bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Origins of yttrium and rare earth element distributions in metamorphic garnet
Authors: Moore S. J. , Carlson W. D. , Hesse M. A. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractHighly variable distributions of yttrium and rare earth elements (Y+REEs) are documented in pelitic garnet from the Picuris Mountains, New Mexico, and from Passo del Sole, Switzerland, and in mafic garnet from the Franciscan Complex, California. The wide variety of these Y+REE zoning patterns, and those described previously in other occurrences, imply diverse origins linked to differing degrees of mobility of these elements through the intergranular medium during garnet growth. In the Picuris Mountains, large, early‐nucleating crystals have radial profiles of Y+REE dominated by central peaks and annular maxima, in patterns that vary systematically with atomic number. Superimposed on these features are narrow spikes in HREEs and MREEs, located progressively rimward with decreasing atomic number. In contrast, profiles in small, late‐nucleating crystals contain only broad central maxima for all Y+REEs. In garnet from Passo del Sole, Y+REE zoning varies radically from sample to sample: in some rocks, crystals of all sizes display only central peaks for all Y+REEs; in others, profiles exhibit irregular fluctuations in Y+REE contents that match up with small‐scale patchy zoning in Y and Ca X‐ray maps. In the Franciscan Complex, Y+REE in garnet cores fluctuate unsystematically, but mantles and rims display concentric oscillatory zoning for both major elements and Y+REEs. Our interpretation of the complexity of Y+REE distributions in metamorphic garnet centres on the concept that these distributions vary primarily in response to the length scales over which these elements can equilibrate during garnet growth. Very short length scales of equilibration, due to low intergranular mobility, produce overprint zoning characterized by small‐scale irregularities. Higher but still restricted mobility yields diffusion‐controlled uptake, characterized by patterns of central peaks and annular maxima that vary with atomic number and are strongly influenced by T–t paths during garnet growth. Still greater mobility permits progressively greater, potentially rock‐wide, equilibration with major‐ and accessory‐phase assemblages, leading to mineralogical controls: an unchanging mineral assemblage during garnet growth produces bell‐shaped profiles resembling those produced by Rayleigh fractionation, whereas changes in major‐ and/or accessory‐phase assemblages produce profiles with distinct annuli and sharp discontinuities in concentration. The very high mobility associated with influxes of Y+REE‐bearing fluids can cause these element distributions to be dominated by factors external to the rock, yielding profiles characterized by abrupt shifts or oscillations that are not correlated to changes in mineral assemblages.
Schools and Location: Tiebout, Alonso, and Governmental Finance Policy
Authors: HANUSHEK ERIC A. , YILMAZ KUZEY 
Published: May 2013

