bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-Business Investment Evaluation and Outsourcing Practices in Australian and Taiwanese Hospitals
Authors: Lin Chad , Jalleh Geoffrey , Huang Yu-An
Published: June 2013

In recent years, hospitals have come to realize that they can only compete with competitors through the efficient use of their IT/e-business resources. Hospital executives are becoming increasingly aware of challenges and opportunities in order to be more efficient and effective in delivering healthcare services to their patients. To remain competitive, hospitals must enhance and maintain their IT/e-business systems through both internal and non-internal sourcing activities. As in other industries, the management of outsourcing contracts has become one of the top key management issues for hospital executives during the last decade. Therefore, the main objectives of this study are: (1) to examine current practices and norms in managing and evaluating e-business investments and outsourcing contracts in Australian and Taiwanese hospitals; and (2) to identify key issues or challenges in managing and evaluating e-business investments and outsourcing contracts in Australian and Taiwanese hospitals. A key contribution of this study is the identification and examination of key e-business investment evaluation and outsourcing practice issues and challenges faced by the Australian and Taiwanese hospitals.
Improving the Quality and Cost-Effectiveness of Process-Oriented, Service-Driven Applications
Authors: Bauer Thomas , Buchwald Stephan , Reichert Manfred
Published: June 2013

A key objective of any Service-driven architectural approach is to improve the alignment between business and information technology (IT). Business process management, service composition, and service orchestration, play major roles in achieving this goal. In particular, they allow for the process-aware integration of business actors, business data, and business services. To optimize business-IT alignment and to achieve high business value, the business processes implemented in process-aware information systems (PAISs) must be defined by domain experts, and not by members of the IT department. In current practice, however, the information relevant for process execution is usually not captured at the required level of detail in business process models. In turn, this requires costly interactions between IT departments and domain experts during process implementation. To improve this situation, required execution information should be captured at a sufficient level of detail during business process design (front-loading). As another drawback, existing methods and tools for business process design do not consider available Service-oriented Architecture (SOA) artifacts such as technical service descriptions during process design (look-ahead). Both front-loading and look-ahead are not adequately supported by existing business process modeling tools. In particular, for many process aspects, appropriate techniques for specifying them at a sufficient level of detail during business process design are missing. This chapter presents techniques for enabling front-loading and look-ahead for selected process aspects and investigates how executable process models can be derived from business process models when enriched with additional information.
Governing the Service-Driven Environment
Authors: Shuster Leo
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this chapter is to discuss tools, technologies, and practices employed to govern the service lifecycle in a Service-driven environment. Aside from defining the complete service lifecycle, the discussion will concentrate on specific approaches to governing each stage in the lifecycle and best practices associated with it. SOA governance methodology will be covered in great detail. The topics discussed will include SOA Governance program structure, methodology, processes, funding, value demonstration, and adoption levers. These governance mechanisms will be aligned with each stage in the service lifecycle, and appropriate applications will be identified accordingly. Current and future state of governance tools and technologies will be explored. Some examples of existing tools will be provided to highlight and support the assertions made throughout the chapter. Connection between stages in the service lifecycle and the governance tools and technologies will be identified and best practices explored.
Awareness-Based Recommendation
Authors: Yamaguchi Tomohiro , Nishimura Takuma , Takadama Keiki
Published: June 2013

This chapter describes the interactive learning system to assist positive change in the preference of a human toward the true preference. First, an introduction to interactive reinforcement learning with human in robot learning is given; then, the need to estimate the human’s preference and to consider its changes by interactive learning system is described. Second, requirements for interactive system as being human adaptive and friendly are discussed. Then, the passive interaction design of the system to assist the awareness for a human is proposed. The system behaves passively to reflect the human intelligence by visualizing the traces of his/her behaviors. Experimental results show that subjects are divided into two groups, heavy users and light users, and that there are different effects between them under the same visualizing condition. They also show that the system improves the efficiency for deciding the most preferred plan for both heavy users and light users.
Robotic CAM System Available for Both CL Data and NC Data
Authors: Nagata Fusaomi , Yoshitake Sho , Watanabe Keigo , Habib Maki K.
Published: June 2013

This chapter describes the development of a robotic CAM system for an articulated industrial robot from the viewpoint of robotic servo controller. It is defined here that the CAM system includes an important function that allows an industrial robot to move along not only numerical control data (NC data) but also cutter location data (CL data) consisting of position and orientation components. A reverse post-processor is proposed for the robotic CAM system to online generate CL data from the NC data generated for a five-axis NC machine tool with a tilting head, and the transformation accuracy about orientation components in CL data is briefly evaluated. The developed CAM system has a high applicability to other industrial robots with an open architecture controller whose servo system is technically opened to end-users, and also works as a straightforward interface between a general CAD/CAM system and an industrial robot. The basic design of the robotic CAM system and the experimental result are presented, in which an industrial robot can move based on not only CL data but also NC data without any teaching.
Cross-Cultural Approach to Evaluation of University Services
Authors: Sanchis Margarita García , Saura Irene Gil , Contrí Gloria Berenguer , Blasco Maria Fuentes
Published: June 2013

