that have implications for other Native regions of the Americas and beyond that are suffering similar “invasions.”
The role of sequential 18F‐FDG PET/CT in predicting tumour response after preoperative chemoradiation for rectal cancer
Authors: Sun W. , Xu J. , Hu W. , Zhang Z. , Shen W.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of sequential positron emission tomography (PET)/CT standardized uptake value (SUV)/metabolic area variation in predicting the pathological response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for rectal cancer.

Method

Fifty‐three patients diagnosed with clinical T3‐4 and/or N+ rectal cancer were enrolled. All patients received CRT followed by radical surgery after 6–8 weeks. A PET/CT scan was performed before (PET/CT1) initiation of treatment and a second scan (PET/CT2) was performed within 1 week after the completion of CRT. Thirty‐five of 53 patients also underwent a third (PET/CT3) scan within 1 week before surgery. Maximal SUV within the tumour (SUVmax), average SUV within the tumour (SUVmean), metabolic tumour volume (MV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and response indices (∆%, i.e. the percentage difference between two different PET/CT scans for SUVmax, SUVmean, MV and TLG) were calculated. The different metabolic parameters were analysed and correlated with the tumour regression grade (TRG) score.

Results

When patients were regrouped as responders (TRG 3‐4) and nonresponders (TRG 0‐2), significant differences were observed in the percentage differences between PET/CT1 and PET/CT3 for MV (∆%MV(1‐3); 91.08% vs 75.43%) and for TLG (∆%TLG(1‐3); 94.00% vs 82.02%). As demonstrated by receiver–operating characteristics analysis, ∆%MV(1‐3) and ∆%TLG(1‐3) both had a strong capability to discriminate between responders and nonresponders. Patients classified as having a pathological complete response (pCR) and a non‐pCR showed significant differences in the percentage difference between PET/CT1 and PET/CT3 in SUVmax (∆% SUVmax(1‐3); 69.17% vs 57.77%), SUVmean (∆% SUVmean(1‐3); 44.20% vs 30.19%), ∆%MV(1‐3) (90.93% vs 80.30%) and ∆%TLG(1‐3) (94.22% vs 85.63%). ∆%TLG (1‐3) was a more powerful discriminator than the others.

Conclusion

Differences in the SUV/metabolic area with 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) PET/CT have the potential to predict a response to preoperative CRT for rectal cancer.
Transformation zone sampling rate used as a performance indicator for cervical liquid‐based cytology sample‐takers
Authors: Faraker C. A. , Greenfield J.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To investigate the sampling performance of individual cervical cytology practitioners using the transformation zone sampling rate (TZSR) as a performance indicator and to assess the impact of dedicated on site training for those identified with a low TZSR.

Methods

The TZSR was calculated for all practitioners submitting ThinPrep® cervical cytology specimens to the Conquest laboratory between January 2010 and November 2011. After excluding those with less than 30 qualifying samples the 10th percentile of the TZSR was calculated. Practitioners with a TZSR below the 10th percentile were visited by a specialist cervical cytology screening facilitator after which the TZSR of these practitioners was closely monitored.

Results

After exclusions there were 175 practitioners who had collected 24 358 qualifying liquid‐based cytology (LBC) samples. The average TZSR was 70% (range 12–96%). The 10th percentile was 44%; 18 scored below the 10th percentile. Failure to apply sufficient pressure when sampling was identified as the most common reason for a low TZSR. In some cases there was suspicion that the cervix was not always adequately visualized. Continuous monitoring after assessment identified improvement in the TZSRs of 13/18 practitioners.

Conclusions

Identification of practitioners with low TZSRs compared with their peers allows these individuals to be selected for personalized observation and training by a specialist in cervical cytology which can lead to an improvement in TZSR. As previous studies show a significant correlation between the TZSR and the detection rate of cytological abnormality it is useful to investigate low TZSRs.
Influence of silicone gel on standardized postoperative scars
Authors: Riedel Mareen , Brinckmann Jürgen , Steffen Armin , Nitsch Stefan , Wollenberg Barbara , Frenzel Henning
Published: February 2013

Background

Silicone gel is one therapeutic approach in the treatment and prevention of excessive scarring. The likely mechanism of action is the hydration of the tissue. This should lead to reduced angiogenesis and capillary blood flow. The efficacy is still controversial and the evidence base, insufficient. The aim of this prospective and standardized study is to investigate silicone gel in the preventive treatment of scars.

