bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sirtuins and renal diseases: relationship with aging and diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Kitada Munehiro , Kume Shinji , Takeda-Watanabe Ai , Kanasaki Keizo , Koya Daisuke
Published: October 2012

Sirtuins are members of the Sir2 (silent information regulator 2) family, a group of class III deacetylases. Mammals have seven different sirtuins, SIRT1–SIRT7. Among them, SIRT1, SIRT3 and SIRT6 are induced by calorie restriction conditions and are considered anti-aging molecules. SIRT1 has been the most extensively studied. SIRT1 deacetylates target proteins using the coenzyme NAD+ and is therefore linked to cellular energy metabolism and the redox state through multiple signalling and survival pathways. SIRT1 deficiency under various stress conditions, such as metabolic or oxidative stress or hypoxia, is implicated in the pathophysiologies of age-related diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and renal diseases. In the kidneys, SIRT1 may inhibit renal cell apoptosis, inflammation and fibrosis, and may regulate lipid metabolism, autophagy, blood pressure and sodium balance. Therefore the activation of SIRT1 in the kidney may be a new therapeutic target to increase resistance to many causal factors in the development of renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy. In addition, SIRT3 and SIRT6 are implicated in age-related disorders or longevity. In the present review, we discuss the protective functions of sirtuins and the association of sirtuins with the pathophysiology of renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy.
Simplified laser-driven flyer plates for shock compression science
Authors: Brown Kathryn E. , Shaw William L. , Zheng Xianxu , Dlott Dana D.
Published: October 2012

We describe a simplified system of laser-driven flyer plates for shock compression science and shock spectroscopy. We used commercially available one-box Nd:YAG lasers and beam homogenization solutions to create two launch systems, one based on a smaller (400 mJ) YAG laser and an inexpensive diffusive optic, and one based on a larger (2500 mJ) laser and a diffractive beam homogenizer. The flyer launch, flight, and impact processes were characterized by an 8 GHz fiberoptic photon Doppler velocimeter. We investigated effects of different substrates, adhesives, absorbers, ablative layers, and punching out disks from continuous foils versus fabricating individual foil disks, and found that a simple metal foil epoxied to a glass window was satisfactory in almost all cases. Our simplified system launched flyer plates with velocities up to 4.5 km s−1 and kinetic energies up to 250 mJ that can drive sustained steady shocks for up to 25 ns. The factor that limits these velocities and energies is the laser fluence that can be transmitted through the glass substrate to the flyer surface without optical damage. Methods to increase this transmission are discussed. Reproducible flyer launches were demonstrated with velocity variations of 0.06% and impact time variations of 1 ns. The usefulness of this flyer plate system is demonstrated by Hugoniot equation of state measurements of a polymer film, emission spectroscopy of a dye embedded in the polymer, and impact initiation and emission spectroscopy of a reactive material consisting of nanoscopic fuel and oxidizer particles.
Nonlinear multimode dynamics and internal resonances of the scan process in noncontacting atomic force microscopy
Authors: Hornstein S. , Gottlieb O.
Published: October 2012

The focus of this paper is on the nonlinear multimode dynamics of a moving microbeam for noncontacting atomic force microscopy (AFM). An initial-boundary-value problem is consistently formulated, which includes both nonlinear dynamics of a microcantilever with a localized atomic interaction force, and a horizontal boundary condition for a constant scan speed and its control. The model considered is obtained using the extended Hamilton's principle, which yields two partial differential equations for the combined horizontal and vertical motions. The model incorporates, for the first time to our knowledge, two independent time-varying terms that depict the vertical base excitation of the AFM and the horizontal forcing term depicts the periodic scanning motion of the cantilever. Manipulation of these equations via a Lagrange multiplier enables construction of a modified equation of motion, which is reduced, via Galerkin's method, to a three-mode dynamical system, corresponding to finite amplitude AFM dynamics. The analysis includes a numerical study of the strongly nonlinear system culminating with a stability map describing an escape bifurcation threshold where the tip, at the free end of the microbeam, “jumps to contact” with the sample. Results include periodic, quasiperiodic, and non-stationary chaotic-like solutions corresponding to primary and secondary internal combination resonances, where the latter corresponds to energy balance between the cantilever modes.
Optimized working conditions for a thermoelectric generator as a topping cycle for gas turbines
Authors: Brady Knowles C. , Lee Hohyun
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a model for a theoretical maximum efficiency of a thermoelectric generator integrated with a Brayton-cycle engine. The thermoelectric cycle is presented in two configurations as a topping cycle and a preheating topping cycle. For the topping cycle configuration, the thermoelectric generator receives heat from a high-temperature heat source and produces electrical work before rejecting heat to a Brayton cycle. For the preheating topping cycle, the rejected heat from the thermoelectric generator partially heats the compressed working fluid of the Brayton cycle before a secondary heater delivers heat to the working fluid directly from the heat source. The thermoelectric topping cycle efficiency increases as the temperature difference between the hot- and cold-side increases; however, this limits the heat transfer possible to the Brayton cycle, which in turn reduces power generation from the Brayton cycle. This model identifies the optimum operating parameters of the thermoelectric and Brayton cycles to obtain the maximum thermal efficiency of the combined cycle. In both configurations, efficiency gains are larger at low-temperature Brayton cycles. Although a thermoelectric generator (TEG) topping cycle enhances efficiency for a low temperature turbine, efficiency cannot exceed a high temperature gas turbine. Using a TEG topping cycle is limited to cases when space or price for a high temperature turbine cannot be justified. A design to achieve the preheating thermoelectric topping cycle is also presented.
Optical super-resolution by high-index liquid-immersed microspheres
Authors: Darafsheh Arash , Walsh Gary F. , Dal Negro Luca , Astratov Vasily N.
Published: October 2012

