bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved microseismic event location by inclusion of a priori dip particle motion: a case study from Ekofisk
Authors: Jones G.A. , Raymer D. , Chambers K. , Kendall J.‐M.
Published: April 2010

Microseismic monitoring in petroleum settings provides insights into induced and naturally occurring stress changes. Such data are commonly acquired using an array of sensors in a borehole, providing measures of arrival times and polarizations. Events are located using 1D velocity models, P‐ and S‐wave arrival times and the azimuths of P‐wave particle motions. However in the case of all the sensors being deployed in a vertical or near‐vertical borehole, such analysis leads to an inherent 180° ambiguity in the source location. Here we present a location procedure that removes this ambiguity by using the dip of the particle motion as an a priori information to constrain the initial source location. The new procedure is demonstrated with a dataset acquired during hydraulic fracture stimulation, where we know which side of the monitoring well the events are located. Using a 5‐step location procedure, we then reinvestigate a microseismic data set acquired in April 1997 at the Ekofisk oilfield in the North Sea. Traveltimes for 2683 candidate events are manually picked. A noise‐weighted analytic‐signal polarization analysis is used to estimate the dip and azimuth of P‐wave particle motions. A modified t‐test is used to statistically assess the reliability of event location. As a result, 1462 events are located but 627 are deemed to be statistically reliable. The application of a hierarchal cluster analysis highlights coherent structures that cluster around wells and inferred faults. Most events cluster at a depth of roughly 3km in the Ekofisk chalk formation but very little seismicity is observed from the underlying Tor chalk formation, which is separated from the Ekofisk formation by an impermeable layer. We see no evidence for seismicity in the overburden but such events may be too distant to detect. The resulting picture of microseismicity at Ekofisk is very different from those presented in previous studies.
Utilization of semi‐natural grassland through integrated generation of solid fuel and biogas from biomass. III. Effects of hydrothermal conditioning and mechanical dehydration on solid fuel properties and on energy and greenhouse gas balances
Authors: Richter F. , Fricke T. , Wachendorf M.
Published: April 2010

The integrated generation of solid fuel and biogas from biomass (IFBB) procedure separates biomass into a readily digestible press fluid, from which biogas is produced, and a fibrous press cake that is used as solid fuel. The effects of mechanical dehydration and prior hydrothermal conditioning (5, 60 and 80°C) on biomass from five species‐rich, semi‐natural grasslands, typical of mountain areas of Germany were investigated. Proportional reduction of ash constituents in the press cake compared with the parent material was up to 0·80, 0·61 and 0·81 for potassium, magnesium and chloride, respectively, at 60°C, resulting in potassium, magnesium and chloride concentrations in the press cake of 2·43, 1·22 and 0·93 g kg−1 dry matter (DM). Emission‐relevant constituents were reduced by up to 0·19 (nitrogen) and 0·39 (sulphur), yielding nitrogen and sulphur concentrations of 11·13 and 0·97 g kg−1 DM respectively. Ash softening temperatures were significantly increased up to 1250°C, falling within the range of wood fuels. Thus, quality of IFBB fuels is superior compared with conventional hay and is comparable to hay of delayed harvest in winter or the next spring. Calculated energy conversion efficiency for IFBB was up to 0·51, compared with a maximum of 0·22 for anaerobic whole crop digestion (WCD) and 0·74 for combustion of hay (CH). High energy demands in IFBB resulted in a greenhouse gas mitigation potential of up to −4·40 t CO2eq ha−1 which is lower than for CH (up to −6·17 t CO2eq ha−1), but higher than for WCD, which mitigated up to −2·24 t CO2eq ha−1.
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor δ agonists inhibit T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th17 responses in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis
Authors: Kanakasabai Saravanan , Chearwae Wanida , Walline Crystal C. , Iams Wade , Adams Suzanne M. , Bright John J.
Published: April 2010

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder that affects more than a million people world‐wide. The aetiology of MS is not known and there is no medical treatment available that can cure MS. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune disease model of MS. The pathogenesis of EAE/MS is a complex process involving activation of immune cells, secretion of inflammatory cytokines and destruction of myelin sheath in the central nervous system (CNS). Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear hormone receptor transcription factors that regulate cell growth, differentiation and homeostasis. PPAR agonists have been used in the treatment of obesity, diabetes, cancer and inflammation. We and others have shown that PPARγ, α and δ agonists inhibit CNS inflammation and demyelination in the EAE model of MS. In this study we show that the PPARδ agonists GW501516 and L165041 ameliorate MOGp35‐55‐induced EAE in C57BL/6 mice by blocking interferon (IFN)‐γ and interleukin (IL)‐17 production by T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th17 cells. The inhibition of EAE by PPARδ agonists was also associated with a decrease in IL‐12 and IL‐23 and an increase in IL‐4 and IL‐10 expression in the CNS and lymphoid organs. These findings indicate that PPARδ agonists modulate Th1 and Th17 responses in EAE and suggest their use in the treatment of MS and other autoimmune diseases.
Protein‐energy malnutrition during early childhood and periodontal disease in the permanent dentition of Haitian adolescents aged 12–19 years: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: RUSSELL STEFANIE L. , PSOTER WALTER J. , JEAN‐CHARLES GERMAIN , PROPHTE SAMUEL , GEBRIAN BETTE
Published: April 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 222–229

Objectives. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to examine whether exposure to early childhood protein‐energy malnutrition (ECPEM) is related to worsened periodontal status in the permanent dentition during adolescence.

