bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo bone regeneration on titanium devices using serum‐free grown adipose‐derived stem cells, in a sheep femur model
Authors: Godoy Zanicotti Diogo , Coates Dawn Elizabeth , Duncan Warwick John
Published: February 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the capacity of adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSC), grown in serum‐free conditions, to regenerate bone around titanium discs with different titanium surfaces.

Material and methods

Ovine ADSC (oADSC) were isolated from seven sheep and cultured using serum‐free and osteogenic conditions. Prior to in vivo testing, the growth and osteogenic behaviour of these cells were analysed in vitro using cell proliferation and extracellular matrix mineralisation assays. The bone regenerative capacity of autologous oADSC was evaluated in vivo on titanium discs in a sheep femur epicondyle model. Machined (MTi) and alumina‐blasted (ABTi) titanium discs were used. Bone regeneration within the defects was evaluated after 1 month using histology and histomorphometry. PKH26 cell‐tracking dye was used to verify the persistence of oADSC in the surgical wound.

Results

oADSC sourced from five of seven sheep differentiated into osteoblast‐like cells. Cellular proliferation was reduced only for osteogenically induced oADSC (oOS‐ADSC) grown on ABTi, compared to non‐induced oADSC grown on ABTi and tissue culture polystyrene (P = 0.03 and 0.02 respectively). There was no significant difference for in vitro mineralisation assays comparing oADSC with oOS‐ADSC, regardless of implant surface type. oADSC labelled with PKH26 were detected 1 month after surgery within the defect. There was no difference in bone regeneration between the bone defects treated with oADSC vs. just blood clot.

Conclusion

After 1‐month healing, the use of autologous oADSC did not improve bone regeneration in defects containing titanium devices with different surfaces.
Allosteric Modulation of Sigma‐1 Receptors Elicits Rapid Antidepressant Activity
Authors: Wang Yun , Guo Lin , Jiang Hua‐Feng , Zheng Long‐Tai , Zhang Ao , Zhen Xue‐Chu
Published: February 2016

Aims

Sigma‐1 receptors are involved in the pathophysiological process of several neuropsychiatric diseases such as epilepsy, depression. Allosteric modulation represents an important mechanism for receptor functional regulation. In this study, we examined antidepressant activity of the latest identified novel and selective allosteric modulator of sigma‐1 receptor 3‐methyl‐phenyl‐2, 3, 4, 5‐tetrahydro‐1H‐benzo[d]azepin‐7‐ol (SOMCL‐668).

Methods and Results

A single administration of SOMCL‐668 decreased the immobility time in the forced swimming test (FST) and tailing suspended test in mice, which were abolished by pretreatment of sigma‐1 receptor antagonist BD1047. In the chronic unpredicted mild stress (CUMS) model, chronic application of SOMCL‐668 rapidly ameliorated anhedonia‐like behavior (within a week), accompanying with the enhanced expression of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) (Ser‐9) in the hippocampus. SOMCL‐668 also rapidly promoted the phosphorylation of GSK3β (Ser‐9) in an allosteric manner in vitro. In the cultured primary neurons, SOMCL‐668 enhanced the sigma‐1 receptor agonist‐induced neurite outgrowth and the secretion of BDNF.

Conclusion

SOMCL‐668, a novel allosteric modulator of sigma‐1 receptors, elicits a potent and rapid acting antidepressant effect. The present data provide the first evidence that allosteric modulation of sigma‐1 receptors may represent a new approach for antidepressant drug discovery.
Rabbit biocontrol and landscape‐scale recovery of threatened desert mammals
Authors: Pedler Reece D. , Brandle Robert , Read John L. , Southgate Richard , Bird Peter , Moseby Katherine E.
Published: February 2016

Funding for species conservation is insufficient to meet the current challenges facing global biodiversity, yet many programs use expensive single‐species recovery actions and neglect broader management that addresses threatening processes. Arid Australia has the world's worst modern mammalian extinction record, largely attributable to competition from introduced herbivores, particularly European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and predation by feral cats (Felis catus) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes). The biological control agent rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) was introduced to Australia in 1995 and resulted in dramatic, widespread rabbit suppression. We compared the area of occupancy and extent of occurrence of 4 extant species of small mammals before and after RHDV outbreak, relative to rainfall, sampling effort, and rabbit and predator populations. Despite low rainfall during the first 14 years after RHDV, 2 native rodents listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the dusky hopping‐mouse (Notomys fuscus) and plains mouse (Pseudomys australis), increased their extent of occurrence by 241–365%. A threatened marsupial micropredator, the crest‐tailed mulgara (Dasycercus cristicauda), underwent a 70‐fold increase in extent of occurrence and a 20‐fold increase in area of occupancy. Both bottom‐up and top‐down trophic effects were attributed to RHDV, namely decreased competition for food resources and declines in rabbit‐dependent predators. Based on these sustained increases, these 3 previously threatened species now qualify for threat‐category downgrading on the IUCN Red List. These recoveries are on a scale rarely documented in mammals and give impetus to programs aimed at targeted use of RHDV in Australia, rather than simply employing top‐down threat‐based management of arid ecosystems. Conservation programs that take big‐picture approaches to addressing threatening processes over large spatial scales should be prioritized to maximize return from scarce conservation funding. Further, these should be coupled with long‐term ecological monitoring, a critical tool in detecting and understanding complex ecosystem change.
Probing the Link between Biodiversity‐Related Knowledge and Self‐Reported Proconservation Behavior in a Global Survey of Zoo Visitors
Authors: Moss Andrew , Jensen Eric , Gusset Markus
Published: February 2016