It is experimentally shown that barium titanate glass microspheres with diameters (D) in the range 2–220 μm and with high refractive index (n ∼ 1.9–2.1) can be used for super-resolution imaging of liquid-immersed nanostructures. Using micron-scale microspheres, we demonstrate an ability to discern the shape of a pattern with a minimum feature size of ∼λ/7, where λ is the illumination wavelength. For spheres with D > 50 μm, the discernible feature sizes were found to increase to ∼λ/4. Detailed data on the resolution, magnification, and field-of-view are presented. This imaging technique can be used in biomedical microscopy, microfluidics, and nanophotonics applications.
Giant domain wall response of highly twinned ferroelastic materials
Authors: Schranz W. , Kabelka H. , Sarras A. , Burock M.
Published: October 2012

Many ferroelastic crystals display at sufficiently low measurement frequencies a huge elastic softening below Tc which is caused by domain wall motion. Materials range from perovskites to iron based superconductors and shape memory materials. We present a model—based on Landau-Ginzburg theory including long range elastic interaction between needle shaped ferroelastic domains—to describe the observed superelastic softening. The theory predicts that the domain wall contribution to the elastic susceptibility is different for improper and proper ferroelastic materials. A test of the theory against experimental data on SrTiO3, KMnF3, LaAlO3, LaAlO3,La1-xNdxP5O14, and NH4HC2O4·12H2O yields excellent agreement.
Rescaling Environmental Governance: Watersheds as Boundary Objects at the Intersection of Science, Neoliberalism, and Participation
Authors: Cohen Alice
Published: October 2012

This paper is concerned with the rescaling of environmental governance, and with the social construction of environmental and governance scales in particular. With the aid of case-study data from Canada, it is argued that watersheds, as particular forms of rescaled environmental governance, have increased in popularity because of their status as boundary objects: that is, a common concept interpreted differently by different groups. The paper shows how particular features of the watershed approach—namely, their physical size and the shared discursive framings they employ (‘stakeholder’ and ‘integration’)—make the watershed concept both cohesive enough to travel among different epistemic communities, and plastic enough to be interpreted and used differently within them. As such, it is suggested that the trend of the uptake of the so-called ‘watershed approach’ reflects and is shaped by ideologies underpinned by three different, and occasionally competing, epistemic communities: the scientific, neoliberal, and grassroots communities. These arguments corroborate constructivist accounts of the political nature of boundary drawing, bring science into discussion on the relationship between neoliberalism and public participation, and contribute to environmental governance literatures by providing an alternative explanation for the uptake of watersheds in recent decades.
Special Units for Young People on the Autistic Spectrum in Mainstream Schools: Sites of Normalisation, Abnormalisation, Inclusion, and Exclusion
Authors: Holt Louise , Lea Jennifer , Bowlby Sophie
Published: October 2012

This paper explores the experiences of young people on the autistic spectrum (AS) who attend a special unit within a mainstream secondary school in England. The paper feeds into contemporary debates about the nature of inclusive schooling and, more broadly, special education. Young people on the AS have been largely neglected within these debates. The paper focuses upon processes of normalisation and abnormalisation to which the young people on the AS are subject, and how these are interconnected with inclusion and exclusion within school spaces. At times, the unit is a container for the abnormally behaving. However, processes of normalisation pervade the unit, attempting to rectify the deviant mind—body—emotions of the young people on the AS to enable their inclusion within the mainstream school. Normalisation is conceptualised as a set of sociospatially specific and contextual practices; norms emerge as they are enacted, and via a practical sense of the abnormal. Norms are sometimes reworked by the young people on the AS, whose association with the unit renders them a visible minority group. Thus, despite some problems, special units can promote genuine ‘inclusive’ education, in which norms circulating mainstream school spaces are transformed to accept mind—body—emotional differences.
Lived Difference: A Narrative Account of Spatiotemporal Processes of Social Differentiation
Authors: Valentine Gill , Sadgrove Joanna
Published: October 2012

This paper draws on empirical research conducted as part of a study funded by the European Research Council to explore how individuals understand and live processes of social differentiation. Specifically, it draws on a case-study-life story narrative to examine how social identifications unfold across biographical time, examining the spatiotemporal complexity of experiences of differentiation, and the marginalization of self and/or others. In doing so, it contributes to the geographies of encounter literature by exploring the implications of insights from an individual's narrative of lived experiences of difference for group politics and the management of prejudicial social relations.
The Effects of Seoul's New-Town Development on Suburbanization and Mobility: A Counterfactual Approach
Authors: Jun Myung-Jin
Published: October 2012