Design. A trained clinician/researcher examined the periodontal status of 96 persons aged 12–19 living in rural Haiti using WHO diagnostic criteria (Community Periodontal Index, WHO 1997). Malnutrition data of the study participants had been collected during the years 1988–1993 by a nongovernmental organization. We compared those who had been malnourished in early childhood, based onz‐scores for anthropomorphic data collected during the first 5 years of life, with those who had not been malnourished, regarding mean Community Periodontal Index (CPI) score, controlling for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and smoking.

Results. Overall, 57.3% of the participants demonstrated a CPI score of 3 or greater in at least one sextant. ECPEM was independently and positively related to mean CPI score, when controlling for sex and smoking.

Conclusions. More than half of these young Haitians demonstrated CPI scores of 3 or greater, and ECPEM was related to poorer periodontal status, as measured by CPI, in the permanent dentition.
Relating tooth‐ and blood‐lead levels in children residing near a zinc–lead smelter in India
Authors: HEGDE SAPNA , SRIDHAR MUKTHINENI , BOLAR DINESH RAO , AREHALLI BHASKAR SHUBHA , SANGHAVI MITESH BHARAT
Published: April 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 186–192

Background.  Lead toxicity particularly affects children because of their increased capacity for absorption and retention. Blood‐lead (BPb) levels reflect recent exposure and are of limited value in predicting neurotoxicity, whereas in teeth, lead accumulates over a long period of time and provides an integrated record of lead exposure from intrauterine life until the teeth are shed.

Aim.  The present study aimed to relate tooth‐lead (TPb) and BPb levels in children residing near a zinc–lead smelter in India, and to evaluate the effectiveness of primary teeth as bioindicators of life‐long lead exposure.

Design.  The lead levels in primary teeth and blood of 100 children aged between 5 and 13 years, living in the proximity of a zinc–lead smelter were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The mean levels were tabulated based on village, age, sex and tooth type, and analysed statistically.

Results.  The mean BPb level was significantly influenced by proximity to the lead source, but not by age or sex. There was no consistent pattern of correlation between BPb and TPb levels.

Conclusion.  Primary teeth showed significantly high lead levels compared to blood; they reflect cumulative exposure to lead and prove to be better indicators of body lead burden.
Salivary bacteria and oral health status in children with disabilities fed through gastrostomy
Authors: HIDAS ARIELA , COHEN JOEL , BEERI MAURIT , SHAPIRA JOSEPH , STEINBERG DORON , MOSKOVITZ MOTI
Published: April 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 179–185

Objectives.  This study examined caries level, amount of calculus, and oral microbial environment in gastrostomy tube (GT)‐fed children compared with healthy children and children with disabilities orally fed (PO).

Study design.  The study group consisted of 12 GT‐fed children and the two control groups consisted of 16 children with disabilities orally fed and 17 healthy children. DMF‐T/dmf‐t index, calculus index, Mutans Streptococci (MS), Lactobacilli (LB) levels and salivary buffer capacity were examined.

Results.  DMF‐T/dmf‐t index was significantly lower in the tube‐fed group. Calculus index was highest in the tube‐fed group. MS and LB levels were the lowest in the tube‐fed children. Correlation was found between MS and DMF‐T/dmf‐t.

Conclusions.  Tube‐fed children demonstrated significantly higher calculus levels and less caries, MS, and LB levels then healthy children or children with disabilities eating PO.
How pre‐school children learn to brush their teeth in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Authors: KHADRI F. A. , GOPINATH V. K. , HECTOR M. P. , DAVENPORT E. S.
Published: April 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 230–234

Objective.  The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to assess tooth brushing habits of pre‐school children and to determine the role and amount of supervision given to them by their parents.

Method.  One hundred pre‐school children below 6 years were selected from Maternal and Child Health Center, Sharjah (United Arab Emirates, UAE). A standard piloted questionnaire was used to collect socio‐demographic details and information on oral hygiene practise.

Results.  Tooth brushing was stared at a mean age of 16 months. Thirty‐seven per cent of the pre‐schoolers used a toothbrush for cleaning their teeth and the brushing habits were mainly (70%) introduced by mothers. The majority (80%) of children’s tooth brushing at the age of 3 years and above was supervised by mothers. Younger children were frequently supervised in tooth brushing than older children (P < 0.05)

Conclusions.  In summary, pre‐school children of Sharjah (UAE) were introduced to tooth brushing at a mean age of 16 months. Mothers played a pivotal role in introducing and teaching the child how to brush. There was no positive correlation between the brushing behaviour of the mothers and their children. In most cases, the children’s brushing was supervised by their mother when they were above 25 months of age. In children less than 12 months of age tooth brushing was not started at all.
Clinical evaluation of 3Mix and Vitapex®as treatment options for pulpally involved primary molars
Authors: NAKORNCHAI SIRIRUK , BANDITSING PANIT , VISETRATANA NATTIDA
Published: April 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 214–221

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic success of 3Mix and Vitapex®for root canal treatment of pulpally involved primary molars.