Increased competition between universities is generating the need for in-depth analysis of the processes underlying evaluation of university service because of its implications for student behaviour. Cross-cultural analysis of student perceptions is a fundamental approach. This chapter attempts to review the concept in the light of dimensional models of culture proposed by Hofstede (1980, 2001) and Schwartz (1994). Thus, based on a theoretical framework that reviews the main contributions to the concept of culture and evaluation of university service, a proposal has been developed for evaluating university service from a cross-cultural approach. The results show cultural differences between students from four different nationalities. Furthermore, Hofstede’s (2001) model has been found to be the most appropriate for evaluating cultural differences in this context.
Higher Education Leadership
Authors: Wang Victor X. , Russo Marianne Robin
Published: June 2013

This chapter illustrates gaps that exist between leadership theories and practice. Well-reasoned theories are described in many academic books, yet they may not apply in practice. In higher education, these gaps may seem to be compounded by the lack of technical skills or leadership ethics. To demonstrate the true gaps between leadership theories and practice, the authors provide a scenario that illustrates this effect. While the different leadership theories are briefly reviewed, the authors’ intention is to demonstrate that applied theory to practice will assist leaders in guiding followers in the right direction for the benefit of these specific stakeholders as well as for the academe at large. A model is developed to help ameliorate the gap between leadership theory and practice in terms of teaching and leadership within the academe, inclusive of faculty and administration. The conceptual framework encapsulates: (a) the interaction of one’s teaching philosophies and teaching theories; (b) the interaction of one’s teaching philosophies and leadership theories; and (c) behaviors and interactions of leaders and followers to prevent leaders from ganging up on followers.
Information Literacy Support for Online Students in Higher Education
Authors: Kumar Swapna , Heathcock Kristin
Published: June 2013

As online education grows, so does the need for institutional support for online students. Information literacy support is one support that is infrequently addressed. Though students are familiar with the Internet, they often do not have the information literacy skills necessary for research. A collaborative effort involving program faculty and librarians was undertaken to address the information literacy needs of students in an online doctoral program. This chapter provides an overview of the first step of this project – an assessment of incoming students’ information literacy skills. The results of the assessment indicate a need for comprehensive instruction to familiarize students with online library resources at the university, access to relevant scholarly databases, quality assessment of such resources, and the use of bibliographic management software. Recommendations are made for higher education institutions and online programs wishing to integrate information literacy support for incoming students.
Iatrogenic direct rectal injury: An unusual complication during suprapubic cystostomy (SPC) insertion and its laparoscopic management
Authors: Rajmohan Rakesh , Aguilar-Davidov Bernardo , Tokas Theodoros , Rassweiler Jens , Gözen Ali Serdar
Published: June 2013

Suprapubic cystostomy (SPC) is commonly used, instead of indwelling urethral catheter- ization, as indicated in many pathological conditions. Although considered to be a safe procedure that can be easily performed in an outpatient basis several complications have been reported in international literature. Bowel injury can be a serious complication with the small intestine affected in the majority of cases. We present a case of an acci- dental rectal injury by a suprapubic catheter misplacement, in a 76 year old demented patient with prostatic hyperplasia and chronic urinary retention. The injury was confirmed by cystogra- phy and injection of contrast meterial through the suprapubic catheter, and successfully treated laparoscopically by an extraperitoneal approach. The patient was discharged after 10 days with- out any complications. The above method, in experienced hands, can be an effective primary treatment option for such rare but devastating complications. The case and management is unique as, to our knowledge, as no similar cases have been presented.
Continence and complications rates after male slings as primary surgery for post-prostatectomy incontinence: A systematic review
Authors: Cerruto Maria Angela , D'Elia Carolina , Artibani Walter
Published: June 2013

Objectives: to analyze continence and complications rates after male slings as first line surgical treatment, in order to improve patient counseling for the management of SUI postprostatectomy. Method: A MedLine search using specified search terms was done on January 23, 2012. This research rendered 160 records. Results: No controlled trial was available for analysis. The majority of papers dealing with out- come and complications came from a few centres. At a median follow-up of 15 months the pooled cure rates for all kinds of slings was 77.4; in the AdVance group the pooled cure rates was 72.5%; in the InVance group it was 74.2% while in the Remeex group it was 84.3%. Conclusions: Only a few number observational studies addressed review selection criteria. The pooled overall cure rates is high but there are no data concerning reliable pre- and postopera- tive prognostic factors affecting treatment failure and complications rates, thus it is not possi- ble to have suitable criteria for a better patient selection. The statistically pooled results obtained should be interpreted with caution because of several limitations due to several study selection limitations: observational study design, few number of analysed studies, heterogene- ity, lack of outcome definition and standardisation, between-study variability, high risk of bias.
The viral aetiology of influenza-like illnesses in Kampala and Entebbe, Uganda, 2008
Authors: Balinandi Stephen , Bakamutumaho Barnabas , Kayiwa John T. , Ongus Juliette , Oundo Joseph , Awor Anna C. , Lutwama Julius J.
Published: June 2013