AbstractMany discussions of school finance policy fail to consider how households respond to policies that change the attractiveness of different residential locations. We develop a general equilibrium model that incorporates workplace choice, residential choice, and political choice of tax and expenditure levels. Importantly, we consider multiple workplaces, a fundamental feature of today's metropolitan landscape. This basic model permits investigating how accessibility and public goods interact in a metropolitan area. The model is used to analyze two conventional policy initiatives: school district consolidation and district power equalization. The surprising conclusion is that school quality and welfare can fall for all families when these restrictions on choice are introduced.
Feeding a diet contaminated with ochratoxin A for chickens at the maximum level recommended by the EU for poultry feeds (0.1 mg/kg). 1. Effects on growth and slaughter performance, haematological and serum traits
Authors: Pozzo L. , Salamano G. , Mellia E. , Gennero M.S. , Doglione L. , Cavallarin L. , Tarantola M. , Forneris G. , Schiavone A. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryThe European Commission Recommendation 2006/576/EC, suggests that the maximum level of Ochratoxin A (OTA) in poultry feeds should be set at 0.1 mg OTA/kg. Thirty‐six one‐day‐old male Hubburd broiler chickens were divided into two groups, a Control (basal diet) and an Ochratoxin A (basal diet + 0.1 mg OTA/kg) group. The growth and slaughter performance traits were recorded. The liver, spleen, bursa of Fabricius and thymus weights were measured. The erythrocyte and leukocyte numbers were assayed in blood samples, and the heterophils to lymphocytes (H/L) ratio was determined. Alpha‐1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP), lysozyme, the total protein and the electrophoretic pattern were evaluated in serum samples. Liver enzymes (alanino aminotransferase, ALT and aspartate aminotransferase, AST) and kidney function parameters (uric acid and creatinine) were quantified. The results revealed that feeding a 0.1 mg OTA/kg contaminated diet to chicks caused a decrease in the absolute thymus weight (p < 0.05) and a lower total protein (p < 0.01), albumin (p < 0.01), alpha (p < 0.05), beta (p = 0.001) and gamma (p = 0.001) globulins serum concentration in the Ochratoxin A group. Moreover, the albumin‐to‐globulin (A/G) ratio of the OTA‐treated animals resulted to be higher (p < 0.05). Feeding broiler chickens, a diet contaminated with the maximum level admitted by the European Commission Recommendation (0.1 mg OTA/kg), did not affect the animal performance, slaughter traits, organ weights, haematological parameters, liver enzyme or renal function parameters concentrations but had an overall immunosuppressant effect, with reduction in the thymus weight and of the total serum protein, albumin, alpha, beta and gamma globulins concentration.
Feeding a diet contaminated with ochratoxin A for broiler chickens at the maximum level recommended by the EU for poultry feeds (0.1 mg/kg). 2. Effects on meat quality, oxidative stress, residues and histological traits
Authors: Pozzo L. , Cavallarin L. , Antoniazzi S. , Guerre P. , Biasibetti E. , Capucchio M. T. , Schiavone A. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryThe European Commission Recommendation 2006/576/EC indicates that the maximum tolerable level of ochratoxin A (OTA) in poultry feeds is 0.1 mg OTA/kg. Thirty‐six 1‐day‐old male broiler chicks were divided into two groups, a control (basal diet) and an OTA (basal diet + 0.1 mg OTA/kg) group. The OTA concentration was quantified in serum, liver, kidney, breast and thigh samples. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content were evaluated in the liver, kidney, breast and thigh samples. The glutathione (GSH) content, and catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured in the liver and kidney samples. Histopathological traits were evaluated for the spleen, bursa of Fabricius and liver samples. Moreover, the chemical composition of the meat was analysed in breast and thigh samples. In the OTA diet‐fed animals, a serum OTA concentration of 1.15 ± 0.35 ng/ml was found, and OTA was also detected in kidney and liver at 3.58 ± 0.85 ng OTA/g f.w. and 1.92 ± 0.21 ng OTA/g f.w., respectively. The TBARS content was higher in the kidney of the ochratoxin A group (1.53 ± 0.18 nmol/mg protein vs. 0.91 ± 0.25 nmol/mg protein). Feeding OTA at 0.1 mg OTA/kg also resulted in degenerative lesions in the spleen, bursa of Fabricius and liver. The maximum tolerable level of 0.1 mg OTA/kg, established for poultry feeds by the EU, represents a safe limit for the final consumer, because no OTA residues were found in breast and thigh meat. Even though no clinical signs were noticed in the birds fed the OTA‐contaminated diet, moderate histological lesions were observed in the liver, spleen and bursa of Fabricius.
Early Maladaptive Cognitive Schemas in Child Sexual Offenders Compared with Sexual Offenders against Adults and Nonsexual Violent Offenders: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Chakhssi Farid , de Ruiter Corine , Bernstein David P. 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Although there is a growing body of research on the role of offense supporting cognitive distortions in child sexual offending, little is known about the origins of these distortions. According to cognitive theory, maladaptive cognitive schemas originating in adverse childhood experiences with caregivers have been hypothesized to underlie these cognitive distortions.

Aim
This exploratory study investigates early maladaptive schemas (EMSs) in child sexual offenders compared with sexual offenders against adults and nonsexual offenders.

Main Outcome Measures
EMSs were measured with the Young Schema Questionnaire, and psychopathy was measured with the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised.

Methods
Three groups of forensic inpatients—23 child sexual offenders, 19 sexual offenders against adults, and 24 nonsexual violent offenders—were assessed. Multivariate analyses of covariance were used to examine the hypothesized group differences in EMSs.

Results
Results showed that, after controlling for level of psychopathy, EMSs related to Abandonment (M =2.61 vs. M =1.73, P &lt;0.01), Social Isolation (M =2.50 vs. M =1.62, P &lt;0.01), Defectiveness/Shame (M =2.05 vs. M =1.42, P &lt;0.05), Subjugation (M =2.28 vs. M =1.57, P &lt;0.05), and Self-Sacrifice (M =3.29 vs. M =2.41, P &lt;0.05) were more prevalent in child sexual offenders compared with nonsexual violent offenders. Compared with sexual offenders against adults, child sexual offenders showed a trend to have higher scores on EMSs related to Social Isolation (M =2.50 vs. M =1.88, P =0.066).

