bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stoichiometry and Grain Boundaries Control by Spark Plasma Sintering in Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3:Mn/MgO Composites
Authors: Elissalde Catherine , Chung U‐Chan , Artemenko Alla , Estournès Claude , Costes Romain , Paté Michel , Ganne Jean‐Pierre , Waechter Sabine , Maglione Mario
Published: June 2012

This study highlights the possibility to control materials' chemistry simultaneously at the atomic and micrometric scales and to design functional oxide‐based multimaterials, thanks to the specificity of Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). We have used a dual synthesis route, namely chemical and composite, combined with SPS to adjust the oxidation state of intrinsic and dopant ions, the grain boundaries state, and to control interdiffusion in composites made of Mn‐doped Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 (BST) and MgO. At the atomic level, the Mn substituent valence state can be fixed according to the sintering process: Electron Paramagnetic Resonance evidenced , , and ‐VO charged defects. We established a link between the nature of the charged defects and the high‐frequency dielectric losses. At the microscopic level, control of the grain size, the grain boundaries, and the interdiffusion between the components is achievable using SPS. The composite effect acts at low frequency by efficiently decreasing the extrinsic losses arising from the grain boundaries contribution and by increasing the thermal stability of the permittivity. Such an approach based on SPS, chemical and composite routes, has allowed designing BST‐based composites operating in a wide frequency range (kHz–GHz) with low dielectric losses and high electric field tunability.
Parathyroid hormone (1‐34) compensates the negative effect of smoking around implants
Authors: Lima Liana Linhares , César Neto Joao Batista , Cayana Ezymar Gomes , Nociti Francisco Humberto , Sallum Enilson Antônio , Casati Márcio Zaffalon
Published: June 2012

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Recombinant Human Parathyroid Hormone (PTH 1‐34) on attenuating the influence of cigarette smoke on bone around titanium implants.

Material and methods

Forty‐eight female Wistar rats were used. At the begging of the study, 15 animals were randomly assigned to Group 1 (control) and received subcutaneous injections of saline solution, three‐times/week, after implant placement. The other animals received intermittent cigarette smoke inhalation (CSI), 60 days prior and 60 days after implant placement (
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3‐blasted titanium implants – 4.0 × 2.2 mm). After surgery, these animals were randomly assigned to: Group 2 – subcutaneous injections of saline solution, three‐times/week (n = 16) and Group 3 – intermittent doses of PTH (1‐34) (40 μg/Kg), three‐times/week (n = 17). Animals were sacrificed 60 days after surgery, and degree of bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC), bone area (BA) within the limits of the threads and proportion of mineralized tissue (PMT) adjacent to the implants (500 μm wide zone) were separately obtained in cortical and cancellous bone.

Results

Data analysis confirmed that CSI negatively affects bone around implants, as observed for BIC in cortical zone (Cohen's d (d) = −1.26) and for PMT in both zones (d = −6.09 and d = −4.46 for cortical and cancellous zones, respectively). In addition, in the presence of CSI, PTH (1‐34) promoted the highest BIC in both regions and BA and PMT in cancellous bone (P < 0.05). The histometric parameter that was not influenced by both PTH and CSI (1‐34) was BA in cortical bone (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

In the presence of cigarette smoke, a factor related to poor bone healing and low bone density, PTH (1‐34) increased bone volume around implants.
PPARγ delivered by Ch‐GNPs onto titanium surfaces inhibits implant‐induced inflammation and induces bone mineralization of MC‐3T3E1 osteoblast‐like cells
Authors: Bhattarai Govinda , Lee Young‐Hee , Lee Nan‐Hee , Park IL‐Song , Lee Min‐Ho , Yi Ho‐Keun
Published: June 2012

Objectives

To deliver the efficacy and safety of Ch‐GNPs (Chitosan gold nanoparticles) conjugated anti‐inflammatory molecules peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) on implant surface titanium (Ti) to reduce implant‐induced inflammation.

Materials and methods

The Ch‐GNPs were conjugated with the PPARγ cDNA through a coacervation process. Conjugation was cast over Ti surfaces by dipping, and cells were seeded on different sizes (6 × 6 × 0.1 cm and 1 × 1 × 0.1 cm; n = 3) of Ti surfaces. The size of Ch‐GNPs and surface characterization of Ti was performed using UV‐vis spectroscopy, TEM (Transmission electron microscopy) and EDX (energy‐dispersive X‐ray). The DNA conjugation and transfection capacity of Ch‐GNPs were simultaneously confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis, β‐galactosidase staining, and immunoblotting.

Results

The Ch‐GNPs were well dispersed and spherical in shape, with average size around 10–20 nm. Ti surfaces coated with Ch‐GNPs/LacZ, as transfection efficacy molecule, showed strong β‐galactosidase staining in MC‐3T3 E1 cells. Cells cultured on Ch‐GNPs/PPARγ‐coated Ti surfaces were able to inhibit implant‐induced inflammation by simultaneously suppressing the expression of tumor necrosis factor‐ alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2). The inhibition mechanism of Ch‐GNPs/PPARγ was due to inhibition of both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) secretion (n = 3; P < 0.05). In addition, Ch‐GNPs/PPARγ was able to increase expression of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP‐7) and runt‐related transcription factor‐2 (RUNX‐2). Furthermore, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) was also increased than that in control (n = 3; P < 0.01). Whereas, expression of receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) was decreased.