Many environmental communication interventions are built on the assumption that increased knowledge will lead to changes in proenvironment behaviors. Our study probes the link between biodiversity‐related knowledge and self‐reported proconservation behavior, based on the largest and most international study of zoo visitors ever conducted. In total, 6,357 visitors to 30 zoos from 19 countries around the globe participated in the study. Biodiversity understanding and knowledge of actions to help protect biodiversity were significantly related, but only 0.6% of the variation in knowledge of actions to help protect biodiversity could be explained by those same respondents’ biodiversity understanding. Biodiversity understanding was only the sixth most important variable in significantly predicting knowledge of actions to help protect biodiversity. Moreover, biodiversity understanding was the least important variable of those that were significantly related to self‐reported proconservation behavior. Our study indicates that knowledge is a real, but relatively minor, factor in predicting whether members of the public – zoo visitors in this case – will know about specific proenvironment behaviors they can take, let alone whether they will actually undertake such behaviors.
Cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation – is cryoenergy applied only to the pulmonary vein ostium?
Authors: Baran Jakub , Lewandowski Paweł , Piotrowski Roman , Kulakowski Piotr
Published: February 2016

This case report shows that cryoablation of pulmonary veins (PV) may occasionally result in deeper lesions than expected and collateral damage in spite of proper ostial positioning of cryoballoon. The use of intracardiac vascular ultrasound and repeated computed tomography enabled detailed examination of these findings.
Selection and use of immunosuppressive therapies after liver transplantation: current German practice
Authors: Herzer Kerstin , Strassburg Christian P. , Braun Felix , Engelmann Cornelius , Guba Markus , Lehner Frank , Nadalin Silvio , Pascher Andreas , Scherer Marcus N. , Schnitzbauer Andreas A. , Zimmermann Tim , Nashan Björn , Sterneck Martina
Published: February 2016

In recent years, immunosuppression (IS) after liver transplantation (LT) has become increasingly diversified as the choice of agents has expanded and clinicians seek to optimize the balance of immunosuppressive potency with the risk of adverse events in individual patients. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are the primary agents used for patients undergoing liver transplantation. Other therapeutic agents like interleukin‐2 receptor antagonists are not universally administered, but can be considered for the delay or reduction in CNI exposure. An early addition of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or the mTOR inhibitor everolimus also allows for the reduction in the CNI dose. To reduce the risk of malignancy, in particular of skin tumors, as well as to prevent the deterioration of renal function, everolimus‐based therapy may be advantageous. Apart from patients with autoimmune hepatitis, steroids are withdrawn within 3–6 months after transplantation. Overall, immunosuppression can only be standardized in a limited proportion of patients due to specific clinical requirements and risk factors. Future studies should attempt to refine accurate individualization of the immunosuppressive regimen in specific difficult‐to‐treat patient subpopulations.
Utility of mammography for chronic kidney disease patients undergoing kidney transplant evaluation
Authors: Stoecker Jordan B. , Cote Devan R. , Augustine Joshua J. , Sarabu Nagaraju , Schulak James A. , Sanchez Edmund Q. , Humphreville Vanessa R. , Ammori John B. , Woodside Kenneth J.
Published: February 2016

Transplant centers typically require screening mammography (MMG) for women ≥40 during evaluation. American Cancer Society recommends starting annual MMG at 40, while USPSTF recommends biennial MMG at 50. We sought to determine the effect of age and other breast malignancy risk factors on screening MMG in the pre‐transplant renal failure population undergoing transplant evaluation.

Methods

We retrospectively examined women ≥40 undergoing kidney transplant evaluation from 2006 to 2012 (n = 541).

Results

Patients aged 40.0–49.9 and ≥50 had similar rates of breast biopsy and breast malignancy. African Americans underwent a higher rate of biopsies (OR 2.391, 95%CI 1.111–5.019, p = 0.026), with a lower rate of biopsy in those already on dialysis at presentation (OR 0.434, 95%CI 0.212–0.888, p = 0.022). Higher breast density (>50% fibroglandular tissue) increased both rate of biopsy (OR 2.876, 95%CI 1.377–6.010, p = 0.005) and malignancy (OR 5.061, 95%CI 1.012–25.315, p = 0.048).

Conclusions

As we found no independent differences in biopsy or malignancy between age groups, it is reasonable for transplant centers to use the same evaluation MMG screening policy for all women ≥40. However, as malignancy risk increased with higher breast density, a lower threshold for additional workup may be warranted in patients with dense breasts or an indeterminate lesion on MMG.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is a risk factor for renal failure requiring dialysis in waitlisted liver transplant candidates
Authors: Karagozian Raffi , Rutherford Anna E. , Christopher Kenneth B. , Brown Robert S.
Published: February 2016

Aims

To examine the relationship between and impact of spontaneous bacteria peritonitis (SBP) and renal failure requiring dialysis in waitlisted liver transplant (LT) candidates.

