bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic survey of caribou populations using microsatellite DNA
Authors: Kushny James E.E. , Coffin John W. , Strobeck Curtis
Published: June 2013

Microsatellite loci are highly variable regions of eukaryotic DNA that consist of tandemly repeated sequences of one to six nucleotides in length. The use of microsatellites and the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) are powerful tools for quantifying genetic variation within and among individual populations. Recently, we have developed primers for caribou that amplify 4 microsatellite loci. These microsatellite loci were used to survey the genetic variation in populations of Barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus), Peary caribou (R.t. pearyi) and Woodland caribou (R.t. caribou) of Canada. The four loci examined were all polymorphic, revealing high levels of heterozygosity (> 0.74) in all of the study populations.
Seasonal habitat use and movements of woodland caribou in the Omineca Mountains, north central British Columbia, 1991-1993
Authors: Wood Mari D.
Published: June 2013

From 1991 to 1993, 30 woodland caribou were captured and fitted with radio-collars west of the Williston Reservoir in north central B.C. Monthly radio-telemetry location flights revealed that caribou in the Northern Area, characterized by a complex of mountain ranges, moved greater distances to calving areas than did those in the South, where only one major mountain range exists. In the year of record heavy snowfall for the area, all collared caribou wintered on windswept alpine slopes, while during the below average snowfall year, many caribou remained in forested habitats. In winter, caribou were found to forage on terrestrial lichens in both lowland lodgepole pine flats and on windswept alpine slopes, and on arboreal lichens in upper elevation Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir forests. There are at least 600-700 caribou in the Omineca Mountains.
Ultrasonic Imaging of Reproductive Events in Muskoxen
Authors: Hoare Emma K. , Parker Sarah E. , Flood Peter F. , Adams Gregg P.
Published: June 2013

To our knowledge, this is the first detailed report of ovarian follicular dynamics in a wild species. It seems that the pattern in muskoxen, with major and minor waves and a short first cycle, is similar to that in goats. Insight of this kind is important in the design of appropriate artificial breeding systems and in this respect, the muskox may provide a useful model for the endangered takin {Budorcas taxicolor). A detailed knowledge of ovarian events may also be critical to the interpretation of the response of wild populations to environmental stress.
Progesterone during the breeding season and pregnancy in female muskoxen on different dietary regimens
Authors: Rowell Janice E. , White Robert G. , Hauer William E.
Published: June 2013

Previously, we documented lowered calving success in captive muskoxen raised for 6 years on a low nutritional plane. In an effort to identify causes of lowered calf production, we looked at serum progesterone during the breeding season in muskoxen raised on either a high (HP) or low (LP) nutritional plane. Complete cessation of estrous cycli-city in 2 parous cows was the only irregularity identified. Abortion and/or embryonic loss occurred in both HP and LP cows. We also compared progesterone during pregnancy between the 2 nutritional planes and lactating and non-lacta-ting cows. The timing of the rise and fall of the mid-pregnant progesterone peak was consistent with stage of gestation and apparently independent of time of breeding, diet or lactational status.
Population structure and dynamics in captive muskoxen at the Large Animal Research Station, 1988-1994
Authors: White R. G. , Rowell J. E. , Blake J. E. , Hauer W.
Published: June 2013

The muskox colony at the Large Animal Research Station, started in 1979, totaled 22 individuals before calving in 1988. Between 1988 -1994 cows of breeding age have been maintained on either a high plane (HP) or low plane (LP) of nutrition, and as far as possible, female offspring are kept with their mother's group. During this time the population has increased from 22 to 43 animals (25 females and 18 males). Fifty-four calves were born with an overall sex ratio of 52:48 (male:female). When partitioned between the 2 nutritional planes the sex ratio was HP 45:55 and LP 62:38. The calf/cow ratio was 0.83 in 1988 and 0.86 in 1994. The LP group accounted for most of the variability in pregnancy rate, primarily through delayed puberty and breeding pauses. Calf mortality was due mainly to abortions, stillbirths and neonatal death (n=12), 7 deaths occurred between 2 weeks and 1 year of age. All stillbirths and abortions (n=4) and 6 of 8 neonatal deaths affected calves of HP cows. Thirteen adults died, 4 males were loaned to other facilities and 2 new calves were added.
Survival, persistence, and regeneration of the reindeer lichens, Cladina stellaris, C. rangiferina, and C. mitis following clearcut logging and forest fire in northwestern Ontario
Authors: Webb Elizabeth T.
Published: June 2013

The responses of the reindeer lichens (Cladina stellaris, C. rangiferina, and C. mitis) to logging and fire were compared in lichen-rich forest stands in northwestern Ontario. In the summer of 1992, reindeer lichen cover, in total and by species, was visually estimated and detailed notes were taken on reindeer lichen conditions, modes of reproduction, and substrate use on 34 undisturbed, burned, or logged sites. While virtually no reindeer lichens survived forest fire, much of the reindeer lichen cover remained after logging. Reindeer lichen cover increased with time since fire. Total reindeer lichen cover was not correlated with time since logging. Fragment growth was found to be an important mode of reproduction on logged sites, and occurred with greater frequency on logged sites than on burned sites. Colonization of organic substrates by reindeer lichens was observed on both logged and burned sites.
Protostrongylid nematodes in caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) and moose (Alces alces) of Newfoundland
Authors: Lankester Murray W. , Fong David
Published: June 2013