Conclusions

The novel gene delivery materials, like Ch‐GNPs, can carry the PPARγ cDNA into the required areas of the implant surfaces, thus aiding to inhibit inflammation and promote osteoblast function. Thus, the PPARγ on implant surfaces may promote its clinical application on peri‐implantitis or periodontitis like diseases.
Optical impression method to measure three‐dimensional position and orientation of dental implants using an optical tracker
Authors: Ono Shinji , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Kusumoto Naoki , Nakano Tamaki , Sohmura Taiji , Yatani Hirofumi
Published: June 2012

Objectives

The aim of this study was to devise an optical impression method that could make impressions of dental implants accurately and rapidly.

Materials and methods

Four paper markers (4 × 3 mm, 8 × 6 mm, 16 × 12 mm, and 24 × 18 mm) and one titanium marker (8 × 6 mm) were prepared to determine the measuring accuracy of the three‐dimensional optical tracker. For a proposed and conventional impression taking method, we compared the reproduction accuracies of the positions and orientations of dental implants and the times to obtain impressions. Finally, we fabricated computer‐aided designing (CAD)/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAM) superstructure frameworks to determine the adaptation accuracy.

Results

The 8 × 6‐mm titanium marker was optimal among the prepared markers. Dental implants made by the proposed and conventional impression taking methods had measurement errors of 71 ± 31 μm and 32 ± 18 μm, respectively. The proposed method took a significantly shorter time to obtain an impression than did the conventional method. The connection between the CAD/CAM superstructure frameworks and four implant analogs had uplifts of 55 ± 10 μm, 94 ± 35 μm, 2 ± 1 μm, and 66 ± 3 μm.

Conclusion

Our proposed method and fabricated titanium markers enabled us to measure the positions and orientations of dental implants both accurately and rapidly. We then used the reproducible measurement results for the positions and orientations of the dental implants to fabricate CAD/CAM superstructure frameworks within an acceptable accuracy range.
A Randomized comparative clinical study of two surgical procedures to improve root coverage with the acellular dermal matrix graft
Authors: Ayub Lauro G. , Ramos Umberto D. , Reino Danilo M. , Grisi Márcio F. M. , Taba Mário , Souza Sérgio L. S. , Palioto Daniela B. , Novaes Arthur B.
Published: June 2012

Aim

This randomized, controlled, clinical study compared two surgical techniques for root coverage with the acellular dermal matrix graft (ADMG) to evaluate which procedure could provide better root coverage and greater amounts of keratinized tissue.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen pairs of bilateral Miller Class I or II gingival recessions were treated and assigned randomly to the test group, and the contra‐lateral recessions were assigned to the control group. The ADMG was used in both groups. In the control group, the graft and flap were positioned at the level of the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ), and in the test group, the graft was positioned 1 mm apical to the CEJ and the flap 1 mm coronal to the CEJ. The clinical parameters were taken before the surgeries and after 6 months. The gingival recession area, a new parameter, was measured in standardized photographs through a special device and software.

Results

There were statistically significant differences favouring the proposed technique for all parameters except for the amount of keratinized tissue at 6 months.

Conclusions

The proposed test technique is more suitable for root coverage procedures with ADMG, and the new parameter evaluated appears valuable for root coverage analysis. (Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01175720).
Hidradenitis suppurativa: viewpoint on clinical phenotyping, pathogenesis and novel treatments
Authors: van der Zee Hessel H. , Laman Jon D. , Boer Jurr , Prens Errol P.
Published: June 2012