Patients and Methods

Included in the study were 20 patients with costal cartilage harvest. Half of a standard chest scar was treated for three months with a silicone gel. The other half served as an internal control. After three months both scar sides were compared subjectively by visual analog scale and objectively by elasticity, moisture and color measurements.

Results

Of 19 patients 8 had a better subjective result in the treated half. In one subject, no difference was seen. A worse subjective result in the treated half was seen in 10 out of 19. The objective measurements showed no significant difference. A correlation between the different results was not seen.

Conclusions

The use of silicone gel caused subjective differences within the same scar (worsening as well as improvement of the appearance). Positive effects were not detectable in the investigated parameters.
Effect of vildagliptin compared to glimepiride on postprandial proinsulin processing in the β cell of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Forst T. , Dworak M. , Berndt‐Zipfel C. , Löffler A. , Klamp I. , Mitry M. , Pfützner A.
Published: February 2013

This study compared the effect of Glimepiride versus Vildagliptin on β‐cell function and the release of intact proinsulin (PI) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients on metformin monotherapy were randomized to add on treatment with Vildagliptin or Glimepiride. A standardized test meal was given at baseline, after 12 and 24 weeks of treatment. Insulin, PI and blood glucose values were measured in the fasting state and postprandial for 300 min. Fasting PI levels significantly decreased in the Vildagliptin group. The area under the curve for the postprandial release of PI decreased during Vildagliptin and increased during Glimepiride treatment. The proinsulin to insulin ratio declined in the Vildagliptin group, whereas it did not change significantly in the Glimepiride group. Addition of Vildagliptin to ongoing Metformin treatment reconstitutes the disproportionality of the proinsulin to insulin secretion from the β cell.
Effects of non‐host plant odour on Meligethes aeneus during immigration to oilseed rape
Authors: Mauchline Alice L. , Cook Sam M. , Powell Wilf , Osborne Juliet L.
Published: February 2013

The use of semiochemicals for the manipulation of the pollen beetle, Meliethes aeneus (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae), is being investigated for potential incorporation into a push‐pull strategy for this pest, which damages oilseed rape, Brassica napus L. (Brassicaceae), throughout Europe. Previous laboratory behavioural studies using volatiles from non‐host plants showed that M. aeneus is repelled by the odour of lavender, Lavendula angustifolia Mill. (Lamiaceae), essential oil. This article reports on semi‐field and field trials to investigate this behaviour under more realistic conditions. Semi‐field experiments were conducted to assess the relative importance of olfaction at different points in host location behaviour by M. aeneus. The results showed that oilseed rape plants treated with lavender odour were less colonised by M. aeneus in comparison with an untreated control, but that the treatment effect was much reduced if the lavender odour was applied after colonisation. The field experiment demonstrated that lavender odour caused a significant reduction in the number of adult M. aeneus infesting the oilseed rape plants in the treatment plots compared to the control plots. Overall, these findings are very encouraging for the future development of a push‐pull pest control system.
Assessing the value of the Garden Moth Scheme citizen science dataset: how does light trap type affect catch?
Authors: Bates Adam J. , Sadler Jon P. , Everett Glyn , Grundy Dave , Lowe Norman , Davis George , Baker David , Bridge Malcolm , Clifton Jon , Freestone Roger , Gardner David , Gibson Chris , Hemming Robin , Howarth Stephen , Orridge Steve , Shaw Mark , Tams Tom , Young Heather
Published: February 2013