Two species of protostrongylid nematodes with dorsal-spined, first-stage larvae, are present in caribou and moose of Newfoundland. Elaphostrongyius rangiferi Mitskevich, 1958, a parasite introduced from Scandinavia, causes periodic epizootics of a severe neurological disease in caribou. Sick animals exhibiting signs of cerebrospinal elaphostrongylosis (CSE) were particularly noticeable in central Newfoundland each winter between 1981 and 1985. Those collected for examinarion were mostly male calves. The disease again became prominent in caribou on the Avalon Peninsula in the winters of 1996 and 1997; it may have spread to that isolated part of the province as recently as 1990. E. rangiferi was also found in moose but no cases of neurologic disease have been reported in this host. Parelapbostrongylus andersoni Prestwood, 1972, was found in caribou, both in central Newfoundland and on the Avalon Peninsula. Moose may also be infected. Of 1407 terrestrial gastropod intermediate hosts examined, 9 (0.6%) contained infective, third-stage, protostrongylid larvae resembling those of E. rangiferi and P. andersoni which are indistinguishable. The small dark slug, Deroceras laeve, dominated gastropod collections and was the only species infected.
Preliminary analysis of habitat utilization by woodland caribou in northwestern Ontario using satellite telemetry
Authors: Hillis T.L. , Mallory F.F. , Dalton W.J. , Smiegielski J.
Published: June 2013

Locational data collected over a one year period from 10 female woodland caribou, Rangifer tarandus caribou, collared with Argos satellite collars in northwestern Ontario, Canada were superimposed on supervised Landsat images using Geographical Information System (GIS) technology. Landscape parameters, land cover classifications, and drainage were utilized to create the basemap. Using ARCVIEW software, all digital fixes from collared caribou with information of date, time, and activity status were overlain on the basemap to facilitate a preliminary analysis of habitat use in this species. Results supported the conclusions (1) that woodland caribou in northwestern Ontario select habitats containing high to moderate conifer cover and avoided disturbed areas and shrub-rich habitats, (2) that seasonal changes in habitat utilization occurs in females of this species, and (3) that satellite telemetry technology can be employed in the boreal forest ecosystem to assess habitat utilization by large ungulate species.
Ecosystem management and the conservation of caribou habitat in British Columbia
Authors: Seip Dale R.
Published: June 2013

Woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in British Columbia inhabit a wide variety of forest ecosystems. Numerous research projects have provided information that has been used to develop caribou habitat management recommendations for different areas. Recently, the province has implemented guidelines to protect biodiversity that are based on an ecosystem management strategy of mimicking natural forest conditions. There is a great deal of similarity between caribou management recommendations and biodiversity recommendations within different forest types. In mountain caribou habitat, both approaches recommend maintaining a landscape dominated by old and mature forests, uneven-aged management, small cutblocks, and maintaining mature forest connectivity. In northern caribou habitat, both approaches recommend maintaining some older stands on the landscape (but less than for mountain caribou), even-aged management, and a mosaic of large harvest units and leave areas. The ecosystem management recommendations provide a useful foundation for caribou habitat conservation. More detailed information on caribou and other management objectives can then be used to fine-tune those recommendations.
Integration of woodland caribou habitat management and forest management in northern Ontario - current status and issues
Authors: Armstrong Ted (E.R)
Published: June 2013

Woodland caribou {Rangifer tarandus caribou) range across northern Ontario, occurring in both the Hudson Bay Lowlands and the Boreal Forest. Woodland caribou extend south well into the merchantable forest, occurring in licensed and/or actively managed Forest Management Units (FMU's) across the province. Caribou range has gradually but continuously receded northward over the past century. Since the early 1990's, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) has been developing and implementing a woodland caribou habitat management strategy in northwestern Ontario. The purpose of the caribou habitat strategy is to maintain woodland caribou occupancy of currently occupied range in northwestern Ontario. Long-term caribou habitat needs and predator-prey dynamics form the basis of this strategy, which requires the development of a landscape-level caribou habitat mosaic across the region within caribou range. This represents a significant change from traditional forest management approaches, which were based partially upon moose (Alces alces) habitat management principles. A number of issues and concerns regarding implications of caribou management to the forest industry are being addressed, including short-term and long-term reductions in wood supply and wood quality, and increased access costs. Other related concerns include the ability to regenerate forests to pre-harvest stand conditions, remote tourism concerns, implications for moose populations, and required information on caribou biology and habitat. The forest industry and other stakeholders have been actively involved with the OMNR in attempting to address these concerns, so that caribou habitat requirements are met while ensuring the maintenance of a viable timber industry, other forest uses and the forest ecosystem.
Workshop: Conserving woodland caribou in the managed forest
Authors: Hamilton et al. George
Published: June 2013

A workshop was held August 19 to foster discussion and debate on issues related to conservation of woodland caribou in the managed forest. Six panelists were invited to make brief presentations on their points of view on this subject. They were Don Thomas (Canadian Wildlife Service); Hartley Multimaki (Buchanan Forest Products); Colin Edey (NOVA Corporation); Jerry English (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources - retired); Dale Seip (British Columbia Ministry of Forests) and Harold Cumming (Lakehead University - retired).
Rennäringen i Sverige
Authors: Saitton Bror
Published: June 2013

