bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The human‐induced imbalance between C, N and P in Earth's life system
Authors: Peñuelas Josep , Sardans Jordi , Rivas‐ubach Albert , Janssens Ivan A.
Published: October 2011

Human‐induced carbon and nitrogen fertilization are generating a strong imbalance with P. This imbalance confers an increasingly important role to P availability and N : P ratio in the Earth's life system, affecting carbon sequestration potential and the structure, function and evolution of the Earth's ecosystems.
Damage to roots of Trifolium subterraneum L. (subterranean clover), failure of seedlings to establish and the presence of root pathogens during autumn–winter
Authors: Simpson R. J. , Richardson A. E. , Riley I. T. , McKay A. C. , McKay S. F. , Ballard R. A. , Ophel‐Keller K. , Hartley D. , O’Rourke T. A. , Li H. , Sivasithamparam K. , Ryan M. H. , Barbetti M. J.
Published: October 2011

Field‐based plant bioassays were employed to assess the potential for pre‐ and post‐emergence loss of seedlings and for root damage affecting Trifolium subterraneum L. (subterranean clover) during autumn–winter at 17 pasture sites across a broad agricultural area of temperate southern Australia. Between 9 and 93% (median 21%) of T. subterranean seedlings failed to emerge at the 14 locations where soil moisture was considered adequate for germination. Post‐emergence losses were lower (range 0–32%; median 7%). Moderate damage (lateral roots) to severe damage (taproots) was recorded on surviving test plants at all of the sites. Sublethal damage to pasture roots constitutes a potentially large, but underestimated cost to production because it was so widespread and because the damage occurs during autumn–winter when pasture yield limits stocking rate. Potential for the loss of Lolium rigidum × multiflorum (annual ryegrass) seedlings was also demonstrated at some of the sites. DNA assays for common root rot disease pathogens (Pythium irregulare, Phytopthora clandestina and Rhizoctonia) were used for the first time to construct cost‐effective profiles of fungal and oomycete pathogens at each site. These assays may be useful for indicating disease risks and guiding plant cultivar selection and appropriate use of pesticides. DNA assays for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi were also used and have the potential to provide novel insights into the soil biology of farming systems.
Functionally similar species have similar dynamics
Authors: Rocha Marcia R. , Gaedke Ursula , Vasseur David A.
Published: October 2011

1. Improving the mechanistic basis of biodiversity–ecosystem function relationships requires a better understanding of how functional traits drive the dynamics of populations. For example, environmental disturbances or grazing may increase synchronization of functionally similar species, whereas functionally different species may show independent dynamics, because of different responses to the environment. Competition for resources, on the other hand, may yield a wide range of dynamic patterns among competitors and lead functionally similar and different species to display synchronized to compensatory dynamics. The mixed effect of these forces will influence the temporal fluctuations of populations and, thus, the variability of aggregate community properties.

2. To search for a relationship between functional and dynamics similarity, we studied the relationship between functional trait similarity and temporal dynamics similarity for 36 morphotypes of phytoplankton using long‐term high‐frequency measurements.

3. Our results show that functionally similar morphotypes exhibit dynamics that are more synchronized than those of functionally dissimilar ones. Functionally dissimilar morphotypes predominantly display independent temporal dynamics. This pattern is especially strong when short time‐scales are considered.

4.  Negative correlations are present among both functionally similar and dissimilar phytoplankton morphotypes, but are rarer and weaker than positive ones over all temporal scales.

5.
Synthesis. We demonstrate that diversity in functional traits decreases community variability and ecosystem‐level properties by decoupling the dynamics of individual morphotypes.
Optimization of EBSD parameters for ultra‐fast characterization
Authors: CHEN Y. , HJELEN J. , GIREESH S.S. , ROVEN H.J.
Published: October 2011

Ultra‐fast pattern acquisition of electron backscatter diffraction and offline indexing could become a dominant technique over online electron backscatter diffraction to investigate the microstructures of a wide range of materials, especially for in situ experiments or very large scans. However, less attention has been paid to optimize the parameters related to ultra‐fast electron backscatter diffraction. The present results show that contamination on a clean and unmounted specimen is not a problem even at step sizes as small as 1 nm at a vacuum degree of 6.1 × 10−5 Pa. There exists an optimum step size at about 50 data acquisition board units. A new and easy method to calculate the effective spatial resolution is proposed. Effective spatial resolution tends to increase slightly as the probe current increases from 10 to 100 nA. The fraction of indexed points decreases slightly as the frame rate increases from 128 patterns per second (pps) to 835 pps by compensating the probe current at the same ratio. The value 96 × 96 is found to be the optimum pattern resolution to obtain optimum speed and image quality. For a fixed position of electron backscatter diffraction detector, the fraction of indexed points as a function of working distance has a maximum value and drops sharply by shortening the working distance and it decreases slowly with increasing the working distance.
Granulysin Expression in Lymphocytes that Populate the Peripheral Blood and the Myocardium after an Acute Coronary Event
Authors: Persic V. , Ruzic A. , Miletic B. , Samsa D. Travica , Rakic M. , Raljevic D. , Pejcinovic V. Pehar , Eminovic S. , Zaputovic L. , Laskarin G.
Published: October 2011