Background

Renal failure is a common and severe complication in cirrhotic patients with SBP. Approximately one‐third of patients with SBP develop renal failure despite treatment of infection. However, the incidence of renal failure requiring dialysis in LT waitlisted patients who have developed SBP is unknown. The high mortality observed in this group has also raised debate about resource utilization in the care of these patients.

Methods

Data from the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Transplant and Research files were collected retrospectively between 1994 and 2012. The primary endpoint measured was first time initiation of dialysis while on the LT wait list. Secondary endpoints included waitlist time and mortality on wait list.

Results

A total of 42,085 patients were included. SBP at time of listing was diagnosed in 2,352 patients (5.6%) and first time initiation of dialysis while on the wait list occurred in 2,367 patients (6.2%). Unadjusted OR for requiring dialysis for patients listed with SBP was 1.66 (p < 0.001). When controlled for age, gender, BMI, diabetes mellitus, baseline creatinine, MELD score, serum albumin at listing, the adjusted OR for dialysis was 1.24 (p = 0.007) in waitlisted patients with SBP. Patients with SBP at time of listing had a mean waitlist time 142.1 d vs. 198.7 d in non‐SBP patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Spontaneous bacteria peritonitis patients have a significantly increased likelihood to require dialysis and mean shorter waitlist time. Furthermore, the combined occurrence of SBP and dialysis is a strong risk factor for all‐cause mortality while on the LT wait list.
The revised Children's Hand‐use Experience Questionnaire: a handy tool for children with unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: James Sarah
Published: February 2016

This commentary is on the original article by Amer et al. on pages 743–749 of this issue.
Evolution of Pacific Rim diving beetles sheds light on Amphi‐Pacific biogeography
Authors: Toussaint Emmanuel F. A. , Hendrich Lars , Hájek Jiří , Michat Mariano C. , Panjaitan Rawati , Short Andrew E. Z. , Balke Michael
Published: February 2016

The origin of biodiversity in the Neotropics predominantly stems either from Gondwana breakup or late dispersal events from the Nearctic region. Here, we investigate the biogeography of a diving beetle clade whose distribution encompasses parts of the Oriental region, the Indo‐Australian archipelago (IAA) and the Neotropics. We reconstructed a dated molecular phylogeny, inferred diversification dynamics and estimated ancestral areas under different biogeographic assumptions. For the Oriental region and the IAA, we reveal repeated and complex colonization patterns out of Australia, across the major biogeographic lines in the region (e.g. Wallace's Line). The timing of colonization events across the IAA broadly coincides with the proposed timing of the formation of major geographic features in the region. Our phylogenetic hypothesis recovers Neotropical species nested in two derived clades. We recover an origin of the group in the early Eocene about 55 million yr ago, long after the break‐up of Gondwana initiated, but before a complete separation of Australia, Antarctica and the Neotropics. When allowing an old Gondwanan ancestor, we reconstruct an intricate pattern of Gondwanan vicariance and trans‐Pacific long‐distance dispersal from Australia toward the Neotropics. When restricting the ancestral range to more plausible geological area combinations in the Eocene, we infer an Australian origin with two trans‐Pacific long‐distance dispersal events toward the Neotropics. Our results support on one hand a potential Gondwanan signature associated with regional extinctions in the Cenozoic and with Antarctica serving as a link between Australia and the Neotropics. On the other hand, they also support a trans‐Pacific dispersal of these beetles toward the Andean coast in the Oligocene.
Locating host plants via orientation to standing visual targets has dispersal benefits for the monophagous leaf beetle Ambrostoma quadriimpressum
Authors: Sun Fan , Bao Chao , Jing Tian‐Zhong
Published: February 2016

The highly specialized chrysomelid Ambrostoma quadriimpressum Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is strictly monophagous on elm trees, Ulmus pumila L. (Ulmaceae) and a few of its close relatives. In order to elucidate how the adult beetles find their host plants, we performed both choice and no‐choice arena field experiments to examine their spatial maneuvering under seminatural conditions. In the no‐choice experiments, three treatments were tested in which individual beetles in thanatosis were released in the vicinity of a host plant, in which they were released facing (1) toward the host, (2) away from the host but toward a black paper column, or (3) away from the host with no standing target in view. Videorecordings of the beetles’ walking tracks showed that a standing visual target in field of vision strongly influenced their behavior. The host plant and black paper column equally attracted beetles released facing toward them. In choice experiments, the beetles randomly moved to both host and non‐host plants, as well as to the host plant and the black paper column, indicating that they do not discriminate host plants from a distance. The results suggest that this monophagous beetle locates host plants via orientation to standing visual targets. The results also indicate that the beetle encounters hosts by chance. The benefit of such a host‐finding mechanism in light of dispersion and emigration of the beetle is discussed.
The effects of temperature, relative humidity, light, and resource quality on flight initiation in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Drury Douglas W. , Whitesell Matthew E. , Wade Michael J.
Published: February 2016

