bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future trends in aberration-corrected electron microscopy
Authors: Rose Harald H.
Published: August 2009

The attainable specimen resolution is determined by the instrumental resolution limitdiand by radiation damage. Solid objects such as metals are primarily damaged by atom displacement resulting from knock-on collisions of the incident electrons with the atomic nuclei. The instrumental resolution improves appreciably by means of aberration correction. To achieve atomic resolution at voltages below approximately 100 kV and a large number of equally resolved image points, we propose an achromatic electron–optical aplanat, which is free of chromatic aberration, spherical aberration and total off-axial coma. Its anisotropic component is eliminated either by a dual objective lens consisting of two separate windings with opposite directions of their currents or by skew octopoles employed in the TEAM corrector. We obtain optimum imaging conditions by operating the aberration-corrected electron microscope at voltages below the knock-on threshold for atom displacement and by shifting the phase of the non-scattered wave byπ/2 or that of the scattered wave by −π/2. In this negative contrast mode, the phase contrast and the scattering contrast add up with the same sign. The realization of a low-voltage aberration-corrected phase transmission electron microscope for the visualization of radiation-sensitive objects is the aim of the proposed SALVE (Sub-Å Low-Voltage Electron microscope) project. This microscope will employ a coma-free objective lens, an obstruction-free phase plate and a novel corrector compensating for the spherical and chromatic aberrations.
Aberration correction: zooming out to overview
Authors: Howie A.
Published: August 2009

In the structural characterization of thin specimens by projection (atomic column) imaging, the revolutionary development of aberration-corrected electron microscopy has already brought significant improvements not only in spatial resolution but also in improved image contrast. Some highlights from the symposium are summarized. Despite the purchasing and operating costs as well as the demands they place on operator skills, a staggering number of these new microscopes has already been installed worldwide. Serious challenges, therefore, arise including the need to attract customers from a wide range of disciplines where complex structure problems may require the development of new imaging modes. The ability to image at large scattering angles may be useful in mitigating some of the many as-yet uncorrected delocalization mechanisms that then arise and are systematically identified here. Larger specimen volumes made possible by chromatic aberration correction will benefit the development of more relevant
in situ
observations, particularly in materials science and catalysis. With additional incorporation of phase shifting electrodes or other devices, these chromatic aberration correctors could also be important for efficient phase contrast imaging in easily damaged biological structures. For many of these formidable problems, earlier experience of the optical microscopy community may teach some lessons.
Current and future aberration correctors for the improvement of resolution in electron microscopy
Authors: Haider M. , Hartel P. , Müller H. , Uhlemann S. , Zach J.
Published: August 2009

The achievable resolution of a modern transmission electron microscope (TEM) is mainly limited by the inherent aberrations of the objective lens. Hence, one major goal over the past decade has been the development of aberration correctors to compensate the spherical aberration. Such a correction system is now available and it is possible to improve the resolution with this corrector. When high resolution in a TEM is required, one important parameter, the field of view, also has to be considered. In addition, especially for the large cameras now available, the compensation of off-axial aberrations is also an important task. A correction system to compensate the spherical aberration and the off-axial coma is under development. The next step to follow towards ultra-high resolution will be a correction system to compensate the chromatic aberration. With such a correction system, a new area will be opened for applications for which the chromatic aberration defines the achievable resolution, even if the spherical aberration is corrected. This is the case, for example, for low-voltage electron microscopy (EM) for the investigation of beam-sensitive materials, for dynamic EM or for
in-situ
EM.
Optimal tilt magnitude determination for aberration-corrected super resolution exit wave function reconstruction
Authors: Haigh S. J. , Sawada H. , Kirkland Angus I.
Published: August 2009

Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images recorded under tilted illumination conditions transfer higher spatial frequencies than axial images. This super resolution information transfer is highly directional in a single image, but can be extended in all directions through the use of complementary beam tilts during exit wave function reconstruction. We have determined the optimal experimental tilt magnitude for aperture synthesis in an aberration-corrected TEM. It is shown that electron-optical aberration correction allows the use of larger tilt angles and reduces the constraints that are imposed on experimental data acquisition in an uncorrected microscope. We demonstrate that, in many cases, the resolution improvement achievable is now limited by the sample and not by instrumental parameters. An exit wave function is presented that has been successfully reconstructed from a dataset of aberration-corrected images, including images acquired at a beam tilt of 18 mrad, which clearly demonstrates a resolution improvement from 0.11 nm to better than 0.08 nm at 200 kV.
Off-axis electron holography in an aberration-corrected transmission electron microscope
Authors: Lichte Hannes , Geiger Dorin , Linck Martin
Published: August 2009