The author explores the effects of Seoul's new-town development on suburbanization and mobility by evaluating a counterfactual situation involving variable urban spatial structures and citizen mobility in situations with and without the presence of new towns. Two different scenarios are tested: a scenario with new towns (baseline); and one with no new towns (no-new-town scenario). Both scenarios are tested by constructing two types of random-utility-based location-choice models which focus on employment and shopping locations. Findings reveal substantial suburbanization driven by the development of the new suburban towns, as well as both positive and negative consequences of new-town development. Seoul's new town development has positively contributed to decreases in travel time due to the relief of congestion in the central city. This congestion relief results in major transportation cost savings of US$0.6 billion per year. The positive effects of new-town development, however, are off set by the negative consequences of suburbanization of the new towns. Negative consequences of suburbanization include longer times of travel for commuting and shopping trips, and increased emission levels.
Gender-specific variation in physiology in the dioecious shrub Corema album throughout its distributional range
Authors: Álvarez-Cansino Leonor , Barradas Mari Cruz Díaz , Zunzunegui María , Esquivias Mari Paz , Dawson Todd E.
Published: October 2012

Different requirements for reproduction between sexes in dioecious plants can lead to gender-specific physiological responses to environmental constraints. Females generally endure higher reproductive investment and costs than males, displaying lower water and nutrient use efficiency and growth. We studied the ecophysiology of the dioecious shrub Corema album L. (D.) Don. to assess how drought impacts physiological responses and gender dimorphism along an aridity gradient within the species’ range. Leaf gas exchange, photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), water potential (Ψ), vegetative growth (VG) and leaf C isotopic discrimination and nitrogen content were measured in three populations under markedly different climatic conditions. Physiological responses and growth indicated higher level of stress in the drier environments, leading to increased WUE (Δ) and lower VG. Physiological stress increases among plants were related to incremental changes in the degree of gender dimorphism, with significant effects on Ψ and Fv/Fm (P < 0.05); males showed higher VG (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis of instantaneous and integrated measurements revealed gender-related effects across the climatic gradient (P < 0.01). Reproduction investment has an effect on the physiological performance and growth of C. album. Gender responses are site-specific, being influenced by climate. The increase in physiological stress with aridity could lead to the potential retreat and variation in structure in these populations if genders are affected differently by the predicted climate change.
Effect of cooled storage on quality and DNA integrity of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) spermatozoa
Authors: Imrat P. , Mahasawangkul S. , Gosálvez J. , Suthanmapinanth P. , Sombutputorn P. , Jansittiwate S. , Thongtip N. , Pinyopummin A. , Colenbrander B. , Holt W. V. , Stout T. A. E.
Published: October 2012

Artificial insemination (AI) is a potentially useful tool for breeding captive elephants because it facilitates efforts to minimise inbreeding. However, cooled storage of elephant semen markedly reduces fertility. This study compared the effects on semen-quality parameters, including sperm DNA fragmentation, of storing elephant semen at 4°C or 15°C in a commonly-used diluent (TEST) or a diluent developed to protect against sperm DNA damage (BullMax). Storing elephant semen for >24 h in either extender at either temperature resulted in decreases in sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity and DNA integrity (P < 0.05); the decrease in motility was especially rapid. A subjective impression of circular sperm movement in TEST was confirmed by a higher curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement, but lower straight-line velocity and linearity than in BullMax. Initial percentages of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA (%SDF) did not differ between extenders or temperatures, but the rate of increase in %SDF during a 48-h incubation at 37°C was higher in TEST than in BullMax (P < 0.05). In conclusion, BullMax allows more linear movement and better preserves DNA stability of stored elephant spermatozoa than TEST. Sperm DNA stability during incubation at 37°C is a promising, discriminative parameter for selecting semen storage conditions of bulls for elephant AI.
The influence of target population on nonculture-based detection of markers of Neisseria gonorrhoeae antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Goire Namraj , Freeman Kevin , Lambert Stephen B. , Nimmo Graeme R. , Limnios Athena E. , Lahra Monica M. , Nissen Michael D. , Sloots Theo P. , Whiley David M.
Published: October 2012