We investigated the environmental conditions that induce a flight response in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneumHerbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), including resource quality, temperature, relative humidity, and light. Over 72‐h trial periods, we observed the proportion of individuals emigrating by flight to range from 0.0 in extreme heat or cold to 0.82 with starvation. Resource quality, presence of a light source, and temperature all directly influenced the initiation of the flight response. We did not detect any effect of relative humidity or sudden change in temperature on the incidence of flight. We discuss our findings in the context of Tribolium ecology and evolution.
Synergism of perampanel and zonisamide in the rat amygdala kindling model of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Russmann Vera , Salvamoser Josephine D. , Rettenbeck Maruja L. , Komori Takafumi , Potschka Heidrun
Published: February 2016

Objective

Anticonvulsive monotherapy fails to be effective in one third of patients with epilepsy resulting in the need for polytherapy regimens. However, with the still limited knowledge, drug choices for polytherapy remain empirical. Here we report experimental data from a chronic epilepsy model for the combination of perampanel and zonisamide, which can render guidance for clinical studies and individual drug choices.

Methods

The anticonvulsant effects of the combination of perampanel and zonisamide were evaluated in a rat amygdala kindling model. Furthermore, the potential for motor impairment was evaluated. The type of interaction was quantitatively assessed based on isobolographic analysis.

Results

When administered alone, zonisamide dose‐dependently increased the afterdischarge threshold in fully kindled rats. Moreover, data confirmed efficacy of perampanel to inhibit seizure initiation and progression with an impact on propagation of activity from the focus. Pronounced threshold increases were observed following administration of a constant zonisamide dosage combined with different doses of perampanel. Isobolographic analysis of drug responses, which is based on individual drug dose–effect data, revealed a synergistic interaction substantiating the high efficacy of the combination. Furthermore, rotarod data indicated that the combination has a favorable tolerability profile when zonisamide is coadministered with low doses of perampanel. Plasma concentration analysis argued against a pharmacokinetic interaction as a basis for the synergism.

Significance

The findings clearly indicate a pronounced synergistic anticonvulsant effect for the combination of the noncompetitive α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor antagonist perampanel with zonisamide, which modulates voltage‐sensitive sodium channels and T‐type calcium currents. Consequently, polytherapy using these two antiepileptic drugs might be efficacious for clinical management of partial‐onset seizures. The findings indicate that the impact of dose ratios on tolerability needs be taken into account. With regard to conclusions about the extent of the synergism and its implications further antiepileptic drug combinations need to be evaluated allowing direct comparison.
Transgenerational effects persist down the maternal line in marine sticklebacks: gene expression matches physiology in a warming ocean
Authors: Shama Lisa N.S. , Mark Felix C. , Strobel Anneli , Lokmer Ana , John Uwe , Mathias Wegner K.
Published: February 2016

Transgenerational effects can buffer populations against environmental change, yet little is known about underlying mechanisms, their persistence or the influence of environmental cue timing. We investigated mitochondrial respiratory capacity (MRC) and gene expression of marine sticklebacks that experienced acute or developmental acclimation to simulated ocean warming (21°C) across three generations. Previous work showed that acute acclimation of grandmothers to 21°C led to lower (optimized) offspringMRCs. Here, developmental acclimation of mothers to 21°C led to higher, but more efficient offspringMRCs. Offspring with a 21°C × 17°C grandmother‐mother environment mismatch showed metabolic compensation: theirMRCs were as low as offspring with a 17°C thermal history across generations. Transcriptional analyses showed primarily maternal but also grandmaternal environment effects: genes involved in metabolism and mitochondrial protein biosynthesis were differentially expressed when mothers developed at 21°C, whereas 21°C grandmothers influenced genes involved in hemostasis and apoptosis. Genes involved in mitochondrial respiration all showed higher expression when mothers developed at 21° and lower expression in the 21°C × 17°C group, matching the phenotypic pattern forMRCs. Our study links transcriptomics to physiology under climate change, and demonstrates that mechanisms underlying transgenerational effects persist across multiple generations with specific outcomes depending on acclimation type and environmental mismatch between generations.
Crossing regimes of temperature dependence in animal movement
Authors: Gibert Jean P. , Chelini Marie‐Claire , Rosenthal Malcolm F. , DeLong John P.
Published: February 2016