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory, debilitating follicular skin disease with recurring flare‐ups. The painful, deep‐seated, inflamed lesions in the inverse areas of the body cause severe discomfort, and hence, serious psycho‐social and economic costs. HS is common, but often misdiagnosed and mechanistically poorly understood. Furthermore, HS is notoriously difficult to treat resulting in a high unmet medical need. To provoke debate, rational experimentation and initiate strategic studies, we here present a concise viewpoint on seven topics: the diagnosis of HS, the role of mechanical friction, the critical importance of accurate clinical subgrouping, smoking and obesity, the role of bacteria, and our comprehensive view on HS pathogenesis with a central role for keratin clearance, and novel treatment approaches.
Endothelial cell adhesiveness is a function of environmental lighting and melatonin level
Authors: Marçola Marina , da Silveira Cruz‐Machado Sanseray , Fernandes Pedro Augusto Carlos Magno , Monteiro Alex Willian Arantes , Markus Regina P. , Tamura Eduardo Koji
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  The endothelial layer regulates the traffic of cells and substances between the blood and tissues and plays a central role in the mounting of an inflammatory response. We have recently shown that inhibition of the nocturnal melatonin surge during the mounting of an inflammatory response primes endothelial cells to a highly reactive state, increasing the expression of adhesion molecules and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) as well as the in vitro adherence of leukocytes. Here, we investigated whether physiological variations in the plasma melatonin levels owing to the light/dark environmental cycle could also prime the reactive state of endothelial cells. Cultured endothelial cells (16–20 days) obtained from rats killed during the daytime adhere more neutrophils, expressed more adhesion molecules and iNOS, and had a higher content of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐kB) translocated to the nuclei. We also evaluated the expression of 84 genes (using real‐time PCR array) related to the innate inflammatory response and observed a higher expression of 19 genes in cultures obtained during the daytime. In addition, the only gene that was highly expressed in cells obtained from rats killed during nighttime was one that encodes a protein that negatively modulates inflammatory response. In conclusion, the daily rhythm of melatonin also primes the ability of endothelial cells to adhere to neutrophils. This new approach for evaluating the influence of the donor on cells maintained in culture should have applications for the standardization of cell banks.
The Application of the Yo‐Yo Intermittent Endurance Level 2 Test to Elite Female Soccer Populations
Authors: Bradley P. S. , Bendiksen M. , Dellal A. , Mohr M. , Wilkie A. , Datson N. , Orntoft C. , Zebis M. , Gomez‐Diaz A. , Bangsbo J. , Krustrup P.
Published: June 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of the Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test level 2 (Yo‐Yo IE2) to elite female soccer populations. Elite senior (n = 92), youth (n = 42), domestic (n = 46) and sub‐elite female soccer players (n = 19) carried out the Yo‐Yo IE2 test on numerous occasions across the season. Test–retest coefficient of variation (CV) in Yo‐Yo IE2 test performance in domestic female players was 4.5%. Elite senior female players' Yo‐Yo IE2 test performances were better (P < 0.01) than elite youth, domestic and sub‐elite players (mean ± standard deviation; 1774 ± 532 vs 1490 ± 447, 1261 ± 449, and 994 ± 373 m). For elite senior female players, wide midfielders (2057 ± 550 m) had a higher Yo‐Yo IE2 test performance (P < 0.05) than central defenders (1588 ± 534 m) and attackers (1516 ± 401 m), but not central midfielders (1764 ± 473 m) or full‐backs (1964 ± 522 m). Large correlations were observed between Yo‐Yo IE2 test performance and the total and high‐intensity distance covered (r = 0.55; P < 0.05) during elite senior soccer matches (r = 0.70; P < 0.01). A large correlation was also obtained between Yo‐Yo IE2 test performance and (r = 0.68; P < 0.01). Performances in the Yo‐Yo IE2 test were greater (P < 0.05) in the middle and the end of the season compared with the preparation period for elite youth female players (1767 ± 539 and 1742 ± 503 vs 1564 ± 504 m) and in elite senior female players, Yo‐Yo IE2 test performance increased by 14% (P < 0.01) after completing 4 weeks of intense training prior to the FIFA Women's World Cup Finals (2049 ± 283 vs 1803 ± 342 m). The data demonstrate that the Yo‐Yo IE2 test is reproducible and is an indicator of the match‐specific physical capacity of female soccer players. Furthermore, the Yo‐Yo IE2 test illustrates sensitivity by differentiating intermittent exercise performance of female players in various competitive levels, stages of the season and playing positions.
Radiological evaluation of single implants in maxillary anterior sites with special emphasis on their relation to adjacent teeth – a 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Vilhjálmsson Vilhjálmur H. , Klock Kristin S. , Størksen Kjell , Bårdsen Asgeir
Published: June 2012

Aim

The aim of this study was to measure, in adults, changes in crest bone level around single dental implants in the anterior maxilla and continuous eruption of adjacent teeth.

Material and methods

In this prospective study, 50 patients received single‐implant‐supported crowns in the maxillary anterior region. Enrolled patients lacked maxillary anterior teeth as a sequel to trauma or agenesis in the maxillary anterior region. Participants were followed during a 3‐year period. Baseline radiographs were taken at the time of loading and then repeated at one‐ and 3‐year recalls. Radiographic parameters were recorded to assess changes in the skeletal bone structure and crest bone level.

Results

Twenty‐six patients attended for all recalls. Three patients were excluded owing to difficulties related to identifying the same radiographic landmark on the radiographs throughout the recall period. All implants were successfully integrated with no sign of peri‐implantitis. The mean crest bone loss was 0.45 mm at the mesial aspect of the implant and 0.56 mm at the distal aspect. In smokers, there was significant bone loss on the distal aspect. Mean change between reference points on implant and adjacent tooth (continuous eruption of adjacent tooth) over the 3‐year period was 0.67 mm. In women, mean change (0.79 mm) was statistically insignificantly higher, compared with men (0.59 mm).

Conclusions

Radiographic evaluation of crest bone level showed slight bone loss after 3 years of functional loading. Some changes in the eruption of neighbouring teeth were seen. Being a smoker was associated with significant negative changes related to the crest bone level.
Risk factors for recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers: prospective follow‐up analysis in the Eurodiale subgroup
Authors: Dubský Michal , Jirkovská Alexandra , Bem Robert , Fejfarová Vladimira , Skibová Jelena , Schaper Nicolaas C , Lipsky Benjamin A
Published: June 2012