Background: As the threat of zoonoses and the emergence of pandemic-prone respiratory viruses increases, there is a need to establish baseline information on the incidence of endemic pathogens in countries worldwide.Objectives: To investigate the presence of viruses associated with influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in Uganda.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which nasopharyngeal swab specimens were collected from patients diagnosed with ILI in Kampala and Entebbe between 14 August2008 – 15 December 2008. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay for detecting 12 respiratory viruses was used.Results: A total of 369 patients (52.3% females) was enrolled; the median age was 6 years (range1–70). One or more respiratory viruses were detected in 172 (46.6%) cases and their prevalence were influenza A virus (19.2%), adenovirus (8.7%), human rhinovirus A (7.9%), coronavirusOC43 (4.3%), parainfluenza virus 1 (2.7%), parainfluenza virus 3 (2.7%), influenza B virus (2.2%),respiratory syncytial virus B (2.2%), human metapneumovirus (1.4%), respiratory syncytialvirus A (1.1%), parainfluenza virus 2 (0.5%) and coronavirus 229E (0.5%). There were 24 (14.0%) mixed infections.Conclusions: This study identified some of the respiratory viruses associated with ILI in Uganda.The circulation of some of the viruses was previously unknown in the study population. These results are useful in order to guide future surveillance and case management strategies involving respiratory illnesses in Uganda.
Interpersonal violence amongst primary health care patients in Lesotho: A qualitative study of the reasons for assault
Authors: Ngobale Kabilabe N.W. , Ogunbanjo Gboyega A. , Omole Olufemi B.
Published: June 2013

Background: Interpersonal violence is a common cause of morbidity and mortality. The incidence of and weapons used in interpersonal violence vary amongst countries and may even vary within regions of a country. Substance abuse, including alcohol, has been linked to interpersonal violence, but other socio-economic factors, cultural and traditional practices may also influence the perpetration of violence.Methods: In 2002, a qualitative study was conducted to explore the experiences of physically assaulted victims of interpersonal violence at a local clinic in Leribe district of the Kingdom of Lesotho.Results: Aggravating factors for interpersonal violence included jealousy, unemployment, availability of weapons, substance abuse and poor levels of education. Interpersonal violence was ameliorated by family interventions, reporting to the authorities, seeking protection fromassailants and religious assistance. Most interpersonal violence occurred during the night and on weekends. The head and neck regions are the most common anatomical sites of injury.Conclusion: Emotional and socio-cultural factors aggravate interpersonal violence in Lesotho, whilst family and religious interventions ameliorate it. Legislation addressing the protection of victims needs to be enacted, and community agencies dealing with interpersonal violence should be established. Studies which assess the requirements and the feasibility of intervention programs are also needed in the kingdom of Lesotho.
Towards Converting Clinical Phrases into SNOMED CT Expressions
Authors: Kate Rohit J.
Published: June 2013

Converting information contained in natural language clinical text into computer-amenable structured representations can automate many clinical applications. As a step towards that goal, we present a method which could help in converting novel clinical phrases into new expressions in SNOMED CT, a standard clinical terminology. Since expressions in SNOMED CT are written in terms of their relations with other SNOMED CT concepts, we formulate the important task of identifying relations between clinical phrases and SNOMED CT concepts. We present a machine learning approach for this task and using the dataset of existing SNOMED CT relations we show that it performs well.
Impression Materials and Storage Time Influence on Cast Models Accuracy
Authors: Popoff Daniela Araújo Veloso , Gonçalves Fabiana Santos , Oliveira Wallace de Freitas , Soares Luiza Anjos , Carlo Hugo Lemes , Mota Adérito Soares da , Soares Carlos Jose
Published: June 2013

Background

There are a great amount of materials and techniques to use during dental prosthesis production that may confuse the dentist at the time of choice. Material's choice should be done considering ideal chemicophysical and biological properties and high detail reproduction.

Aims

The present study aimed to test the influence of differents impression materials and storage times on the dimensional accuracy of casting models.

Materials and methods

Four elastomeric materials– polysulfide, polyether, condensation silicone and addition silicone–were used to reproduce a master model of human teeth which were prepared for metaloceramic fixed prosthodontics. Six reference points were established on each tooth in order to determine four intervals: MD–mesial-distal, BL–buccal-lingual and CO–cervical-occlusal distance from premolar, and INT– interpillar distance–from the distal surface of the premolar to the mesial surface of the molar. The impressions were stored for half, 2 and 12 hours and pondered with a type IV gypsum.

Results

Cast measurements data were subjected to ANOVA (4 × 3), Tukey's – α = 0.05, Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests – α = 0.05. The interaction between materials and storage time presented statistically significant for VP and CO intervals. For each storage time, materials presented dimensional alteration statistically significant.

Conclusion

Impression materials accuracy was affected by the storage time. All materials presented different dimensional accuracy when evaluated in a same period of time. Polysulfide was the only material that presented stable behavior over the time.