A pressing challenge in ecology is to understand the effects of changing global temperatures on food web structure and dynamics. The stability of these complex ecological networks largely depends on how predator–prey interactions may respond to temperature changes. Because predators and prey rely on their velocities to catch food or avoid being eaten, understanding how temperatures may affect animal movement is central to this quest. Despite our efforts, we still lack a mechanistic understanding of how the effect of temperature on metabolic processes scales up to animal movement and beyond. Here, we merge a biomechanical approach, the Metabolic Theory of Ecology and empirical data to show that animal movement displays multiple regimes of temperature dependence. We also show that crossing these regimes has important consequences for population dynamics and stability, which depend on the parameters controlling predator–prey interactions. We argue that this dependence upon interaction parameters may help explain why experimental work on the temperature dependence of interaction strengths has so far yielded conflicting results. More importantly, these changes in the temperature dependence of animal movement can have consequences that go well beyond ecological interactions and affect, for example, animal communication, mating, sensory detection, and any behavioral modality dependent on the movement of limbs. Finally, by not taking into account the changes in temperature dependence reported here we might not be able to properly forecast the impact of global warming on ecological processes and propose appropriate mitigation action when needed.
Chaperone complex BAG2–HSC70 regulates localization of Caenorhabditis elegans leucine‐rich repeat kinase LRK‐1 to the Golgi
Authors: Fukuzono Takashi , Pastuhov Strahil Iv. , Fukushima Okinobu , Li Chun , Hattori Ayuna , Iemura Shun‐ichiro , Natsume Tohru , Shibuya Hiroshi , Hanafusa Hiroshi , Matsumoto Kunihiro , Hisamoto Naoki
Published: February 2016

Mutations in LRRK2 are linked to autosomal dominant forms of Parkinson's disease. We identified two human proteins that bind to LRRK2: BAG2 and HSC70, which are known to form a chaperone complex. We characterized the role of their Caenorhabditis elegans homologues, UNC‐23 and HSP‐1, in the regulation of LRK‐1, the sole homologue of human LRRK2. In C. elegans, LRK‐1 determines the polarized sorting of synaptic vesicle (SV) proteins to the axons by excluding SV proteins from the dendrite‐specific transport machinery in the Golgi. In unc‐23 mutants, SV proteins are localized to both presynaptic and dendritic endings in neurons, a phenotype also observed in lrk‐1 deletion mutants. Furthermore, we isolated mutations in the hsp‐1 gene that can suppress the unc‐23, but not the lrk‐1 defect. We show that UNC‐23 determines LRK‐1 localization to the Golgi apparatus in cooperation with HSP‐1. These results describe a chaperone‐dependent mechanism through which LRK‐1 localization is regulated.
Simeprevir/pegylated interferon/ribavirin triple therapy for recurrent hepatitis C after living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Shinoda Masahiro , Ebinuma Hirotoshi , Itano Osamu , Yamagishi Yoshiyuki , Obara Hideaki , Kitago Minoru , Nakamoto Nobuhiro , Hibi Taizo , Yagi Hiroshi , Abe Yuta , Matsubara Kentaro , Chu Po‐sung , Wakayama Yuko , Taniki Nobuhito , Yamaguchi Akihiro , Amemiya Ryusuke , Miyake Rei , Mizota Takamasa , Kanai Takanori , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: February 2016

Aim

Simeprevir (SMV) is a protease inhibitor which demonstrates good tolerability and high antiviral response in patients with hepatitis C. The clinical outcomes of triple therapy using simeprevir, pegylated interferon and ribavirin (SMV/PEG IFN/RBV) for recurrent hepatitis C after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) have not been well reported. In this study, we assessed the outcomes of patients with recurrent hepatitis C (genotype 1) after LDLT who received triple therapy at our hospital.

Methods

SMV/PEG IFN/RBV was administrated for 12 weeks (triple therapy), followed by another 12 weeks or extended period of PEG IFN/RBV (dual therapy). Virological response, interaction with calcineurin inhibitors and adverse events were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Ten patients with recurrent hepatitis C after LDLT completed 12 weeks of triple therapy. Nine patients achieved rapid or early virological response, and one patient was a non‐responder. The nine responders received subsequent dual therapy, and the duration of dual therapy was extended (24 to 36 weeks) in five cases. Although one patient was in relapse 8 weeks after completing the standard duration (12 weeks) of dual therapy, eight patients achieved sustained virological response for 12 weeks (SVR12). The SVR12 rate was 80%. Trough levels of calcineurin inhibitor did not show marked changes after introduction of SMV in all cases. There were no major adverse events associated with SMV.

Conclusion

SMV treatment may be a safe and effective option for recurrent hepatitis C after LDLT.
Analysis of salicylic acid, arbutin and corticosteroids in skin whitening creams available in Pakistan using chromatographic techniques
Authors: Shams A. , Khan I. U. , Iqbal H.
Published: February 2016

Background

A simple, new and efficient reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method was developed and validated for the separation of most popular ingredients in skin whitening creams.

Methods

For RP‐HPLC analysis, a Hibar® C18 250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm column (Merck Millipore, Carolina, USA) as stationary phase with a mobile phase consisting a mixture of acetonitrile, methanol and water 40 : 40 : 20 (pH 7.0), respectively, at flow rate of 0.8 mL min−1 (total run time 10 min) at room temperature was used. Detection was performed at 254 and 280 nm using photodiode array detector. The method was validated in accordance with ICH guidelines with respect to linearity, accuracy, precision, specificity, limit of detection and quantification.