Electron holography allows the reconstruction of the complete electron wave, and hence offers the possibility of correcting aberrations. In fact, this was shown by means of the uncorrected CM30 Special Tübingen transmission electron microscope (TEM), revealing, after numerical aberration correction, a resolution of approximately 0.1 nm, both in amplitude and phase. However, it turned out that the results suffer from a comparably poor signal-to-noise ratio. The reason is that the limited coherent electron current, given by gun brightness, has to illuminate a width of at least four times the point-spread function given by the aberrations. As, using the hardware corrector, the point-spread function shrinks considerably, the current density increases and the signal-to-noise ratio improves correspondingly. Furthermore, the phase shift at the atomic dimensions found in the image plane also increases because the collection efficiency of the optics increases with resolution. In total, the signals of atomically fine structures are better defined for quantitative evaluation. In fact, the results achieved by electron holography in a Tecnai F20 Cs-corr TEM confirm this.
Negative spherical aberration ultrahigh-resolution imaging in corrected transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Urban Knut W. , Jia Chun-Lin , Houben Lothar , Lentzen Markus , Mi Shao-Bo , Tillmann Karsten
Published: August 2009

Aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy allows us to image the structure of matter at genuine atomic resolution. A prominent role for the imaging of crystalline samples is played by the negative spherical aberration imaging (NCSI) technique. The physical background of this technique is reviewed. The especially high contrast observed under these conditions owes its origin to an enhancing combination of amplitude contrast due to electron diffraction channelling and phase contrast. A number of examples of the application of NCSI are reviewed in order to illustrate the applicability and the state-of-the-art of this technique.
Neglected and endemic zoonoses
Authors: Maudlin Ian , Eisler Mark Charles , Welburn Susan Christina
Published: August 2009

Endemic zoonoses are found throughout the developing world, wherever people live in close proximity to their animals, affecting not only the health of poor people but often also their livelihoods through the health of their livestock. Unlike newly emerging zoonoses that attract the attention of the developed world, these endemic zoonoses are by comparison neglected. This is, in part, a consequence of under-reporting, resulting in underestimation of their global burden, which in turn artificially downgrades their importance in the eyes of administrators and funding agencies. The development of cheap and effective vaccines is no guarantee that these endemic diseases will be eliminated in the near future. However, simply increasing awareness about their causes and how they may be prevented—often with very simple technologies—could reduce the incidence of many endemic zoonoses. Sustainable control of zoonoses is reliant on surveillance, but, as with other public-sector animal health services, this is rarely implemented in the developing world, not least because of the lack of sufficiently cheap diagnostics. Public–private partnerships have already provided advocacy for human disease control and could be equally effective in addressing endemic zoonoses.
Genetic diversity ofToxoplasma gondiiin animals and humans
Authors: Sibley L. David , Khan Asis , Ajioka James W. , Rosenthal Benjamin M.
Published: August 2009

Toxoplasma gondiiis one of the most widespread parasites of domestic, wild, and companion animals, and it also commonly infects humans.Toxoplasma gondiihas a complex life cycle. Sexual development occurs only in the cat gut, while asexual replication occurs in many vertebrate hosts. These features combine to create an unusual population structure. The vast majority of strains in North America and Europe fall into three recently derived, clonal lineages known as types I, II and III. Recent studies have revealed that South American strains are more genetically diverse and comprise distinct genotypes. These differences have been shaped by infrequent sexual recombination, population sweeps and biogeography. The majority of human infections that have been studied in North America and Europe are caused by type II strains, which are also common in agricultural animals from these regions. In contrast, several diverse genotypes ofT. gondiiare associated with severe infections in humans in South America. Defining the population structure ofT. gondiifrom new regions has important implications for transmission, immunogenicity and pathogenesis.
Bluetongue in Europe: past, present and future
Authors: Wilson Anthony J. , Mellor Philip S.
Published: August 2009

The recent arrival in Northern and Western (NW) Europe of bluetongue virus (BTV), which causes the ruminant disease ‘bluetongue’, has raised the profile of this vector-borne ruminant disease and sparked discussions on the reasons for its sudden emergence so far north. This expansion has not happened in isolation and the disease has been expanding into Southern and Eastern Europe for the last decade. This shifting disease distribution is being facilitated by a number of different introduction mechanisms including the movement of infected livestock, the passive movement of infected
Culicoides
on the wind and, in NW Europe, an unknown route of introduction. The expansion of BTV in Europe has forced a re-evaluation of the importance of Palaearctic
Culicoides
species in transmission, as well as the importance of secondary transmission routes, such as transplacental transmission, in facilitating the persistence of the virus. The current European outbreak of BTV-8 is believed to have caused greater economic damage than any previous single-serotype outbreak. Although attempts are being made to improve the capacity of European countries to cope with future BTV incursions, the options available are limited by a lack of basic entomological data and limited virological surveillance.
Options for control of foot-and-mouth disease: knowledge, capability and policy
Authors: Paton David J. , Sumption Keith J. , Charleston Bryan
Published: August 2009