The author gives an overview of reindeer husbandry in Sweden; the rights to practise reindeer husbandry. where to paractise it and by whom. Lastly, he summarizes some statistics of the reindeer husbandry.
Viral diseases of northern ungulates
Authors: Frölich K.
Published: June 2013

This paper describes viral diseases reported in northern ungulates and those that are a potential threat to these species. The following diseases are discussed: bovine viral diarrhoea/mucosal disease (BVD/MD), alphaherpesvirus infections, malignant catarrhal fever (MCF), poxvirus infections, parainfluenza type 3 virus infection, Alvsborg disease, foot-and-mouth disease, epizootic haemorrhage disease of deer and bluetongue disease, rabies, respiratory syncytial virus infection, adenovirus infection, hog-cholera, Aujeszky's disease and equine herpesvirus infections. There are no significant differences in antibody prevalence to BVDV among deer in habitats with high, intermediate and low density of cattle. In addition, sequence analysis from the BVDV isolated from roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) showed that this strain was unique within BVDV group I. Distinct BVDV strains might circulate in free-ranging roe deer populations in Germany and virus transmission may be independent of domestic livestock. Similar results have been obtained in a serological survey of alpha-herpesviruses in deer in Germany. Malignant catarrhal fever was studied in fallow deer (Cervus dama) in Germany: the seroprevalence and positive PCR results detected in sheep originating from the same area as the antibody-positive deer might indicate that sheep are the main reservoir animals. Contagious ecthyma (CE) is a common disease in domestic sheep and goats caused by the orf virus. CE has been diagnosed in Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis), mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus), Dall sheep (Ovis dalli), chamois (Rupkapra rupi-capra), muskox {Ovibos moschatus) and reindeer (Rangifer tarandus). Most parainfluenza type 3 virus infections are mild or clinically undetectable. Serological surveys in wildlife have been successfully conducted in many species. In 1985, a new disease was identified in Swedish moose (Alces alces), designated as Alvsborg disease. This wasting syndrome probably has a multi-factorial etiology. Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) can infect deer and many other wild artiodactyls. Moose, roe deer and the saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) are the main hosts of FMDV in the Russian Federation. In addition, serological evidence of a FMD infection without clinical disease was detected in red deer in France. Epizootic haemorrhage disease of deer (EHD) and bluetongue (BT) are acute non-contagious viral diseases of wild ruminants characterised by extensive haemorrhage. Culicoides insects are the main vectors. EHD and BT only play a minor role in Europe but both diseases are widespread in North America.
Wild and semi-domesticated reindeer in Russia: status, population dynamics and trends under the present social and economic conditions
Authors: Syroechkovski Eugene E.
Published: June 2013

At present (in 1999) there are approximately 1.5 million semi-domesticated and 1.3 million wild reindeer in Russia. The co-existence of these two forms remains a major problem. Reindeer herding has declined while the number of wild reindeer has increased during the last 10 years. The main causes of these changes are social and economic. The 1960s and 1970s were characterised by a deliberate attempt to eradicate the nomadic way of life of reindeer herders. It was relatively easy to introduce public (kolkhoz or sovkhoz) reindeer herding in the Nenets, Chukchi and Komi-Izhem areas where large-scale reindeer herding was typical and, as a result, there were almost 1 million reindeer in collectives in the extreme north-eastern part of the USSR. At the same time reindeer herding deteriorated among the Khanty, Mansi, Evenk, Even, Selkup peoples. Perestroika in the 1990s resulted in the formation of a market economy. Collective reindeer herding declined and the number of semi-domesticated reindeer decreased during a period of gradual return to private ownership of reindeer. The largest region of reindeer herding is now the Nenets tegion in the north-west of Russia. Successful sympatric existence of wild and semi-domesticated reindeer is not possible. The Taimyr wild reindeer population numbers about 500-600 000 reindeer. From 1971 to 1981 not less than 700 000 reindeer in this population were shot. Ecological and economic control over them has now been lost. There are approximately 200 000 animals in Yakutia. The number of wild reindeer here has grown following the decline of reindeer husbandry. Yakut and Even reindeer herders believe that the decline has been due to wild reindeer drawing semi-domesticated teindeer away. At present 13 aboriginal peoples in northern Russia engage in reindeer herding. Five former reindeer herding peoples have given up herding but thete are signs of improvement in the situation among those peoples which have retained reindeer herding culture following the gradual restoration of private ownership of reindeer. In the 20 regions where only a few wild reindeer remain hunting should be prohibited and measures should be taken for protecting and restoring the populations. There are approximately 6000 reindeer on Novaya Zemlya; a further 6000 animals live on the Novosibirsk islands. The Red Data Book of Russia should include rare and disappearing populations both on the periphery of the species' distribution and inside it to preserve and restore the species and to conserve its genetic diversity.
On nature and reindeer luck
Authors: Oskal Nils
Published: June 2013