How to cite this article

Gonçalves FS, de Freitas Oliveira W, Soares LA, Carlo HL, da Mota AS, Popoff DAV, Soares CJ. Impression Materials and Storage Time Influence on Cast Models Accuracy. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2013;2(1):18-23.
Diabetes Mellitus and the Risk for Developing Cancer
Authors: Markey Shane Malachy , Congiusta Marie A
Published: June 2013

Diabetes mellitus is a serious and growing health care problem, globally.

The ‘westernization’ of diets around the world has led to an increase in obesity. Other contributing factors such as smoking, lack of physical activity and aging has led to epidemiological concerns regarding the link between diabetes and cancer. Research evidence suggests that patients with diabetes may be at greater risk for the development of some forms of cancer. The patient being discussed in this case report presented to New York University College of Dentistry (NYUCD), with a history that included type 2 diabetes mellitus, seeking comprehensive dental care. During the interim between his initial exam and following appointment, a lesion had developed on the palate, which was subsequently diagnosed as adenocarcinoma. This prompted the review of current literature, regarding the link between diabetes and the development of various cancers.

How to cite this article

Markey SM, Congiusta MA. Diabetes Mellitus and the Risk for Developing Cancer. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2013;2(1):41-43.
Papillon-Lefevre Syndrome
Authors: Congiusta Marie A , Koo Donghyun , Penugonda Bapanaiah , Goren Arthur D , Kamer Angela R
Published: June 2013

Papillon-Lefevre syndrome (PLS) is a genetically inherited disorder characterized by palmoplantar hyperkeratosis and severe early onset periodontitis. Oral symptoms begin to appear when primary teeth are in the process of erupting. A defect in the cathepsin C gene causes a dysfunction of the immune response occurring 1 to 3 times in 1 million births. Varying degrees of severity have been reported, ranging from complete edentulism at a young age to complete retention of teeth with a good prognosis.

Early intervention and proper treatment has been shown to improve prognosis. The pathogenesis of PLS is not clearly defined and has been associated with microbiologic, immunologic and genetic factors. Treatment includes conventional periodontal therapies, strict recall and maintenance, as well as antibiotics, metronidazole and chlorhexidine prescriptions as needed. Concurrently, patients are typically under the care of a dermatologist and taking retinoid medications to control their skin condition. This case report discusses the ongoing care of a patient who first presented to NYU College of Dentistry in the pediatric clinic at age 4. It is suggested that periodontal treatment initiated early in life may significantly change the prognosis for the better.

How to cite this article

Congiusta MA, Koo D, Penugonda B, Goren AD, Kamer AR. Papillon-Lefevre Syndrome. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2013;2(1):66-69.
Update on Productive Aging Research in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2012
Authors: D’Amico Mariana
Published: June 2013

This article describes a review of articles on productive aging published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy (AJOT) during 2012 in light of the Centennial Vision charge of supporting practice through evidence. Seventeen AJOT articles published in 2012 specifically addressed productive aging. Of 6 Level I studies, 4 were systematic reviews that identified effective occupational therapy interventions for community-dwelling older adults; 1 randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of writing life reviews for residents of senior residences, and 1 meta-analysis investigated the effectiveness of fall-related efficacy and engagement in activity or occupation. Two Level II studies and 2 Level III studies produced support for the effectiveness of individual and group-based occupational therapy interventions. Of 7 descriptive studies addressing a variety of areas, 4 addressed the reliability and validity of assessments. In 2012, AJOT published more and higher quality studies addressing a variety of issues related to productive aging.
Evolução humana: estudos filosóficos
Authors: Abrantes Paulo
Published: June 2013

Verifica-se um fértil intercâmbio entre filósofos e biólogos, de modo especial nas investigações contemporâneas sobre a evolução humana. Avalio, inicialmente, o compatibilismo como postura filosófica, que coloca em evidência a possibilidade de que hábitos de interpretação, com base numa psicologia de senso comum, tenham desempenhado um papel na evolução em nossa linhagem. Essa hipótese pode lançar luz sobre dilemas que surgem na construção de uma teoria que pressuponha a interação entre modalidades genética e cultural de herança. Para que a cultura desempenhe essa função, é necessário que evoluam capacidades especiais para a aprendizagem social, que estariam associadas a capacidades para interpretar o comportamento de agentes. Num registro metafísico, discuto as condições para que grupos culturais possam ser considerados indivíduos no sentido de unidades de seleção. Num registro metodológico, eu analiso também o emprego de modelos matemáticos em tentativas de se construir cenários plausíveis para a evolução que nos tornou humanos.
Causalidad y la Síntesis extendida: nuevos marcos conceptuales para la biología del siglo XXI
Authors: Martínez Maximiliano
Published: June 2013