Conclusions
Our findings suggest that EMSs may play a role in offending behavior in child sexual offenders and offer the possibility of informing treatment strategies.
Adulteration of Purported Herbal and Natural Sexual Performance Enhancement Dietary Supplements with Synthetic Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors
Authors: Campbell Neil , Clark John P. , Stecher Vera J. , Thomas John W. , Callanan Amy C. , Donnelly Brian F. , Goldstein Irwin , Kaminetsky Jed C. 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Many products labeled “herbal” or “all natural” (herbal/natural) that claim to enhance sexual performance and imply use for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) are marketed as over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplements. However, adulteration with undeclared phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors appears widespread.

Aim
To assess the availability, cost, origin, categorical content, and adulteration with PDE5 inhibitors of purported herbal/natural OTC dietary supplements claiming to naturally enhance sexual performance.

Methods
Pfizer Global Security coordinated sample collection (all from convenience stores and filling stations in two U.S. metropolitan areas except for seven from U.S. Customs seizures) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry examination.

Main Outcome Measure
Adulteration with synthetic PDE5 inhibitors.

Results
Ninety-one samples labeled as 58 distinct products and priced from $2.99 to $17.99 were evaluated. Origin/manufacture was claimed as United States (n=62), apparently Asian (n=15), and not clearly identified (n=14). Although no sample claimed to include synthetic substances, 74 (81%) contained PDE5-inhibitor pharmaceutical ingredients, including tadalafil and/or sildenafil (n=40, of which 18 contained &gt;110% of the highest approved drug product strength) or PDE5-inhibitor analogs (n=34). Pronounced heterogeneity of contents between samples within individual products indicated minimal quality control during manufacture. Labeling was inadequate (e.g., lacking lot number and/or expiry date) for 17 products (23 samples) and inconsistent between samples within a given product (e.g., in manufacturer, lot number, and/or expiry date) for seven of 17 products having multiple samples. Only 14 samples warned against concomitant nitrate use.