This paper describes the reindeer Sami understanding of a worthy life expressed in qualitative distinctions centred around the term 'reindeer luck'. Reindeer luck does not in itself mean a good life but is an ingredient of a good life. Reindeer luck lasts from cradle to grave but it can change along the way. To a certain degree it is possible to influence your own reindeer luck, but you can also spoil it through actions, behaviour, words and thoughts. These are more important than means-to-end rational actions with the aim of intentionally improving reindeer luck. The paths to reindeer luck are discussed with the aim of articulating the moral ideals implied in this type of understanding. This theme is discussed in regard to what we may learn from relations to nature.
Jan Åge Riseth; Sámi reindeer management under technological change 1960-1990: Implications for Common-Pool Resource Use Under Various Natural and Instututional Conditions. A comparative analysis of regional development paths....
Authors: Haugerud (ed.) Rolf Egil
Published: June 2013

On June 22, Cand. Agric. Jan Åge Riseth successfully defended his dissertation "Sami reindeer management under technological change 1960-1990: Implications for Common-Pool Resource Use Under Various Natural And Institutional Conditions. A comparative analysis of regional development paths in West Finnmark, North Trøndelag, and South Trøndelag/Hedmark, Norway." for the degree Dr. Scient, at the Agricultural University of Norway (AUN), Dept. of Economics and Social Sciences.
Growth and body weight of free-range reindeer in western Alaska
Authors: Finstad Greg L. , Prichard Alexander K.
Published: June 2013

Total body weight of 9749 reindeer calves and 4798 adult reindeer were measured from 1984 to 1999 on the Seward Peninsula, western Alaska, USA. Growth rates of male and female calves, and annual growth patterns of adults were determined. Male calves grew faster than female calves. Reproductive females were lighter than non-reproductive females during summer but there was no effect of reproduction on average body weights the following winter. Adult males age 3-5 were heavier during summer than winter. Castrated males weighed the same as uncastrated males in summer, but were significantly heavier in winter, and did not display the large annual fluctuations in weight typical of reproductive males and females. Growth rates were higher and body weights greater in this herd than many other cir-cumpolar reindeer populations. We suggest these kinds of physiological indices should be used to monitor the possible effects of spatial and temporal variation in population density and to evaluate changes in herding practices.
Preface
Authors: Farnell Rick
Published: June 2013

The workshop organizers wanted to insure a wide range of content and meaningful participation of First Nation's people. The displays in the lobby and the caribou skin hut constructed on site greeted participants as they entered the Yukon Art's Center, the site of the conference. Elders told stories at the beginning of each session and these stories set a respectful tone to the whole conference. One of these stories is presented in these proceedings. In addition each session was accompanied by a selection of cartoons by Doug Urquhart to bring humor to participants during breaks. A selection of these cartoons is included in these proceedings so that the lighter side of our work can be referenced in the permanent record.
Predation rate by wolves on the Porcupine caribou herd
Authors: Hayes Robert D. , Russell Donald E.
Published: June 2013

Large migratory catibou {Rangifer tarandus) herds in the Arctic tend to be cyclic, and population trends are mainly driven by changes in forage or weather events, not by predation. We estimated daily kill rate by wolves on adult caribou in winter, then constructed a time and space dependent model to estimate annual wolf (Canis lupus) predation rate (P annual) on adult Porcupine caribou. Our model adjusts predation seasonally depending on caribou distribution: Pannual = SIGMAdaily* W *Ap(2)*Dp. In our model we assumed that wolves killed adult caribou at a constant rate (Kdaily, 0.08 caribou wolf1 day1) based on our studies and elsewhere; that wolf density (W) doubled to 6 wolves 1000 km2-1 on all seasonal ranges; and that the average area occupied by the Porcupine caribou herd (PCH) in eight seasonal life cycle periods (Dp ) was two times gteater than the area described by the outer boundaries of telemetry data (Ap /1000 km2). Results from our model projected that wolves kill about 7600 adult caribou each year, regardless of herd size. The model estimated that wolves removed 5.8 to 7.4% of adult caribou as the herd declined in the 1990s. Our predation rate model supports the hypothesis of Bergerud that spacing away by caribou is an effective anti-predatory strategy that greatly reduces wolf predation on adult caribou in the spring and summer.
Ecological role of hunting in population dynamics and its implications for co-management of the Porcupine caribou herd
Authors: Hanley Thomas A. , Russell Donald E.
Published: June 2013

At a present population size of 160 000 animals, the Porcupine caribou herd has been subjected to an annual harvest rate of 2% for the past couple of decades. We modeled potential sensitivity of herd population dynamics to hunting and used that relation as a basis for a herd monitoring system. Maximum number of adult cows that could be harvested without causing a subsequent decline in herd size was calculated as a function of total number of adult cows in the herd and recruitment of calves to yearling age-class. Maximum cow harvest, therefore, is a threshold above which hunting has destabilizing effects on herd dynamics. Actual harvest in relation to theoretical maximum harvest provides a basis for prediction of herd sensitivity to hunting. Maximum harvest is a linear function of recruitment. Herd dynamics are especially sensitive to low recruitment, however, when combined with low herd size. The two relations involving recruitment and herd size provide the basis for predicting herd dynamics and sensitivity to hunting. Herd size is best estimated by aerial census, while an index of recruitment can be predicted by monitoring autumn body condition of adult females. Body condition can be estimated on the basis of a few simple metrics measured by hunters in the field. The hunters' data on body composition, combined with aerial census data on herd size, provide a useful tool for managers and co-management boards to devise policies and regulations to manage the herd. The population model and monitoring system can operate on the Internet and be accessible to all users in villages within the range of the Porcupine caribou herd.
Failure of two consecutive annual treatments with ivermectin to eradicate the reindeer parasites (Hypoderma tarandi, Cephenemyia trompe and Linguatula arctica) from an island in northern Norway
Authors: Nilssen Arne C. , Hemmingsen Willy , Haugerud Rolf E.
Published: June 2013