En este artículo argumento que para la Síntesis extendida resulta imperioso reemplazarlos modelos causales tradicionales en biología, el de causas próximas— últimas y el de lacausalidad lineal ascendente, debido a su incapacidad para capturar la causalidad biológicacompleja que describen la mayoría de áreas de investigación en la actualidad. Estas nuevastendencias muestran la necesidad de reconceptualizar la causalidad y así permitir la construcciónde modelos multinivel que conecten bidireccionalmente diversos niveles de organizacióny diferentes escalas de tiempo. La causalidad multinivel es fundamental en losprocesos de organización natural, por lo que, argumento, la extensión de la síntesis debeubicarla en su base.
Observation of Precessional Magnetization Dynamics in L10-FePt Thin Films with Different L10 Order Parameter Values
Authors: Iihama Satoshi , Mizukami Shigemi , Inami Nobuhito , Hiratsuka Takashi , Kim Gukcheon , Naganuma Hiroshi , Oogane Mikihiko , Miyazaki Terunobu , Ando Yasuo
Published: June 2013

Fast magnetization precession was observed in L10-FePt thin films with different L10 order parameter values by all optical pump–probe technique. Precession frequency was varied widely for the films with different order parameter, which is due to large difference in perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. Gilbert damping constant (α) was estimated from relaxation time as apparent damping. Clear difference in α was not observed with different perpendicular magnetic anisotropy.
Theoretical Studies on Proton Transfer in Ammonium Nitrate Monomer and Dimer
Authors: Takeuchi Jo , Masuda Yoshihiro , Clark Richard , Takeda Kyozaburo
Published: June 2013

Proton transfer in an ammonia–nitric acid system is studied by ab initio calculations in this work. Proton transfer does not occur in the global-minimum structure of a single ammonium nitrate unit (monomer). The compulsory occurrence of proton transfer in the monomer causes the formation of a large dipole moment and the total energy is destabilized. However, with the application of an external electric field, proton transfer spontaneously occurs in the monomer; moreover, the total energy becomes lower than that of the global-minimum structure owing to the dipole–electric field interaction energy. In two ammonium nitrate units (dimer), proton transfer does occur to enhance internal dipole moments. On the basis of these results, it is revealed that the dipole–dipole interaction between the monomers in the dimer not only promotes the occurrence of proton transfer but also contributes to the stabilization of the total energy of the system.
In situ growth of multilayered crystals in amorphous matrix: Thermal, dynamic mechanical, and morphological analysis of nylon‐6/epoxy composites
Authors: Vyas Aniket , Iroh Jude O.
Published: June 2013

A new procedure for processing of epoxy/polyamide blend was explored via solution polymerization of ε‐caprolactam in N‐methylpyrollidone (NMP), which resulted in a suspension of nylon‐6 in solvent at room temperature. The suspension was blended with water based epoxy resin using mechanical stirring at room temperature. Several films were prepared from blend by varying the amount of nylon‐6 without curing agent. All films were fully characterized for thermal and dynamic mechanical properties using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. The addition of nylon‐6 had a plasticizing effect on epoxy evident by decrease in glass transition temperature (Tg). The reaction between nylon‐6 and epoxy was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy by following the characteristic epoxy peak (914 cm−1). The growth of nylon‐6 crystals in epoxy matrix lead to spherulitic multiphase morphology, which was observed under scanning electron microscope. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3319–3327, 2013
Halogen Free flame retardant rigid polyurethane foam with a novel phosphorus−nitrogen intumescent flame retardant
Authors: Wu Deng‐Hui , Zhao Pei‐Hua , Liu Ya‐Qing , Liu Xue‐Yi , Wang Xiao‐feng
Published: June 2013

A novel phosphorous‐nitrogen containing intumescent flame retardant, toluidine spirocyclic pentaerythritol bisphosphonate (TSPB), was synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Flame retardant rigid polyurethane foams (TSPB‐RPUF) were prepared by using TSPB. The flame retardancy of TSPB on rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF) was investigated by the limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning test, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FTIR. The results showed TSPB exhibited better compatibility with RPUF and lesser negative influence on the mechanical properties of TSPB‐RPUF. When the content of TSPB was 30 pph, the LOI of TSPB‐RPUF could reach 26.5%, and a UL‐94 V‐0 rating was achieved. Furthermore, the TSPB‐RPUF exhibited an outstanding water resistance that it could still obtain a V‐0 rating after water soaking. TGA showed the charring ability of RPUF was relatively poor, However, the residual weight of TSPB‐RPUF was improved greatly. SEM and FTIR indicated the intumescent chars formed from TSPB‐RPUF were compact and smooth, which was a critical factor for protecting the substrate material from burning. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39581.
Production of 3‐hydroxypropionic acid from glycerol by recombinant Pseudomonas denitrificans
Authors: Zhou Shengfang , Catherine Christy , Rathnasingh Chelladurai , Somasundar Ashok , Park Sunghoon
Published: June 2013