Few studies have examined factors associated with diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) recurrence. Using data from patients enrolled in the prospective Eurodiale DFU study, we investigated the frequency of and risk factors for DFU recurrence after healing during a 3‐year follow‐up period. At our site, 93 Eurodiale‐enrolled patients had a healed DFU. Among these, 14 were not alive; of the remaining 79 patients we enrolled 73 in this study. On entry to the Eurodiale study, we assessed demographic factors (age, sex and distance from hospital); diabetes‐related factors [duration, and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels]; comorbidities (obesity, renal failure, smoking and alcohol abuse) and DFU‐related factors [peripheral arterial disease, ulcer infection, C‐reactive protein (CRP) and; foot deformities]. During the 3‐year follow‐up period, a DFU had recurred in 42 patients (57·5%). By stepwise logistic regression of findings at initial DFU presentation, the significant independent predictors for recurrence were plantar ulcer location [odds ratio (OR) 8·62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2·2–33·2]; presence of osteomyelitis (OR 5·17, 95% CI 1·4–18·7); HbA1c > 7·5% ([DCCT], OR 4·07, 95% CI 1·1–15·6) and CRP > 5 mg/l (OR 4·27, 95% CI 1·2–15·7). In these patients with a healed DFU, the majority had a recurrence of DFU during a 3‐year follow‐up period, despite intensive foot care. The findings at diagnosis of the initial DFU were independent risk factors associated with ulcer recurrence (plantar location, bone infection, poor diabetes control and elevated CRP) and define those at high risk for recurrence, but may be amenable to targeted interventions.
Barriers to diabetes control from Syrian women's perspectives
Authors: ZAMZAM Suzan , ANOOSHEH Monireh , AHMADI Fazlollah
Published: June 2012

Aim:  Diabetes constitutes a major public health problem and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to explore the barriers to diabetes control of middle‐aged Syrian women with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:  A qualitative approach was adopted using conventional content analysis of semi‐structured interviews carried out with 12 women with type 2 diabetes in the diabetic center in Lattakia (Syria) between March 2010 and December 2010. The participants were recruited by the purposeful sampling method.

Results:  Three main themes emerged from the data analysis: (i) a poor patient–healthcare provider relationship; (ii) inadequate education; (iii) and psychosocial problems. The first theme had two subthemes: (i) relationship with doctors; and (ii) relationship with nurses. The second theme was without subthemes. The third theme consisted of six subthemes: (i) work and family responsibilities; (ii) motherhood role; (iii) lack of social support; (iv) anxiety; (v) depression; and (vi) low self‐efficacy.

Conclusion:  The findings support that effective relationships can be enhanced through active listening and by opening a free channel for the flow of ideas and information between patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, providers have an important role to play in learning to identify and manage the psychosocial problems that arise in living with diabetes, so that their patients can be supported in overcoming barriers to managing their diabetes more effectively.
Use of a universal testing machine for quantitative evaluation of the shattering habit of rice (Oryza sativa L.) for whole‐crop silage use
Authors: Matsushita Kei , Iida Shuichi , Ideta Osamu , Sunohara Yoshihiro , Ishii Takuro
Published: June 2012

Abstract

In the breeding of rice cultivars for use for whole‐crop silage, accurate evaluation of shattering is important because its characteristics affect the digestibility of grains by animals. However, measurements of the rice grain pedicel breaking tensile strength (BTS) using a conventional shattering testing device, such as the TR‐II, are laborious. We tested a universal testing machine (UTM), a device used for physical analysis, as a labor‐saving technique for measuring rice grain pedicel BTS. A simple attachment consisting of a holding clip and a polyethylene string to the coupler was prepared to adapt the UTM for BTS measurement. There were significant (P < 0.001) positive correlations between the measurements using the UTM and TR‐II across 19 rice cultivars ranging from “easy” to “very hard” shattering habit. The results indicate that the UTM is appropriate for evaluating grain‐pedicel BTS.
Molecular identification and characterization of the Orco orthologue of Spodoptera litura
Authors: Wu Zhong‐Nan , Chen Xi , Du Yong‐Jun , Zhou Jing‐Jiang , ZhuGe Qi‐Chuan
Published: June 2012

Abstract  A highly conserved and broadly expressed receptor protein Orco (olfactory coreceptor) is crucial for insect olfaction, and an orthologue of Orco has been identified in several insect species. Here we report the identification and characterization of Orco from Spodoptera litura. The protein displays high primary amino acid sequence conservation with other previously identified Orco orthologues. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that it has common features with other members of the Orco subfamily: seven‐transmembrane domains with intracellular N‐terminus and extracellular C‐terminus. The transcript was detected in abundance in the chemosensory organs of the antennae of both male and female adults by real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis, and was localized at the bases of all categories of olfactory sensilla through in situ hybridization.
Confidence interval of intrinsic optimum temperature estimated using thermodynamic SSI model
Authors: Ikemoto Takaya , Kurahashi Issei , Shi Pei‐Jian
Published: June 2012

The intrinsic optimum temperature for the development of ectotherms is one of the most important factors not only for their physiological processes but also for ecological and evolutional processes. The Sharpe–Schoolfield–Ikemoto (SSI) model succeeded in defining the temperature that can thermodynamically meet the condition that at a particular temperature the probability of an active enzyme reaching its maximum activity is realized. Previously, an algorithm was developed by Ikemoto (Tropical malaria does not mean hot environments. Journal of Medical Entomology, 45, 963–969) to estimate model parameters, but that program was computationally very time consuming. Now, investigators can use the SSI model more easily because a full automatic computer program was designed by Shi et al. (A modified program for estimating the parameters of the SSI model. Environmental Entomology, 40, 462–469). However, the statistical significance of the point estimate of the intrinsic optimum temperature for each ectotherm has not yet been determined. Here, we provided a new method for calculating the confidence interval of the estimated intrinsic optimum temperature by modifying the approximate bootstrap confidence intervals method. For this purpose, it was necessary to develop a new program for a faster estimation of the parameters in the SSI model, which we have also done.
Pharmaceutical Patents in Jordan
Authors: Jaafari Deema S.
Published: June 2012