The highly efficient endectocide ivermectin is used to reduce the burden of parasites in many semidomestic reindeer herds in northern Fennoscandia. In the autumn of 1995 and 1996 all reindeer on the island of Silda (42 km2) were treated with ivermectin in an attempt to eradicate the warble fly (Hypoderma (=Oedemagena) tarandi (L.)), the nose bot fly (Cephenemyia trompe (Modeer)) (Diptera: Oestridae) and the sinus worm (Linguatula arctica Riley, Haugerud and Nilssen) (Pentastomida: Linguatulidae). Silda is situated 2-3 km off the mainland of Finnmark, northern Norway, and supports about 475 reindeer in summer. A year after the first treatment, the mean abundance of H. tarandi was reduced from 3.5 to 0.6, but a year after the second treatment the mean abundance unexpectedly had increased to 4.5. After one year without treatment, the mean abundance and prevalence of the three target parasites were at the same level, or higher, than pre-treatment levels. The main hypothesis for the failure to eliminate the parasites is that gravid H. tarandi and C. trompe females originating from untreated reindeer in adjacent mainland areas dispersed to the island during the warm summer of 1997 (possibly also in 1998). As these oestrids are strong flyers, it may not be too difficult for them to cross >2-3 km of oceanic waters. There are no good explanations for the failure to eradicate L. arctica, but the results indicate that there may be elements in its life cycle that are unknown. The conclusion of the study is that it may be difficult or impossible to eradicate these parasites permanently, even locally such as on islands unless adjacent areas on the mainland are also cleared.
Submaximal Heart and Pulmonary Evaluation: A Novel Noninvasive Test to Identify Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Bernstein Elana J. , Mandl Lisa A. , Gordon Jessica K. , Spiera Robert F. , Horn Evelyn M.
Published: June 2013

Objective

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a leading cause of death in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma). Although right‐sided heart catheterization (RHC) is the gold standard for diagnosing PH, it is an invasive test with associated risks. The submaximal heart and pulmonary evaluation (step test) is a noninvasive, submaximal stress test that could be used to identify patients with PH. The purpose of this study is to assess the correlation between change in end tidal carbon dioxide (ΔPETCO2) from rest to end‐exercise on the step test and mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) on RHC in SSc patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with limited or diffuse cutaneous SSc who were evaluated in an academic cardiology practice between November 2007 and November 2011 and underwent a step test and RHC. Statistical analysis was performed using Spearman's correlation test and multivariable linear regression.

Results

A total of 679 charts were reviewed. Nineteen SSc patients who underwent a step test and RHC were included. ΔPETCO2 was negatively correlated with mPAP (r = −0.82, P < 0.0001). In a multivariable linear regression model evaluating the relationship between ΔPETCO2 and mPAP, controlling for age, sex, and time between and order of step test and RHC, ΔPETCO2 remained the only variable statistically significantly associated with mPAP (P < 0.001). The step test had a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 75%, positive predictive value of 93.8%, and negative predictive value of 100% for the diagnosis of PH.

Conclusion

ΔPETCO2on the step test has a strong, statistically significant negative correlation with mPAP on RHC.
Non‐Viral Co‐Delivery of the Four Yamanaka Factors for Generation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells via Calcium Phosphate Nanocomposite Particles
Authors: Cao Xia , Deng Wenwen , Qu Rui , Yu Qingtong , Li Jun , Yang Yan , Cao Yue , Gao Xiangdong , Xu Ximing , Yu Jiangnan
Published: June 2013

Generating of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be achieved by ectopic expression of defined transcription factor sets. However, most instances of iPSC induction have been achieved using viral vectors, which carry the risk of unpredictable genetic dysfunction. Here, for the first time, a non‐viral vector based on calcium phosphate nanoparticles for the generation of virus‐free iPSCs from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) via co‐delivery of the four plasmids (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c‐Myc) is reported. As a result, a total of 98 colonies from 200 000 cells have been obtained, with a reprogramming efficiency of 0.049%. The iPSCs shows positive expression of pluripotency markers, including OCT4, SSEA‐3, SSEA‐4, NANOG, and TRA‐1‐81. Moreover, the iPSCs are able to differentiate into all three germ layers in vitro. Subcutaneous injection of the iPSCs into immunocompromised mice results in the formation of teratomas containing a variety of tissues from all three germ layers. These findings indicate that co‐delivery of the four Yamanaka factors via plasmid‐encapsulated calcium phosphate nanoparticles can provide a simple, safe, and efficient method for the generation of virus‐free iPSCs, which is crucial for their future clinical applications in the field of regenerative medicine.
Patterned Transparent Conductive Au Films through Direct Reduction of Gold Thiocyanate
Authors: Morag Ahiud , Froumin Natalya , Mogiliansky Dimitry , Ezersky Vladimir , Beilis Edith , Richter Shachar , Jelinek Raz
Published: June 2013