Methods. Fifty teeth from 37 healthy children aged 3–8 years with pulpally involved primary molars needing root canal procedures were treated with 3Mix or Vitapex®before restoration with stainless steel crowns. The research employed a prospective single‐blinded randomized design. The subjects were followed up clinically and radiographically at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The outcome was compared using aZ‐test with a significance level of 0.05.

Results. Both groups showed 100% and 96% clinical success at 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 6 months, radiographic success of 3Mix and Vitapex®was 84% and 80%, respectively, and at 12 months, radiographic success of 3Mix and Vitapex®was 76% and 56%, respectively. Considering the radiographic findings at the end of 6 and 12 months, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups (P = 0.356 and 0.068, respectively).

Conclusion. 3Mix and Vitapex®can be used as a root canal treatment agent in pulpally involved primary teeth.
Dental care of frail older people and those caring for them
Authors: Nitschke Ina , Majdani Mahsa , Sobotta Bernhard AJ , Reiber Thomas , Hopfenmüller Werner
Published: April 2010

Aims and objectives.  To describe oral health utilisation patterns of frail older people and contrast these with attitudes and utilisation patterns of nursing staff who are caring for them.

Background.  In view of widespread poor oral health of frail older people in long‐term care, staff attitudes have been identified as an area of interest. In addition to data on attitudes, the current study contributes a description of aspects of oral health related behaviour of staff and clients.

Design.  Cross‐sectional study.

Methods.  Structured interviews of a random selection of long‐term care staff (n = 320) and frail older people (n = 172), within the two groups of home‐care services (HCS) and long‐term care facilities (LTCF).

Results.  Of staff members, 55·3% attach the same importance to their own oral health compared to that of clients and 35·7% regard their own oral health as more important; 98·4% of staff attended two or more dental examinations per year; 3·4% of HCS and 37·1% of LTCF routinely arranged oral examinations. In 81·4% HCS and in 34·4% of LTCF, there was no routine dental service available. Patterns of oral health service attendance greatly differ between staff and clients.

Conclusion.  The oral health awareness of the majority of long‐term care staff did not translate into adequate oral health care for clients. A gap exists between attitudes supportive of oral health, adequate and prevention driven own oral health related behaviour of staff and actual oral health care delivered to clients.

Relevance to clinical practice.  To bridge the gap identified, a concept is suggested for nursing educators and managers of LTCF targeting educational measures while taking into account individual attitudes.
Proton pump inhibitor‐induced tumour cell death by inhibition of a detoxification mechanism
Authors: Fais S.
Published: April 2010

Abstract. Fais S [Istituo Superiore di Sanità (National Institute of Health), Rome, Italy]. Proton pump inhibitor‐induced tumour cell death by inhibition of a detoxification mechanism (Symposium).J Intern Med2010;267:515–525.

This review presents a possible new approach against cancer, as represented by inhibition of proton pumps, a mechanism used by tumour cells to avoid intracellular accumulation of toxic substances. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) belong to a family of pro‐drugs that are currently used in the treatment of peptic diseases needing acidity to be activated. PPIs target the acidic tumour mass, where they are metabolized, thus blocking proton traffic. Proton pump inhibition triggers a rapid cell death as a result of intracellular acidification, caspase activation and early accumulation of reactive oxygen species into tumour cells. As a whole, the devastating effect of PPIs on tumour cells suggest the triggering of a fatal cell toxification. Many human tumours, including melanoma, osteosarcoma, lymphomas and various adenocarcinomas are responsive to PPIs. This appears highly conceivable, in as much as almost all human tumours are acidic and express high levels of proton pumps. Paradoxically, metastatic tumours appear to be more responsive to PPIs being more acidic than the majority of primary tumours. However, two clinical trials test the effectiveness of PPIs in chemosensitizing melanoma and osteosarcoma patients. Indeed, tumour acidity represents a very potent mechanism of chemoresistance. A majority of cytotoxic agents, being weak bases, are quickly protonated outside and do not enter the cells, thus preventing drugs to reach specific cellular targets. Clinical data will provide the proof of concept on the use of PPIs as a new class of antitumour agent with a very low level of systemic toxicity as compared with standard chemotherapeutic agents.
Maternal Overnutrition Impacts Offspring Adiposity and Brain Appetite Markers‐Modulation by Postweaning Diet
Authors: Rajia S. , Chen H. , Morris M. J.
Published: April 2010

Maternal obesity has long‐term consequences for the development of hypothalamic neurones involved in energy homeostasis and the metabolic profile in offspring. In the present study, we compared the effects of maternal obesity induced by longstanding high‐fat diet (HFD) with milder postnatal overfeeding during suckling induced by litter size reduction. Female Sprague–Dawley rats consumed chow (C) or HFD. On postnatal day 1, litters from chow dams were adjusted to three per dam (small litter, CS) versus 12 control (normal litter, CN). Litters from HFD dams were adjusted to 12 per dam and fed HFD after weaning to induce obesity (HN). Thus, two degrees of maternal overnutrition were produced (CS and HN). To test whether postweaning diet can amplify the effects of maternal obesity, male offspring weaned onto chow or HFD were followed to 21 weeks. Maternal postnatal overnutrition (CS) and HFD‐induced maternal obesity (HN) increased body weight and fat mass in offspring compared to those from control dams (CN). Significant glucose intolerance was induced by both degrees of maternal overnutrition, but only in offspring consuming HFD. HFD‐induced maternal obesity (HN) was linked to increased offspring leptin, insulin, lipids, insulin resistance and hyperphagia, and was exaggerated by postweaning HFD. No effect of maternal postnatal overnutrition (CS) was seen on these parameters. Hypothalamic signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 and suppressor of cytokine signalling‐3 mRNA were significantly elevated by maternal HFD (HN) in the HFD‐fed offspring. The data obtained suggest that even mild maternal overnutrition (CS) led to increased adiposity, glucose intolerance and altered brain appetite regulators in offspring. A greater impact of HFD‐induced maternal obesity was evident. Marked additive effects were observed when animals consumed a HFD postweaning.
Protection against Naegleria fowleri infection in mice immunized with Cry1Ac plus amoebic lysates is dependent on the STAT6 Th2 response
Authors: CARRASCO‐YEPEZ M. , ROJAS‐HERNANDEZ S. , RODRIGUEZ‐MONROY M. A. , TERRAZAS L. I. , MORENO‐FIERROS L.
Published: April 2010