3‐Hydroxypropionic acid (3‐HP) can be produced from glycerol through two sequential enzymatic reactions that are catalyzed by a coenzyme B12‐dependent glycerol dehydratase and an NAD(P)+‐dependent aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), respectively. Pseudomonas denitrificans synthesizes coenzyme B12 under aerobic conditions, where NAD(P)+ is regenerated efficiently. Hence, it is considered an ideal host for the production of 3‐HP from glycerol under aerobic conditions. In this study, recombinant strains of P. denitrificans were developed and their potential for the production of 3‐HP from glycerol was evaluated. When the enzymes, glycerol dehydratase (DhaB) and glycerol dehydratase reactivase (GdrAB), of Klebsiella pneumoniae were expressed heterologously, P. denitrificans could produce 3‐HP at 37.7 mmol/L with 62% (mol/mol) yield on glycerol. Glucose was required as the carbon and energy sources for cell growth. The overexpression of heterologous ALDH was not essential; however, the titer and yield of 3‐HP were improved to 54.7 mmol/L and 67% (mol/mol), respectively, when an ALDH gene (puuC) from K. pneumoniae was overexpressed. One serious drawback hindering the use of P. denitrificans as a recombinant host for 3‐HP production is that it oxidizes 3‐HP to malonate and utilizes 3‐HP as a carbon source for growth. This is the first report on the development and use of recombinant P. denitrificans for 3‐HP production from glycerol. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 3177–3187. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ontogeny of the capacity to compare discrete quantities in fish
Authors: Miletto Petrazzini Maria Elena , Agrillo Christian , Piffer Laura , Bisazza Angelo
Published: June 2013

Numerical abilities of adult fish equal or even exceed those of many birds and mammals. The ability to estimate shoal size was previously found to be inborn in guppies, although it improves with age and experience. To study the influence of stimulus variables, here 4‐ to 9‐day‐old fish were trained to discriminate between groups of two‐dimensional geometric figures when they could use both numbers and cues that co‐varied with numerosity (e.g., area) or numerical information only. Subjects rapidly learned to discriminate between quantities under the first condition, but failed to discriminate in the number only condition even with very easy discriminations (1 vs. 4 items). Newborns also failed when stimuli differed in area but not in number, suggesting that, unlike adult fish, newborns can solve this quantity task only if they can use multiple cues. Comparison with shoal discrimination experiments indicates that newborns' capacity to use number is specific to social context. Differences in developmental trajectories suggest the presence in fish of multiple quantification mechanisms which are domain‐specific and serve to solve a limited set of problems. © 2013Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 529–536, 2014.
Contribution of transpiration to the atmospheric moisture in eastern Siberia estimated with isotopic composition of water vapour
Authors: Ueta Akihiro , Sugimoto Atsuko , Iijima Yoshihiro , Yabuki Hironori , Maximov Trofim C.
Published: June 2013

Isotopic composition of atmospheric water vapour (δ18OV) was observed at a larch forest near Yakutsk in eastern Siberia during the late summer periods of 2006, 2007 and 2008. The δ18OV [and deuterium excess (d‐excess)] values observed in 2006 and 2008 positively (and negatively) correlated with mixing ratio of atmospheric water vapour, whereas, in 2007 when soil was extremely wet and resulted in limitation of plant transpiration, neither correlation was found between mixing ratio and δ18OV nor d‐excess. Observed results were also compared with components of atmospheric water balance calculated for a 500 × 500 km region; however, neither specific relationship between δ18OV and horizontal advection (direction) nor evapotranspiration was observed. On the other hand, obviously low δ18OV and high d‐excess values were found with low mixing ratio after removal of water vapour from the atmosphere because of the process of rainout in 2006 and 2008. Assuming the δ18OV under this condition to be a background, and also assuming the δ18O of sap water in larch trees as transpired water vapour, contribution of transpiration to the atmospheric water vapour was calculated. Fraction of transpired water vapour to the atmospheric water vapour was nearly 0·8 in maximum when plant transpiration was active under warm condition. Our isotope data confirm the importance of recycling of water through transpiration of forest plants in taiga to the hydrologic cycle in eastern Siberia. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes in adherence and treatment costs following initiation of oral or depot typical antipsychotics among previously non‐adherent patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Hong Jihyung , Novick Diego , Brugnoli Roberto , Bertsch Jordan , Haro Josep Maria
Published: June 2013

Objective

This study assessed the impact of depot formulations on adherence and treating costs in the naturalistic treatment of previously non‐adherent outpatients with schizophrenia.

Methods

Data were taken from the European Schizophrenia Outpatient Health Outcomes (SOHO) study. Medication adherence and treating costs during an 18‐month follow‐up were assessed and compared for non‐adherent patients initiated on depot typical (n = 262) or oral typical antipsychotics (n = 169) as monotherapy at the index visit. Multivariate analyses were employed to adjust for differences between the two groups at the index visit.

Results

Of the previously non‐adherent patients, more than half of patients initiated on depot typicals (55%) remained adherent to medication during follow‐up, whereas the equivalent was 39% for patients initiated on oral typicals. Logistic regression also showed higher odds of being adherent among the former group (Odds ratio = 1.84; 95% CI = 1.19–2.85). In addition, total costs incurred by this group during 18 months were only half those incurred by patients initiated on oral typicals (£3645 vs £7817, p < 0.05)

Conclusions

Depot formulations of typical antipsychotics appeared to improve medication adherence and reduce treatment costs, compared with oral formulations, in the treatment of non‐adherent patients. Limitation: adherence was assessed by the treating psychiatrist using a single‐item. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two weeks of pretreatment with escitalopram facilitates extinction learning in healthy individuals
Authors: Bui Eric , Orr Scott P. , Jacoby Ryan J. , Keshaviah Aparna , LeBlanc Nicole J. , Milad Mohammed R. , Pollack Mark H. , Simon Naomi M.
Published: June 2013

Objective

We aimed to examine whether pretreatment with escitalopram would be associated with reduced fear acquisition and enhanced extinction learning in a fear conditioning paradigm, compared with placebo.