Background
With treatment options for gonorrhoea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) diminishing, strengthening antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance is paramount. Methods: In this study, we investigated polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based methods, in parallel with N. gonorrhoeae multi-antigen sequence typing (NG-MAST), for direct detection of four N. gonorrhoeae chromosomal mechanisms associated with emerging resistance to extended spectrum cephalosporins using noncultured samples: an adenine deletion in the mtrR promoter, a mosaic penicillin-binding protein (PBP) 2, an A501V PBP2 mutation, and alterations at positions 120 and 121 of the porB protein. The PCR assays were validated using a panel of characterised N. gonorrhoeae isolates (n = 107) and commensal Neisseria (n = 100) species. These PCR assays with NG-MAST were then applied to noncultured clinical specimens from distinct populations in Australia with differing levels of N. gonorrhoeae AMR: the Northern Territory (NT), where resistance has a low population prevalence, and Queensland (Qld), with higher AMR prevalence. Results: The real-time PCR assays proved highly sensitive and specific. When applied to the noncultured samples, only 1 out of 50 (2%) samples from NT harboured a resistant mechanism, whereas the Qld samples (n = 129) collected over different periods showed progressive acquisition of resistant mechanisms, and these were associated with specific NG-MAST types, including Type 225. Conclusions: The results suggest that our PCR-based methods could be used to rapidly pinpoint incursion of resistant strains into previously unaffected populations. Likewise, our results show that for molecular AMR surveillance, the population being investigated is as important as the genetic mechanisms being targeted.
Using metabolomics to improve the quality of harvested fruit.
Authors: Oms-Oliu G. , Odriozola-Serrano I. , Martín-Belloso O.
Published: October 2012

Metabolomics is a rapidly growing discipline and has been used recently to evaluate the effect of postharvest processes of fruit and to elucidate pathways involved. Most applications so far are limited to metabolic fingerprinting to discriminate phenotypes and metabolic profiling to identify biomarkers for postharvest disorders and spoilage of fruit. Metabolomic approaches may also help in developing new strategies to improve the flavour quality and health-related attributes of fruit through a full understanding of the metabolome. The knowledge base developed in metabolomic fruit studies has the potential to help in making intelligent management decisions. Potentially, metabolomics may be used to predict the effect of postharvest operations on the physiology and quality of fruit. However, for commercial applications, scale-up studies and validation under practical conditions are required. This review discusses the recent advances in the use of metabolomics to improve the quality of harvested fruit.
Differences in the Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infection between Total Hip Arthroplasty and Total Knee Arthroplasty in the Korean Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System (KONIS)
Authors: Song Kyoung-Ho , Kim Eu Suk , Kim Young Keun , Jin Hye Young , Jeong Sun Young , Kwak Yee Gyung , Cho Yong Kyun , Sung Joohon , Lee Yeong-Seon , Oh Hee-Bok , Kim Tae Kyun , Koo Kyung-Hoi , Kim Eui-Chong , Kim June Myung , Choi Tae Yeol , Kim Hyo Youl , Choi Hee Jung , Kim Hong Bin ,   KONIS Study Group
Published: October 2012

Objective.

To compare the characteristics and risk factors for surgical site infections (SSIs) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in a nationwide survey, using shared case detection and recording systems.

Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting.

Twenty-six hospitals participating in the Korean Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System (KONIS).

Patients.

From 2006 to 2009, all patients undergoing THA and TKA in KONIS were enrolled.

Results.

SSI occurred in 161 (2.35%) of 6,848 cases (3,422 THAs and 3,426 TKAs). Pooled mean SSI rates were 1.69% and 2.82% for THA and TKA, respectively. Of the cases we examined, 42 (26%) were superficial-incisional SSIs and 119 (74%) were “severe” SSIs; of the latter, 24 (15%) were deep-incisional SSIs and 95 (59%) were organ/space SSIs. In multivariate analysis, a duration of preoperative hospital stay of greater than 3 days was a risk factor for total SSI after both THA and TKA. Diabetes mellitus, revision surgery, prolonged duration of surgery (above the 75th percentile), and the need for surgery due to trauma were independent risk factors for total and severe SSI after THA, while male sex and an operating room without artificial ventilation were independent risk factors for total and severe SSI after TKA. A large volume of surgeries (more than 10 procedures per month) protected against total and severe SSI, but only in patients who underwent TKA.

Conclusions.

Risk factors for SSI after arthroplasty differ according to the site of the arthroplasty. Therefore, clinicians should take into account the site of arthroplasty in the analysis of SSI and the development of strategies for reducing SSI.
Management of Migraine in Adults
Authors: Newman Esther
Published: October 2012

Migraine affects 15% of the UK adult population and occurs three times more frequently in women compared with men. It is a common reason for patients to consult their GP. The primary aim in the management of migraine is the control of symptoms to minimise the impact on the patient's lifestyle. Expectations of a complete cure are unrealistic. However, under-treatment is neither cost-effective nor time-effective and different options should be offered until the most beneficial treatment plan is reached. As migraine typically varies with time, patients’ needs may change and the differential diagnosis should be reviewed regularly.
Birth and expression evolution of mammalian microRNA genes
Authors: Meunier Julien , Lemoine Frédéric , Soumillon Magali , Liechti Angélica , Weier Manuela , Guschanski Katerina , Hu Haiyang , Khaitovich Philipp , Kaessmann Henrik
Published: October 2012