We aimed to analyse granulysin (GNLY)‐mediated cytotoxicity in the peripheral blood of patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) treated with anti‐ischaemic drug therapy. Thirty‐nine NSTEMI patients with a median age of 70 years and 28 age‐matched healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. On day 7 after MI, the number of GNLY+ lymphocytes in the peripheral blood increased approximately six‐fold of that in the healthy subjects, measured by flow cytometry. On day 14, the number of GNLY+ cells significantly decreased in T, NKT, and both CD56+dim and CD56+bright NK subsets. GNLY+ CD3+ and GNLY+ CD56+ cells infiltrated central zone of myocardial infarction (MI). In persons who died in the first week after MI, GNLY+ cells were found within accumulation of apoptotic leucocytes and reached the apoptotic cardiomyocytes in border MI zones probably due to the influence of interleukin‐15 in peri‐necrotic cardiomyocytes, as it is was shown by immunohistology. By day 28, the percentage of GNLY+ lymphocytes in peripheral blood returned to the levels similar to that of the healthy subjects. Anti‐GNLY mAb decreased apoptosis of K562 targets using peripheral blood NK cells from days 7 and 28 after MI, while in assays using cells from days 1 and 21, both anti‐GNLY and anti‐perforin mAbs were required to significantly decrease apoptosis. Using NK cells from day 14, K562 apoptosis was nearly absent. In conclusion, it seems that GNLY+ lymphocytes, probably attracted by IL‐15, not only participate partially in myocardial cell apoptosis, but also hasten resolution of cardiac leucocyte infiltration in patients with NSTEMI.
The F‐box protein CPR1/CPR30 negatively regulates R protein SNC1 accumulation
Authors: Gou Mingyue , Shi Zhenying , Zhu Ying , Bao Zhilong , Wang Guoying , Hua Jian
Published: October 2011

Disease resistance (R) proteins, as central regulators of plant immunity, are tightly regulated for effective defense responses and to prevent constitutive defense activation under non‐pathogenic conditions. Here we report the identification of an F‐box protein CPR1/CPR30 as a negative regulator of an R protein SNC1 likely through SCF (Skp1‐cullin‐F‐box) mediated protein degradation. The cpr1‐2 (cpr30‐1) loss‐of‐function mutant has constitutive defense responses, and it interacts synergistically with a gain‐of function mutant snc1‐1 and a bon1‐1 mutant where SNC1 is upregulated. The loss of SNC1 function suppresses the mutant phenotypes of cpr1‐2 and cpr1‐2 bon1‐1, while overexpression of CPR1 rescues mutant phenotypes of both bon1‐1 and snc1‐1. Furthermore, the amount of SNC1 protein is upregulated in the cpr1‐2 mutant and down‐regulated when CPR1 is overexpressed. The regulation of SNC1 by CPR1 is dependent on the 26S proteosome as a protease inhibitor MG132 stabilizes SNC1 and reverses the effect of CPR1 on SNC1. Interestingly, CPR1 is induced after infection of both virulent and avirulent pathogens similarly to the other negative defense regulator BON1. Thus, this study reveals a new mechanism in R protein regulation likely through protein degradation and suggests negative regulation as a critical component in fine control of plant immunity.
The turbulent life of Sirevirus retrotransposons and the evolution of the maize genome: more than ten thousand elements tell the story
Authors: Bousios Alexandros , Kourmpetis Yiannis A. I. , Pavlidis Pavlos , Minga Evangelia , Tsaftaris Athanasios , Darzentas Nikos
Published: October 2011

Sireviruses are one of the three genera of Copia long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons, exclusive to and highly abundant in plants, and with a unique, among retrotransposons, genome structure. Yet, perhaps due to the few references to the Sirevirus origin of some families, compounded by the difficulty in correctly assigning retrotransposon families into genera, Sireviruses have hardly featured in recent research. As a result, analysis at this key level of classification and details of their colonization and impact on plant genomes are currently lacking. Recently, however, it became possible to accurately assign elements from diverse families to this genus in one step, based on highly conserved sequence motifs. Hence, Sirevirus dynamics in the relatively obese maize genome can now be comprehensively studied. Overall, we identified >10 600 intact and approximately 28 000 degenerate Sirevirus elements from a plethora of families, some brought into the genus for the first time. Sireviruses make up approximately 90% of the Copia population and it is the only genus that has successfully infiltrated the genome, possibly by experiencing intense amplification during the last 600 000 years, while being constantly recycled by host mechanisms. They accumulate in chromosome‐distal gene‐rich areas, where they insert in between gene islands, mainly in preferred zones within their own genomes. Sirevirus LTRs are heavily methylated, while there is evidence for a palindromic consensus target sequence. This work brings Sireviruses in the spotlight, elucidating their lifestyle and history, and suggesting their crucial role in the current genomic make‐up of maize, and possibly other plant hosts.
HLA‐G polymorphisms, genetic susceptibility, and clinical outcome in childhood neuroblastoma
Authors: Lau D. T. , Norris M. D. , Marshall G. M. , Haber M. , Ashton L. J.
Published: October 2011