Foot-and-mouth disease can be controlled by zoo-sanitary measures and vaccination but this is difficult owing to the existence of multiple serotypes of the causative virus, multiple host species including wildlife and extreme contagiousness. Although intolerable to modern high-production livestock systems, the disease is not usually fatal and often not a priority for control in many developing countries, which remain reservoirs for viral dissemination. Phylogenetic analysis of the viruses circulating worldwide reveals seven principal reservoirs, each requiring a tailored regional control strategy. Considerable trade benefits accrue to countries that eradicate the disease but as well as requiring regional cooperation, achieving and maintaining this status using current tools takes a great deal of time, money and effort. Therefore, a progressive approach is needed that can provide interim benefits along the pathway to final eradication. Research is needed to understand and predict the patterns of viral persistence and emergence and to improve vaccine selection. Better diagnostic methods and especially better vaccines could significantly improve control in both the free and the affected parts of the world. In particular, vaccines with improved thermostability and a longer duration of immunity would facilitate control and make it less reliant on advanced veterinary infrastructures.
Expression of Pyrococcus furiosus Superoxide Reductase in Arabidopsis Enhances Heat Tolerance
Authors: Im Yang Ju , Ji Mikyoung , Lee Alice , Killens Rushyannah , Grunden Amy M. , Boss Wendy F.
Published: August 2009

Plants produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to environmental stresses sending signaling cues, which, if uncontrolled, result in cell death. Like other aerobic organisms, plants have ROS-scavenging enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), which removes superoxide anion radical (O2  −) and prevents the production and buildup of toxic free radicals. However, increasing the expression of cytosolic SODs is complex, and increasing their production in vivo has proven to be challenging. To avoid problems with endogenous regulation of gene expression, we expressed a gene from the archaeal hyperthermophile Pyrococcus furiosus that reduces O2  −. P. furiosus uses superoxide reductase (SOR) rather than SOD to remove superoxide. SOR is a thermostable enzyme that reduces O2  − in a one-electron reduction without producing oxygen. We show that P. furiosus SOR can be produced as a functional enzyme in planta and that plants producing SOR have enhanced tolerance to heat, light, and chemically induced ROS. Stress tolerance in the SOR-producing plants correlates positively with a delayed increase in ROS-sensitive transcripts and a decrease in ascorbate peroxidase activity. The SOR plants provide a good model system to study the impact of cytosolic ROS on downstream signaling in plant growth and development. Furthermore, this work demonstrates that this synthetic approach for reducing cytosolic ROS holds promise as a means for improving stress tolerance in crop plants.
MATE Transporters Facilitate Vacuolar Uptake of Epicatechin 3′-O-Glucoside for Proanthocyanidin Biosynthesis inMedicago truncatulaandArabidopsis
Authors: Zhao Jian , Dixon Richard A.
Published: August 2009

Expression of the Arabidopsis thaliana MYB transcription factor TRANSPARENT TESTA 2 (TT2) in Medicago trunculata hairy roots induces both proanthocyanidin accumulation and the ATP-dependent vacuolar/vesicular uptake of epicatechin 3′-O-glucoside; neither process is active in control roots that do, however, possess anthocyanidin 3-O-glucoside vacuolar uptake activity. A vacuolar membrane-localized multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) transporter, Medicago MATE1, was identified at the molecular level and shown to preferentially transport epicatechin 3′-O-glucoside. Genetic evidence has implicated TT12, a tonoplastic MATE transporter from Arabidopsis, in the transport of precursors for proanthocyanidin biosynthesis in the seed coat. However, although Arabidopsis TT12 facilitates the transport of cyanidin 3-O-glucoside into membrane vesicles when expressed in yeast, there is no evidence that cyanidin 3-O-glucoside is converted to proanthocyanidins after transport into the vacuole. Here, we show that Arabidopsis TT12, like Medicago MATE1, functions to transport epicatechin 3′-O-glucoside as a precursor for proanthocyanidin biosynthesis, and Medicago MATE1 complements the seed proanthocyanidin phenotype of the Arabidopsis tt12 mutant both quantitatively and qualitatively. On the basis of biochemical properties, tissue-specific expression pattern, and genetic loss-of-function analysis, we conclude that MATE1 is an essential membrane transporter for proanthocyanidin biosynthesis in the Medicago seed coat. Implications of these findings for the assembly of oligomeric proanthocyanidins are discussed.
The effects of low summer flow on wild salmon (Salmo salar), trout (Salmo trutta) and grayling (Thymallus thymallus) in a small stream
Authors: RILEY W. D. , MAXWELL D. L. , PAWSON M. G. , IVES M. J.
Published: August 2009

1. The effects of an experimentally imposed low summer flow on habitat use, displacement and survival of wild populations of juvenile salmon (Salmo salar), trout (Salmo trutta) and grayling (Thymallus thymallus) were investigated in a chalk stream. The habitat use and mobility of the fish in response to reduced flow was determined using passive integrated transponder‐tag detector systems.

2. Habitat use was compared to that available under different flow regimes. These consisted of an initial control phase of normal summer flow, an abrupt step change to 21 days of low flow, followed by a second control phase when normal summer flow was reinstated. First year (0+) salmon showed little change in their preferred substratum during low flow, whilst 1+ salmon increased their use of gravel and reduced that of mud during the day. Both 0+ and 1+ salmon were found in relatively deep water by day under low flow, whilst 1+ salmon preferred relatively shallow water at night. First year trout increased their use of gravel and reduced their use of mud and submerged tree roots under low flow, using relatively deep and fast flowing water by day. Older trout increased their use of gravel and occupied relatively deep, slow flowing water by day and relatively fast and shallow water at night. Grayling showed little change in their preferred substratum, but occupied relatively shallow water following the introduction of low flow.