Conclusions
Ethical pharmaceutical companies are concerned for an unsuspecting public when their products are counterfeited, mislabeled, and illegally offered for sale in an unsafe manner. Because of the dangers of adulteration with synthetic PDE5 inhibitors, absent safety warnings, and lack of quality or consistent manufacture, men with ED unknowingly risk their health by using OTC herbal/natural products that claim to enhance sexual performance.
Regulation of male prolactin levels in an opportunistically breeding species, the African striped mouse
Authors: Raynaud J. , Schradin C. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractThe timing of reproduction of many species depends on seasonal changes in prolactin secretion. Photoperiod coincides with annual seasonal changes and typically regulates prolactin secretion. However, when environmental conditions are unpredictable, other ecological factors may contribute to prolactin regulation. In African striped mice (Rhabdomys pumilio), males show seasonal changes in reproduction and in prolactin levels, but unexpected increases of food availability out of the regular breeding season can also induce reproduction. We measured prolactin levels in free‐ranging male African striped mice during three periods: (1) the natural breeding in spring with increasing photoperiod; (2) the natural non‐breeding season in summer (dry season) with decreasing photoperiod; and (3) during two summers with unexpected rainfall inducing breeding in the population. Here, we report that breeding males showed increased prolactin levels when they were breeding independently of increases and decreases in day length. Also, we found a positive correlation (P = 0.05) between the availability of food plants and prolactin levels. Changes in prolactin levels in opportunistically breeding species like the African striped mouse are not strictly regulated by photoperiod, but seem to respond to cues from food availability.
MicroRNA‐491 is involved in metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibitions of matrix metalloproteinase and epithelial to mesenchymal transition
Authors: Zhou Yun , Li Yuan , Ye Jing , Jiang Rongrong , Yan Han , Yang Xiaojun , Liu Qizhan , Zhang Jianping 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBackground & AimsHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide; the prognosis of HCC patient remains poor owing to intrahepatic and extrahepatic metastasis and postsurgical recurrence. The aim of the present study is to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying the metastasis of HCC.MethodsHCC patients and treated HCC cells were molecularly characterized by miRNA microarray analysis, qRT‐PCR, Western blots, transwell assay, and immunohistochemistry.ResultsHere, by employing a miRNAs microarray analysis, we found that miR‐491 level was the most significant down‐regulation in poorly differentiated HCC tissue compared with well‐differentiated HCC tissue. We then selected HepG2 (very low migratory capacity), MHCC97L (low migratory capacity) and MHCC97H (high migratory capacity), as well as HCC tissues with different status to further investigate the effects of miR‐491 on the metastasis of HCC. Our data showed that miR‐491 levels were inversely correlated with different status of differentiation in HCC tissues and with migratory potential in HCC cell lines. In HepG2 cells, inhibition of miR‐491 increased the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2/9 (MMP‐2/9) and the migratory potential; however, in MHCC97H cells, overexpression of miR‐491 level decreased the expression of MMP‐2/9 and the migratory capacity. Moreover, miR‐491 had a positive relationship with E‐cadherin level; however, it had a negative relationship with vimentin level both in cell lines and tissue samples of HCC. MiR‐491 levels of non‐metastasis HCC tissue are higher than that of metastasis HCC tissue.ConclusionOur results suggest that miR‐491 is involved in metastasis of HCC by blocking EMT and decreasing MMP‐9 levels, which may provide a new clue for preventing tumour metastasis of HCC.
Randomized controlled trial assessing the effect of simvastatin in primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Cash William J. , O'Neill Stephen , O'Donnell Mark E. , McCance David R. , Young Ian S. , McEneny Jane , McDougall Neil I. , Callender Michael E. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBackgroundThis study evaluated the effect of statins in Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) on endothelial function, anti‐oxidant status and vascular compliance.MethodsPrimary biliary cirrhosis patients with hypercholesterolaemia were randomized to receive 20 mg simvastatin or placebo in a single blind, randomized controlled trial. Body mass index, blood pressure, glucose, liver function, lipid profile, immunoglobulin levels, serological markers of endothelial function and anti‐oxidant status were measured as well as vascular compliance, calculated from pulse wave analysis and velocity, at recruitment and again at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months.ResultsTwenty‐one PBC patients (F = 20, mean age = 55) were randomized to simvastatin 20 mg (n = 11) or matched placebo (n = 10). At completion of the trial, serum cholesterol levels in the simvastatin group were significantly lower compared with the placebo group (4.91 mmol/L vs. 6.15 mmol/L, P = 0.01). Low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) levels after 12 months were also significantly lower in the simvastatin group (2.33 mmol/L vs. 3.53 mmol/L, P = 0.01). After 12 months of treatment, lipid hydroperoxides were lower (0.49 μmol/L vs. 0.59 μmol/L, P = 0.10) while vitamin C levels were higher (80.54 μmol/L vs. 77.40 μmol/L, P = 0.95) in the simvastatin group. Pulse wave velocity remained similar between treatment groups at 12 months (8.45 m/s vs. 8.80 m/s, P = 0.66). Only one patient discontinued medication owing to side effects. No deterioration in liver transaminases was noted in the simvastatin group.ConclusionsStatin therapy in patients with PBC appears safe and effective towards overall reductions in total cholesterol and LDL levels. Our initial study suggests that simvastatin may also confer advantageous effects on endothelial function and antioxidant status.
HGF and SDF‐1‐mediated mobilization of CD133+BMSC for hepatic regeneration following extensive liver resection
Authors: Lehwald Nadja , Duhme Constanze , Wildner Marina , Kuhn Stephanie , Fürst Günter , Forbes Stuart J. , Jonas Sven , Robson Simon C. , Knoefel Wolfram T. , Schmelzle Moritz , Schulte am Esch Jan 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe molecular mechanisms of haematopoietic stem cells (HSC) mobilization and homing to the liver after partial hepatectomy (PH) remain largely unexplored.MethodsFunctional liver volume loss and regain was determined by computerized tomography (CT) volumetry in 30 patients following PH. Peripheral HSC mobilization was investigated by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) analyses and cytokine enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay assays. Migration of purified HSC towards hepatic growth factor (HGF) and stroma‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) gradients was tested in vitro. Mice after 70% PH were examined for HSC mobilization by FACS and cytokine mRNA expression in the liver. FACS‐sorted HSC were administered after PH and hepatocyte proliferation was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining for Ki67.ResultsImpaired liver function was noted after extended hepatic resection when compared to smaller resections. Patients with large liver resections were characterized by significantly higher levels of peripheral HSC which were positively correlated with the extent of resected liver volume and its regain after 3 weeks. Increased plasma levels of HGF, SDF‐1 and insulin like growth factor (IGF‐1) were evident within the first 6 hours post resection. Migration assays of human HSC in vitro showed a specific target‐demonstrated migration towards recombinant HGF and SDF‐1 gradients in a concentration and specific receptor (c‐Met and CXCR4) dependent manner. The evaluation of peripheral human alpha foetoprotein expression demonstrated pronounced stemness following increased CD133+HSC in the course of liver regeneration following PH. Our human data were further validated in a murine model of PH and furthermore demonstrated increased hepatocyte proliferation subsequent to CD133+HSC treatment.ConclusionHGF and SDF‐1 are required for effective HSC mobilization and homing to the liver after hepatic resection. These findings have significant implications for potential therapeutic strategies targeting chemotactant modulation and stem cell mobilization for liver protection and regeneration.
Bacillus subtilis serine/threonine protein kinase YabT is involved in spore development via phosphorylation of a bacterial recombinase
Authors: Bidnenko Vladimir , Shi Lei , Kobir Ahasanul , Ventroux Magali , Pigeonneau Nathalie , Henry Céline , Trubuil Alain , Noirot‐Gros Marie‐Françoise , Mijakovic Ivan 
Published: May 2013