Neuroblastoma is the most common solid tumor in children less than 5 years of age. The early onset of neuroblastoma suggests that genes involved in fetal development and pregnancy may have a putative role in the etiology of neuroblastoma. The human leukocyte antigen subtype G (HLA‐G) molecule plays an important role in immune response regulation and appears to regulate immune tolerance during early pregnancy as well as tumor immunosurveillance. Elevated levels of soluble HLA‐G (sHLA‐G) have been detected in a number of malignancies including serum samples from neuroblastoma and have been reported to be predictive of tumor relapse in neuroblastoma. In light of previous investigations suggesting that single nucleotide polymorphisms in the HLA‐G gene may impact on protein expression levels and isoform production, we examined the influence of HLA‐G polymorphisms on the susceptibility and clinical outcome of neuroblastoma in 163 neuroblastoma patients and 404 healthy controls. The distribution of HLA‐G polymorphisms, alleles, or allelic groups did not differ between children diagnosed with neuroblastoma and healthy controls. Our analyses did not detect an association between common HLA‐G polymorphisms and clinical outcome in patients treated for neuroblastoma.
Immunohistochemical, molecular, and clinicopathological analyses of urothelial carcinoma, micropapillary variant
Authors: Ishii Shuhei , Ohbu Makoto , Toomine Yukie , Nishimura Yukari , Hattori Manabu , Yokoyama Masaru , Toyonaga Masumi , Kakinuma Hirokuni , Matsumoto Kazumasa
Published: October 2011

The prognosis of urothelial carcinoma, micropapillary variant (MPV), of the bladder has been shown to be worse than that of the conventional urothelial carcinoma (UC). However, it remains to be clarified why the MPV is more aggressive. We therefore here focused on the correlation between clinical features and histological, immunohistochemical and molecular findings for eight MPV and 35 UC, evaluating expression of MUC1, Ki‐67, p53, CD147, CD34, D2‐40, and extracellular matrix proteins. The Ki‐67 labeling index was significantly higher in UC than in MPV but densities of venous and lymphatic tumor emboli were significantly higher in the MPV cases and lymph node metastasis was more frequent, with a poorer prognosis. Tenascin‐C and fibronectin also showed significantly greater expression in MPV than in UC at the epithelial–mesenchymal interfaces. Direct sequencing showed point mutations of KRAS exon 1 in three MPV with significantly more frequency compared to UC. Occupation rate of the MPV area in the tumor showed significant inverse correlation with overall survival. Thus our histopathological findings provide clues to explaining why prognosis is poorer in the MPV than UC.
Legionella pneumophila lung abscess associated with immune suppression
Authors: Guy S. D. , Worth L. J. , Thursky K. A. , Francis P. A. , Slavin M. A.
Published: October 2011

Legionella species are a common cause of community‐acquired pneumonia, infrequently complicated by cavitary disease. We describe Legionella pneumophila pneumonia and abscess formation in an immunosuppressed patient receiving corticosteroid therapy for metastatic breast carcinoma. The predisposing role of corticosteroids is discussed and the management of this complication is reviewed.
A darker shade of pale: Cultural intimacy in an age of terrorism (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Eriksen Thomas Hylland
Published: October 2011

The Norwegian reactions to the terrorist attack of 22 July surprised many foreign observers: Flower parades, compassionate speeches by national leaders and calls for more openness and tolerance, rather than resentful cries for revenge and heightened security, predominated. The explanation for this kind of reaction is threefold: First, the terrorist was homegrown and related to dark undercurrents of Norwegian nationalism, thus could not easily be connected to an existing enemy image. Second, Norway was not prepared for a calamity of this order and had no ready scripts to deal with the meaningless massacre. Third, and perhaps most importantly, the small scale of Norwegian society creates bonds of solidarity at a national level which easily can render the entire country, in a situation of crisis, into a metaphoric family, in this case a bereaved family.
The morality police are coming! Muslims in Norway's media discourses (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: Bangstad Sindre
Published: October 2011

In early 2010, a series of reports appeared in the influential liberal‐conservative Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten drawing attention to what appeared to reporters to be a self‐appointed, de facto Muslim ‘morality police’ attempting to use harassment to exert social control over non‐hijab‐wearing women of immigrant background and gay men in the district of Grønland in the inner city of Oslo. What came to be known in Norway as the ‘morality‐police debate’ demonstrated the extent to which the figure of the Muslim male as an embodied threat to Norway's presumed relative gender equality and lack of homophobia had come to be embedded in the country's media and political discourse. This article suggests that the debate can tell us much about why certain tropes central to Norway's anti‐Muslim discourses have gained such currency across the Norwegian political board in recent years.
Charitable Giving for Overseas Development: UK Trends over a Quarter Century
Authors: Atkinson Anthony B. , Backus Peter G. , Micklewright John , Pharoah Cathy , Schnepf Sylke V.
Published: October 2011

Charitable giving is an important source of funding for overseas development and emergency relief. Donations in the UK are about a quarter of the size of government development aid. There has been strong growth over time, reflecting the activities of development charities and the public response to humanitarian emergencies. The paper examines how this charitable giving has changed since 1978, using a newly constructed panel data set on donations to individual UK charities. When did the increase take place? Did the public respond to events such as Live Aid or has there been a steady upward trend? What has been the relationship with changes in household income? Which charities have grown fastest? Have new charities displaced old? How do changes in giving for overseas compare with changes in giving for other causes?
ATTRIBUTION OF CONCEPTS AND PROBLEMS WITH ANACHRONISM1
Authors: MITROVIĆ BRANKO
Published: October 2011