3. The range of movement of juvenile salmon increased at night under low flow, and was greater by day under normal flow. There was also an initial increase in the range of movement of 0+ trout following the introduction of low flow. Older trout initially moved less under low flow. With reduced flow, the range of movement by grayling increased significantly during the day.

4. There was no net downstream displacement of any species with reduced flow, but the mortality rate in 0+ salmon, trout and grayling increased. This may be related to their small size and increased vulnerability to predation under low flow, and due to the reduction in depth and loss of the stream margins that are normally the preferred habitat of 0+ trout and grayling.

5. The findings of this field study have implications for the management of braided, and highly regulated, chalk stream systems. In particular, they underline the importance of the stream margins as juvenile salmonid habitat, and suggest that a flow management strategy is required to mitigate for drought conditions. Such a strategy might include pre‐emptive controls on abstraction and the maintenance of river flow via a prioritised route, predetermined using fish or habitat surveys, to minimise the effects of drought conditions on the more vulnerable or valued fish groups.
Invasion, genetic variation and species identity of the calanoid copepod Sinodiaptomus valkanovi
Authors: MAKINO WATARU , KNOX MATTHEW A. , DUGGAN IAN C.
Published: August 2009

1. Although Sinodiaptomus valkanovi [sensu Ueda & Ohtsuka (Hydrobiologia, 379, 1998, 159)] is one of the most common freshwater calanoid copepods in Japan, it was originally described from specimens collected in Sofia, Bulgaria, as a subspecies of S. sarsi. This original description raises two issues requiring further investigation. One is whether or not S. valkanovi should be differentiated from S. sarsi at a species level, and the other is whether or not records of S. valkanovi from outside of Japan are the result of biological invasions.

2. We examined the gene flow between S. valkanovi and S. sarsi in Japan, using nuclear DNA (the ribosomal internal transcribed spacers 1 and 2 plus the intervening 5.8S ribosomal DNA subunit) sequence to clarify if these two taxa are separable at a species level. We also investigated the population genetic structure of S. valkanovi in Japan, using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) gene, and subsequently of two recently discovered New Zealand populations, to elucidate the origin and colonisation/invasion history of this taxon.

3. In total, 43 and three Japanese populations of S. valkanovi and S. sarsi, respectively, were analysed. These two taxa did not occur together in any of the localities. Nuclear DNA analysis did not provide any evidence of gene flow between them, and the inter‐taxon variability of mtCOI was high, corroborating the conclusion of Ueda & Ohtsuka based on morphological characteristics that S. valkanovi and S. sarsi should be differentiated at the species level.

4. In Japan S. valkanovi populations are segregated into two areas, around the Seto Inland Sea (SIS) and northeastern (NE) area. A distinct contrast in the genetic diversity was observed between the areas; five mtCOI haplotypes were recovered from the NE area while 38 were observed in the SIS area, despite a similar geographical range and number of individuals analysed in both areas. Furthermore, S. valkanovi in the SIS area possessed a mixture of both ancestral and derived haplotypes, while those in the NE area mostly consisted of derived haplotypes. These results suggest that the NE populations were founded recently by a limited numbers of individuals from SIS populations.

5. All specimens of S. valkanovi from New Zealand possessed one specific mtCOI haplotype. In Japan, this haplotype was found only in the NE area, suggesting the origin of New Zealand S. valkanovi. It is likely that this copepod has on several occasions invaded areas outside of Japan, one of which was associated with the original description of this taxon in Bulgaria.
Rising temperature and development in dragonfly populations at different latitudes
Authors: FLENNER IDA , RICHTER OTTO , SUHLING FRANK
Published: August 2009

1. For modelling the future ecological responses to climate change, data on individual species and on variation within and between populations from different latitudes are required.

2. We examined life cycle regulation and growth responses to temperature in Mediterranean and temperate populations of a widespread European odonate, Orthetrum cancellatum. In an experiment, offspring from individual females from different parts of the range were kept separately to elucidate differences between families.

3. The experiment was run outdoors at 52°N at a natural photoperiod for almost a year. We used four temperature regimes, ambient (i.e. following local air temperature) and ambient temperature increased by 2, 4 and 6 °C, to mimic future temperature rise. A mathematical model was used to categorise the type of seasonal regulation and estimate parameters of the temperature response curve.

4. Growth rate varied significantly with temperature sum, survival and geographic origin, as well as with family. Offspring of all females from the temperate part of the range had a life cycle with a 12 h day‐length threshold necessary to induce diapause (i.e. diapause was induced once day length fell below 12 h). By contrast, Mediterranean families had a 10 h threshold or had an unregulated life cycle allowing winter growth. The temperature response did not significantly differ between populations, but varied between families with a greater variation in the optimum temperature for growth in the Mediterranean population.

