bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Terminal contact elements of insect attachment devices studied by transmission X-ray microscopy
Authors: Eimüller T. , Guttmann P. , Gorb S. N. 
Published: May 2008

SUMMARY
For the first time, the terminal elements (spatulae) of setal (hairy)attachment devices of the beetle Gastrophysa viridula (Coleoptera,Chrysomelidae) and the fly Lucilia caesar (Diptera, Calliphoridae)were studied using transmission X-ray microscopy (TXM) with a lateral resolution of about 30 nm. Since images are taken under ambient conditions, we demonstrate here that this method can be applied to study the contact behaviour of biological systems, including animal tenent setae, in a fresh state. We observed that the attached spatulae show a viscoelastic behavior increasing the contact area and providing improved adaptability to the local topography of the surface. The technique can be extended to TXM tomography,which would provide three-dimensional information and a deeper insight into the details of insect attachment structures.
Isolation of naturally associated bacteria of necromenicPristionchusnematodes and fitness consequences
Authors: Rae Robbie , Riebesell Metta , Dinkelacker Iris , Wang Qiong , Herrmann Matthias , Weller Andreas M. , Dieterich Christoph , Sommer Ralf J. 
Published: May 2008

SUMMARYNematodes and bacteria are major components of the soil ecosystem. Many nematodes use bacteria for food, whereas others evolved specialized bacterial interactions ranging from mutualism to parasitism. Little is known about the biological mechanisms by which nematode–bacterial interactions are achieved, largely because in the laboratory nematodes are often cultured under artificial conditions. We investigated the bacterial interactions of nematodes from the genus Pristionchus that have a strong association with scarab beetles. Pristionchus has a different feeding strategy than Caenorhabditis and meta-genomic 16S sequence analysis of Pristionchus individuals showed a diversity of living bacteria within the nematode gut and on the nematode cuticle. Twenty-three different bacterial strains were isolated from three Pristionchus–beetle associations and were used to study nematode–bacterial interactions under controlled laboratory conditions. We show a continuum of bacterial interactions from dissemination, to reduction in brood size and nematode mortality caused by bacteria derived from insect hosts. Olfactory discrimination experiments show distinct chemoattraction and fitness profiles of Pristionchus nematodes when exposed to different bacteria. For example, Pristionchus pacificus avoids Serratia marcescenspossibly because of pathogenicity. Also, P. pacificus avoids Bacillus thuringiensis and insect pathogenic bacteria but is resistant to the human pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, unlike Caenorhabditis elegans. Pristionchus specifically recognize and respond to bacteria that cause ill health. Bringing the nematode–bacterial interaction into the laboratory allows detailed functional studies, including the genetic manipulation of the interaction in both nematodes and bacteria.
A biphasic memory curve in the chambered nautilus,Nautilus pompiliusL. (Cephalopoda: Nautiloidea)
Authors: Crook Robyn , Basil Jennifer 
Published: May 2008

SUMMARYCephalopods are an exceptional taxon for examining the competing influences of ecology and evolutionary history on brain and behaviour. Coleoid cephalopods (octopuses, cuttlefishes and squids) have evolved specialised brains containing dedicated learning and memory centres, and rely on plastic behaviours to hunt prey effectively and communicate intricate visual displays. Their closest living relative, the primitive nautilus, is the sole remnant of an ancient lineage that has persisted since the Cambrian. Nautilus brains are the simplest among the extant cephalopods, and the absence of dedicated learning and memory regions may represent an ancestral condition. It is assumed that the absence of these regions should limit memory storage and recall in nautilus, but this assumption has never been tested. Here we describe the first evidence of learning and memory in chambered nautilus(Nautilus pompilius). Using a Pavlovian conditioning paradigm, we demonstrate that chambered nautilus exhibits temporally separated short- and long-term memory stores, producing a characteristic biphasic memory curve similar to that of cuttlefishes. Short-term memory persisted for less than 1 h post-training, whereas long-term memory was expressed between 6 and 24 h after training. Despite lacking the dedicated neural regions that support learning and memory in all other extant cephalopods, nautilus expressed a similar memory profile to coleoids. Thus the absence of these regions in the nautilus brain does not appear to limit memory expression, as hypothesised. Our results provide valuable insights into the evolution of neural structures supporting memory.
Genetically modified plants and human health
Authors: Key Suzie , Ma Julian K-C , Drake Pascal MW 
Published: May 2008