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are major post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, yet their origins and functional evolution in mammals remain little understood due to the lack of appropriate comparative data. Using RNA sequencing, we have generated extensive and comparable miRNA data for five organs in six species that represent all main mammalian lineages and birds (the evolutionary outgroup) with the aim to unravel the evolution of mammalian miRNAs. Our analyses reveal an overall expansion of miRNA repertoires in mammals, with threefold accelerated birth rates of miRNA families in placentals and marsupials, facilitated by the de novo emergence of miRNAs in host gene introns. Generally, our analyses suggest a high rate of miRNA family turnover in mammals with many newly emerged miRNA families being lost soon after their formation. Selectively preserved mammalian miRNA families gradually evolved higher expression levels, as well as altered mature sequences and target gene repertoires, and were apparently mainly recruited to exert regulatory functions in nervous tissues. However, miRNAs that originated on the X chromosome evolved high expression levels and potentially diverse functions during spermatogenesis, including meiosis, through selectively driven duplication-divergence processes. Overall, our study thus provides detailed insights into the birth and evolution of mammalian miRNA genes and the associated selective forces.
Small noncoding differentially methylated copy-number variants, including lncRNA genes, cause a lethal lung developmental disorder
Authors: Szafranski Przemyslaw , Dharmadhikari Avinash V. , Brosens Erwin , Gurha Priyatansh , Kołodziejska Katarzyna E. , Zhishuo Ou , Dittwald Piotr , Majewski Tadeusz , Mohan K. Naga , Chen Bo , Person Richard E. , Tibboel Dick , de Klein Annelies , Pinner Jason , Chopra Maya , Malcolm Girvan , Peters Gregory , Arbuckle Susan , Guiang Sixto F. , Hustead Virginia A. , Jessurun Jose , Hirsch Russel , Witte David P. , Maystadt Isabelle , Sebire Neil , Fisher Richard , Langston Claire , Sen Partha , Stankiewicz Paweł
Published: October 2012

An unanticipated and tremendous amount of the noncoding sequence of the human genome is transcribed. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) constitute a significant fraction of non-protein-coding transcripts; however, their functions remain enigmatic. We demonstrate that deletions of a small noncoding differentially methylated region at 16q24.1, including lncRNA genes, cause a lethal lung developmental disorder, alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of pulmonary veins (ACD/MPV), with parent-of-origin effects. We identify overlapping deletions 250 kb upstream of FOXF1 in nine patients with ACD/MPV that arose de novo specifically on the maternally inherited chromosome and delete lung-specific lncRNA genes. These deletions define a distant cis-regulatory region that harbors, besides lncRNA genes, also a differentially methylated CpG island, binds GLI2 depending on the methylation status of this CpG island, and physically interacts with and up-regulates the FOXF1 promoter. We suggest that lung-transcribed 16q24.1 lncRNAs may contribute to long-range regulation of FOXF1 by GLI2 and other transcription factors. Perturbation of lncRNA-mediated chromatin interactions may, in general, be responsible for position effect phenomena and potentially cause many disorders of human development.
A calibrated human Y-chromosomal phylogeny based on resequencing
Authors: Wei Wei , Ayub Qasim , Chen Yuan , McCarthy Shane , Hou Yiping , Carbone Ignazio , Xue Yali , Tyler-Smith Chris
Published: October 2012

We have identified variants present in high-coverage complete sequences of 36 diverse human Y chromosomes from Africa, Europe, South Asia, East Asia, and the Americas, representing eight major haplogroups. After restricting our analysis to 8.97 Mb of the unique male-specific Y sequence, we identified 6662 high-confidence variants, including single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), multi-nucleotide polymorphisms (MNPs), and indels. We constructed phylogenetic trees using these variants, or subsets of them, and recapitulated the known structure of the tree. Assuming a male mutation rate of 1 × 10−9 per base pair per year, the time depth of the tree (haplogroups A3-R) was ∼101,000–115,000 yr, and the lineages found outside Africa dated to 57,000–74,000 yr, both as expected. In addition, we dated a striking Paleolithic male lineage expansion to 41,000–52,000 yr ago and the node representing the major European Y lineage, R1b, to 4000–13,000 yr ago, supporting a Neolithic origin for these modern European Y chromosomes. In all, we provide a nearly 10-fold increase in the number of Y markers with phylogenetic information, and novel historical insights derived from placing them on a calibrated phylogenetic tree.
Ozone Exposure Response for U.S. Soybean Cultivars: Linear Reductions in Photosynthetic Potential, Biomass, and Yield
Authors: Betzelberger Amy M. , Yendrek Craig R. , Sun Jindong , Leisner Courtney P. , Nelson Randall L. , Ort Donald R. , Ainsworth Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2012

Current background ozone (O3) concentrations over the northern hemisphere’s midlatitudes are high enough to damage crops and are projected to increase. Soybean (Glycine max) is particularly sensitive to O3; therefore, establishing an O3 exposure threshold for damage is critical to understanding the current and future impact of this pollutant. This study aims to determine the exposure response of soybean to elevated tropospheric O3 by measuring the agronomic, biochemical, and physiological responses of seven soybean genotypes to nine O3 concentrations (38–120 nL L−1) within a fully open-air agricultural field location across 2 years. All genotypes responded similarly, with season-long exposure to O3 causing a linear increase in antioxidant capacity while reducing leaf area, light absorption, specific leaf mass, primary metabolites, seed yield, and harvest index. Across two seasons with different temperature and rainfall patterns, there was a robust linear yield decrease of 37 to 39 kg ha−1 per nL L−1 cumulative O3 exposure over 40 nL L−1. The existence of immediate effects of O3 on photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and photosynthetic transcript abundance before and after the initiation and termination of O3 fumigation were concurrently assessed, and there was no evidence to support an instantaneous photosynthetic response. The ability of the soybean canopy to intercept radiation, the efficiency of photosynthesis, and the harvest index were all negatively impacted by O3, suggesting that there are multiple targets for improving soybean responses to this damaging air pollutant.
Strategic Issues for Facilities Managers
Authors: Sandelands Eric
Published: October 2012