Done well, citizen science projects can gather datasets of a size and scope far larger than would be possible using professional researchers. This study uses data gathered in Britain by the Garden Moth Scheme (GMS). Participants run garden light traps for at least 26 weeks a year and complete garden questionnaires detailing garden habitat and nearby landscape features. We used data exploration and generalised linear modelling (GLM) to investigate whether the data can be used to generate reliable research findings, testing the effect of moth light trap type on moth catch. Robinson traps, then Skinner traps, then Heath traps were found to catch the highest abundance and diversity of moths. Mercury vapour bulbs, then blended light bulbs, then actinic bulbs collected the highest abundance and diversity of moths. The GMS dataset can be used to generate useful and reliable research findings, and can be used in the future to investigate temporal and spatial trends in moth assemblage. Under international law, the use of mercury vapour bulbs will be phased out in coming years, leading to changes in the way moth assemblages are sampled. Information on the relative efficacy of different bulb types will aid the analysis of long‐term moth datasets after these changes.
How varying pest and trap densities affect Tribolium castaneum capture in pheromone traps
Authors: Buckman Karrie A. , Campbell James F.
Published: February 2013

The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), is an important insect pest in food processing facilities. Pheromone trapping is frequently used to monitor red flour beetle populations in structures; however, the optimal trap density and the relationship between trap captures and beetle density is not known. Two experiments were performed concurrently in environmentally controlled 30‐m2 walk‐in chambers to determine the relationship between aggregation pheromone trap captures of red flour beetles and beetle and trap number. In one experiment, beetle density was kept constant at 200 individuals per chamber while trap number was varied from 1 to 8, and in the other experiment trap number remained constant at one per chamber while beetle density varied from 20 to 800 individuals. Results indicated that approximately one out of 23 red flour beetles were captured in a trap. Number of beetles captured in traps increased significantly as beetle density increased; however, the proportion of beetles captured remained consistent across beetle densities with a mean of 4.7 ± 0.6% of individuals captured. Trap captures varied significantly with trap placement within experimental chambers, indicating that subtle differences in the trapping environment can influence trap captures. Data suggested that trap densities of 0.07–0.10 m−2 (2–3 traps per chamber) would maximize trap capture, whereas a trap density of 0.13 m−2 (four traps per chamber) would maximize the predictive ability of a trapping equation estimating beetle density from trap captures. Results provide information needed to more thoroughly explore how environmental factors might influence red flour beetle trap capture in the absence of changes in beetle density. Further understanding of these relationships will allow for more accurate assessments of absolute beetle density from pheromone trap capture data.
Phytophthora dieback on narrow leaved ash in the Black Sea region of Turkey
Authors: Akilli S. , Ulubaş Serçe Ç. , Katırcıoğlu Y. Z. , Maden S.
Published: February 2013

Severe dieback symptoms were observed in a 490‐ha moist ash (Fraxinus angustifolia) lowland forest stand, comprising trees over 100 years old and in 100 ha of newly planted F. angustifolia near Sinop, in Turkey. Five of the 10 soil samples collected around stem bases of the diseased trees were baited using ash leaves and yielded a Phytophthora sp. This heterothallic species produced non‐caducous, non‐papillate sporangia in non‐sterile soil extract, and fluffy, even growth on corn meal and potato dextrose agars, and suppressed, even growth on grated carrot agar. Isolates were identified as Phytophthora taxon salixsoil based on internal transcribed spacer DNA sequences. This species has been recently redesignated as P. lacustris. Three isolates were found to be pathogenic when inoculated on the stem bases of three‐year‐old F. angustifolia saplings.
Amyloid β inhibits retinoic acid synthesis exacerbating Alzheimer disease pathology which can be attenuated by an retinoic acid receptor α agonist
Authors: Goncalves Maria B. , Clarke Earl , Hobbs Carl , Malmqvist Tony , Deacon Robert , Jack Julian , Corcoran Jonathan P. T.
Published: February 2013

The retinoic acid receptor (RAR) α system plays a key role in the adult brain, participating in the homeostatic control of synaptic plasticity, essential for memory function. Here we show that RARα signalling is down‐regulated by amyloid beta (Aβ), which inhibits the synthesis of the endogenous ligand, retinoic acid (RA). This results in the counteraction of a variety of RARα‐activated pathways that are key in the aetiopathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) but which can be reversed by an RARα agonist. RARα signalling improves cognition in the Tg2576 mice, it has an anti‐inflammatory effect and promotes Aβ clearance by increasing insulin degrading enzyme and neprilysin activity in both microglia and neurons. In addition, RARα signalling prevents tau phosphorylation. Therefore, stimulation of the RARα signalling pathway using a synthetic agonist, by both clearing Aβ and counteracting some of its toxic effects, offers therapeutic potential for the treatment of AD.
Role of a novel nociceptor autocrine mechanism in chronic pain
Authors: Ferrari Luiz F. , Levine Emma , Levine Jon D.
Published: February 2013