It has been reported that pharmaceutical patents account for a significant part of patents worldwide. In order to appraise pharmaceutical patents in Jordan, preliminarily‐accepted patents published in the Official Gazette over the past 20 years were screened, and the bibliographic data of the identified pharmaceutical patents were entered into a custom built database. Of the 973 patents published since 1992, 36% were identified as pharmaceutical patents. However, the contribution from domestic applicants was modest accounting for a mere 7% of pharmaceutical patents. Data analysis has revealed that the contribution of pharmaceutical patents to published patents has doubled upon the enactment of the Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)‐consistent Patent Law of 1999, from 24% to 48%. However, the increase in the patenting activity in the pharmaceutical sector was not accompanied by an increase in the overall patenting activity. Further analysis has revealed the leading applicants, the patent status, and the main categories of published pharmaceutical patents. It was concluded that pharmaceutical patents account for a significant part of patents in Jordan, with marginal contribution from domestic applicants. It was also noted that the currently adopted patent information system could be further improved by the introduction of electronic search services.
Comparison of the flow characteristics of irrigants with standard and Max‐i‐Probe needles
Authors: Devi Arpana Arthi , Abbott Paul V.
Published: June 2012

The objectives of this study were to determine the direction and pattern of flow of irrigating solutions inside simulated root canals with different irrigation needles; and to determine whether different needle designs increase the likelihood of irrigating solution passing through the apical foramen. Two types of needles were compared: a standard needle with a bevel and an open end, and a needle with a side opening and closed rounded tip. Observations of irrigant flow within the canals indicated that the side‐venting needle can be dangerous if the needle gauge is small and it reaches the full length of the canal, since this allowed irrigants to flow into the periapical area. With the standard needle, the fluid did not go beyond the tip of the needle when minimal irrigating pressure was employed. As the size of canal increased, the fluid did not extrude beyond the tip of both needles. However, if the needles bound in the canals, then the fluid was forced away from the needle tip, and the pressure applied to the syringe was directly proportional to the distance the fluid flowed away from the needle tip. Both side‐venting and standard needles can be used for irrigation safely and effectively if a dynamic irrigation technique (moving the needle up and down inside the canals while irrigating) is employed.
Etiology of Stroke and Choice of Models
Authors: Krafft Paul R. , Bailey Emma L. , Lekic Tim , Rolland William B. , Altay Orhan , Tang Jiping , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Zhang John H. , Sudlow Cathie L. M.
Published: June 2012

Animal models of stroke contribute to the development of better stroke prevention and treatment through studies investigating the pathophysiology of different stroke subtypes and by testing promising treatments before trials in humans. There are two broad types of animal models: those in which stroke is induced through artificial means, modeling the consequences of a vascular insult but not the vascular pathology itself; and those in which strokes occur spontaneously. Most animal models of stroke are in rodents due to cost, ethical considerations, availability of standardized neurobehavioral assessments, and ease of physiological monitoring. While there are similarities in cerebrovascular anatomy and pathophysiology between rodents and humans, there are also important differences, including brain size, length and structure of perforating arteries, and gray to white matter ratio, which is substantially lower in humans. The wide range of rodent models of stroke includes models of global and focal ischemia, and of intracerebral and sub-arachnoid hemorrhage. The most widely studied model of spontaneous stroke is the spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone rat, in which the predominant lesions are small subcortical infarcts resulting from a vascular pathology similar to human cerebral small vessel disease. Important limitations of animal models of stroke – they generally model only certain aspects of the disease and do not reflect the heterogeneity in severity, pathology and comorbidities of human stroke – and key methodological issues (especially the need for adequate sample size, randomization, and blinding in treatment trials) must be carefully considered for the successful translation of pathophysiological concepts and therapeutics from bench to bedside.
Pathophysiologic Cascades in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Xing Changhong , Arai Ken , Lo Eng H. , Hommel Marc
Published: June 2012

Many advances have been achieved in terms of understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of ischemic stroke. But thus far, clinically effective neuroprotectants remain elusive. In this minireview, we summarize the basics of ischemic cascades after stroke, covering neuronal death mechanisms, white matter pathophysiology, and inflammation with an emphasis on microglia. Translating promising mechanistic knowledge into clinically meaningful stroke drugs is very challenging. An integrative approach that encompasses the multimodal and multicell signaling phenomenon of stroke will be required to move forward.
Stem Cells in Stroke Treatment: The Promise and the Challenges
Authors: Sinden John D. , Muir Keith W.
Published: June 2012