5. The variation in seasonal regulation leads to a diversity in voltinism patterns within species, ranging from bivoltine to semivoltine along a latitudinal gradient. Given that the type of seasonal regulation is genetically fixed, rising temperatures will not allow faster than univoltine development in temperate populations. We discuss the consequences of our results in the light of rising temperature in central Europe.
The European carbon balance. Part 2: croplands
Authors: CIAIS P. , WATTENBACH M. , VUICHARD N. , SMITH P. , PIAO S. L. , DON A. , LUYSSAERT S. , JANSSENS I. A. , BONDEAU A. , DECHOW R. , LEIP A. , SMITH PC. , BEER C. , VAN DER WERF G. R. , GERVOIS S. , VAN OOST K. , TOMELLERI E. , FREIBAUER A. , SCHULZE E. D. ,   CARBOEUROPE SYNTHESIS TEAM
Published: August 2009

We estimated the long‐term carbon balance [net biome production (NBP)] of European (EU‐25) croplands and its component fluxes, over the last two decades. Net primary production (NPP) estimates, from different data sources ranged between 490 and 846 gC m−2 yr−1, and mostly reflect uncertainties in allocation, and in cropland area when using yield statistics. Inventories of soil C change over arable lands may be the most reliable source of information on NBP, but inventories lack full and harmonized coverage of EU‐25. From a compilation of inventories we infer a mean loss of soil C amounting to 17 g m−2 yr−1. In addition, three process‐based models, driven by historical climate and evolving agricultural technology, estimate a small sink of 15 g C m−2 yr−1 or a small source of 7.6 g C m−2 yr−1. Neither the soil C inventory data, nor the process model results support the previous European‐scale NBP estimate by Janssens and colleagues of a large soil C loss of 90 ± 50 gC m−2 yr−1. Discrepancy between measured and modeled NBP is caused by erosion which is not inventoried, and the burning of harvest residues which is not modeled. When correcting the inventory NBP for the erosion flux, and the modeled NBP for agricultural fire losses, the discrepancy is reduced, and cropland NBP ranges between −8.3 ± 13 and −13 ± 33 g C m−2 yr−1 from the mean of the models and inventories, respectively. The mean nitrous oxide (N2O) flux estimates ranges between 32 and 37 g C Eq m−2 yr−1, which nearly doubles the CO2 losses. European croplands act as small CH4 sink of 3.3 g C Eq m−2 yr−1. Considering ecosystem CO2, N2O and CH4 fluxes provides for the net greenhouse gas balance a net source of 42–47 g C Eq m−2 yr−1. Intensifying agriculture in Eastern Europe to the same level Western Europe amounts is expected to result in a near doubling of the N2O emissions in Eastern Europe. N2O emissions will then become the main source of concern for the impact of European agriculture on climate.
Polymorphism in factor VII gene modifies phenotype of severe haemophilia
Authors: JAYANDHARAN G. R. , NAIR S. C. , POONNOOSE P. M. , THOMAS R. , JOHN J. , KESHAV S. K. , CHERIAN R. S. , DEVADARISHINI M. , LAKSHMI K. M. , SHAJI R. V. , VISWABANDYA A. , GEORGE B. , MATHEWS V. , CHANDY M. , SRIVASTAVA A.
Published: August 2009

Summary.  The basis for 10–15% of patients with severe haemophilia having clinically mild disease is not fully understood. We hypothesized that polymorphisms in various coagulant factors may affect frequency of bleeding while functionally significant polymorphisms in inflammatory and immunoregulatory genes may also contribute to variations in the extent of joint damage. These variables were studied in patients with severe haemophilia, who were categorized as ‘mild’ (<5 bleeds in the preceding year, <10 World Federation of Haemophilia clinical and <10 Pettersson scores, n = 14) or ‘severe’ (all others, n = 100). A total of 53 parameters were studied in each individual for their association with the clinical severity. Age, F8:c activity and the incidence of thrombotic markers were comparable between the groups while the median number of bleeds, number of affected joints, clinical, radiological and functional joint scores (P ≤ 0.001) and life‐time clotting factor use (P ≤ 0.007) were different. Patients with severe molecular defects had a 4.1‐fold increased risk for a severe phenotype (95% CI: 1.18–14.42, P = 0.026) compared with other mutations. Of the polymorphisms studied, the FVII353Q (RR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.04–12.05, P = 0.044) allele was associated with a severe phenotype. This data shows that apart from the F8/F9 genotype, functional polymorphisms in FVII gene affect the phenotype of patients with severe haemophilia.
Expression and function of the NALP3 inflammasome in rheumatoid synovium
Authors: Kolly Laeticia , Busso Nathalie , Palmer Gaby , Talabot‐Ayer Dominique , Chobaz Véronique , So Alexander
Published: August 2009