Summary Genetically modified (or GM) plants have attracted a large amount of media attention in recent years and continue to do so. Despite this, the general public remains largely unaware of what a GM plant actually is or what advantages and disadvantages the technology has to offer, particularly with regard to the range of applications for which they can be used. From the first generation of GM crops, two main areas of concern have emerged, namely risk to the environment and risk to human health. As GM plants are gradually being introduced into the European Union there is likely to be increasing public concern regarding potential health issues. Although it is now commonplace for the press to adopt ‘health campaigns’, the information they publish is often unreliable and unrepresentative of the available scientific evidence. We consider it important that the medical profession should be aware of the state of the art, and, as they are often the first port of call for a concerned patient, be in a position to provide an informed opinion. This review will examine how GM plants may impact on human health both directly – through applications targeted at nutrition and enhancement of recombinant medicine production – but also indirectly, through potential effects on the environment. Finally, it will examine the most important opposition currently facing the worldwide adoption of this technology: public opinion.
Notch Strengthening and Its Impact on the Deformation and Fracture of 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Wu Xianglin , Pan Xiao , Stubbins James F. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
316L stainless steel has been widely used for structural component applications in irradiation environments. The impact of manufacturing or service-induced defects on material tensile response and fracture behavior has been a longstanding concern. In this study, electron backscattering diffraction and finite element methods have been utilized to examine and model the tensile response of 316L stainless steel with different notch geometries. The tensile response is influenced by twinning at room temperature, while it is completely absent at temperatures higher than 200°C. In addition, irradiation exposure increases the yield point of the material and reduces the ductility. It is found that the larger plastic deformation area and severe tip blunting in ductile, unirradiated material promote uniformly distributed post-yield strain hardening processes. In this case, fracture initiates internally for tensile and C-notched specimen geometries, but from the notch tip for sharp V-notched specimen geometries. When irradiation-induced hardening is considered, similar fracture modes are found, however, strains to fracture are significantly reduced.
Elizabeth Montagu's Study of Cicero's Life: The Formation of an Eighteenth-Century Woman's Rhetorical Identity
Authors: Smith Tania 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Popular eighteenth-century British biographies of Cicero had a significant impact on the rhetorical identity formation of Elizabeth Montagu (1720–1800). As the acknowledged founder of the “Bluestocking” salon, Elizabeth Montagu played a key role in forming the conversational and epistolary eloquence of her broad and influential network of men and women. A careful analysis of the young Elizabeth's epistolary discussion of biographies of Cicero and Atticus, especially Conyers Middleton's Life of Cicero, provides insight into Montagu's mature rhetorical practice as well as neo-Ciceronian influences on men's and women's rhetorical identity formation in eighteenth-century Britain.
Sententiae in Cicero Orator 137–9 and Demosthenes De corona
Authors: Usher Stephen 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
This paper argues that Cicero's reading of Demosthenes' De corona and his preoccupation with Demosthenes at the time he was composing the Brutus and in particular the Orator are evident in the list of thirty-four sententiae (“figures of thought”) given at Orator 137–9. Examples of all of these may be found in the De corona and they are listed here. It is also argued that the De corona was by far the most influential of Demosthenes' speeches on Cicero's Philippics.
Incretin levels in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Vrbikova Jana , Hill Martin , Bendlova Bela , Grimmichova Tereza , Dvorakova Katerina , Vondra Karel , Pacini Giovanni 
Published: May 2008

ObjectivePolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been linked to a high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Disturbances in the secretion of the incretin hormones glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) have been observed in states with impaired glucose regulation. This paper considers the secretion of GIP and GLP-1 after oral glucose load in a group of lean, glucose-tolerant PCOS women in comparison with age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched healthy women.DesignCase control.MethodsPCOS (n=21, 25.8±4.1 years, BMI 21.6±1.7 kg/m2) and control healthy women (CT, n=13, 28.5±7.2 years, BMI 20.3±2.5 kg/m2) underwent oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with blood sampling for glucose, insulin, C-peptide, total GIP, and active GLP-1. Insulin sensitivity was determined both at fasting and during the test.StatisticsRepeated measures ANOVA.ResultsGlucose levels and insulin sensitivity did not differ between PCOS and CT. PCOS had significantly higher levels of C-peptide (P<0.05) and tended to have higher insulin levels. The levels of total GIP were significantly higher in PCOS than in CT (P<0.001). Active GLP-1 levels exhibited a significantly different time-dependent pattern in PCOS (P<0.002 for PCOS versus time interaction). GLP-1 concentrations were similar in PCOS and CT in the early phase of OGTT and then reached significantly lower levels in PCOS than in CT at 180 min (P<0.05).ConclusionsIncreased total GIP and lower late phase active GLP-1 concentrations during OGTT characterize PCOS women with higher C-peptide secretion in comparison with healthy controls, and may be the early markers of a pre-diabetic state.
Injury and Illness at the Newport-Bermuda Race 1998– 2006
Authors: Nathanson Andrew T. , Fischer Edwin G. , Mello Michael J. , Baird Janette 
Published: May 2008