Methods

Healthy volunteers were randomized in double‐blind fashion, to 14 days of escitalopram 10 mg/day (n = 18) or placebo (n = 20) prior to a classical fear conditioning paradigm.

Results

Although escitalopram was associated with a smaller skin conductance (SC) orienting response during habituation, no medication effects on fear acquisition were found. Escitalopram was associated with faster extinction of SC responses, compared with placebo, as revealed by a significant drug × conditioned stimulus × trial interaction for early extinction (F(3, 30) = 3.26, p = 0.035) and late extinction (F(3, 30) = 3.27, p = 0.035) trials. After adjustment for age, orienting response, and acquisition, results from linear contrast remained significant for early extinction (F(1, 29) = 5.43, p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Escitalopram administered for 14 days prior to a fear conditioning paradigm did not influence acquisition of a conditioned fear response but did facilitate extinction learning. Impairments in extinction learning have been identified as a key component of posttraumatic stress disorder; our preliminary findings suggest that additional experimental and clinical studies assessing the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for posttraumatic stress disorder prevention are warranted. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hybrid scaffolds of gelatin–siloxane releasing stromal derived factor‐1 effective for cell recruitment
Authors: Dashnyam Khandmaa , Perez Roman , Lee Eun‐Jung , Yun Ye‐Rang , Jang Jun‐Hyeog , Wall Ivan B. , Kim Hae‐Won
Published: June 2013

Scaffolds with the capacity to deliver signaling molecules are attractive for bone regeneration. Here, we developed bioactive siloxane–gelatin hybrid scaffolds via a sol gel process containing stromal derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) to recruit osteoprogenitor/stem cells. The process was undertaken under room temperature aqueous conditions, which enabled therapeutic molecules to be effectively incorporated. After the sol‐gel reaction and lyophilization process, well‐crosslinked hybrid scaffolds were obtained with porosities of 80–90%. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the hybrid scaffolds showed significant improvement in storage modulus values (from 10 to 110 kPa) with increasing siloxane content. The protein release capacity of the scaffolds was investigated using a model protein cytochrome C (cyto C). The cyto C safely loaded onto the scaffolds exhibited, except the initial burst of 30% within a day, highly sustainable release, with approximately 70–80% of the loading amount for up to 4 weeks. Target molecule SDF‐1 was loaded and released from the scaffolds, and the effects on the homing of mesenchymal stem cell were studied. Results demonstrated significant enhancement in the migration of cells to the SDF‐1 loaded scaffolds. Taken together, the developed hybrid scaffolds are considered to be useful in loading and delivering signaling molecules such as SDF‐1 to recruit osteoprogenitor /mesenchymal stem cells in the bone regeneration process. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1859–1867, 2014.
Acceleration of periosteal bone formation by human basic fibroblast growth factor containing a collagen‐binding domain from Clostridium histolyticum collagenase
Authors: Uchida Kentaro , Matsushita Osamu , Naruse Kouji , Mima Takehiko , Nishi Nozomu , Hattori Shunji , Ogura Takayuki , Inoue Gen , Tanaka Keisuke , Takaso Masashi
Published: June 2013

Basic fibroblast growth factor 2 (bFGF) is a potent mitogen for mesenchymal cells, and the local application of recombinant bFGF accelerates bone union and defect repair. However, repeated dosing is required for sustained therapeutic effect as the efficacy of bFGF decreases rapidly following its diffusion from bone defect sites. Here, we attempted to develop a collagen‐based bone formation system using a fusion protein (collagen binding‐bFGF, CB‐bFGF) consisting of bFGF and the collagen‐binding domain (CBD) of Clostridium histolyticum collagenase. The addition of the CBD to bFGF did not modify its native biological activity, as shown by the capacity of the fusion protein to promote the in vitro proliferation of periosteal mesenchymal cells. The affinity of the fusion protein towards collagen and demineralized bone matrix (DBM) was also confirmed by collagen‐binding assays. Moreover, in vivo periosteal bone formation assays showed that the combination of CB‐bFGF with a collagen sheet induced periosteal bone formation at protein concentrations lower than those required for bFGF alone. In addition, grafts of DBM loaded with CB‐bFGF accelerated new bone formation in rat femurs compared to the same concentration of bFGF administered alone. Taken together, these properties suggest that the CB‐bFGF/collagen composite is a promising material for bone repair in the clinical setting. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1737–1743, 2014.
Cytocompatibility of nitrogen plasma ion immersed medical cobalt–chromium alloys
Authors: Schröck Kathleen , Schneider Heike , Lutz Johanna , Hacker Michael C. , Mändl Stephan , Kamprad Manja , Schulz‐Siegmund Michaela
Published: June 2013