We previously reported that intranasal administration of Cry1Ac protoxin alone or in combination with amoebic lysates increases protection against Naegleria fowleri meningoencephalitis in mice. Those results suggested that both antibody responses and innate immune mechanisms may be participating in the protective effects observed. The present study was aimed to investigate whether the STAT6‐induced Th2 immune response is essential for the resistance to N. fowleri infection, conferred by immunization with amoebic lysates plus Cry1Ac. STAT6‐deficient (STAT6−/−) and wild‐type (STAT6+/+) BALB/c mice were immunized by the intranasal route with a combination of N. fowleri lysates plus Cry1Ac, and subsequently challenged with lethal doses of N. fowleri trophozoites. STAT6+/+ mice displayed 100% protection, while no protection was observed in STAT6−/− mice. Significantly higher titres of Th2‐associated IgG1 as well as interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) were found in STAT6+/+ mice, whereas in STAT6−/− mice significantly more IL‐12 and IFN‐γ as well as significantly higher titres of Th1‐associated IgG2a were detected. Thus, whereas protected STAT6+/+‐immunized mice elicited a Th‐2 type inclined immune response that produced predominantly humoral immunity, unprotected STAT6−/− mice exhibited a polarized Th1 type cellular response. These findings suggest that the STAT6‐signalling pathway is critical for defence against N. fowleri infection.
Multivariate phenotypes and the potential for alternative phenotypic optima in wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) ventral colour morphs
Authors: CALSBEEK B. , HASSELQUIST D. , CLOBERT J.
Published: April 2010

A major goal in evolutionary biology is to determine how phenotypic variation arises and is maintained in natural populations. Recent studies examining the morphological, physiological and behavioural differences among discrete colour morphotypes (morphs) have revealed several mechanisms that maintain discrete variation within populations, including frequency‐dependence, density‐dependence and correlational selection. For example, trade‐offs over resource allocation to morphological, physiological and behavioural traits can drive correlational selection for morph‐specific phenotypic optima. Here, we describe a ventral colour polymorphism in the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) and test the hypothesis that morphs differ along multivariate axes defined by trade‐offs in morphological, physiological, and immunological traits. We show that ventral colour is a discrete trait and that morphs differ in body size, prevalence of infection by parasites and infection intensity. We also find that morphs differ along multivariate phenotypic axes and experience different multivariate selection pressures. Our results suggest that multivariate selection pressures may favour alternative optimal morph‐specific phenotypes inP. muralis.
Intraspecific ecomorphological variation: linear and geometric morphometrics reveal habitat‐related patterns within Podarcis bocagei wall lizards
Authors: KALIONTZOPOULOU A. , CARRETERO M. A. , LLORENTE G. A.
Published: April 2010

Morphological variation in relation to habitat is known to occur in several lizard groups. Comparative studies have linked morphology and habitat use, showing that locomotion is the principal mediator of this evolutionary relationship. Here, we investigate intraspecific ecomorphological variation in Podarcis bocagei by examining three habitat types, representing a variety between saxicolous and ground‐dwelling habits. Our results indicate variation in absolute and relative limb length, but patterns are only partially concordant to biomechanical predictions. Whereas the femur and hind foot are longer in ground‐dwelling lizards, confirming previous observations, the tibia and hind limb are relatively shorter, contradicting expectations. Additionally, head shape varies substantially between habitats, in line with a hypothesis of mechanical restrictions related to microhabitat and refuge use. Finally, we detect male‐specific variation between habitats in total body size and head size, providing evidence for interactions between natural and sexual selection. Although performance and behaviour studies are necessary to definitely confirm the functional and evolutionary significance of the observed patterns, our study indicates that ecomorphological adaptations can arise in a very short evolutionary time in this group of lizards.
Variation of telencephalon morphology of the threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) in relation to inferred ecology
Authors: PARK P. J. , BELL M. A.
Published: April 2010