This special issue of Facilities on “Strategic Issues for Facilities Managers” is very different in style from the editor‐generated issues of this journal, but it has been designed to achieve a particular purpose. It focuses on the business issues about which facilities managers need to be aware in order to plan the most effective deployment of corporate physical assets. In order that readers can acquire a good understanding of a wide variety of topics in a short period of time, the material is presented in the form of précis and short articles.
The quality of the outdoor environment influences childrens health – a cross‐sectional study of preschools
Authors: Söderström M , Boldemann C , Sahlin U , Mårtensson F , Raustorp A , Blennow M
Published: October 2012

Aim

To test how the quality of the outdoor environment of child day care centres (DCCs) influences children's health.

Methods

The environment was assessed using the Outdoor Play Environmental Categories (OPEC) tool, time spent outdoors and physical activity as measured by pedometer. 172/253 (68%) of children aged 3.0–5.9 from nine DCCs participated in Southern Sweden. Health data collected were body mass index, waist circumference, saliva cortisol, length of night sleep during study, and symptoms and well‐being which were scored (1‐week diary – 121 parent responders). Also, parent‐rated well‐being and health of their child were scored (questionnaire, 132 parent responders). MANOVA, ANOVA and principal component analyses were performed to identify impacts of the outdoor environment on health.

Results

High‐quality outdoor environment at DCCs is associated with several health aspects in children such as leaner body, longer night sleep, better well‐being and higher mid‐morning saliva cortisol levels.

Conclusion

The quality of the outdoor environment at DCCs influenced the health and well‐being of preschool children and should be given more attention among health care professionals and community planners.
Meta‐analysis: adherence to colorectal cancer screening and the detection rate for advanced neoplasia, according to the type of screening test
Authors: Hassan C. , Rossi P. Giorgi , Camilloni L. , Rex D. K. , Jimenez‐Cendales B. , Ferroni E. , Borgia P. , Zullo A. , Guasticchi G. , Group HTA
Published: October 2012

Background

A variety of tests have been proposed for colorectal cancer (CRC), giving rise to uncertainty regarding the optimal approach. The efficacy and effectiveness of different tests are related to both screenee participation and the detection rate.

Aim

To perform a meta‐analysis on adherence and detection rates of CRC screening tests.

Methods

Relevant publications were identified by MEDLINE/EMBASE and other databases for the period 1999–2012. A previous systematic review was used for the period before 1966–1999. RCTs and controlled studies including a direct comparison of the uptake rates among different options for CRC screening were included. Adherence and detection rates for advanced neoplasia and cancer were extracted. Risk for bias was ascertained according to CONSORT guidelines. Forrest plots were produced based on random‐effect models.

Results

Fourteen studies provided data on 197 910 subjects. Endoscopic strategies were associated with a lower participation (RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.80) rate, but a higher detection rate of advanced neoplasia (RR: 3.21, 95% CI: 2.38, 4.32) compared with faecal tests. FIT was superior to g‐FOBT with regard to both adherence (RR: 1.16, 95% CI 1.03, 1.30) and detection of advanced neoplasia (RR: 2.28, 95% CI 1.68, 3.10) and cancer (RR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.2, 3.2).

Conclusion

The superior accuracy of endoscopy compared with faecal tests minimised any impact of the participation rate in determining the detection rate of advanced neoplasia in a screening setting.
The M694V mutation in Armenian‐Americans: a 10‐year retrospective study of MEFV mutation testing for familial Mediterranean fever at UCLA
Authors: Ong FS , Vakil H , Xue Y , Kuo JZ , Shah KH , Lee RB , Bernstein KE , Rimoin DL , Getzug T , Das K , Deignan JL , Rotter JI , Grody WW
Published: October 2012

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, is a systemic auto‐inflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent attacks of fever with peritonitis, pleuritis, synovitis and erysipeloid rash. The marenostrin‐encoding fever (MEFV) gene, located on chromosome 16p13.3, is the only gene in which mutations are currently known to cause FMF. To correlate specific genotypes with adverse phenotypes of affected populations residing in the Western United States, a retrospective case series review was conducted of all MEFV gene mutation testing completed at UCLA Clinical Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory between February 2002 and February 2012, followed by clinical chart review of all subjects who either have a single or double mutation. All 12 common mutations in the MEFV gene were analyzed and the M694V variant was found to be associated with an adverse FMF clinical outcome in the Armenian‐American population, manifested by earlier onset of disease, increased severity of disease, and renal amyloidosis.
Cartilage on the move: Cartilage lineage tracing during tadpole metamorphosis
Authors: Kerney Ryan R. , Brittain Alison L. , Hall Brian K. , Buchholz Daniel R.
Published: October 2012