Construction of structurally defined, patterned metal films is a fundamental objective in the emerging and active field of bottom‐up nanotechnology. A new strategy for constructing macroscopically organized Au nanostructured films is presented. The approach is based upon a novel phenomenon in which incubation of water‐soluble Au(SCN)41− complex with amine‐displaying surfaces gives rise to spontaneous crystallization and concurrent reduction, resulting in the formation of patterned metallic gold films. The Au films exhibit unique nanoribbon morphology, likely corresponding to aurophilic interactions between the complex moieties anchored to the amine groups through electrostatic attraction. Critically, no external reducing agents are needed to initiate or promote formation of the metallic Au films. In essence, the thiocyanate ligands provide the means for surface targeting of the complex, guide the Au crystallization process and, importantly, donate the reducing electrons. It is shown that the Au films exhibit electrical conductivity and high transparency over a wide spectral range, lending the new approach to possible applications in optoelectronics, catalysis, and sensing. In a broader context, a new gold chemistry route is presented in which ligand‐enabled crystallization/reduction could open the way to a wealth of innovative reaction pathways and applications.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed CH Olefination of Aryl Weinreb Amides
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Chao , Li Yan , Yin Feng , Wang Xi‐Sheng
Published: June 2013

A rhodium(III)‐catalyzed oxidative CH olefination directed by Weinreb amides, a class of well developed versatile building blocks in organic synthesis, has been developed with air as the terminal oxidant. The reactions proceed with excellent reactivity, good functional group tolerance and high yields.
Efficacy and Safety of Ocrelizumab in Active Proliferative Lupus Nephritis: Results From a Randomized, Double‐Blind, Phase III Study
Authors: Mysler Eduardo F. , Spindler Alberto J. , Guzman Renato , Bijl Marc , Jayne David , Furie Richard A. , Houssiau Frédéric A. , Drappa Jorn , Close David , Maciuca Romeo , Rao Kajal , Shahdad Saba , Brunetta Paul
Published: June 2013

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of ocrelizumab in patients with class III/IV lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods

Patients were randomized 1:1:1 to receive placebo, 400 mg ocrelizumab, or 1,000 mg ocrelizumab given as an intravenous infusion on days 1 and 15, followed by a single infusion at week 16 and every 16 weeks thereafter, accompanied by background glucocorticoids plus either mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or the Euro‐Lupus Nephritis Trial (ELNT) regimen (cyclophosphamide followed by azathioprine). The study was terminated early due to an imbalance in serious infections in ocrelizumab‐treated patients versus placebo‐treated patients. We report week 48 efficacy data for patients receiving ≥32 weeks of treatment (n = 223) and safety results for all treated patients (n = 378).

Results

The overall renal response rate was 54.7%, 66.7%, 67.1%, and 66.9% in the placebo‐treated, 400 mg ocrelizumab–treated, 1,000 mg ocrelizumab–treated, and combined ocrelizumab‐treated groups, respectively. The associated treatment difference versus placebo for the combined ocrelizumab‐treated groups was 12.7% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] −0.8, 26.1) (P = 0.065), with similar differences observed for both ocrelizumab‐treated groups. Ocrelizumab versus placebo treatment differences were apparent in patients receiving the background ELNT regimen, but not in those receiving background MMF. A numerically greater proportion of ocrelizumab‐treated patients had a ≥50% reduction in the urinary protein:urinary creatinine ratio at 48 weeks compared with placebo‐treated patients (placebo‐treated patients, 58.7%; 400 mg ocrelizumab–treated patients, 70.7%; 1,000 mg ocrelizumab–treated patients, 68.5%). Serious adverse events occurred in 27.2% of placebo‐treated patients, 35.7% of 400 mg ocrelizumab–treated patients, and 22.0% of 1,000 mg ocrelizumab–treated patients. Corresponding serious infection rates (events/100 patient‐years) were 18.7 (95% CI 12.2, 28.7), 28.8 (95% CI 20.6, 40.3), and 25.1 (95% CI 17.4, 36.1), respectively. The imbalance in serious infections with ocrelizumab occurred with background MMF but not with the background ELNT regimen.

Conclusion

In patients with active LN, overall renal response rates with ocrelizumab were numerically but not statistically significantly superior to those with placebo. Ocrelizumab treatment was associated with a higher rate of serious infections in the subgroup receiving background MMF.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 Drives Changes in Gene Expression Following Injury to Murine Cartilage In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Chong Ka‐Wing , Chanalaris Anastasios , Burleigh Annika , Jin Huilin , Watt Fiona E. , Saklatvala Jeremy , Vincent Tonia L.
Published: June 2013

Objective

The articular cartilage is known to be highly mechanosensitive, and a number of mechanosensing mechanisms have been proposed as mediators of the cellular responses to altered mechanical load. These pathways are likely to be important in tissue homeostasis as well as in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis. One important injury‐activated pathway involves the release of pericellular fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF‐2) from the articular cartilage. Using a novel model of murine cartilage injury and surgically destabilized joints in mice, we examined the extent to which FGF‐2 contributes to the cellular gene response to injury.