We tested the hypothesis that increased telencephalon size has evolved in threespine stickleback fish (Gasterosteus aculeatus) from structurally complex habitats using field‐caught samples from one sea‐run (ancestral) and 18 ecologically diverse freshwater (descendant) populations. Freshwater habitats ranged from shallow, structurally complex lakes with benthic‐foraging stickleback (benthics), to deeper, structurally simple lakes in which stickleback depend more heavily on plankton for prey (generalists). Contrary to our expectations, benthics had smaller telencephala than generalists, but the shape of the telencephalon of the sea‐run and benthic populations were more convex laterally. Convex telencephalon shape may indicate enlargement of the dorsolateral region, which is homologous with the tetrapod hippocampus. Telencephalon morphology is also sexually dimorphic, with larger, less convex telencephala in males. Freshwater stickleback from structurally complex habitats have retained the ancestral telencephalon morphology, but populations that feed more in open habitats on plankton have evolved larger, laterally concave telencephala.
Pollinator shifts and the loss of style polymorphism in Narcissus papyraceus (Amaryllidaceae)
Authors: PÉREZ‐BARRALES R. , ARROYO J.
Published: April 2010

Darwin proposed that the driving force for the evolution of style polymorphisms is the promotion of cross‐pollination between style morphs, through accurate placement of pollen on the pollinator’s body. This hypothesis has received much attention, but the effect of different pollinators in the fitness of morphs remains poorly understood. Narcissus papyraceus is a style dimorphic species (long ‐L‐ and short ‐S‐ styled) with isoplethic (1 : 1) and L‐monomorphic populations, mainly visited by long‐tongued (LT) nocturnal and short‐tongued (ST) diurnal pollinators, respectively. We studied natural female fertility of morphs, and assessed the role of diurnal and nocturnal pollinators. We also quantified female fertility of the morphs in experimental populations with different morph ratio, exposed to predominately long‐ or short‐tongued pollinators. We found that with LT pollinators, both morphs were successfully pollinated in all morph ratio conditions, suggesting that these insects could be involved in maintenance of the polymorphism, although other factors may also play a role. However, with ST pollinators, S‐plants displayed less fertility than L‐plants, and mating among L‐plants was favoured, implying that the polymorphism is lost. These results underscore the role of pollinators on variations in style polymorphism.
Onychomycosis observed in children over a 20‐year period
Authors: Rodríguez‐Pazos Laura , Pereiro‐Ferreirós MªMercedes , Pereiro Manuel , Toribio Jaime
Published: April 2010

There are few reports studying the aetiology of onychomycosis in children in Spain. To study childhood dermatophyte onychomycosis, a retrospective study of children was carried out, who were <16 years of age with dermatophyte onychomycosis diagnosed between 1987 and 2007. Of 4622 nail samples from 3550 patients, 218 came from 181 children up to 16 years old. Onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes was demonstrated in 28 (15.5%) cases. Trichophyton rubrum (18 cases) was the most prevalent species, followed by Trichophyton tonsurans (five cases), Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale (four cases) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. mentagrophytes (one case). Concomitant dermatophytosis at other locations was confirmed in seven cases (25%). Toenail onychomycosis was associated with tinea pedis in five cases. Distal and lateral subungual onychomycosis was the most common clinical pattern. The superficial white type was found in two cases of toenail onychomycosis caused by T. rubrum and T. tonsurans. During the period of study, only 5.1% of all investigated people were children up to 16 years. The prevalence of onychomycosis tended to increase over the years and represented 15.5% of all nail dystrophies in children. Therefore, dermatologists must consider onychomycosis in the differential diagnosis of nail alterations in children and always perform a mycological study to confirm the diagnosis.
Aquaporin‐3 gene and protein expression in sun‐protected human skin decreases with skin ageing
Authors: Li Ji , Tang Hua , Hu Xinglin , Chen Mingliang , Xie Hongfu
Published: April 2010

Backgroud/Objectives:  Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) is a protein implicated in skin hydration. AQP3 null mice have relatively dry skin, reduced skin elasticity, and delayed recovery of barrier function after removal of the stratum corneum which is also present in skin of old people. A feature of skin aging is the change in both water content and barrier function of the skin. We investigated the expression of aquaporin 3 in non sun‐exposed human skin, normal human keratinocytes and fibroblasts from different age groups to further understand the relationship between AQP3 and intrinsic skin aging.

Methods:  We investigated the expression of aquaporin3 (AQP3) in normal human skin, normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) and skin fibroblast of different ages by immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, the reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and western blotting. The samples were derived from 60 patients of varying ages: <20 years of age, 30–45 years and >60 years of age. Twenty skin biopsies, 6 for keratinocyte/fibroblast cultures, were taken from each age group.

Results:  AQP3 decreased with increasing age in both skin and NHEK samples. We demonstrated significant differences in AQP3 expression between the 3 age groups (P < 0.05). In fibroblasts, AQP3 expression levels were significantly lower in the >60 year olds compared to 30–45 year olds (P < 0.05) and <20 year olds (P < 0.05), there was no significant difference between the two younger groups (P > 0.05).