Results

The method results in excellent separation of skin whitening agents in cosmetic creams. The method is specific for salicylic acid, arbutin, cortisone, hydrocortisone, betamethasone valerate and betamethasone dipropionate. The calibration curve of skin whitening agents was linear with the regression analysis showed r2 ≥ 0.999. %RSD for inter‐ and intraday precision were determined as 0.461 and 0.329 for salicylic acid, 0.427 and 0.317 for arbutin, 0.360 and 0.346 for cortisone, 0.336 and 0.350 for hydrocortisone, 0.463 and 0.339 for betamethasone valerate and 0.385 and 0.372 for betamethasone dipropionate, respectively. LOD and LOQ were calculated as 0.48 and 1.20 μg mL−1 for salicylic acid, 0.09 and 0.22 μg mL−1 for arbutin, 0.07 and 0.18 μg mL−1 for cortisone, 0.06 and 0.24 μg mL−1 for hydrocortisone, 0.07 and 0.20 μg mL−1 for betamethasone valerate and 0.02 and 0.06 μg mL−1 for betamethasone dipropionate. The recovery of skin whitening agents were 97.18% for salicylic acid, 97.99% for arbutin, 98.30% cortisone, 97.63% for hydrocortisone, 98.65% for betamethasone valerate and 98.18% for betamethasone dipropionate, respectively. According to this study, salicylic acid is present in 87.88% skin whitening creams, arbutin in 96.97%, cortisone in 60.60%, hydrocortisone in 48.48%, betamethasone valerate in 15.15% and betamethasone dipropionate present in 12.12% cosmetic creams available in Pakistan.
Retracted: Postoperative pain after irrigation with Vibringe versus a conventional needle: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bilgili D. , Yilmaz S. , Dumani A. , Yoldas O.
Published: February 2016

The following article from International Endodontic Journal, ‘Postoperative pain after irrigation with Vibringe versus a conventional needle: a randomized controlled trial’ by D. Bilgili, S. Yilmaz, A. Dumani & O. Yoldas, published online on 29 February 2016 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the Journal Editor in Chief, Prof. Paul Dummer, and John Wiley & Sons Ltd. The retraction has been agreed because the corresponding author did not contact the first author who carried out the work before alterations to the article were made prior to submission. This damages the integrity of the work and there are additional concerns over the number of patients and the accuracy of the results and conclusions.
Prenatal exposure to ethinylestradiol alters the morphologic patterns and increases the predisposition for prostatic lesions in male and female gerbils during ageing
Authors: Perez Ana P. S. , Biancardi Manoel F. , Caires Cássia. R. S. , Falleiros‐Junior Luiz R. , Góes Rejane M. , Vilamaior Patricia S. L. , Santos Fernanda C. A. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: February 2016

Ethinylestradiol (EE) is an endocrine disruptor (ED) which acts as an oestrogen agonist; this compound is known as an oral contraceptive. Male and female rodents exposed to EE during critical time points of development, such as in the prenatal period, show alterations in their reproductive tract during adulthood. Few studies have placed an emphasis on the effects of EE during ageing. Thus, this study had as it's objective the analysis of the morphological and immunohistochemical effects of exposure to EE in the prenatal period on ventral male prostate and female prostate of gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) during ageing. The animals were exposed to EE (15 μg/kg/day) during the 18–22th days of prenatal life (EE/PRE group), and the analyses were performed when the male and female reached 12 months of age. Our results showed an increase in the development of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), which was observed in the male and female prostate of EE/PRE groups. Immunohistochemistry showed a rise in prostatic epithelial and basal cells immunoreactivity, respectively, and to AR and p63 in the male EE/PRE. There were alterations in the morphological pattern of the prostatic glands and increase in predisposition to emergence of prostatic lesions of both sexes during ageing. Despite male and female having been exposed to the same doses of EE, the “exposure to EE promoted modifications” more accentuated in the male prostate. Thus the male gland is more sensitive to the action of this synthetic oestrogen than the female prostate.
The Human Capital Model of Selection and Immigrant Economic Outcomes
Authors: Picot Garnett , Hou Feng , Qiu Hanqing
Published: February 2016

This article examines the trends in the economic advantage that highly educated immigrants hold over less educated immigrants in Canada, focusing on the differences between short‐run and longer‐run outcomes. Using data from the Longitudinal Immigration Database covering the period from the 1980s to the 2000s, this study finds that the relative entry earnings advantage that higher education provides to new immigrants has decreased dramatically over the last 30 years. However, university‐educated immigrants had a much steeper earnings trajectory than immigrants with trades or a high school education. The earnings advantage among highly educated immigrants increases significantly with time spent in Canada. This pattern is observed for virtually all immigrant classes and arrival cohorts. The results suggest that short‐run economic outcomes of immigrants are not good predictors of longer‐run results, at least by educational attainment. The implications of these findings for immigration selection policy are discussed in the conclusion.
The T helper type 17/regulatory T cell paradigm in pregnancy
Authors: Figueiredo Ana Sofia , Schumacher Anne
Published: February 2016