We have previously shown, in the rat, that neuropathic and inflammatory events produce a neuroplastic change in nociceptor function whereby a subsequent exposure to a proinflammatory mediator (e.g. prostaglandin E2; PGE2) produces markedly prolonged mechanical hyperalgesia. While the initial approximately 30 min of this prolonged PGE2 hyperalgesia remains PKA‐dependent, it subsequently switches to become dependent on protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε). In this study we tested the hypothesis that the delayed onset, PKCε‐mediated, component of PGE2 hyperalgesia is generated by the active release of a nucleotide from the peripheral terminal of the primed nociceptor and this nucleotide is then metabolized to produce adenosine, which acts on a Gi‐coupled A1 adenosine receptor on the nociceptor to generate PKCε‐dependent hyperalgesia. We report that inhibitors of ATP‐binding cassette transporters, of ecto‐5′‐phosphodiesterase and ecto‐5′nucleotidase (enzymes involved in the metabolism of cyclic nucleotides to adenosine) and of A1 adenosine receptors each eliminated the late, but not the early, phase of PGE2‐induced hyperalgesia in primed animals. A second model of chronic pain induced by transient attenuation of G‐protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2, in which the prolongation of PGE2 hyperalgesia is not PKCε‐dependent, was not attenuated by inhibitors of any of these mechanisms. Based on these results we propose a contribution of an autocrine mechanism, in the peripheral terminal of the nociceptor, in the hyperalgesic priming model of chronic pain.
Flow intermittency alters longitudinal patterns of invertebrate diversity and assemblage composition in an arid‐land stream network
Authors: BOGAN MICHAEL T. , BOERSMA KATE S. , LYTLE DAVID A.
Published: February 2013

1. Temporary streams comprise a large proportion of the total length of most stream networks, and the great majority of arid‐land stream networks, so it is important to understand their contribution to biotic diversity at both local and landscape scales.

2. In late winter 2010, we sampled invertebrate assemblages in 12 reaches of a large arid‐land stream network (including perennial and intermittent headwaters, intermittent middle reaches and perennial rivers) in south‐east Arizona, U.S.A. Intermittent reaches had then been flowing for c. 60 days, following a dry period of more than 450 days. We sampled a subset of the perennial study reaches three more times between 2009 and 2011. Since intermittent reaches were dry during these additional sampling periods, we used assemblage data from two other intermittent streams in the study network (sampled in 2004–05 and 2010) to explore interannual variability in intermittent stream assemblage composition.

3. Invertebrate richness was lowest in intermittent reaches, despite their often being connected to species‐rich perennial reaches. The assemblages of these intermittent reaches were not simply a subset of the species in perennial streams, but rather were dominated by a suite of stoneflies, blackflies and midges with adaptations to intermittency (e.g. egg and/or larval diapause). On average, 86% of individuals in these samples were specialists or exclusive to intermittent streams. Predators were 7–14 times more abundant in perennial than in intermittent reaches.

4. Despite being separated by long distances (12–25 km) and having very different physical characteristics, the assemblages of perennial headwaters and rivers were more similar to one another than to intervening intermittent reaches, emphasising the prime importance of local hydrology in this system.

5. The duration and recurrence intervals of dry periods, and the relative importance of dispersal from perennial refuges, probably influence the magnitude of biological differences between neighbouring perennial and temporary streams. Although perennial headwaters supported the highest diversity of invertebrates, intermittent reaches supported a number of unique or locally rare species and as such contribute to regional species diversity and should be included in conservation planning.
Ocean acidification and warming scenarios increase microbioerosion of coral skeletons
Authors: Reyes‐Nivia Catalina , Diaz‐Pulido Guillermo , Kline David , Guldberg Ove‐Hoegh , Dove Sophie
Published: February 2013