Stroke, for some years now the neglected major indication in the pharmaceutical development cupboard, has recently become one of the hot areas for stem cell therapy development. This is driven by better understanding of potential therapeutic opportunities both in the acute and chronic phases and the launch of a series of new early phase clinical trials in a number of countries, driven by positive data in relevant animal models. In addition, the impetus for stem cell product development is motivated by patient demand, with thousands of victims seeking unproven treatments abroad. This article looks at the many challenges facing the development of a stem cell therapy for stroke. These range from product characterization and banking, through nonclinical safety and efficacy to the regulatory requirements for starting patient trials and beyond to maximizing value from carefully designed efficacy trials.
The impact of climate variability on water and energy demand: the case of South African local governments
Authors: Ncube Mkhululi , Zikhali Precious , Musango Josephine K.
Published: June 2012

There is a growing need to understand how climate change impacts not only on people's livelihoods but also on the level and cost of local government infrastructure required to provide basic commodities such as water and energy. In South Africa, few studies have examined the impact of climate change on operations of local governments. This paper examines the impact of rainfall variability on municipalities’ water and energy demand. A non‐linear relationship between water and energy demand and rainfall variability was found. The results suggest that, by influencing the operations and budgets of local governments, climate change is a real threat to local governments. The local governments need to be proactively involved in the efforts to adapt to and mitigate climate change. This is particularly important in developing countries where the impact of climate change is more severe than in developed countries, yet adaptation and mitigation capabilities in these countries are weak.
Ludic geographies: not merely child’s play
Authors: Woodyer Tara
Published: June 2012

More often than not, play is assumed to be the activity of children. To date, this has limited academic engagements with play as a significant geographical concern in its own right. This paper challenges the common association of play with children through discussion of three frames of reference – play and the everyday, the politics of play, and how play exceeds representation – that are particularly instructive when developing broader conceptualisations of this phenomenon. In sketching out a broader space for ludic, or playful, geographies I am able to mark the critical and ethical potential of play, discussed here as a form of coming to consciousness and a way to be otherwise, and the cultivation of a mode of ethical generosity.
Coastal Cities and Regions in a Changing Climate: Economic Impacts, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Authors: Leichenko Robin M. , Thomas Adelle
Published: June 2012

This review examines recent literature on economic impacts, vulnerabilities and adaptation to climate change in coastal cities and regions of the developed world. Major areas of focus within this body of literature include study of the economic impacts of extreme events, examination of the economic consequences of sea level rise, and investigation of the multiple factors that influence economic vulnerability and resilience. Despite blossoming interest in the local and regional economic dimensions of climate change, the majority of work on this topic is focused on coastal cities and regions in the Global North. This work is also largely conducted outside the field of economic geography in disciplines that include natural hazards, economics, planning, and human dimensions of global environmental change, among others. While these studies have made important contributions to knowledge about how climate change may affect developed coastal cities and regions, there is substantial room for new engagement by economic geographers. In addition to a clear need for more work on the Global South, areas where economic geographers seem especially well‐positioned to contribute include comprehensive assessments of coastal economic impacts which incorporate both market and non‐market measures, investigation of the effects of climate change on patterns of growth and spatial inequality across coastal and related inland areas, and development of new theoretical understandings of how changing environmental baselines may influence regional economic growth and decline.
Emerging Markets in a Shifting Global Financial Architecture: The Case of Islamic Securitization in the Gulf Region
Authors: Bassens David
Published: June 2012

Given major geo‐economic shifts in the wake of the global financial crisis, this paper sets out to review major debates in the field of geographies of emerging markets (EM). Observing lingering implicit assumptions about the undirectionality behind the emergence of EM discourses and practices, the paper argues that contemporary processes of South‐South and South‐North investment call for a ‘decentred’ view on EM integration. Such a decentred framework allows us to research whether geographical shifts in the world of global finance indeed imply a fundamental shift the nature of its practices. In this paper, I therefore explore the case of Islamic securitization in the Gulf Region, which constitutes a veritable geo‐economic hinge in a shifting global economy. Here, I argue, bilateral negotiation processes take place between vectors of global finance such as investment banks on the one hand, and EM client firms and Islamic banks on the other hand, in order to find a viable context‐sensitive financing solution. While this case acknowledges the blossoming plurality of global finance, the paper concludes with the view that this plurality is nevertheless mainly reproducing existing power configurations within the global financial architecture.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease and Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Shafi Salman , Sarac Erdal , Tran Huy
Published: June 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 14:611–617. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The role of ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring (ABPM) has not been well‐studied in patients with chronic kidney disease and resistant hypertension. In a retrospective study of the outpatient chronic kidney disease population, 156 patients with chronic kidney disease and resistant hypertension who had 24‐hour ABPM and clinic BP measurements were identified. Resistant hypertension was defined as uncontrolled clinic BP while taking ≥3 medications including a diuretic or controlled BP while taking ≥4 medications. Within the study group, ambulatory BP <130/80 mm Hg was found in 35.9% of all patients. Only 6.4% had both ambulatory and clinic BP <130/80 mm Hg. Prevalence of white‐coat hypertension, masked hypertension, and sustained hypertension were 29.5%, 5.8%, and 58.3%, respectively. Compared with patients with sustained hypertension, more patients in the white‐coat hypertension group had low nocturnal average systolic BP (defined as nocturnal average systolic BP <100 mm Hg) (17.4% vs 0%) and low 24‐hour average diastolic BP (defined as 24‐hour average diastolic BP <60 mm Hg) (52.2% vs 22%, P<.01). ABPM provides more reliable assessment of BP in patients with chronic kidney disease and resistant hypertension.
Woodland and grassland mosaic from a butterfly perspective: habitat use by Erebia aethiops (Lepidoptera: Satyridae)
Authors: Slamova Irena , Klecka Jan , Konvicka Martin
Published: June 2012

We studied the habitat requirements of a vulnerable butterfly,
Erebia aethiops, in a grassland‐forest mosaic within a nature reserve. This species inhabits seemingly abundant habitats such as forest edges, but it is declining in many parts of Europe.