The NACHT, LRR and PYD domains containing protein (NALP3) inflammasome is a key regulator of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) secretion. As there is strong evidence for a pro‐inflammatory role of IL‐1β in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in murine models of arthritis, we explored the expression of the different components of the NALP3 inflammasome as well as other nucleotide oligomerization domain (NOD)‐like receptors (NLRs) in synovium obtained from patients with RA. The expression of NLRs was also studied in fibroblast lines derived from joint tissue. By immunohistology, NALP3 and apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a CARD domain (ASC) were expressed in myeloid and endothelial cells and B cells. T cells expressed ASC but lacked NALP3. In synovial fibroblast lines, NALP3 expression was not detected at the RNA and protein levels and stimulation with known NALP3 agonists failed to induce IL‐1β secretion. Interestingly, we were unable to distinguish RA from osteoarthritis synovial samples on the basis of their basal level of RNA expression of known NLR proteins, though RA samples contained higher levels of caspase‐1 assayed by enzyme‐linked immunsorbent assay. These results indicate that myeloid and endothelial cells are the principal sources of inflammasome‐mediated IL‐1β production in the synovium, and that synovial fibroblasts are unable to activate caspase‐1 because they lack NALP3. The NALP3 inflammasome activity does not account for the difference in level of inflammation between RA and osteoarthritis.
Collecting subjective and rating scale data within a single case study design: cognitive behavioural therapy for a person experiencing psychosis
Authors: CARDEN J. , JONES A.
Published: August 2009

Accessible summary

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for psychotic symptoms is seen as an increasingly important treatment option for individuals with long‐term mental health problems such as schizophrenia. CBT for psychosis has been evaluated in a number of randomized controlled trials, with evaluation often being determined only by rating scale data.

By using scale data alone within clinical practice it has been argued that this method only provides a narrow view of the effect of the specific intervention being utilized and what benefit this has had for the individual.

This paper reports on a case study whereby scale data alone were inconclusive, yet the subjective viewpoint of the person receiving the therapy identified changes that were not evident within the sale data.

Within current mental health services, collaboration and engaging with service users regarding their own outcomes are viewed as fundamental to a recovery‐orientated approach. The findings from this case study recognize the potential flaws in utilizing a one‐dimensional approach to determining outcome and highlights the value of reporting subjective data, not just within clinical practice, but within the wider literature on CBT for psychosis.

This paper reports on a case study for a person with a diagnosis of schizophrenia using cognitive behavioural therapy. A range of scales was used to detect treatment effect and outcome. No significant clinical changes were detected using the scales, which are routinely used with such interventions. Subjective data were also collected in the form of a narrative, with the recipient of therapy identifying outcomes, which are not reflected within the rating scale data. Implications for practice include valuing the subjective experience reported by service users. The paper concludes that rating scale data and subjective accounts should be seen on an equal footing when evaluating specific therapeutic interventions.
Assessment of intraradicular bacterial composition by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis
Authors: Saito D. , Marsh T. L. , De Souza Cannavan F. , Höfling J. F. , Gonçalves R. B.
Published: August 2009

Background:  The aim of the study was to assess the bacterial community structures associated with endodontic infections using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP), and to investigate the correlation of whole community profiles with the manifestation of particular clinical features.

Methods:  Intraradicular samples were collected from 34 subjects and classified into three study groups based on the observed clinical symptoms: acute (n = 16), sub‐acute (n = 8), and asymptomatic (n = 10). Genomic DNA was extracted from each sample, submitted to polymerase chain reaction using a fluorescently labeled 16S ribosomal DNA forward primer, and digested with two tetrameric endonucleases (HhaI and MspI). The terminal restriction fragments (T‐RFs) were subsequently discriminated in an automated DNA sequencer, and the results were filtered using a statistics‐based criterion.

Results:  Totals of 138 (HhaI) and 145 (MspI) unique T‐RFs were detected (means 13.1 and 11.9) and there was high inter‐subject variability in the bacterial assemblages. Odds‐ratio analysis unveiled the existence of higher order groups of positively associated T‐RFs, restating the concept that intricate ecological relationships may take place in the root canal space. A significantly greater T‐RF prevalence was detected in acute cases, suggesting a straight correlation between species richness and spontaneous pain.

Conclusion:  Overall, no T‐RFLP profile representing a specific bacterial consortium could be associated with the manifestation of symptoms of endodontic origin.
Regulatory roles of β‐catenin and AP‐1 on osteoprotegerin production in interleukin‐1α‐stimulated periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Suda T. , Nagasawa T. , Wara‐aswapati N. , Kobayashi H. , Iwasaki K. , Yashiro R. , Hormdee D. , Nitta H. , Ishikawa I. , Izumi Y.
Published: August 2009

Background:  Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the enhanced expression of inflammatory mediators leading to alveolar bone resorption. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) plays a suppressive role in cytokine‐induced osteoclastogenesis. In osteoblasts, OPG expression is upregulated by β‐catenin but downregulated by the transcription factor activator protein‐1 (AP‐1; c‐fos/c‐jun). The purpose of this study was to examine the roles of β‐catenin and AP‐1 in interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α) ‐induced OPG production in human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) and periodontal ligament (PDL) cells.