Biological mediation of carbonate dissolution represents a fundamental component of the destructive forces acting on coral reef ecosystems. Whereas ocean acidification can increase dissolution of carbonate substrates, the combined impact of ocean acidification and warming on the microbioerosion of coral skeletons remains unknown. Here, we exposed skeletons of the reef‐building corals,Porites cylindricaandIsopora cuneata, to present‐day (Control: 400 μatm – 24 °C) and futurepCO2–temperature scenarios projected for the end of the century (Medium: +230 μatm – +2 °C; High: +610 μatm – +4 °C). Skeletons were also subjected to permanent darkness with initial sodium hypochlorite incubation, and natural light without sodium hypochlorite incubation to isolate the environmental effect of acidic seawater (i.e., Ωaragonite<1) from the biological effect of photosynthetic microborers. Our results indicated that skeletal dissolution is predominantly driven by photosynthetic microborers, as samples held in the dark did not decalcify. In contrast, dissolution of skeletons exposed to light increased under elevatedpCO2–temperature scenarios, withP. cylindricaexperiencing higher dissolution rates per month (89%) thanI. cuneata(46%) in the high treatment relative to control. The effects of futurepCO2–temperature scenarios on the structure of endolithic communities were only identified inP. cylindricaand were mostly associated with a higher abundance of the green algaeOstreobiumspp. Enhanced skeletal dissolution was also associated with increased endolithic biomass and respiration under elevatedpCO2–temperature scenarios. Our results suggest that future projections of ocean acidification and warming will lead to increased rates of microbioerosion. However, the magnitude of bioerosion responses may depend on the structural properties of coral skeletons, with a range of implications for reef carbonate losses under warmer and more acidic oceans.
An estimate of potential threats levels to soil biodiversity inEU
Authors: Gardi Ciro , Jeffery Simon , Saltelli Andrea
Published: February 2013

Life within the soil is vital for maintaining life on Earth due to the numerous ecosystem services that it provides. However, there is evidence that pressures on the soil biota are increasing which may undermine some of these ecosystem services. Current levels of belowground biodiversity are relatively poorly known, and so no benchmark exists by which to measure possible future losses of biodiversity. Furthermore, the relative risk that each type of anthropogenic pressures places on the soil biota remains unclear.

Potential threats to soil biodiversity were calculated through the use of a composite score produced from data collected from 20 international experts using the budget allocation methodology. This allowed relative weightings to be given to each of the identified pressures for which data were available in the European Soil Data Centre (ESDC). A total of seven different indicators were used for calculating the composite scores. These data were applied through a model using ArcGISto produce a spatial analysis of composite pressures on soil biodiversity at the European scale.

The model highlights the variation in the composite result of the potential threats to soil biodiversity. A sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the intensity of land exploitation, both in terms of agriculture and use intensity, as well as in terms of land‐use dynamics, were the main factors applying pressure on soil biodiversity. It is important to note that the model should not be viewed as an estimate of the current level of soil biodiversity in Europe, but as an estimate of pressures that are currently being exerted. The results obtained should be seen as a starting point for further investigation on this relatively unknown issue and demonstrate the utility of this type of model which may be applied to other regions and scales.
Traum/a‐Lektüren. Psychisches Trauma und literarischer Traumtext bei Heiner Müller, Ingeborg Bachmann, Franz Kafka und anderen
Authors: Campana Alexandra
Published: February 2013

Psychisches Trauma und Traum betreffen den Menschen in seinem gesamten Dasein. Beides sind existenzialpsychologische Phänomene, wobei der literarische Traumtext die psychische Realität des Traumas weit treffender erfasst als die Psychologie. Der vorliegende Essay wird darlegen, wie Michel Foucault in seiner Einleitung zu Ludwig Binswangers Traum und Existenz (1930) die Imagination zur Bedingung des Träumens erhebt und damit die Grundlage schafft für eine Integration der Literatur in den Umgang mit einem per se nichtsprachlichen Phänomen.