The reorganization of cranial cartilages during tadpole metamorphosis is a set of complex processes. The fates of larval cartilage‐forming cells (chondrocytes) and sources of adult chondrocytes are largely unknown. Individual larval cranial cartilages may either degenerate or remodel, while many adult cartilages appear to form de novo during metamorphosis. Determining the extent to which adult chondrocytes/cartilages are derived from larval chondrocytes during metamorphosis requires new techniques in chondrocyte lineage tracing. We have developed two transgenic systems to label cartilage cells throughout the body with fluorescent proteins. One system strongly labels early tadpole cartilages only. The other system inducibly labels forming cartilages at any developmental stage. We examined cartilages of the skull (viscero‐ and neurocranium), and identified larval cartilages that either resorb or remodel into adult cartilages. Our data show that the adult otic capsules, tecti anterius and posterius, hyale, and portions of Meckel's cartilage are derived from larval chondrocytes. Our data also suggest that most adult cartilages form de novo, though we cannot rule out the potential for extreme larval chondrocyte proliferation or de‐ and re‐differentiation, which could dilute our fluorescent protein signal. The transgenic lineage tracing strategies developed here are the first examples of inducible, skeleton‐specific, lineage tracing in Xenopus.
Modeling plant species distributions under future climates: how fine scale do climate projections need to be?
Authors: Franklin Janet , Davis Frank W. , Ikegami Makihiko , Syphard Alexandra D. , Flint Lorraine E. , Flint Alan L. , Hannah Lee
Published: October 2012

Recent studies suggest that species distribution models (SDMs) based on fine‐scale climate data may provide markedly different estimates of climate‐change impacts than coarse‐scale models. However, these studies disagree in their conclusions of how scale influences projected species distributions. In rugged terrain, coarse‐scale climate grids may not capture topographically controlled climate variation at the scale that constitutes microhabitat or refugia for some species. Although finer scale data are therefore considered to better reflect climatic conditions experienced by species, there have been few formal analyses of how modeled distributions differ with scale. We modeled distributions for 52 plant species endemic to the California Floristic Province of different life forms and range sizes under recent and future climate across a 2000‐fold range of spatial scales (0.008–16 km2). We produced unique current and future climate datasets by separately downscaling 4 km climate models to three finer resolutions based on 800, 270, and 90 m digital elevation models and deriving bioclimatic predictors from them. As climate‐data resolution became coarser, SDMs predicted larger habitat area with diminishing spatial congruence between fine‐ and coarse‐scale predictions. These trends were most pronounced at the coarsest resolutions and depended on climate scenario and species' range size. On average, SDMs projected onto 4 km climate data predicted 42% more stable habitat (the amount of spatial overlap between predicted current and future climatically suitable habitat) compared with 800 m data. We found only modest agreement between areas predicted to be stable by 90 m models generalized to 4 km grids compared with areas classified as stable based on 4 km models, suggesting that some climate refugia captured at finer scales may be missed using coarser scale data. These differences in projected locations of habitat change may have more serious implications than net habitat area when predictive maps form the basis of conservation decision making.
Efficacy of inpatient treatment for atopic dermatitis evaluated by changes in serum cortisol levels
Authors: Fukuda Hidetsugu , Suzuki Taku , Saotome Atsuko , Sode Eri , Mukai Hideki
Published: October 2012

When dealing with patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD), inpatient treatment is useful for alleviating skin symptoms in short periods of time. We previously found that many severe AD patients had low serum cortisol levels at admission. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of inpatient treatment in 29 adults with AD through comparisons of serum cortisol, plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), serum thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC), and serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels at admission with those at the time of discharge. Serum cortisol and plasma ACTH levels were significantly higher at discharge. On the other hand, serum TARC and serum LDH were significantly lower at discharge. We examined whether the suppression of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical function that was seen at admission was attributable to disturbed circadian rhythms due to sleep disorders by analyzing hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical function in relation to the presence/absence of sleep disorders, serum cortisol levels and daily urinary free cortisol. Of the 17 patients with low serum cortisol levels upon admission, 15 (88.2%) had sleep disorders upon admission. However, the daily urinary free cortisol increased significantly from 8.0 ± 5.5 μg/day (at admission) to 18.5 ± 17.2 μg/day (at discharge). These results suggested that the suppression of endocrine function seen at admission was not attributable to disturbed circadian rhythms due to sleep disorders but represented true suppression of the endocrine system. These results indicated that inpatient care was useful for treating patients with severe AD, enabling efficient improvement of the skin condition and recovery from suppressed endocrine function.
Precipitation rather than temperature influenced the phylogeography of the endemic shrub Anarthrophyllum desideratum in the Patagonian steppe
Authors: Cosacov Andrea , Johnson Leigh A. , Paiaro Valeria , Cocucci Andrea A. , Córdoba Francisco E.
Published: October 2012

Aim

In order to assess the impact of precipitation changes during Pleistocene glaciations on plant species of the Patagonian steppe, a phylogeographical study of the endemic shrub Anarthrophyllum desideratum was performed.