Methods

Femoral epiphyses from 5‐week‐old wild‐type mice were avulsed and cultured in serum‐free medium. Explant lysates were Western blotted for phospho‐JNK, phospho‐p38, and phospho‐ERK or were fixed for immunohistochemical analysis of the nuclear translocation of p65 (indicative of NF‐κB activation). RNA was extracted from injured explants, rested explants that had been stimulated with recombinant FGF‐2 or FGF‐18, or whole joints from either wild‐type mice or FGF‐2−/− mice. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction was performed to examine a number of inflammatory response genes that had previously been identified in a microarray analysis.

Results

Murine cartilage avulsion injury resulted in rapid activation of the 3 MAP kinase pathways as well as NF‐κB. Almost all genes identified in murine joints following surgical destabilization were also regulated in cartilage explants upon injury. Many of these genes, including those for activin A (Inhba), tumor necrosis factor–stimulated gene 6 (Tnfaip6), matrix metalloproteinase 19 (Mmp19), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (Timp1), and podoplanin (Pdpn), were significantly FGF‐2 dependent following injury to cartilage in vitro and to joint tissues in vivo.

Conclusion

FGF‐2–dependent gene expression occurs in vitro and in vivo in response to cartilage/joint injury in mice.
Improving efficiency of human pluripotent stem cell differentiation platforms using an integrated experimental and computational approach
Authors: Selekman Joshua A. , Das Amritava , Grundl Nicholas J. , Palecek Sean P.
Published: June 2013

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have an unparalleled potential for tissue engineering applications including regenerative therapies and in vitro cell‐based models for studying normal and diseased tissue morphogenesis, or drug and toxicological screens. While numerous hPSC differentiation methods have been developed to generate various somatic cell types, the potential of hPSC‐based technologies is hinged on the ability to translate these established lab‐scale differentiation systems to large‐scale processes to meet the industrial and clinical demands for these somatic cell types. Here, we demonstrate a strategy for investigating the efficiency and scalability of hPSC differentiation platforms. Using two previously reported epithelial differentiation systems as models, we fit an ODE‐based kinetic model to data representing dynamics of various cell subpopulations present in our culture. This fit was performed by estimating rate constants of each cell subpopulation's cell fate decisions (self‐renewal, differentiation, death). Sensitivity analyses on predicted rate constants indicated which cell fate decisions had the greatest impact on overall epithelial cell yield in each differentiation process. In addition, we found that the final cell yield was limited by the self‐renewal rate of either the progenitor state or the final differentiated state, depending on the differentiation protocol. Also, the relative impact of these cell fate decision rates was highly dependent on the maximum capacity of the cell culture system. Overall, we outline a novel approach for quantitative analysis of established laboratory‐scale hPSC differentiation systems and this approach may ease development to produce large quantities of cells for tissue engineering applications. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 3024–3037. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity: Macroporous Electrospun Mats of Mesoporous Au/TiO2 Nanofibers
Authors: Wang Xingdong , Choi Jonghyun , Mitchell David R. G. , Truong Yen B. , Kyratzis Ilias L. , Caruso Rachel A.
Published: June 2013

An electrospinning technique coupled with sol–gel chemistry is applied for the one‐pot preparation of macroporous–mesoporous titanium dioxide nanofibrous mats embedded with Au nanoparticles. This facile approach produces nanofibers that are thermally treated to simultaneously 1) remove the organics, 2) reduce AuIII to Au0 to form Au nanoparticles, and 3) crystallize titania to the anatase phase. This methodology allows high‐temperature treatment (650 °C) for well‐crystallized titania without agglomeration of the nanoparticulate Au (13±3 nm), which thereby significantly advances the existing methods for the synthesis of Au/TiO2 materials for which multiple steps are required. Additionally, high Au yields (≈100 %) were achieved in the final structure, which demonstrates another merit of this technique. The X‐ray diffraction patterns of the nanofibers were monitored by using a synchrotron beamline as the sample was heated to determine the optimum calcination temperature required to maximize the anatase phase and minimize the formation of rutile. Both the material properties (which include morphology, pore size distribution, surface area, Au particle size, and TiO2 crystal phase and size) and photocatalytic activity can be readily tuned as a function of the calcination temperature and Au content. The material calcined at 550 °C with 2.0 wt % Au shows the highest photocatalytic activity. This material is anatase in phase (which maximizes the electron‐transfer activity) and has the highest loading of small Au nanoparticles (which act as electron sinks to decrease the recombination of photo‐excited electrons and holes). These Au/TiO2 nanofibrous mats have the advantage of easy recovery and, therefore, reuse after the photocatalytic reaction, which addresses the issue of photocatalyst separation when using nanoparticulate powders as photocatalysts.
Nutrient Removal from Municipal Wastewater and Microbial Community Analysis of a Combined ABR‐MBR (CAMBR) Process
Authors: Wu Peng , Ji Xiaoming , Song Xiaokang , Shen Yaoliang
Published: June 2013