Anhand ausgewählter literarischer Lektüren werden zentrale Aspekte des Traumas dargelegt: die Problematik einer sprachlosen Wahrheit (Ingeborg Bachmanns “Ein Wildermuth”); die körperliche Affizierung des Traumatisierten in Form der Inkorporation (Franz Kafkas “Die Verwandlung”); und auch die zerbrechliche Schutzvorrichtung mentaler Dissoziation (Paula Ludwigs “Das Tier”). Als exemplarischer literarischer Traumtext wird Heiner Müllers “Bildbeschreibung” untersucht. Der psychotraumatische Effekt findet sich darin nämlich dergestalt inszeniert, dass die Leistung der Literatur im Hinblick auf Traum und vor allem Trauma offensichtlich wird.
Aesthetics of Violence in Uwe Timm'sRotand Friedrich Christian Delius'sMein Jahr als Mörder1
Authors: Baker Gary L.
Published: February 2013

This essay examines how two novels written in the spirit of 1968 incorporate potential violent acts into narrative in ways that reflect the nonviolent principles of Autoren Edition and Hannah Arendt's ideas on the relation between violence and political action. The authors of these novels join art and terror by recounting purely fantasized acts of violence that become aesthetically reified in narrative form. This essay asserts that Timm'sRotand Delius'sMein Jahr als Mörderacknowledge the place of violence in the public realm of politics but displace it to the sphere of aesthetics and narrative in order to grant it a political legitimacy that it otherwise does not possess for peaceful social change.
Self and Other in Der Mann ohne Eigenschaften
Authors: Talay Zeynep
Published: February 2013

Anti‐ or non‐essentialist ideas about the self have been common enough in contemporary thought since Nietzsche, especially in modern feminism. But these ideas are easier to state as a matter of philosophical principle than to show. The work of Judith Butler, for instance, is not free from this difficulty, despite her emphasis on the importance of “performativity.” This paper proposes that literature may offer a more fruitful and productive approach than philosophy to the general philosophical problem of selfhood and to the particular version of it found in the work of Butler and others. Here I consider the depiction of gender relations in Musil's Der Mann ohne Eigenschaften, in particular its exploration of hermaphrodism in the relationship between Ulrich and his sister Agathe.
Religious transnationalism, development and the construction of religious boundaries: the case of the Dera Sachkhand Ballan and the Ravidass Dharm
Authors: SINGH GURHARPAL
Published: February 2013

In this article, I examine the general assumption that transnationalism is creating new divisions and iniquitous social hierarchies. For caste‐based religious centres like the Dera Sachkhand Ballan (DSB), which is engaged in modes of subaltern religiosity among Ravidassias, transnationalism can be a powerful agent of religious and social change. By nurturing transnational networks, especially in the United Kingdom, the DSB has now emerged as the main driver of Ravidassia identity in Punjab. The material support of overseas followers has made this achievement possible for religious and social institutions in Punjab, and has enabled overseas Ravidassias to demonstrate to higher castes a sense of collective achievement. Transnationalism is thus central to the process of differentiating between the followers of the DSB and Sikhism. It also provided critical support for the birth of a new religion in 2010, the Ravidass Dharm.
‘Shades of grey’: the World Bank, knowledge networks and linked ecologies of academic engagement
Authors: STONE DIANE
Published: February 2013

The Global Development Network (GDN) and the Researchers Alliance for Development (RAD) are networks linking the professional ecology of the World Bank to the diverse research ecologies of universities and think‐tanks. These ‘knowledge networks’ can entangle research environments extensively with policy communities and the institutional interests of powerful organizations. Connecting different professional ecologies via networks creates complex sets of relationships between researchers and policy makers. The ‘grey areas’ of professional overlap highlight the ‘co‐production’ of (social) science in development policy. The author based her analysis of the dual dynamics of network autonomy and co‐option on participant observation of GDN and RAD as a past member of the governing bodies of both networks.
The democratic deficit of transnational environmental activism: a case study of e‐waste governance in India
Authors: SWERTS THOMAS
Published: February 2013

The literature on transnational activism often associates environmental NGOs with democratic legitimacy, grassroots representation and environmental justice. Authors employ case studies to demonstrate how engaging in transnational networks increases the political agency of environmental NGOs. Yet, there is a tendency mostly to select successful cases. In this article, I investigate the political activities of the environmental NGO, Toxics Link, surrounding the recycling of electronic waste in India. Based on qualitative research, this study shows how the political incorporation of Toxics Link in transnational advocacy networks and domestic governance networks constrains their political agency. The structural exclusion of e‐waste labourers from Indian policy negotiations negates the discursive claims of legitimacy, representation and justice. These incorporation processes create a democratic deficit. I use the insights gained from this case study to provide a critical assessment of theories of transnational environmental activism.
Paediatric presentation and outcome of congenital protein C deficiency in Japan
Authors: Ohga S. , Kang D. , Kinjo T. , Ochiai M. , Doi T. , Ishimura M. , Kayamori Y. , Urata M. , Yamamoto J. , Suenobu S.‐I. , Kanegane H. , Ikenoue T. , Shirahata A. , Hara T.
Published: February 2013