Conlusions:  AQP3 may be involved in the intrinsic aging process of non sun‐exposed human skin.
Motor and non‐motor projections from the cerebellum to rostrocaudally distinct sectors of the dorsal premotor cortex in macaques
Authors: Hashimoto Masashi , Takahara Daisuke , Hirata Yoshihiro , Inoue Ken‐ichi , Miyachi Shigehiro , Nambu Atsushi , Tanji Jun , Takada Masahiko , Hoshi Eiji
Published: April 2010

In the caudal part of the dorsal premotor cortex of macaques (area F2), both anatomical and physiological studies have identified two rostrocaudally separate sectors. The rostral sector (F2r) is located medial to the genu of the arcuate sulcus, and the caudal sector (F2c) is located lateral to the superior precentral dimple. Here we examined the sites of origin of projections from the cerebellum to F2r and F2c. We applied retrograde transsynaptic transport of a neurotropic virus, CVS‐11 of rabies virus, in macaque monkeys. Three days after rabies injections into F2r or F2c, neuronal labeling was found in the deep cerebellar nuclei mainly of the contralateral hemisphere. After the F2r injection, labeled cells were distributed primarily in the caudoventral portion of the dentate nucleus, whereas cells labeled after the F2c injection were distributed in the rostrodorsal portion of the dentate nucleus, and in the interpositus and fastigial nuclei. Four days after rabies injections, Purkinje cells were densely labeled in the lateral part of the cerebellar cortex. After the F2r injection, Purkinje cell labeling was confined to Crus I and II, whereas the labeling seen after the F2c injection was located broadly from lobules III to VIII, including Crus I and II. These results have revealed that F2c receives inputs from broader areas of the cerebellum than F2r, and that distinct portions of the deep cerebellar nuclei and the cerebellar cortex send major projections to F2r and F2c, suggesting that F2c and F2r may be under specific influences of the cerebellum.
Immunocytochemical evidence for SNARE protein‐dependent transmitter release from guinea pig horizontal cells
Authors: Lee Helen , Brecha Nicholas C.
Published: April 2010

Horizontal cells are lateral interneurons that participate in visual processing in the outer retina but the cellular mechanisms underlying transmitter release from these cells are not fully understood. In non‐mammalian horizontal cells, GABA release has been shown to occur by a non‐vesicular mechanism. However, recent evidence in mammalian horizontal cells favors a vesicular mechanism as they lack plasmalemmal GABA transporters and some soluble NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE) core proteins have been identified in rodent horizontal cells. Moreover, immunoreactivity for GABA and the molecular machinery to synthesize GABA have been found in guinea pig horizontal cells, suggesting that if components of the SNARE complex are expressed they could contribute to the vesicular release of GABA. In this study we investigated whether these vesicular and synaptic proteins are expressed by guinea pig horizontal cells using immunohistochemistry with well‐characterized antibodies to evaluate their cellular distribution. Components of synaptic vesicles including vesicular GABA transporter, synapsin I and synaptic vesicle protein 2A were localized to horizontal cell processes and endings, along with the SNARE core complex proteins, syntaxin‐1a, syntaxin‐4 and synaptosomal‐associated protein 25 (SNAP‐25). Complexin I/II, a cytosolic protein that stabilizes the activated SNARE fusion core, strongly immunostained horizontal cell soma and processes. In addition, the vesicular Ca2+‐sensor, synaptotagmin‐2, which is essential for Ca2+‐mediated vesicular release, was also localized to horizontal cell processes and somata. These morphological findings from guinea pig horizontal cells suggest that mammalian horizontal cells have the capacity to utilize a regulated Ca2+‐dependent vesicular pathway to release neurotransmitter, and that this mechanism may be shared among many mammalian species.
Resistant starch improves insulin sensitivity in metabolic syndrome
Authors: Johnston K. L. , Thomas E. L. , Bell J. D. , Frost G. S. , Robertson M. D.
Published: April 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 391–397 (2010)

Aims  Diets rich in non‐viscous fibre are linked to a reduced risk of both diabetes and cardiovascular disease; however, the mechanism of action remains unclear. This study was undertaken to assess whether chronic consumption of this type of fibre in individuals with the metabolic syndrome would improve insulin sensitivity via changes in ectopic fat storage.

Methods  The study was a single‐blind, randomized, parallel nutritional intervention where 20 insulin resistant subjects consumed either the fibre supplement (resistant starch) (40 g/day) or placebo supplement (0 g/day) for 12 weeks. Insulin sensitivity was measured by euglycaemic–hyperinsulinaemic clamp and ectopic fat storage measured by whole‐body magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results  Resistant starch consumption did not significantly affect body weight, fat storage in muscle, liver or visceral depots. There was also no change with resistant starch feeding on vascular function or markers of inflammation. However, in subjects randomized to consume the resistant starch, insulin sensitivity improved compared with the placebo group (P = 0.023). Insulin sensitivity correlated significantly with changes in waist circumference and fat storage in tibialis muscle and to a lesser extent to visceral‐to‐subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue ratio.

Conclusion  Consumption of resistant starch improves insulin sensitivity in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. Unlike in animal models, diabetes prevention does not appear to be directly related to changes in body adiposity, blood lipids or inflammatory markers. Further research to elucidate the mechanisms behind this change in insulin sensitivity in human subjects is required.
Influence of glycaemic control on platelet bound CD40–CD40L system, P‐selectin and soluble CD40 ligand in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Neubauer H. , Setiadi P. , Günesdogan B. , Pinto A. , Börgel J. , Mügge A.
Published: April 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 384–390 (2010)

Aims  Type 2 diabetes is a potent cardiovascular risk factor, associated with proinflammatory and prothrombotic processes. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether platelet‐bound CD40–CD40L signalling, P‐selectin expression and soluble CD40L were increased in patients with diabetes mellitus and can be normalized by improving glycaemic control.

Methods  Soluble (s) CD40L, platelet surface expression of CD40L, CD40 and P‐selectin (CD62P) on platelets were measured by flow cytometry in 71 patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and 37 healthy volunteers. In addition, the relationship of HbA1c to CD40–CD40L and P‐selectin expression was determined in a longitudinal follow‐up.