T helper type 17 (Th17) and regulatory T (Treg) cells are active players in the establishment of tolerance and defence. These attributes of the immune system enmesh to guarantee the right level of protection. The healthy immune system, on the one hand, recognizes and eliminates dangerous non‐self pathogens and, on the other hand, protects the healthy self. However, there are circumstances where this fine balance is disrupted. In fact, in situations such as in pregnancy, the foreign fetal antigens challenge the maternal immune system and Treg cells will dominate Th17 cells to guarantee fetal survival. In other situations such as autoimmunity, where the Th17 responses are often overwhelming, the immune system shifts towards an inflammatory profile and attacks the healthy tissue from the self. Interestingly, autoimmune patients have meliorating symptoms during pregnancy. This connects with the antagonist role of Th17 and Treg cells, and their specific profiles during these two immune challenging situations. In this review, we put into perspective the Th17/Treg ratio during pregnancy and autoimmunity, as well as in pregnant women with autoimmune conditions. We further review existing systems biology approaches that study specific mechanisms of these immune cells using mathematical modelling and we point out possible future directions of investigation. Understanding what maintains or disrupts the balance between these two opponent yet reciprocal cells in healthy physiological settings, sheds light into the development of innovative pharmacological approaches to fight pregnancy loss and autoimmunity.
Generalized mixed integer and VNS heuristic approach to solving the multisize containers drayage problem
Authors: Vidović Milorad , Popović Dražen , Ratković Branislava , Radivojević Gordana
Published: February 2016

This paper addresses the problem of vehicle routing in drayage operations, where vehicles can carry containers of different sizes. The multisize container drayage problem with time windows is modeled as a multiple matching problem and formulated as a mixed integer linear program (MILP) model. The proposed MILP model determines optimal pickup and delivery routes of vehicles and is applicable to any type of vehicles capable of simultaneously transporting any arbitrary number of 20‐ and 40‐ft containers. To solve larger sized problems, we proposed a variable neighborhood search (VNS) heuristic. Both MILP and VNS approaches have been tested on numerous test instances and their performances are reported.
A descriptive study of Korean nurses' perception of pain and skin tearing at dressing change
Authors: Kim Jung Yoon , Kim Na Kyung , Lee Yun Jin
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to investigate Korean nurses' level of awareness of pain and skin tearing in wound bed and/or peri‐wound skin at dressing change. A descriptive study was performed. Convenience sampling was employed and registered nurses were recruited from attendees of continuing education program. A total of 399 participants (RN) completed questionnaire. Data was collected from September to November 2014. Many of them perceived skin tearing and wound related pain associated with dressing changing, but most of them did not assess and record pain and skin tearing at dressing change. More than half of respondents reported that they did not provide nursing intervention to prevent pain and skin tearing. Many of them reported that a systematic educational program for preventing pain and skin tearing at dressing change was needed. In conclusion, many of respondents were aware of pain and skin tearing at dressing change, but did not take any further necessary measures, including nursing intervention, for the most appropriate, systematic pain and skin tearing management. Therefore, this study suggested that a systematic and comprehensive educational program for Korean healthcare professions needs to be developed and implemented in Korea's hospital settings.
The effect of diabetes on the wound healing potential of adipose‐tissue derived stem cells
Authors: Kim Sue Min , Kim Yun Ho , Jun Young Joon , Yoo Gyeol , Rhie Jong Won
Published: February 2016

To investigate whether diabetes mellitus affects the wound‐healing‐promoting potential of adipose tissue‐derived stem cells, we designed a wound‐healing model using diabetic mice. We compared the degree of wound healing between wounds treated with normal adipose tissue‐derived stem cells and wounds treated with diabetic adipose tissue‐derived stem cells. We evaluated the wound‐healing rate, the epithelial tongue distance, the area of granulation tissue, the number of capillary and the number of Ki‐67‐stained cells. The wound‐healing rate was significantly higher in the normal adipose tissue‐derived stem cells group than in the diabetic adipose tissue‐derived stem cells group; it was also significantly higher in the normal adipose tissue‐derived stem cells group than in the control group. Although the diabetic adipose tissue‐derived stem cells group showed a better wound‐healing rate than the control group, the difference was not statistically significant. Similar trends were observed for the other parameters examined: re‐epithelisation and keratinocyte proliferation; granulation tissue formation; and dermal regeneration. However, with regard to the number of capillary, diabetic adipose tissue‐derived stem cells retained their ability to promote neovasculisation and angiogenesis. These results reflect the general impairment of the therapeutic potential of diabetic adipose tissue‐derived stem cells in vivo.
Origin of Relaxor Behavior in K1/2Bi1/2TiO3–Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 Investigated by Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Hu Binbin , Zhu Mankang , Guo Jingjian , Wang Ying , Zheng Mupeng , Hou Yudong
Published: February 2016

Lead‐free binary K1/2Bi1/2TiO3‐Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 (KBT‐BMT) ferroelectric ceramics with a morphology of dense and evenly sized grains have been prepared by conventional solid oxide reaction route. X‐ray diffraction analysis indicates that all the samples possess pure perovskite structure, and undergo a phase transformation from tetragonal to pseudocubic phase as BMT adds into KBT. Meanwhile, BMT addition brings in the enhancement of the relaxor behavior as revealed by temperature‐dependent dielectric profiles and the P–E loops. The impedance analysis reveals that the relaxation process existing in the ceramics belongs to a localized species. Further, in the frequency‐dependent M″(f) spectra, a shoulder response emerges accompanied by a bulk response as suitable amount of BMT is added, and its frequency dependence obeys Vogel–Fulcher relation f = f0 exp[ ‐ Eb/kB(T ‐ TVF)]. The shoulder response is believed to be the evidence of the existence of the polar nanoregions, which dominate the relaxor behavior of KBT‐BMT ceramics.
Yttrium Iron Garnet/Barium Titanate Multiferroic Composites
Authors: Schileo Giorgio , Pascual‐Gonzalez Cristina , Alguero Miguel , Reaney Ian M. , Postolache Petronel , Mitoseriu Liliana , Reichmann Klaus , Feteira Antonio
Published: February 2016