Many long‐standing debates about anachronistic concept‐attributions derive from an essentialist understanding of concepts that is often difficult to sustain for metaphysical or epistemological reasons. The intentionalist alternative to essentialism elaborated in this article successfully clarifies and avoids many standard problems with anachronism.
MYTH IN HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY OF HISTORY AS MYTH: ON THE AMBIVALENCE OF HANS BLUMENBERG'S INTERPRETATION OF ERNST CASSIRER'S THEORY OF MYTH
Authors: BARASH JEFFREY ANDREW
Published: October 2011

This essay explores the different interpretations proposed by Ernst Cassirer and Hans Blumenberg of the relation between Platonic philosophy and myth as a means of bringing to light a fundamental divergence in their respective conceptions of what precisely myth is. It attempts to show that their conceptions of myth are closely related to their respective assumptions concerning the historical significance of myth and regarding the sense of history more generally. Their divergent conceptions of myth and of history, I argue, are at the same time not simply matters of abstract speculation, but spring from fundamental presuppositions concerning myth's political significance. The present elucidation aims not only to set in relief one or another of the ways in which Cassirer or Blumenberg understood myth, nor even to present Blumenberg's critical reception of Cassirer's theories, but above all to contribute to the interpretation of the political implications of myth and of its historical potency in our contemporary epoch.
Climate change issues in fund investment practices
Authors: Sørensen Ole Beier , Pfeifer Stephanie
Published: October 2011

There has been a marked development in the way that institutional investors address environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in their investment practices. For public and private investors alike, these issues have now become part of mainstream investment practices, reflecting a greater understanding that they represent material risks and opportunities that must be addressed as part of fiduciary duty. Some ESG issues require an approach that goes far beyond the traditional simple screening approaches that the early niche funds employed. This is illustrated through a detailed discussion of investor practices on climate change, which must include an assessment of long‐term risks and opportunities and of the strategies that have been put in place to address these. It is also argued that as the role of policy and regulation is critical to shifting the economics in favour of low carbon investments, a structured dialogue between investors and policy‐makers is critical to ensuring that institutional capital is mobilized to support the policy goals of limiting climate change whilst still allowing investors to operate in line with their fiduciary responsibility.
Improving light fastness of natural dye: photostabilisation of gardenia blue
Authors: Oda Hironori
Published: October 2011

The photofading behaviour of gardenia blue on cellulose was investigated. A contribution of auto‐oxidation and singlet oxygen to that fading was suggested. The inhibiting effect of phenyl ester ultraviolet absorbers towards the photofading of gardenia blue was examined on cellulose. It has been found that the presence of a simple ultraviolet absorber is not of particular value in improving the light fastness of natural dye. The introduction of a singlet oxygen quenching group into an ultraviolet absorber can, however, have an important effect. The nickel complex of 1‐benzoyloxynaphthalene‐3‐sulphonic acid was very effective in reducing the rate of photofading.
Ink‐jet printing of nylon fabric using reactive dyestuff
Authors: Liao Shen‐Kung , Chen Huo‐Yuan
Published: October 2011

This study discusses ink‐jet printing of nylon fabric with reactive dyestuff. Specifically, this paper investigates the impact of the concentration levels of pretreatment paste on fabric permeability, and examines the influence of various acid agents, hygroscopic agents and different processing conditions on colour yield. Results show that ink‐jet printing displayed excellent wet fastness in repeated wash testing. This study used four reactive dyestuffs, cyan, magenta, yellow and black, all of which achieved both wash fastness and crock fastness of grade 4.
Light‐activated channels in acute seizures
Authors: Kokaia Merab
Published: October 2011

Optogenetics allow for timely precise and cell‐population specific activation or inhibition of neuronal activity. Hallorhodopsin NpHR is an inward cholride pump, which when activated by orange light, hyperpolarises neuronal membrane and inhibitis action potential generation. We were first to show that transduction of principal neurons with NpHR in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures effectivey attenuates epileptiform activity when exposed to orange light. Our data suggest that optogenetic approach may become a useful method for controlling epileptiform activity, and may open novel avenues to develop alternative treatment strategies for epilepsy.
Febrile infection–related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES): Does duration of anesthesia affect outcome?
Authors: Kramer Uri , Chi Ching‐Shiang , Lin Kuang‐Lin , Specchio Nicola , Sahin Mustafa , Olson Heather , Kluger Gerhard , van Baalen Andreas
Published: October 2011