We analysed mark‐recapture data, focusing on the effects of distinct vegetation structures, nectar sources and management regimes on population density and mobility.

Adult
E. aethiops preferred abandoned grasslands and small open enclaves surrounded by forest; i.e. highly heterogeneous habitats. Male densities were higher in sparse woodlots, female densities at grassland patches. These intersexual differences in habitat use emphasise the need for heterogeneous vegetation.

Like other inhabitants of traditional woodlands,
E. aethiops suffers from canopy closure, leading to its retreat to transitional structures such as forest edges or abandoned grasslands. Such preferences are in conflict with regular grassland management, necessary for conserving many other grassland organisms. Therefore, sparse woodlands containing forest free enclaves should be restored to protect this and other woodland organisms.
The Relationship of the Job Demands‐Control‐Support Model with Vigor across Time: Testing for Reciprocality
Authors: Armon Galit , Melamed Samuel , Shirom Arie
Published: June 2012

We used a longitudinal design to investigate the hypotheses that the components of the Job Demands‐Control‐Support model and changes in their levels over time predict subsequent changes in levels of positive affect of vigor over time, and vice versa. Our study was conducted on a sample of adults working in a variety of occupations (N = 909, 68% men) at three points in time (T1, T2, and T3), over a period of about four years, controlling for neuroticism and other potential confounding variables. Job control at T1 and increase in its levels from T1 to T2 predicted an increase from T2 to T3 in the levels of vigor, whereas for social support, only its level at T1 predicted an increase from T2 to T3 in levels of vigor. An increase from T1 to T2 in levels of job demands predicted an increase from T2 to T3 in levels of vigor only for those rated low on neuroticism. Vigor at T1 predicted an increase from T2 to T3 in levels of job control and social support, but not changes from T2 to T3 in levels of job demands. The reciprocal causal relationship between job resources and vigor exists regardless of the demands of the work environment.
Genetic Characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in Diarrhoeic Children from Four Provinces in South Africa
Authors: Abu Samra N. , Thompson P. N. , Jori F. , Frean J. , Poonsamy B. , du Plessis D. , Mogoye B. , Xiao L.
Published: June 2012

The diversity of Cryptosporidium at species, subtype family and subtype level in diarrhoeic children was investigated in four provinces in South Africa. A total of 442 stool samples from children <5 years of age were collected under a large rotavirus surveillance programme and analysed by Ziehl–Neelsen acid‐fast staining. Fifty‐four (12.2%) were positive for Cryptosporidium, of which 25 were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and DNA sequence analyses of the 18S rRNA gene. The majority of genotyped specimens were identified as C. hominis (76%), and a high genetic diversity was found with five different C. hominis subtype families (Ia, Ib, Id, Ie and If). Cryptosporidium parvum was found in 20% of the isolates, and three subtype families were identified (IIc, IIe and IIb), with subtype family IIc being the most common. One specimen was identified as C. meleagridis of the subtype family IIId. These results are in accordance with findings from other developing countries and report for the first time the presence in South Africa of C. meleagridis, various subtypes of C. parvum and the subtype family Ie of C. hominis. The results suggest that C. hominis and anthroponotic C. parvum subtypes are the major cause of cryptosporidiosis in South Africa. Further molecular studies are needed to better understand the epidemiology and public health importance of Cryptosporidium in humans in South Africa.
The Structural Basis for Serotype-Specific Neutralization of Dengue Virus by a Human Antibody
Authors: Teoh Ee Ping , Kukkaro Petra , Teo En Wei , Lim Angeline P. C. , Tan Tze Tong , Yip Andy , Schul Wouter , Aung Myint , Kostyuchenko Victor A. , Leo Yee Sin , Chan Soh Ha , Smith Kenneth G. C. , Chan Annie Hoi Yi , Zou Gang , Ooi Eng Eong , Kemeny D. Michael , Tan Grace K. , Ng Jowin K. W. , Ng Mah Lee , Alonso Sylvie , Fisher Dale , Shi Pei-Yong , Hanson Brendon J. , Lok Shee-Mei , MacAry Paul A.
Published: June 2012

The mechanism of action of a serotype-specific natural human antibody against dengue virus has been identified.
Recombinant MG53 Protein Modulates Therapeutic Cell Membrane Repair in Treatment of Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Weisleder Noah , Takizawa Norio , Lin Peihui , Wang Xianhua , Cao Chunmei , Zhang Yan , Tan Tao , Ferrante Christopher , Zhu Hua , Chen Pin-Jung , Yan Rosalie , Sterling Matthew , Zhao Xiaoli , Hwang Moonsun , Takeshima Miyuki , Cai Chuanxi , Cheng Heping , Takeshima Hiroshi , Xiao Rui-Ping , Ma Jianjie
Published: June 2012