Objective To describe the relative frequency and types of injury and illness in the Newport-Bermuda off-shore yachting race. Methods At the end of each race held in even numbered years from 1998–2006, the captain of each boat was asked to complete a survey detailing any injury or illness among his/her crew. Results There was an overall 87% response rate to the survey. During the study period, 38 injuries and 57 illnesses were reported for an estimated 8105 sailors, yielding rate of injury or illness of 12 per 1000 races per sailor. Most common were injuries to the upper extremity (47%), and lacerations were the most common type of injury (45%). Sea sickness was the most common illness, and the rate of illness and injury increased in races that took place in heavy weather. Radio consultations were used 4 times, and 3 sailors required transport to a hospital. Conclusions The rate of injury and illness was relatively low in the Newport-Bermuda race. Injuries to the upper extremities and lacerations were most common, and sea sickness was the most common illness. The majority of illness and injury can be initially managed onboard.
Efficacy of a New Blister Prevention Plaster Under Tropical Conditions
Authors: Sian-Wei Tan Shani , Kok Swee Kuan , Lim Jeremy Khim Yong 
Published: May 2008

Objective To survey the incidence of blister formation in a group of military recruits and to determine the efficacy of a new commercially available blister prevention plaster (Blist-O-Ban). Methods Questionnaires were completed by 100 male recruits, and the same 100 were entered into a field trial. Due to illness, 2 did not complete the study. Premarch foot condition was documented. Each participant acted as his own control. Foot side and plaster site were randomly selected, and plasters were applied according to a strict protocol. Participants were re-examined for blisters after a 16-km hike with pack, and the condition of the feet was documented. A χ2 test was used to analyze the results. Results Ninety-eight volunteers with 101 Blist-O-Ban application sites participated. Twenty-seven participants developed a total of 46 blisters. Heel and toe blisters accounted for more than half of all blisters. None of the bandage application sites developed blisters, and 99 out of 101 bandages remained well adhered to the application sites. Conclusions When applied according to strict protocol, the new blister prevention bandage remained well-adhered to application sites and prevented the formation of foot blisters even in humid tropical conditions.
National Estimates of Outdoor Recreational Injuries Treated in Emergency Departments, United States, 2004–2005
Authors: Flores Adrian H. , Haileyesus Tadesse , Greenspan Arlene I. 
Published: May 2008