Dense multiferroic 0‐3 type composites encompassing BaTiO3 and Y3Fe5O12 were fabricated by the solid‐state reaction method. X‐ray diffraction data combined with scanning electron microscopy imaging show virtual immiscibility between the two phases, with the Y3Fe5O12 ferrimagnetic phase well dispersed in the tetragonal BaTiO3 ferroelectric matrix. Raman spectroscopy analyses corroborate the polar nature of the BaTiO3 matrix in composites with a Y3Fe5O12 content as great as 40 wt%. Ferrimagnetism is detected in all composites and no additional magnetic phases are distinguished. Although these dense ceramics can be electrically poled, they exhibit a very weak magnetoelectric response, which slightly increases with Y3Fe5O12 content.
Ethics of Immigration: The Issue of Convicted Criminals
Authors: Fabre Cécile
Published: February 2016

In this paper, I explore and probe Joseph Carens’ remarks, in his recent book The Ethics of Immigration, on the immigration status of foreign convicted criminals who have served their sentence, and who wish either to immigrate into our country or who are already here. Carens rejects deportation when it is not called for by considerations of national security, and agrees that considerations of public order can justify barring convicted foreign criminals from entering the country. I broadly agree with his arguments against deportation: my remarks in this respect are clarificatory and exploratory as much as anything else. But (I argue) both his argument for open borders and his scepticism with respect to radical cosmopolitanism are in tension with his claim that past criminal convictions can act as a bar to entry.
The importance of long‐distance dispersal and establishment events in small insects: historical biogeography of metalmark moths (Lepidoptera, Choreutidae)
Authors: Rota Jadranka , Peña Carlos , Miller Scott E.
Published: February 2016

Aim

To determine the importance of different biogeographical processes (vicariance, dispersal, long‐distance dispersal and establishment or LDDE) for the current distribution of metalmark moths, a group of small insects, using a time‐calibrated molecular tree.

Location

Global.

Methods

We sampled 104 species of metalmark moths with representatives from all six major biogeographical regions of the world (Afrotropical, Australasian, Neotropical, Nearctic, Oriental and Palaearctic). The taxon sampling includes c. 20% of known species in the family and covers both subfamilies. Using an eight‐locus molecular data set and secondary calibration points, we inferred a time‐calibrated tree, which was then used for ancestral range estimation with variants of the dispersal‐extinction‐cladogenesis model (DEC), some of which incorporated the founder‐event j‐parameter for modelling of LDDEs (DECj).

Results

The inferred phylogeny is well resolved and in accordance with earlier works. The metalmark moth distribution is best explained with DECj models. It remains unclear what the ancestral area was. Different models differ in the number and type of events estimated – DEC models infer vicariance for several nodes where DECj models usually infer LDDEs. However, the pattern that emerges from all the analyses is that dispersal and/or LDDE over transoceanic distances such as between the Afrotropics and Australasia and the Afrotropics and Neotropics occurred several times in the evolutionary history of this group.

Main conclusions

Vicariance may have played an important role in the early evolution of metalmark moths, while dispersal and LDDEs mostly shaped the group's distribution later on. Based on insect flight research using aerial radars, the best mechanism for explaining how small insects cross oceans is by being adapted for exploiting atmospheric conditions as opposed to employing active flight.
Mechanistic relationship between the vagal afferent pathway, central nervous system and peripheral organs in appetite regulation
Authors: Ueno Hiroaki , Nakazato Masamitsu
Published: February 2016

The hypothalamus is a center of food intake and energy metabolism regulation. Information signals from peripheral organs are mediated through the circulation or the vagal afferent pathway and input into the hypothalamus, where signals are integrated to determine various behaviors, such as eating. Numerous appetite‐regulating peptides are expressed in the central nervous system and the peripheral organs, and interact in a complex manner. Of such peptides, gut peptides are known to bind to receptors at the vagal afferent pathway terminal that extend into the mucosal layer of the digestive tract, modulate the electrical activity of the vagus nerve, and subsequently send signals to the solitary nucleus and furthermore to the hypothalamus. All peripheral peptides other than ghrelin suppress appetite, and they synergistically suppress appetite through the vagus nerve. In contrast, the appetite‐enhancing peptide, ghrelin, antagonizes the actions of appetite‐suppressing peptides through the vagus nerve, and appetite‐suppressing peptides have attenuated effects in obesity as a result of inflammation in the vagus nerve. With greater understanding of the mechanism for food intake and energy metabolism regulation, medications that apply the effects of appetite‐regulating peptides or implantable devices that electrically stimulate the vagus nerve are being investigated as novel treatments for obesity in basic and clinical studies.