SummaryWe characterized YabT, a serine/threonine kinase of the Hanks family, from Bacillus subtilis. YabT is a putative transmembrane kinase that lacks the canonical extracellular signal receptor domain. We demonstrate that YabT possesses a DNA‐binding motif essential for its activation. In vivo YabT is expressed during sporulation and localizes to the asymmetric septum. Cells devoid of YabT sporulate more slowly and exhibit reduced resistance to DNA damage during sporulation. We established that YabT phosphorylates DNA‐recombinase RecA at the residue serine 2. A non‐phosphorylatable mutant of RecA exhibits the same phenotype as the ΔyabT mutant, and a phosphomimetic mutant of RecA complements ΔyabT, suggesting that YabT acts via RecA phosphorylation in vivo. During spore development, phosphorylation facilitates the formation of transient and mobile RecA foci that exhibit a scanning‐like movement associated to the nucleoid in the mother cell. In some cells these foci persist at the end of spore development. We show that persistent RecA foci, which presumably coincide with irreparable lesions, are mutually exclusive with the completion of spore morphogenesis. Our results highlight similarities between the bacterial serine/threonine kinase YabT and eukaryal kinases C‐Abl and Mec1, which are also activated by DNA, and phosphorylate proteins involved in DNA damage repair.
Assessment of optic disc photographs for glaucoma by UK optometrists: the Moorfields Optic Disc Assessment Study (MODAS)
Authors: Hadwin Shona E , Redmond Tony , Garway‐Heath David F , Lemij Hans G , Reus Nicolaas J , Ward Gavin , Anderson Roger S 
Published: May 2013

AbstractPurposeTo assess the ability of UK optometrists to accurately discriminate between stereoscopic photographs of healthy and glaucomatous optic discs.MethodsAn online survey, including questions relating to qualification, practice environment, and diagnostic methods was completed by 1256 optometrists. Based on their responses, 208 (17%) were selected to undertake an online disc assessment exercise. Optometrists evaluated the same disc images previously assessed by European ophthalmologists as part of the European Optic Disc Assessment Trial (EODAT); the task was to state if the disc appeared healthy or glaucomatous. There were 110 stereoscopic disc images, of which 40 were healthy, 48 glaucomatous, and six ocular hypertensive, with 16 duplicates images. Sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy were calculated and compared between optometrist groups and with the EODAT ophthalmologists using permutation analysis.ResultsMedian sensitivity was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.70, 1.00) and median specificity was 0.74 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.88). Median overall accuracy was 80% (95% CI: 67%, 88%). Agreement between optometrists was moderate (Fleiss' κ: 0.57). Optometrists with higher qualifications did not have overall higher sensitivity than those without (p = 0.23), but had higher specificity (p = 0.001) and higher overall accuracy (p < 0.001). Optometrists displayed higher sensitivity but lower specificity than the EODAT ophthalmologists.ConclusionUK optometrists displayed a high sensitivity and moderate specificity when assessing optic discs for the presence of glaucoma, in the context of this study.