Results  In patients with Type 2 diabetes, platelet membrane CD40 expression (Type 2 diabetes 3.1 ± 0.61 vs. controls 2.5 ± 0.85 mean fluorescence intensity; P = 0.001), platelet‐bound CD40L (1.2 ± 0.32 vs. 1.1 ± 0.14; P = 0.034) as well as surface expression of CD62P (0.66 ± 0.19 vs. 0.57 ± 0.12; P = 0.007) were higher than in control subjects. Plasma sCD40L values (3.2 ± 1.70 vs. 1.8 ± 0.50 ng/ml; P < 0.001) were also significantly increased in Type 2 diabetes. After improving glycaemic control in patients with initial HbA1c > 8.5% (n = 15), platelet P‐selectin and CD40–CD40L expression decreased significantly by 54.0%, 36.22% and 16.26%, respectively 1 year later.

Conclusions  Type 2 diabetes is associated with up‐regulation of the platelet‐bound CD40–CD40L system, platelet hyperactivity (enhanced P‐selectin expression) and increased sCD40L levels. Improved glycaemic control, however, does help to correct abnormal platelet activation via down‐regulation of CD40–CD40L system and P‐selectin expression.
Providing diabetes patients with personalized written clinical information in the diabetes outpatient clinic: a pilot study
Authors: Hong Y. Y. , Lim Y. Y. , Audrey Lim S. Y. , O' Donnell M. T. , Dinneen S. F.
Published: April 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 685–690 (2010)

Aim  To explore the impact of sharing personalized written clinical information with diabetes outpatients on patient involvement in the clinical consultation.

Methods  One hundred and six patients attending diabetes outpatient clinics for a review visit were allocated to receive either a patient information sheet containing personalized clinical information (prior to their consultation) or no information sheet. Both groups were compared by observing the number of patients raising any of the 17 topics included on the patient information sheet, the number of topics raised by each individual and the proportion of the total consultation time in which the patient was involved in conversation. A mean patient score was calculated by summing the number of topics raised by each patient.

Results  Patients in the intervention group were more likely to initiate a conversation on all 17 topics during the consultation than those in the control group. These differences were significant for all topics except glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and diabetes complications. The mean patient score was significantly higher in the intervention group (5 vs. 1, P < 0.005), with the highest patient score in the intervention group being 14 compared with 4 in the control group. The mean patient conversation time for the intervention group was significantly longer than for the control group (6.34 vs. 3.34 min, P < 0.01). The overall consultation time did not significantly differ between groups.

Conclusions  Providing patients with personalized clinical information in a routine clinical setting can increase patients’ involvement in the consultation without significantly increasing the length of the consultation.
INDUSTRIAL DYNAMICS AND THE NEOCLASSICAL GROWTH MODEL
Authors: BLANKENAU WILLIAM F. , CASSOU STEVEN P.
Published: April 2010

This paper studies industry‐level dynamics and demonstrates the ability of a modified neoclassical growth model to capture a range of empirical facts. The paper begins by using U.S. data to document skilled and unskilled labor trends within industry sector classifications as well as industry sector output trends. Using Current Population Survey data from 1968 to 2004, it is shown that the ratio of skilled workers to unskilled workers employed has risen in all industries. The absolute increase in this ratio was larger in the more skilled industries, while the growth rate was larger in the less skilled industries. Furthermore, using national income account data, it is shown that relatively high‐skilled industries have accounted for an increasing share of output over time. A version of the neoclassical growth model is then constructed to match these observations. One important feature of this model is a structure that introduces new goods into the economy at each moment of time. The model is able to capture a rich set of labor market movements between sectors and between skill levels as well as changes in the relative output shares across industries, yet preserves many nice features of the neoclassical growth model.(JEL E13, J20, 030)
INFLATION AND REAL STOCK RETURNS REVISITED
Authors: LIN SHU‐CHIN
Published: April 2010

The article uses the (unbalanced) panel data to revisit the effects of expected inflation, unexpected inflation, and inflation uncertainty on real stock returns. The empirical results are obtained via the pooled mean group estimator, which can be applied toI(1) and/orI(0) variables, and can distinguish long‐ and short‐run effects. Using a panel of 16 industrialized Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development countries over the 1957:Q1 to 2000:Q1 period, we find that anticipated inflation and inflation uncertainty tend to have insignificant short‐run effects, while they appear to have negative long‐run impacts on real stock returns. Moreover, we find coexistence of a negative long‐run effect and a positive short‐run effect of unanticipated inflation on real stock returns. These findings help clarify the conflicting conclusions of both empirical and theoretical studies on this issue.(JELC23, E31, G12)
Interventions that involve parents to improve children's weight‐related nutrition intake and activity patterns – what nutrition and activity targets and behaviour change techniques are associated with intervention effectiveness?
Authors: Golley R. K. , Hendrie G. A. , Slater A. , Corsini N.
Published: April 2010