Wear particles and ion release from medical CoCr contribute to the risk for aseptic loosening. Nitrogen plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) has been shown to reduce wear of CoCr but is associated with increased Co ion release. This work investigated the cytocompatibility of CoCr modified by nitrogen PIII at different temperatures (mCoCr). The osteosarcoma cell line Saos‐2, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and mononuclear cells (MNCs) were grown directly on CoCr/mCoCr discs or treated with CoCl2. Proliferation and metabolic activity of Saos‐2 and MSC were decreased on mCoCr in correlation with increasing implantation temperature. The elevated Co ion release seemed to play a decisive role since analog effects were observed by treatment of cells with CoCl2. Proliferation of phytohemagglutinin‐stimulated MNC was reduced in the presence of CoCr discs or CoCl2. For MNC‐alloy cultures we observed an increase in interleukin 2 (IL‐2) and a decrease in interferon γ (IFN‐γ) and IL‐10 secretion compared to cultures without alloys. The results of this study demonstrate that PIII process temperature and corresponding Co ion release correlate with material cytocompatibility. Therefore, the two competing parameters, reduction of wear and increase in Co ions, have to be taken into consideration for the evaluation of the clinical applicability of nitrogen‐implanted CoCr. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1744–1754, 2014.
Effects of a Targeted Multimodal Exercise Program Incorporating High-Speed Power Training on Falls and Fracture Risk Factors in Older Adults: A Community-Based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gianoudis Jenny , Bailey Christine A , Ebeling Peter R , Nowson Caryl A , Sanders Kerrie M , Hill Keith , Daly Robin M
Published: June 2013

Multimodal exercise programs incorporating traditional progressive resistance training (PRT), weight-bearing impact training and/or balance training are recommended to reduce risk factors for falls and fracture. However, muscle power, or the ability to produce force rapidly, has emerged as a more crucial variable to functional decline than muscle strength or mass. The aim of this 12-month community-based randomized controlled trial, termed Osteo-cise: Strong Bones for Life, was to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a multimodal exercise program incorporating high-velocity (HV)-PRT, combined with an osteoporosis education and behavioral change program, on bone mineral density (BMD), body composition, muscle strength and functional muscle performance in older adults. Falls incidence was evaluated as a secondary outcome. A total of 162 older adults (mean ± SD; 67 ± 6 years) with risk factors for falls and/or low BMD were randomized to the Osteo-cise program (n = 81) or a control group (n = 81). Exercise consisted of fitness center-based HV-PRT, weight-bearing impact and challenging balance/mobility activities performed three times weekly. After 12 months, the Osteo-cise program led to modest but significant net gains in femoral neck and lumbar spine BMD (1.0% to 1.1%, p < 0.05), muscle strength (10% to 13%, p < 0.05), functional muscle power (Timed Stair Climb, 5%, p < 0.05) and dynamic balance (Four Square Step Test 6%, p < 0.01; Sit-to-Stand, 16%, p < 0.001) relative to controls. There was no effect on total body lean mass or mobility (timed-up-and-go), and no difference in falls rate (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72–2.04). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the Osteo-cise: Strong Bones for Life community-based, multimodal exercise program represents an effective approach to improve multiple musculoskeletal and functional performance measures in older adults with risk factors for falls and/or low BMD. Although this did not translate into a reduction in the rate of falls, further large-scale trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of this multimodal approach on reducing falls and fracture. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Risk Factors for Fracture in Middle-Age and Older-Age Men of African Descent
Authors: Sheu Yahtyng , Cauley Jane A , Patrick Alan L , Wheeler Victor W , Bunker Clareann H , Zmuda Joseph M
Published: June 2013

Although fracture rates are lower in individuals of African descent compared to individuals of European ancestry, morbidity and mortality following a fracture may be greater in individuals of African ancestry. However, fracture risk and associated clinical risk factors have not been well-defined among African ancestry populations, especially among men of African ancestry. We used data collected from the Tobago Bone Health Study to examine potential clinical risk factors for incident fractures, including demographic information, anthropometric measurements, medical history, lifestyle factors, bone mineral density (BMD), and hip structural geometry. Among 1933 Afro-Caribbean men aged ≥40 years at study entry (mean age: 57.2 ± 11.0 years), 65 reported at least one new fracture during 10 years of subsequent follow-up. Younger age, mixed Afro-Caribbean ancestry, prior fracture history, BMD, and hip structural geometry were statistically significant risk factors for incident fractures. A 1-SD change in several skeletal parameters (hip BMD, cross-sectional area, outer diameter, cortical thickness, and buckling ratio) were each associated with a 35% to 56% increase in incident fracture risk after adjusting for age. Men with a prior fracture history were three times more likely to experience a new fracture during follow-up, and the association remained strong after adjusting for age, mixed Afro-Caribbean ancestry, and skeletal parameters (hazard ratios ranged from 2.72 to 2.82). Our findings suggest that except for age, risk factors for fracture in men of African ancestry are similar to established risk factors in white populations. Prior fracture history is a powerful and independent risk factor for incident fractures among men of African ancestry and could easily be incorporated into clinical risk evaluation. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.