We conducted a retrospective multicenter study on children who had been included in eight studies published between November 2001 and July 2010 to explore the correlations between burst‐suppression coma (BSC) with outcome in febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES). The 77 enrolled patients presented with prolonged refractory status epilepticus. BSC was induced in 46 patients. Cognitive levels at follow‐up were significantly associated with duration of a BSC (p = 0.005). The outcome of FIRES is poor. Treatment by inducing a prolonged BSC was associated with a worse cognitive outcome.
RAMPART (Rapid Anticonvulsant Medication Prior to Arrival Trial): A double‐blind randomized clinical trial of the efficacy of intramuscular midazolam versus intravenous lorazepam in the prehospital treatment of status epilepticus by paramedics
Authors: Silbergleit Robert , Lowenstein Daniel , Durkalski Valerie , Conwit Robin ,   the Neurological Emergency Treatment Trials (NETT) Investigators
Published: October 2011

Early treatment of prolonged seizures with benzodiazepines given intravenously by paramedics in the prehospital setting has been shown to be associated with improved outcomes. However, an increasing number of Emergency Medical System (EMS) protocols use an intramuscular (IM) route because it is faster and consistently achievable. RAMPART (Rapid Anticonvulsant Medication Prior to Arrival Trial) is a double‐blind randomized clinical trial to determine if the efficacy of IM midazolam is noninferior by a margin of 10% to that of intravenous (IV) lorazepam in patients treated by paramedics for status epilepticus (SE). Children and adults with >5 min of convulsions who are still seizing after paramedic arrival are administered study medication by IM autoinjector or IV infusion. The primary efficacy outcome is absence of seizures at emergency department (ED) arrival, without EMS rescue therapy. Safety outcomes include acute endotracheal intubation and recurrent seizures. Secondary outcomes include timing of treatment and initial seizure cessation. At the time of writing this communication, enrollment of all subjects is near completion and the study data will soon be analyzed.
Multimodal MRI assessment of damage and plasticity caused by status epilepticus in the rat brain
Authors: Gröhn Olli , Sierra Alejandra , Immonen Riikka , Laitinen Teemu , Lehtimäki Kimmo , Airaksinen Antti , Hayward Nick , Nairismagi Jaak , Lehto Lauri , Pitkänen Asla
Published: October 2011

Status epilepticus or other brain‐damaging insults launch a cascade of events that may lead to the development of epilepsy. MRI techniques available today, including T2‐ and T1‐weighted imaging, functional MRI, manganese enhanced MRI (MEMRI), arterial spin labeling (ASL), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and phase imaging, can detect not only damage caused by status epilepticus but also plastic changes in the brain that occur in response to damage. Optimal balance between damage and recovery processes is a key for planning possible treatments, and noninvasive imaging has the potential to greatly facilitate this process and to make personalized treatment plans possible.
Rational polytherapy in the treatment of acute seizures and status epilepticus
Authors: Wasterlain Claude G. , Baldwin Roger , Naylor David E. , Thompson Kerry W. , Suchomelova Lucie , Niquet Jerome
Published: October 2011

We used a model of severe cholinergic status epilepticus (SE) to study polytherapy aimed at reversing the effects of seizure‐induced loss of synaptic GABAA receptors and seizure‐induced gain of synaptic NMDA receptors. Combinations of a benzodiazepine with ketamine and valproate, or with ketamine and brivaracetam, were more effective and less toxic than benzodiazepine monotherapy in this model of SE.
Damping behavior of implant‐supported restorations
Authors: Magne Pascal , Silva Michael , Oderich Elisa , Boff Luis Leonildo , Enciso Reyes
Published: October 2011

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to assess the shock absorbing capacity of implant‐supported restorations (CAD/CAMcomposite resin or zirconia abutment with composite resin or porcelain crown/onlay) and a simulated natural tooth complex using the Periometer®.

Material and methods

One hundred and twenty Morse taper implants (Titamax CM 11 mm) were mounted on bone‐simulating acrylic resin base and restored withCAD/CAMzirconia (60) and metal composite resin Paradigm MZ100 (60) abutments. Using CEREC3, standardized onlays (60) and crowns (60) were designed and milled in ceramic (Paradigm C) or composite resin (Paradigm MZ100) to simulate a maxillary premolar. All restorations were luted with a preheated light curing composite resin (Filtek Z100). Fifteen extracted human upper premolars were mounted with a simulatedPDLand used as control group. The Periometer®, a new handheld percussion probe that measures the energy loss coefficient (LC) for both natural teeth and implant‐supported structures, was positioned perpendicularly to the buccal surface of each restoration. Three measurements of theLCwere collected for each specimen. The effect of each variable (abutment material, restoration material, and restoration design) on theLCwas explored using multiple regression analysis.

Results

Differences inLCbetween the abutment material (zirconia/Paradigm MZ100), the restoration material (Paradigm C/Paradigm MZ100) and the restoration design (onlay/crown) were recorded. The averageLCof zirconia and metal composite resin abutments ranged from 0.040 to 0.053 and 0.059 to 0.068, respectively. Zirconia abutments restored with composite resin restorations (LC0.051–0.053) had the closestLCvalue when compared with teeth with simulatedPDL(0.049).