Methods:  Expression of c‐fos and c‐jun messenger RNA was measured by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and OPG production was analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The nuclear AP‐1 activity was quantified using an AP‐1 microplate assay. The effect of the Wnt canonical pathway on OPG production was evaluated using small interfering (si) RNA for β‐catenin and the effect of AP‐1 on OPG production was evaluated using the AP‐1 inhibitor curcumin.

Results:  Levels of c‐fos messenger RNA and nuclear AP‐1 activity were higher in PDL cells than in hGFs. When stimulated with IL‐1α, PDL cells had significantly higher c‐fos expression and lower OPG production compared with hGFs. The siRNA for β‐catenin suppressed the IL‐1α‐induced OPG production in both PDL cells and hGFs, whereas the AP‐1 inhibitor curcumin augmented the IL‐1α‐induced OPG production in PDL cells, but not in hGFs.

Conclusion:  The present study suggests that β‐catenin enhances IL‐1α‐induced OPG production in both PDL cells and hGFs, whereas AP‐1 suppresses IL‐1α‐induced OPG production in PDL cells. Higher expression of c‐fos in PDL cells than in hGFs may implicate a role of PDL cells in alveolar bone resorption in periodontitis.
Interference with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans: colonization of epithelial cells under hydrodynamic conditions
Authors: Sliepen I. , Van Essche M. , Loozen G. , Van Eldere J. , Quirynen M. , Teughels W.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Microbial interactions are considered to be important for bacterial colonization. Interactions that inhibit colonization of pathogens could possibly be used as a new treatment approach for periodontitis. The aim of this study was to test this hypothesis on soft surfaces in vitro, taking into account the hydrodynamic forces continuously present in vivo.

Methods:  Cultured epithelial cells were precolonized with Streptococcus sanguinis KTH‐4, Streptococcus cristatus CC5A, Streptococcus salivarius TOVE and Streptococcus mitis BMS before Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans colonization. Experiments were performed in a modified Robbins‐device‐type flow cell. Bacterial colonization and the number of epithelial cells were evaluated by microbial culturing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  The streptococci were able to inhibit A. actinomycetemcomitans colonization on soft tissue surfaces under flow conditions. Statistically significant differences were found between streptococcal pretreatments and the controls, with the most pronounced effect caused by S. sanguinis.

Conclusion:  These data confirm the possibility of applying beneficial bacteria in periodontal treatment.
Porphyromonas gingivalis mediates the shedding and proteolysis of complement regulatory protein CD46 expressed by oral epithelial cells
Authors: Mahtout H. , Chandad F. , Rojo J. M. , Grenier D.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Human cells express membrane‐bound complement regulatory proteins to prevent complement‐mediated autologous tissue damage. In this study, we hypothesized that Porphyromonas gingivalis, the major etiological agent of chronic periodontitis, causes the shedding or proteolysis of the complement regulatory protein CD46 expressed by oral epithelial cells.

Methods:  Oral epithelial cells were treated with a culture of P. gingivalis before measurement of membrane‐bound and shed CD46 by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effect of soluble recombinant CD46 on secretion of interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) by epithelial cells was evaluated by ELISA. The susceptibility of soluble recombinant CD46 to proteolytic degradation by cells and purified Lys‐gingipain of P. gingivalis was investigated by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis/western immunoblotting analysis.

Results:  Oral epithelial cells treated with a culture of P. gingivalis showed a lower reactivity with antibodies directed to CD46. ELISA revealed that such a treatment resulted in increased amounts of CD46 in the conditioned media suggesting that P. gingivalis caused the shedding of membrane‐anchored CD46. Stimulation of epithelial cells with soluble recombinant CD46 induced IL‐8 secretion in a dose‐dependent manner. Whole cells and purified Lys‐gingipain of P. gingivalis degraded recombinant CD46 in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusion:  This study showed the ability of P. gingivalis to induce the shedding/ proteolysis of CD46 from the surface of oral epithelial cells. This may render host cells susceptible to the complement system and contribute to tissue damage and the inflammatory process in periodontitis.
Oral bacteria induce a differential activation of human immunodeficiency virus‐1 promoter in T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells
Authors: Huang C. B. , Emerson K. A. , Gonzalez O. A. , Ebersole J. L.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can integrate into T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells resulting in a latent infection. Reports have also demonstrated that various microbial and host cell factors can trigger HIV reactivation leading to HIV recrudescence, potentially undermining highly active antiretroviral therapies.

Methods:  This study evaluated the capacity of oral bacteria associated with chronic periodontal infections to stimulate HIV promoter activation in various cell models of HIV latency.

Results:  T cells (1G5) challenged with oral bacteria demonstrated a dose–response of HIV promoter activation with a subset of the bacteria, as well as kinetics that were generally similar irrespective of the stimuli. Direct bacterial challenge of the T cells resulted in increased activation of approximately 1.5‐ to 7‐fold over controls. Challenge of macrophages (BF24) indicated different kinetics for individual bacteria and resulted in consistent increases in promoter activation of five fold to six fold over basal levels for all bacteria except Streptococcus mutans. Dendritic cells showed increases in HIV reactivation of 7‐ to 34‐fold specific for individual species of bacteria.