Location

Southern Patagonia: Argentina and Chile.

Methods

Chloroplast intergenic spacers trnS–trnG and rpoB–trnC were sequenced for 264 individuals from 33 localities spanning the entire distribution of A. desideratum. Phylogenetic (statistical parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) and population genetic analyses (spatial analyses of molecular variance, mismatch distributions, neutrality tests and Bayesian skyline plot) were performed. Divergence time estimates using a calibrated molecular clock were also conducted. Niche modelling was used to reconstruct the palaeodistribution to validate phylogeographical patterns.

Results

Thirty haplotypes were identified that clustered into two main lineages, revealing a significant latitudinal phylogeographical break north and south of the Deseado River (c. 47° S). Infra‐specific diversification began in the late Miocene, with northern and southern lineages separating c. 3 Ma, after the eastern Patagonian lowlands started to become increasingly arid. Three areas of high molecular diversity were identified: one in southern and two in northern Patagonia where niche modelling indicates that the species may have survived during the Last Glacial Maximum. These putative refugia received more moisture than much of the steppe during glaciation‐associated aridization. The south‐western refugium is the more likely source for eastward range expansion during post‐glacial humidification.

Main conclusions

Anarthrophyllum desideratum responded differently to historical processes north and south of the Deseado River. In the north this species survived in situ in fragmented populations, whereas in the south it survived in localized refugia that presumably avoided extreme aridization, and from which it expanded eastwards. For southern Patagonia, our results support a new historical scenario affected more by precipitation regimes than by temperature changes associated with glacial cycles. This hypothesis should be considered in future plant phylogeographical studies from the Patagonian steppe.
Inhaled corticosteroids increase the risk of oropharyngeal colonization by Streptococcus pneumoniae in children with asthma
Authors: ZHANG LINJIE , PRIETSCH SíLVIO O.M. , MENDES ANA PAULA , VON GROLL ANDREA , ROCHA GICELLE PORTO , CARRION LILLIAN , DA SILVA PEDRO EDUARDO ALMEIDA
Published: October 2012

Background and objective:  Recent studies have raised concerns about the link between use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and risk of pneumonia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This cross‐sectional study aimed to investigate the association between ICS and oropharyngeal colonization by Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) among children (up to 18 years old) with asthma.

Methods:  Two age‐matched groups of patients were consecutively recruited: (i) exposed group: children who had persistent asthma and were being treated with daily ICS for at least 30 days and (ii) non‐exposed group: children who had asthma and were not being treated with ICS at study entry. Oropharyngeal specimens from the tonsillar area and posterior pharyngeal wall were collected. S. pneumoniae was identified according to National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards recommendations.

Results:  A total of 200 consecutive patients were recruited and 192 (96 in each group) were included in the analysis. In the exposed group, the mean daily dose of ICS was 400 µg of beclomethasone or equivalent and the mean duration of treatment was 8.6 months. The prevalence of oropharyngeal colonization by S. pneumoniae was higher in the exposed group compared with the non‐exposed group (27.1% vs 8.3%, P = 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, use of ICS was an independent risk factor for oropharyngeal carriage of S. pneumoniae, with an adjusted prevalence ratio of 3.75 (95% confidence interval: 1.72–8.18, P = 0.001).

Conclusions:  Regular use of ICS is associated with an increased risk of having oropharyngeal colonization by S. pneumoniae in children with asthma.
Comprehensive echocardiographic diagnosis of right heart enlargement in association with partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage in three adult women
Authors: Rayoo R. , De Silva D. , Jones E. , Ponnuthurai F. A , Srivastava P. M , Calafiore P.
Published: October 2012

Partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage is a rare congenital anomaly which can lead to right heart enlargement. It may present in isolation or more commonly in association with other congenital cardiac anomalies. We present three different cases of partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage in adults. The importance of identifying partial anomalous venous drainage as the cause of otherwise unexplained right heart enlargement is illustrated by these cases.
Sugar restriction: the evidence for a drug‐free intervention to reduce cardiovascular disease risk
Authors: Thornley S. , Tayler R. , Sikaris K.
Published: October 2012

Background/Aim

Uncertainty exists about what dietary component is most likely to cause coronary heart disease. Over the last thirty years, attention has focused on saturated fat and salt as guilty parties. More recently, evidence suggests that excess sugar intake is more likely than either traditional factor to lead to atherosclerotic disease. Some researchers have also speculated that sugar is addictive, in a similar manner to caffeine and established drugs of abuse.

Methods

Here we review the epidemiological, biochemical and psychological evidence that implicates excess sugar intake as an important cause of ill‐health.

Results

We found relatively consistent evidence of association between markers of sugar intake and risk factors for cardiovascular disease, or the disease itself. This evidence contrasted with rather weaker evidence which linked either saturated fat or salt with cardiovascular disease endpoints. We also found some evidence of a sugar addiction syndrome.

Conclusion

We suggest that advice to restrict sugar intake should be a routine part of clinical care, particularly when patients are being counselled about cardiovascular risk.