Conclusion

Composite resin onlays/crowns bonded to zirconia implant abutments presented similar dynamic response to load (damping behavior) when compared to teeth with a simulatedPDL.
Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia prophylaxis during maintenance therapy influences methotrexate/6‐mercaptopurine dosing but not event‐free survival for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Levinsen Mette , Shabaneh Diana , Bohnstedt Cathrine , Harila‐Saari Arja , Jonsson Olafur G. , Kanerva Jukka , Lindblom Anna , Lund Bendik , Andersen Elisabeth W. , Schmiegelow Kjeld ,   for the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO)
Published: October 2011

Trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is used in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) to prevent Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). We explored to which extent TMP/SMX influenced methotrexate (MTX)/6‐mercaptopurine (6MP) dosage, myelosuppression, and event‐free survival (EFS) during maintenance therapy. Of 447 study patients treated by the NOPHO ALL92 protocol, 120 patients received TMP/SMX continuously for 2–7 d/wk (TMP/SMX2–7) and 287 patients never received TMP/SMX (TMP/SMXnever). Ten patients (all TMP/SMXnever) developed PCP, eight of which occurred within 7 months from the start of maintenance therapy. The TMP/SMX2–7 group received lower oral 6MP doses than TMP/SMXnever patients (50.6 vs. 63.9 mg/m2/d; P < 0.001) but had lower absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) (median 1.7 vs. 2.0 × 109/L; P < 0.001). In Cox multivariate analysis, higher ANC levels (P = 0.04) and male gender (P = 0.06) were related to reduced EFS. ANC had no effect on EFS among TMP/SMX2–7 patients (P = 0.40) but did for TMP/SMXnever patients (P = 0.02). The difference in the effect on EFS between TMP/SMX2–7 and TMP/SMXnever patients was not significant (P = 0.46). EFS did not differ between TMP/SMX2–7 and TMP/SMXnever patients (0.83 vs. 0.83; P = 0.82). These results suggest that TMP/SMX is effective in preventing PCP and may have an antileukemic effect. TMP/SMX should be given the entire duration of maintenance therapy.
Seasonal residency and movement patterns of two co‐occurring catadromous percichthyids within a south‐eastern Australian river
Authors: Walsh Chris T. , Reinfelds Ivars V. , Gray Charles A. , West Ron J. , van der Meulen Dylan E. , Craig James R.
Published: October 2011

Abstract –  Understanding movement patterns and habitat utilisation is critical for the management of diadromous fishes. An acoustic telemetry array was used to monitor 33 estuary perch, Macquaria colonorum and 39 Australian bass, Macquaria novemaculeata in the freshwater and estuarine reaches on the Shoalhaven River, south‐east Australia. On average, tagged M. novemaculeata were detected for a considerably shorter period than M. colonorum, and evidence suggested that fishing pressure may have impacted on their survival. Macquaria colonorum displayed significant shifts in seasonal and size‐related habitat use, with fish predominantly residing in deep (>5 m) areas within the middle (mesohaline) reaches of the estuary during the austral spring to autumn months. In winter, M. colonorum individuals made frequent downstream migrations, often to localised areas, within the lower estuary (LE). In contrast, M. novemaculeata were distributed in shallow (<2 m) habitats throughout the year, within the upper (oligohaline) estuarine reaches of the river, as well as in fresh water. Like M. colonorum, M. novemaculeata made extensive downstream and upstream movements, often coincident with reproductive behaviour, water temperature and increased freshwater inflows. It is postulated that the high site fidelity and repetitive homing displayed by both species is influenced by ontogenetic behaviour and prey availability. Furthermore, the extent of instream distribution by both species, and the lack of observed annual spawning migrations by some M. novemaculeata individuals, indicates the once considered ‘catadromous’ life cycle of these fishes may not be obligatory. A management approach is recommended to ensure that both these species are not over‐exploited within a portion of their instream range, thus maintaining their full reproductive potential.
Antinociceptive Activity of a Synthetic Curcuminoid Analogue, 2,6‐bis‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone, on Nociception‐induced Models in Mice
Authors: Ming‐Tatt Lee , Khalivulla Shaik Ibrahim , Akhtar Muhammad Nadeem , Mohamad Azam Shah , Perimal Enoch Kumar , Khalid Mohamed Hanief , Akira Ahmad , Lajis Nordin , Israf Daud Ahmad , Sulaiman Mohd Roslan
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  This study investigated the potential antinociceptive efficacy of a novel synthetic curcuminoid analogue, 2,6‐bis‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone (BHMC), using chemical‐ and thermal‐induced nociception test models in mice. BHMC (0.03, 0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg) administered via intraperitoneal route (i.p.) produced significant dose‐related inhibition in the acetic acid‐induced abdominal constriction test in mice with an ID50 of 0.15 (0.13–0.18) mg/kg. It was also demonstrated that BHMC produced significant inhibition in both neurogenic (first phase) and inflammatory phases (second phase) of the formalin‐induced paw licking test with an ID50 of 0.35 (0.27–0.46) mg/kg and 0.07 (0.06–0.08) mg/kg, respectively. Similarly, BHMC also exerted significant increase in the response latency period in the hot‐plate test. Moreover, the antinociceptive effect of the BHMC in the formalin‐induced paw licking test and the hot‐plate test was antagonized by pre‐treatment with the non‐selective opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone. Together, these results indicate that the compound acts both centrally and peripherally. In addition, administration of BHMC exhibited significant inhibition of the neurogenic nociception induced by intraplantar injections of glutamate and capsaicin with ID50 of 0.66 (0.41–1.07) mg/kg and 0.42 (0.38–0.51) mg/kg, respectively. Finally, it was also shown that BHMC‐induced antinociception was devoid of toxic effects and its antinociceptive effect was associated with neither muscle relaxant nor sedative action. In conclusion, BHMC at all doses investigated did not cause any toxic and sedative effects and produced pronounced central and peripheral antinociceptive activities. The central antinociceptive activity of BHMC was possibly mediated through activation of the opioid system as well as inhibition of the glutamatergic system and TRPV1 receptors, while the peripheral antinociceptive activity was perhaps mediated through inhibition of various inflammatory mediators.
Pathophysiology of Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Buvat Jacques
Published: October 2011