Severe heritable protein C (PC) deficiency is quite rare, although heterozygous PROC mutation is the second leading cause of genetic predisposition to thrombosis in Japanese adults. The aim of the study was to search the optimal management, the paediatric onset and outcomes of PC deficiency were characterized in Japan. The genetic study, postmarketing survey of activated PC (aPC) concentrate (Anact®C) and intensive review in Japan for 20 years enabled the analysis of the disease onset, genotype, treatment and prognosis. Symptomatic PC deficiency was determined in 27 Japanese children. All but two patients presented within 16 days after birth (three prenatal and six neonatal onsets). Postnatal‐onset cases had normal growth at full‐term delivery. Of the 27 patients, 19 suffered intracranial thrombosis or haemorrhage (ICTH) (three foetal hydrocephalies), 16 developed purpura fulminans (PF) and 10 had both at the first presentation. ICTH preceded PF in both affected cases. Low PC activities of 18 mothers and/or 12 fathers indicated 20 inherited PC deficiencies (2 homozygotes, 11 compound heterozygotes and 7 heterozygotes) and seven unidentified causes of PC deficiency. Nine of 11 patients studied had PROC mutations. Four unrelated patients (50%) carried PC nagoya (1362delG). No PC‐deficient parents had experienced thromboembolism. Of the 18 patients with aPC therapy, two died and eight evaluable survivors had neurological sequelae. This first comprehensive study of paediatric PC deficiency suggested that perinatal ICTH was the major presentation, occurring earlier than neonatal PF. PC nagoya was prevalent in paediatric, but not adult, patients in Japan. Early maternal screening and optimal PC therapy are required for newborns at risk of PC deficiency.
Interleukin‐6 levels in female rats with protamine sulfate‐induced chronic cystitis treated with hyaluronic acid
Authors: Lv Yi‐Song , Yao You‐Sheng , Lin Ming‐En , Rong Lu , Deng Bi‐Hua , Huang Jian , Hao Wei‐Ping
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To measure interleukin‐6 levels in a protamine sulfate‐induced chronic cystitis rat model treated with hyaluronic acid, and to study the correlation among interleukin‐6, bladder inflammatory degree and voiding frequency.

Methods

A chronic cystitis model was created in female rats by using long‐term intermittent intravesical protamine sulfate (0.5 mL, 30 mg/mL). Then, hyaluronic acid (0.5 mL, 0.8 mg/mL) was also instilled intravesically in the rats. Interleukin‐6 levels were analyzed with immunohistochemistry, real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Hematoxylin–eosin staining was carried out to examine bladder inflammatory degree based on a four‐point scoring system (from 0 – none to 3 – severe). Voiding patterns were investigated by cystometrography.

Results

According to cystometrography, protamine sulfate‐induced rats had significantly shorter intercontraction intervals and less bladder capacity (P < 0.001). The bladder tissue of the rats showed severe chronic inflammation. Immunohistochemistry, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay showed significantly higher expression of interleukin‐6 (P < 0.001). After intravesical administration of hyaluronic acid, both intercontraction intervals and bladder capacity increased significantly (P < 0.001), whereas both bladder inflammatory degree and interleukin‐6 levels decreased significantly (P < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between interleukin‐6 levels and inflammatory degree (r = 0.727, P < 0.001), and also between interleukin‐6 levels and voiding frequency (r = –0.761, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Intravesical administration of hyaluronic acid decreases interleukin‐6 levels, as well as the severity of bladder inflammation and voiding frequency in a rat model of chronic cystitis. Interleukin‐6 levels closely correlate with the inflammatory degree and voiding frequency. Thus, they can be regarded as an assessment measure of therapeutic impact.