Parent involvement is an important component of obesity prevention interventions. However, the best way to support parents remains unclear. This review identifies interventions targeting parents to improve children's weight status, dietary and/or activity patterns, examines whether intervention content and behaviour change techniques employed are associated with effectiveness. Seventeen studies, in English, 1998–2008, were included. Studies were evaluated by two reviewers for study quality, nutrition/activity content and behaviour change techniques using a validated quality assessment tool and behaviour change technique taxonomy. Study findings favoured intervention effectiveness in 11 of 17 studies. Interventions that were considered effective had similar features: better study quality, parents responsible for participation and implementation, greater parental involvement and inclusion of prompt barrier identification, restructure the home environment, prompt self‐monitoring, prompt specific goal setting behaviour change techniques. Energy intake/density and food choices were more likely to be targeted in effective interventions. The number of lifestyle behaviours targeted did not appear to be associated with effectiveness. Intervention effectiveness was favoured when behaviour change techniques spanned the spectrum of behaviour change process. The review provides guidance for researchers to make informed decisions on how best to utilize resources in interventions to support and engage parents, and highlights a need for improvement in intervention content reporting practices.
ON USING PEOPLE MERELY AS A MEANS IN CLINICAL RESEARCH
Authors: VAN DER GRAAF RIEKE , VAN DELDEN JOHANNES J.M.
Published: April 2010

It is often argued that clinical research should not violate the Kantian principle that people must not be used merely as a means for the purposes of others. At first sight, the practice of clinical research itself, however, seems to violate precisely this principle: clinical research is often beneficial to future people rather than to participants; even if participants benefit, all things considered, they are exposed to discomforts which are absent both in regular care for their diseases and in other areas of daily life. Therefore, in this paper we will consider whether people are used merely as a means by being enrolled in clinical research. On the basis of recent studies of Kantian scholars we will argue that clinical research is compatible with the Kantian principle if the conditions of possible consent and end‐sharing have been met. Participants are not used merely as a means if they have sufficient reasons to consent to being enrolled in clinical research and can share the ends of the researchers who use them. Moreover, we will claim that even if people are used merely as a means by participating in clinical research, it may not always be morally wrong to use them in this way.
ADL tests for threshold cointegration
Authors: Li Jing , Lee Junsoo
Published: April 2010

In this article, we propose new tests for threshold cointegration using an autoregressive distributed lag (ADL) model. The indicators in the threshold model can adopt either a nonstationary or stationary threshold variable. The cointegrating vector is not prespecified in this article. We adopt a supremum Wald type test to account for the so‐called Davies (1987, Biometrika 74,33) problem. The asymptotic null distributions of the proposed tests are free of nuisance parameters. As such, a bootstrap procedure is not required and the critical values of the proposed tests are tabulated. Monte Carlo experiments show good finite‐sample performance.
THE TECHNOLOGICAL AND TYPOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF A NEANDERTHAL GROUP FROM EL SIDRÓN CAVE (ASTURIAS, SPAIN)
Authors: SANTAMARÍA DAVID , FORTEA JAVIER , DE LA RASILLA MARCO , MARTÍNEZ LUCÍA , MARTÍNEZ ENRIQUE , CAÑAVERAS JUAN CARLOS , SÁNCHEZ‐MORAL SERGIO , ROSAS ANTONIO , ESTALRRICH ALMUDENA , GARCÍA‐TABERNERO ANTONIO , LALUEZA‐FOX CARLES
Published: April 2010

This paper presents the first detailed analysis of the lithic industry from El Sidrón Cave. Previously we have published other works concerning Anthropology and Palaeogenetics. The lithic assemblage contains 415 artefacts coming from both unofficial and official excavations and is largely flake‐based. The raw material derives from the immediate cave environment, and is mostly chert, with quartzite in a lesser proportion. To date, 67 artefacts have been refitted, including some tools and cores. The spatial distribution of the refitted lithic artefacts confirms, on the one hand, the unity of the assemblage and, on the other, its secondary context.
NEW APPROACHES ON THE ARCHAIC TRADE IN THE NORTH‐EASTERN IBERIAN PENINSULA: EXPLOITATION AND CIRCULATION OF LEAD AND SILVER
Authors: RAFEL NÚRIA , MONTERO‐RUIZ IGNACIO , CASTANYER PERE , AQUILUÉ XAVIER , ARMADA XOSÉ‐LOIS , BELARTE M. CARME , FAIRÉN SARA , GASULL PEPA , GENER MARC , GRAELLS RAIMON , HUNT MARK , MARTIN AURORA , MATA JOSEP M. , MORELL NÚRIA , PÉREZ ARTURO , PONS ENRIQUETA , RENZI MARTINA , ROVIRA M. CARME , ROVIRA SALVADOR , SANTOS MARTA , TREMOLEDA JOAQUIM , VILLALBA PEPA
Published: April 2010

A wide‐ranging study based on compositional and isotopic analyses of minerals and manufactured objects from the north‐eastern Iberian Peninsula and their respective archaeological and cultural contexts demonstrates significant lead mineral exploitation in the El Priorat area (Tarragona province) linked to Phoenician trade (seventh–sixth centuries BC). This exploitation continued, despite losing intensity, until the Romanization of the territory. Our project also aims to determine the nature and origin of the lead and silver supply in the northern Iberian territory surrounding the Phocaean enclave of Emporion, especially with regard to the demands of the colonial mint. The behaviour pattern of the circulation of lead, silver and copper in Catalonia in the period studied indicates a plurality of contemporary supply sources, although, at least from the fifth century BC onward, minerals and metals from the south‐eastern Iberian Peninsula take on considerable importance.