Objective To provide national estimates of nonfatal outdoor recreational injuries treated in US emergency departments (EDs). Methods Outdoor recreational injuries from January 2004 through December 2005 were identified using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System–All Injury Program, a nationally representative sample of ED visits. National estimates of outdoor recreational injuries were calculated, and activities leading to injury, demographic characteristics, principal diagnoses, and primary body parts affected were described. Results From January 2004 through December 2005, an estimated 212 708 (95% CI = 113 808– 311 608) persons were treated each year in US EDs for outdoor recreational injuries. The annual rate of injuries was 72.1 per 100 000 population (95% CI = 38.6–105.6). Males accounted for 68.2% of the injuries. The lower limb (27%), upper limb (25%), and head and neck region (23.3%) were the most commonly injured body regions. Fractures (27.4%) and sprains or strains (23.9%) were the most common diagnoses. Traumatic brain injuries were diagnosed in 6.5% of injuries, and 5% of injuries resulted in hospitalization or transfer to another hospital. Conclusions The results of this study provide a starting point for further research into the epidemiology of outdoor and wilderness injury. The results reinforce many common perceptions about the nature of these injuries while highlighting the potential severity and long-term consequences of the injuries. The general recommendations of proper planning, preparation, and problem anticipation for outdoor and wilderness injury prevention should be followed to reduce both the number and severity of injuries.
Evidence That Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cells Are Mobilized into Peripheral Blood
Authors: Kucia Magda J. , Wysoczynski Marcin , Wu Wan , Zuba-Surma Ewa K. , Ratajczak Janina , Ratajczak Mariusz Z. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractRecently, we identified in murine adult tissues, including bone marrow, a population of very small embryonic-like (VSEL) stem cells. Here, we provide further evidence that under steady-state conditions these cells circulate at very low levels in peripheral blood (PB) (∼100–200 cells/ml) and could be additionally mobilized during pharmacological granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor-induced or stress-related mobilization, as demonstrated in a model of toxic liver or skeletal muscle damage induced by injection of carbon tetrachloride or cardiotoxin, respectively. The number of circulating VSEL stem cells under steady-state conditions in PB of 2-month-old animals was five times higher than that in 1-year-old mice. In conclusion, this study supports a hypothesis that VSEL stem cells are a mobile pool of primitive stem cells that could be released from the stem cell niches into PB. Further studies are needed, however, to see whether the level of these cells circulating in PB could become a prognostic indicator to assess the regenerative potential of an adult organism and/or clinical outcome from an injury.Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Hypermethylation ofCXCR4Promoter in CD34+ Cells from Patients with Primary Myelofibrosis
Authors: Bogani Costanza , Ponziani Vanessa , Guglielmelli Paola , Desterke Cristophe , Rosti Vittorio , Bosi Alberto , Le Bousse-Kerdilès Marie-Caroline , Barosi Giovanni , Vannucchi Alessandro M. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractConstitutive mobilization of CD34+ cells in patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF) has been attributed to proteolytic disruption of the CXCR4/SDF-1 axis and reduced CXCR4 expression. We document here that the number of circulating CD34+/CXCR4+ cells in PMF patients, as well as the cellular CXCR4 expression, was directly related to CXCR4 mRNA level and that reduced CXCR4 mRNA level was not due to SDF-1-induced downregulation. To address whether epigenetic regulation contributes to defective CXCR4 expression, we studied the methylation status of the CXCR4 promoter using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and methylation-specific sequencing in the JAK2V617F-positive HEL cell line and in CD34+ cells. We found that CD34+ cells from PMF patients, unlike those from normal subjects, presented hypermethylation of CXCR4 promoter CpG island 1. Following incubation with the demethylating agent 5-Aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-AzaD), the percentage of PMF CD34+ cells expressing CXCR4 increased 3–10 times, whereas CXCR4 mRNA level increased approximately 4 times. 5-AzaD-treated PMF CD34+ cells displayed almost complete reversal of CpG1 island 1 hypermethylation and showed enhanced migration in vitro in response to SDF-1. These data point to abnormal methylation of the CXCR4 promoter as a mechanism contributing to constitutive migration of CD34+ cells in PMF.Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
False Tumor Marker Surge Evoked by Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Inoue Masaharu , Koga Fumitaka , Kawakami Satoru , Numao Noboru , Sakura Mizuaki , Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Kihara Kazunori 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) allows multiple intensive chemotherapy treatments and hematopoietic progenitor cell rescues for poor-risk patients with a variety of malignancies. We report false surges of a tumor marker, serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), evoked by PBSCT in the course of chemotherapy for a poor-risk testicular cancer patient. We confirmed that this phenomenon resulted from reinfusion of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) containing hCG at a high concentration, collected when the patient's serum hCG levels were remarkably elevated. This is the first report to demonstrate false tumor marker surges caused by PBSCT. Because a rapid rise in tumor markers may demand an immediate change in the therapeutic strategy, physicians should be aware of the possibility of this phenomenon when treating poor-risk cancer patients whose tumor markers are remarkably elevated at the time of PBSC harvest.
Mental Health Status Among Rural Women of Reproductive Age: Findings From the Central Pennsylvania Women’s Health Study
Authors: Hillemeier Marianne M. , Weisman Carol S. , Chase Gary A. , Dyer Anne-Marie 
Published: May 2008

Objectives. We sought to examine variables associated with mental health among rural women of reproductive age, with particular attention given to rural area type and farm residence. Methods. We analyzed data from the Central Pennsylvania Women’s Health Study, which included a random-digit-dialed survey of women aged 18 to 45 years. Hierarchical multiple linear and logistic regression models were estimated to predict 3 mental health outcomes: score on a mental health measure, depressive symptoms, and diagnosed depression or anxiety. Results. Mental health outcomes were associated with different factors. Farm residence was associated with higher mental health score, and the most isolated rural residence was associated with less diagnosed depression or anxiety. Elevated psychosocial stress was consistently significant across all models. A key stress modifier, self-esteem, was also consistently significant across models. Other variables associated with 2 of the outcomes were intimate partner violence exposure and affectionate social support. Conclusions. Farm residence may be protective of general mental health for women of reproductive age, and residence in isolated rural areas may decrease access to mental health screening and treatment, resulting in fewer diagnoses of depression or anxiety.
Predictors of Longevity: Evidence From the Oldest Old in China
Authors: Dupre Matthew E. , Liu Guangya , Gu Danan 
Published: May 2008

Objectives. We investigated the characteristics of the oldest old in China and examined whether the factors associated with longevity varied with advanced age. Methods. Drawing from the largest nationally representative longitudinal sample of oldest-old adults, we stratified descriptive statistics separately by gender and urban–rural residence and then used ordered logit models to examine the multivariate factors associated with increasing age-group membership. Results. Differing combinations of demographic, social, physical, and behavioral factors were significantly related to surviving into later ages for men and women in urban and rural areas. With the exception of rural women, psychological disposition was not associated with increased longevity. Gender differences were generally smaller in urban areas than in rural areas, and urban–rural differences were more pronounced among women than among men. Conclusions. Findings from the oldest-old population in China challenge many of the established relations in the health-inequality literature. Future research should examine why the oldest old are an exceptional group of physically, socially, and demographically heterogeneous individuals who exhibit healthy longevity beyond the average life span.