Introduction

Although the characteristics of premature ejaculation (PE) are established, the exact aetiology is largely unknown. Genetic, neurobiological, pharmacological, psychological, urological and endocrine factors have all been proposed. In addition PE and erectile dysfunction are often co-morbid.

Aim

This article provides an overview of the proposed biological and psychological aetiologies of PE.

Methods

Review of the literature.

Main Outcome Measures

Current data on the pathophysiology of PE.

Results

This review shows that most of the proposed biological and psychological aetiologies of PE are not evidence-based and/or that attempts to confirm them have given conflicting results. There are good data to support roles for genetic and psychological factors, either causal, or secondary to PE for the latter, in lifelong PE. Conversely, more evidence-based data support the responsibility of opioid substance withdrawal, prostatic inflammation or hyperthyroidism in some cases of acquired PE, in addition to a probable role of psychological factors.

Conclusions

The determinants of PE are certainly complex and multifactorial, while each partner's reaction to the frustration caused by the sexual dysfunction may exacerbate or perpetuate it. It is important to understand, as far as possible, the aetiology in the individual patient to ensure appropriate assessment and treatment. It should be noted that identification of an aetiological factor does not necessarily mean the cause of the PE has been completely explained, and the patient may require a combination of treatment approaches.
Effects of Icariin on Improving Erectile Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Liu Tao , Xin Hua , Li Wei-Ren , Zhou Feng , Li Guang-Yong , Gong Yan-Qing , Gao Zhe-Zhu , Qin Xin-Cheng , Cui Wan-Shou , Shindel Alan W. , Xin Zhong-Cheng
Published: October 2011

Introduction

Icariin has been shown to improve penile hemodynamics in animal models of erectile dysfunction from cavernous nerve injury and castration. The effects of icariin on penile hemodynamics in diabetic animals remain to be determined. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes-related erectile dysfunction.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of icariin in the penis of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat.

Methods

Two-month-old Sprague–Dawley male rats received one-time intraperitoneal (IP) STZ (60 mg/kg) or vehicle injection after a 16-hour fast. Three days later, the STZ-induced diabetic rats were randomly divided into four groups and were treated with daily gavage feedings of a 50:50 mix of normal saline and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or icariin dissolved in DMSO at doses of 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg for 3 months. A positive control group underwent IP injection of saline followed by daily gavage of saline/DMSO solution. Treatment was stopped 1 week prior to functional assay and euthanasia.

Main Outcome Measure

Penile hemodynamics was assessed by electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerves with real-time intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurement. After euthanasia, penile tissue was studied using immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (NO-cGMP) and TGFβ1/Smad2 signaling pathway.

Results

Diabetes attenuated ICP response in control animals. Untreated diabetic animals had decreased smooth muscle/collagen ratio and endothelial cell content in the corpora cavernosa; treatment with icariin partially attenuating these effects. Icariin-treated animals also had a significantly greater expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-positive nerves and the endothelial cell markers, von Willebrand factor (vWF), and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM). TGFβ1/Smad2 signaling pathway was down-regulated in the penis from icariin-treated models relative to what was observed in negative control animals.

Conclusion

Icariin treatment preserved penile hemodynamics, smooth muscle and endothelial integrity, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase expression in the penis of diabetic rats. Down-regulation of TGFβ1/Smad2 signaling pathway might mediate this effect.
The Importance of Follow-up in Patients with Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Moncada Ignacio
Published: October 2011

Introduction

Follow-up is an important aspect of managing patients with premature ejaculation (PE). However, there is limited information for the clinician on the optimal follow-up regimen in men with PE. At present, follow-up remains largely at the discretion of each treating physician.

Aim

The aim of this study was to provide an overview of follow-up in patients with PE.

Methods

This study used a review of the literature and informed expert opinion.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures used by the study are the factors influencing follow-up in PE.

Results

Following up with the patient is important to reconfirm the diagnosis, assess the patient's progress on treatment, monitor efficacy and side effects and, where necessary, make informed adjustments to treatment. In addition, follow-up sessions provide an opportunity to reeducate the patient, check that they remember the key information, fill in missing gaps in knowledge, and ensure that they are adhering to the correct dosing schedule. The frequency and duration of follow-up visits depend on a number of factors, such as the type and severity of PE, type of treatment, durability of response to PE treatment, the presence of comorbidities and individual partner/partnership issues. A cooperative and interested partner often has positive effects on treatment outcomes. Therefore, the partner should be encouraged to attend follow-up sessions for a better understanding of the impact of PE on their relationship and tailoring the treatment to suit the couple as a whole.