In order to reduce the external nutrient loads in Lake Taihu, it is known that controlling nutrient input is the most effective way of reducing the risk of blooms. In this regard, simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorus removal by using a combined system consisting of an anaerobic baffled reactor and an aerobic membrane bioreactor for municipal wastewater treatment under the operation condition (a hydraulic retention time of 7.5 h, a recycle ratio of 200% and dissolved oxygen of 3 mg/L) was investigated. The results demonstrated that the process had a good ability to adapt to the influent shift, and was able to achieve the simultaneous nutrient removal of both two kinds of municipal wastewaters effectively with the high removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand, ammonium, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus more than 89, 98, 65, and 83% respectively. Analysis of fluorescence in situ hybridization showed that ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria, nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria, and phosphorus accumulating organisms all slightly decreased may be due to the sudden drop of influent nutrient. In addition, the high sum of the three kinds of bacteria may be the underlying reason why the CAMBR process was efficient for nitrogen and phosphorus removal.
Increased coexpression of c‐KIT and FLT3 receptors on myeloblasts: Independent predictor of poor outcome in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Sharawat Surender Kumar , Gupta Ritu , Raina Vinod , Kumar Lalit , Sharma Atul , Iqbal Sobuhi , Bakhshi Radhika , Vishnubhatla Sreenivas , Bakhshi Sameer
Published: June 2013

Background

Significance of mutations in FLT3 and c‐KIT genes in AML has been well established, but role of their coexpression has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical significance of FLT3 (CD135) and c‐KIT (CD117) coexpression on myeloblasts in AML.

Methods

Using flow‐cytometry, we prospectively observed in 115 AML patients that CD135, CD117, and CD135+CD117 coexpression was expressed in 95 (82%), 104 (90%), and 81 (70%) patients respectively. Median expression of CD135, CD117, and their co expression was used as cut off for high and low expression.

Results

FLT3 ITD (internal tandem duplication) was present in 20 (17%) patients. High coexpression did not correlate with FLT3 ITD (P = 0.432) and cytogenetics (P = 0.244). Out of 115 patients, 86 (74.7%) achieved remission. At median followup of 15.5 months, EFS and OS was 29% and 35%, respectively for the entire cohort. Patients with high coexpression of CD135 and CD117 in comparison to those with low coexpression had significantly inferior EFS (20% vs 38% P < 0.001) and OS (27% vs 44% P = 0.001). In step wise Cox regression multivariable analysis, hazard ratio for high hemoglobin, WBC count, and coexpression of CD135 and CD117 was 0.63, 1.73, and 2.46 respectively for EFS, and for OS only CD135+CD117 coexpression emerged as an independent predictor (hazard ratio 2.25).

Conclusions

This is the first study to show that high coexpression of CD135+CD117 is an independent predictor of poor outcome in AML and is easily measurable by routine diagnostic flow‐cytometry. © 2013 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Targeting premeal anxiety in eating disordered clients and normal controls: A preliminary investigation into the use of mindful eating vs. distraction during food exposure
Authors: Marek Ryan J. , Ben‐Porath Denise D. , Federici Anita , Wisniewski Lucene , Warren Mark
Published: June 2013

Objective

Studies have demonstrated that negative affect increases prior to food intake in individuals diagnosed with an eating disorder. Mindfulness has been supported empirically to treat experiential avoidance stemming from anxiety. Thus, the current objective in this study is to empirically compare mindfulness vs. thought suppression invention during a food exposure in both clinical and nonclinical samples.

Method

In a 2 (Group: clinical vs. nonclinical) × 2 (Intervention: mindfulness vs. distraction) counterbalanced within treatment design, the current investigation sought to determine the differential effectiveness of a brief mindfulness intervention vs. a brief distraction intervention in women diagnosed with AN and BN in a clinical and nonclinical sample during a food exposure.

Results

Results indicated that the eating disorder group reported a significant increase in negative affect after the mindfulness intervention as compared to the distraction intervention, whereas the nonclinical group reported a significant decrease in negative affect after the mindfulness intervention as compared to the distraction intervention.

Discussion

Preliminary findings suggest that clinicians may want to proceed cautiously when using mindful eating in those with severe eating disorders during the early stages of food exposure. Limitations and future directions are discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:582–585)
Identity‐based multi‐proxy multi‐signature scheme provably secure in random oracle model
Authors: Sahu Rajeev Anand , Padhye Sahadeo
Published: June 2013

A multi‐proxy multi‐signature scheme is a useful extension of the basic proxy signature scheme, which allows a group of original signers to delegate their signing rights to a group of proxy signers. At the best of our knowledge, no formal security model and proof has been formalised for the identity‐based multi‐proxy multi‐signature (IBMPMS) scheme from bilinear pairings so far, whereas due to applications of the IBMPMS scheme in distributed systems, grid computing, mobile agent environment and so on, construction of an efficient and provably secure IBMPMS scheme is desired. In this paper, we propose an IBMPMS scheme from bilinear pairings. We also formalise a security model for the IBMPMS schemes from bilinear pairings, and prove that the proposed scheme is secure against existential forgery on adaptive chosen‐message and adaptive chosen‐identity attacks in the random oracle model, under the computational Diffie–Hellman assumption. Moreover, the proposed scheme is more efficient in the sense of computation and operation time, with a small signature size than the existing IBMPMS schemes.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.