Recombinant human MG53 protein can increase membrane repair after injury in cells and can reduce pathology in animal models of muscle injury and muscular dystrophy.
Going Deep
Authors: Mashour George A.
Published: June 2012

Stimulation of specific brain structures evokes neural plasticity at distant sites, explaining how deep brain stimulation may help patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Species-Specific Chitin-Binding Module 18 Expansion in the Amphibian Pathogen
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
Authors: Abramyan John , Stajich Jason E.
Published: June 2012

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
is the causative agent of chytridiomycosis, which is considered one of the driving forces behind the worldwide decline in populations of amphibians. As a member of the phylum
Chytridiomycota
,
B. dendrobatidis
has diverged significantly to emerge as the only pathogen of adult vertebrates. Such shifts in lifestyle are generally accompanied by various degrees of genomic modifications, yet neither its mode of pathogenicity nor any factors associated with it have ever been identified. Presented here is the identification and characterization of a unique expansion of the carbohydrate-binding module family 18 (CBM18), specific to
B. dendrobatidis
. CBM (chitin-binding module) expansions have been likened to the evolution of pathogenicity in a variety of fungus species, making this expanded group a prime candidate for the identification of potential pathogenicity factors. Furthermore, the CBM18 expansions are confined to three categories of genes, each having been previously implicated in host-pathogen interactions. These correlations highlight this specific domain expansion as a potential key player in the mode of pathogenicity in this unique fungus. The expansion of CBM18 in
B. dendrobatidis
is exceptional in its size and diversity compared to other pathogenic species of fungi, making this genomic feature unique in an evolutionary context as well as in pathogenicity.

IMPORTANCE
Amphibian populations are declining worldwide at an unprecedented rate. Although various factors are thought to contribute to this phenomenon, chytridiomycosis has been identified as one of the leading causes. This deadly fungal disease is cause by
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
, a chytrid fungus species unique in its pathogenicity and, furthermore, its specificity to amphibians. Despite more than two decades of research, the biology of this fungus species and its deadly interaction with amphibians had been notoriously difficult to unravel. Due to the alarming rate of worldwide spread and associated decline in amphibian populations, it is imperative to incorporate novel genomic and genetic techniques into the study of this species. In this study, we present the first reported potential pathogenicity factors in
B. dendrobatidis
.
In silico
studies such as this allow us to identify putative targets for more specific molecular analyses, furthering our hope for the control of this pathogen.
SELECTIVE AMPLIFICATION OF NARROW RESONANCE FORMED IN TRANSMISSION SPECTRUM OF Rb NANO-CELL IN MAGNETIC FIELD
Authors: SARGSYAN A. , HAKHUMYAN G. , MIRZOYAN R. , PAPOYAN A. , SARKISYAN D. , LEROY C. , PASHAYAN-LEROY Y.
Published: June 2012

Recently it was shown that "λ-Zeeman Technique" (λ-ZT) is a convenient tool to study individual transitions between the Zeeman sublevels of hyperfine levels in an external magnetic field. λ-ZT is based on resonant transmission spectrum of nanometric thin cell (NTC) of thickness L = λ, where λ is the resonant wavelength 794 nm for Rb D1 line. Narrow velocity selective optical pumping (VSOP) resonances in the transmission spectrum of the NTC are split into several components in a magnetic field. Examination of VSOP resonances allows one to identify and investigate an atomic transition in the range of magnetic fields 10 - 5000 G. Here we present a new method for selective addressing of VSOP resonance amplification (more than 10 times).
PRODUCTION OF FOCK STATES IN NONLINEAR OSCILLATOR DUE TO PULSED EXCITATION
Authors: GEVORGYAN T. V. , SHAHINYAN A. R. , KRYUCHKYAN G. YU.
Published: June 2012

The Fock states are usually generated by using interaction of oscillatory mode with atomic systems driven by a coherent field. We demonstrate that production of Fock states is also realized in the specific operational regimes of a single nonlinear oscillator without any interactions with atomic systems due to its excitation by a series of short Gaussian laser pulses. These results are demonstrated for the case of the strong Kerr nonlinearity and in the presence of dissipation and decoherence.
X-RAY MICROANALYSIS OF CeB6 CRYSTALS WITH ROUGH SURFACES
Authors: KUZANYAN A. , KUZANYAN V. , BADALYAN G. , NIKOGHOSYAN V. , KONOVALOV M. , GURIN V. , BURKHARDT U. , GRIN Y.
Published: June 2012

The influence of surface roughness on X-ray microanalysis results of cerium hexaboride crystals obtained by floating zone and flux methods is investigated. It is shown that the surface of crystals grown by the floating zone method is much rougher than the one of crystals obtained by the flux method. The correction one should apply to the experimental EDX results, depending on the standard arithmetic mean roughness amplitude R a and the inclination angle α of the studied surface area to the horizontal, i.e. the parameters determining the surface roughness, are calculated. The Ce / B ratio EDX data error due to surface roughness for a sample grown by the floating zone method is within the limits of ~2% and is less than for samples grown by the flux method. The obtained results have been used to determine the B / Ce ratio in the cerium hexaboride crystals with the purpose of developing the selection criteria of samples used in creating a single-photon thermoelectric detector of UV and X-ray ranges.