Conclusions

In clinical practice, follow-up forms an essential component of the overall management of PE to help ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
Exact extreme value statistics and the halo mass function
Authors: Harrison Ian , Coles Peter
Published: October 2011

Motivated by observations that suggest the presence of extremely massive clusters at uncomfortably high redshifts for the standard cosmological model to explain, we develop a theoretical framework for the study of the most massive haloes, e.g. the most massive cluster found in a given volume, based on extreme value statistics (EVS). We proceed from the exact distribution of the extreme values drawn from a known underlying distribution, rather than relying on asymptotic theory (which is independent of the underlying form), arguing that the former is much more likely to furnish robust statistical results. We illustrate this argument with a discussion of the use of extreme value statistics as a probe of primordial non-Gaussianity.
A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION OF EGG AND EGG REPLACERS ON THE PRODUCT QUALITY OF MUFFINS
Authors: GEERA BHIMALINGESWARAPPA , REILING JULIE A. , HUTCHISON MARK A. , RYBAK DANA , SANTHA BRIGITTA , RATNAYAKE WAJIRA S.
Published: October 2011

Five muffin formulations, liquid whole egg, dry whole egg, and three commercial egg replacers, which partially replaced egg in the formulations, were evaluated to determine differences in product qualities caused by egg and egg replacers. The products were prepared following the same procedure and other ingredient compositions, except for egg or egg replacer used in the formulation. Physical product characteristics and sensory properties of the samples were evaluated. It was found that egg, as an ingredient in the muffin formulation, is critical to obtain expected product quality characteristics. None of the commercial egg replacers produced acceptable quality muffins at 100% replacement. Partial replacement of egg with commercial egg replacers changed product characteristics altering moisture retention, bulk volume, color, texture and flavor. Some of these differences, however, were not readily detected by the sensory panelists.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study comprehensively evaluated the effects of egg and egg replacers on final product quality, when used in pilot‐scale muffin production. An array of tests were conducted on samples prepared according to respective ingredient manufacturers' recommendations – partially replacing egg with commercial egg replacers – to objectively evaluate the differences in quality and sensory attributes. The functionalities of each ingredient (egg replacer) in muffin formulations were interpreted based on the results obtained. The observations and results of this study would be important in selecting appropriate ingredients for muffin formulations to obtain desired product qualities.
SENSORY AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF MUFFINS MADE WITH WAXY WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR
Authors: ACOSTA KATHRYN , CAVENDER GEORGE , KERR WILLIAM L.
Published: October 2011

The quality of muffins made with different amounts (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60%) of waxy whole wheat flour (WWWF) blended with conventional whole wheat flour were characterized. High amounts of WWWF blends produced darker but acceptable crust color. WWWF formulations had a softer crumb on day 0 and day 4, but greater firmness after 16 days storage. Samples did not differ in springiness on day 0, but a slight decrease occurred in all samples, and WWWF samples were slightly less springy after 16 days. Proton (1H) NMR showed two distinct relaxation times, indicative of water migration from the crumb of the muffin to the crust. Sensory evaluation showed high overall likability, except for muffins made with 60% WWWF. The 60% muffins had lower volume than all other formulations. Results show that 15–30% WWWF produces a softer, moister muffin, but this advantage is lost after 8–16 days storage.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study shows that 15–30% waxy whole wheat flour blended with conventional whole wheat flour produces softer and moisture whole wheat muffins, with good consumer acceptability. Muffins with WWWF remained softer for 4–8 days, but were firmer than control after 16 days storage. Waxy whole wheat flour also adds additional fiber, so its inclusion in blends with conventional whole wheat may help in the development of higher fiber products with a softer and moister crumb.
EFFECT OF ROSEMARY ON THE QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF WHITE SHRIMP (LITOPENAEUS VANNAMEI)
Authors: SEABRA L.M.J. , DAMASCENO K.S.F.S.C. , ANDRADE S.A.C. , DANTAS M.M.G. , SOARES N.K.M. , PEDROSA L.F.C.
Published: October 2011

We assessed the influence of rosemary on some of the quality characteristics of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp stored under freezing temperature for 180 days. Whole shrimp (WS), peeled shrimp (PS) and PS with dehydrated rosemary (RS) were stored at −28.3 ± 3.8C. Physicochemical and sensorial analysis was carried out. After 180 days, RS had lower pH (P = 0.001) and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS; P = 0.001) values and higher carotenoids (P = 0.003). WS samples were firmer at 180 days (P = 0.001), although rancid taste and smell were perceived with greater intensity (P = 0.001). The color was more intense in RS and PS than in WS (P = 0.030). Rancid taste was detected in RS only at 120 days at significantly lower intensity (P = 0.001) than WS and PS. Our study suggests that dehydrated rosemary can improve the quality of frozen L. vannamei peeled shrimp.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Farmed shrimp has gained importance in the global market, and the study of their physicochemical and sensory characteristics is therefore essential. Commercially, shrimp is mainly available in the frozen form, and alternatives to extend its quality during storage are of great interest for consumers and suppliers in the food industry. Dehydrated rosemary can be added to frozen shrimp to improve its quality and maintain the nutritional characteristics during storage.