Conclusion:  These results suggested that oral bacteria have the capability to reactivate HIV from latently infected cells, showing a relationship of mature dendritic cells > immature dendritic cells > macrophages ≥ T cells. Expression of various pattern recognition receptors on these various cell types may provide insight into the primary receptors/signaling pathways used for reactivation by the bacteria.
The effect of lactoferrin on oral bacterial attachment
Authors: Arslan S. Y. , Leung K. P. , Wu C. D.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron‐binding salivary glycoprotein, plays an important role in human innate defense against local mucosal infection. We hypothesized that Lf interferes with initial oral bacterial attachment to surfaces by iron sequestration, so inhibiting subsequent biofilm formation. The objective was to investigate the effect of Lf on the early stages of single‐species and multi‐species oral biofilm development.

Methods:  Streptococcus gordonii, Streptococcus mutans, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis were used in this study. Glass disks of a two‐track flow cell coated with flowing artificial saliva (0.3 ml/min) with and without Lf (100 μg/ml) were used for studying bacterial attachment (3 h, 37°C). Attachment was also examined by incubating single or multiple species of test bacteria (107 colony‐forming units/ml) with Lf‐coated (20–100 μg/ml) and uncoated glass slides. The effects of β‐lactoglobulin, 2,2′‐dipyridyl (25–100 μg/ml), an iron chelator, and FeCl3 on attachment were also examined.

Results:  Lf inhibited the initial attachment of S. gordonii (50.3%, P < 0.05) but not that of F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis. However, the attachment of a dual‐species biofilm containing S. gordonii (i.e. S. gordonii/F. nucleatum or S. gordonii/P. gingivalis) was significantly reduced (48.7% or 62.1%, respectively, P < 0.05) in the presence of Lf. β‐Lactoglobulin did not affect the attachment of S. gordonii. In the presence of 100 μm 2,2′‐dipyridyl, attachment of S. gordonii was reduced by 53.87%. No reduction in attachment was noted in S. gordonii pretreated with Lf (100 μg/ml) and FeCl3 (20–200 μm).

Conclusion:  Lf suppresses initial attachment of S. gordonii and S. gordonii coaggregates by iron sequestration. This may lead to subsequent inhibition of oral biofilm development.
Measuring the effect of patient comfort rounds on practice environment and patient satisfaction: A pilot study
Authors: Gardner Glenn , Woollett Kaylene , Daly Naomi , Richardson Bronwyn
Published: August 2009

Hourly rounding in the acute hospital setting has been proposed as an intervention to increase patient satisfaction and safety, and improve the nursing practice environment, but the innovation has not been adequately tested. A quasi‐experimental pretest post‐test non‐randomized parallel group trial design was used to test the effect of hourly patient comfort rounds on patient satisfaction and nursing perceptions of the practice environment, and to evaluate research processes and instruments for a proposed larger study. A Patient Satisfaction Survey instrument was developed and used in conjunction with the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index. Results on patient satisfaction showed no significant changes. Significant changes were found for three of the five practice environment subscales. Consistent with the aim of a pilot study, this research has provided important information related to design, instruments and process that will inform a larger sufficiently powered study.
Coping with ageing and failing health: A qualitative study among elderly living alone
Authors: Birkeland Arvid , Natvig Gerd Karin
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how the elderly cope with being sick, unhealthy and living alone. Qualitative research interviews using a hermeneutic approach was undertaken to explore how the patients experienced coping with their daily life. Twenty patients with an average age of 82 years having different injuries and diseases were interviewed. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and analysed in a hermeneutical tradition of the hermeneutic circle: part–whole, pre‐understanding–understanding, and primary, secondary and basic themes. Findings showed that even if physical constraints put limits on their level of activity, the elderly were able to adapt and carry out different activities that did not require any physical strength. The main coping strategy was to accept the situation, but the acceptance was often coloured by a resigned and passive acceptance. If the elderly tend to be passive and resigned, it can be necessary for the community nurses to have a more active problem‐solving approach to these patients, in order to help them creating a daily rhythm with which they can feel comfortable.
Collaborative multidisciplinary team approach to fertility issues among adolescent and young adult cancer patients
Authors: Nagel Kim , Cassano Jane , Wizowski Lindsay , Neal Michael S
Published: August 2009

Cancer treatment and the field of reproductive technology have each made impressive advancements in the last decade. Improved cancer treatment and survival rates have increased the number of cancer survivors, who might benefit from an array of fertility preservation strategies provided by emerging and advanced assisted conception technology. The challenge becomes bridging the gap between these two separate disciplines to ultimately improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. This paper discusses the issues and process involved with bringing these two teams of health‐care professionals together. This model provides a framework for coordinating efforts in providing fertility preservation options to patients undergoing treatment for cancer. Effective multidisciplinary teams that include: oncologists, nurses in the specialties of oncology and infertility, social workers, reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialists, andrologists, and embryologists are required to work together in order to achieve success. The result of this unique team approach is not only a cancer survivor, but one whose quality of life might be enhanced by being able to have a child of his or her own in the future.