bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework for Developing Objective and Measurable Recovery Criteria for Threatened and Endangered Species
Authors: HIMES BOOR GINA K.
Published: October 2013

For species listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service are tasked with writing recovery plans that include “objective, measurable criteria” that define when a species is no longer at risk of extinction, but neither the act itself nor agency guidelines provide an explicit definition of objective, measurable criteria. Past reviews of recovery plans, including one published in 2012, show that many criteria lack quantitative metrics with clear biological rationale and are not meeting the measureable and objective mandate. I reviewed how objective, measureable criteria have been defined implicitly and explicitly in peer‐reviewed literature, the ESA, other U.S. statutes, and legal decisions. Based on a synthesis of these sources, I propose the following 6 standards be used as minimum requirements for objective, measurable criteria: contain a quantitative threshold with calculable units, stipulate a timeframe over which they must be met, explicitly define the spatial extent or population to which they apply, specify a sampling procedure that includes sample size, specify a statistical significance level, and include justification by providing scientific evidence that the criteria define a species whose extinction risk has been reduced to the desired level. To meet these 6 standards, I suggest that recovery plans be explicitly guided by and organized around a population viability modeling framework even if data or agency resources are too limited to complete a viability model. When data and resources are available, recovery criteria can be developed from the population viability model results, but when data and resources are insufficient for model implementation, extinction risk thresholds can be used as criteria. A recovery‐planning approach centered on viability modeling will also yield appropriately focused data‐acquisition and monitoring plans and will facilitate a seamless transition from recovery planning to delisting.

Un Marco de Referencia para Desarrollar Criterios de Recuperación Objetivos y Medibles para Especies Amenazadas y en Peligro
Long‐Term Doppler Hemodynamics and Effective Orifice Areas of Edwards SAPIEN and Medtronic CoreValve Prostheses after TAVI
Authors: Spethmann Sebastian , Dreger Henryk , Baldenhofer Gerd , Pflug Eyleen , Sanad Wasiem , Stangl Verena , Baumann Gert , Grubitzsch Herko , Sander Michael , Stangl Karl , Laule Michael , Knebel Fabian
Published: October 2013

Background

Although initial hemodynamics of percutaneously implanted aortic bioprostheses compare favorably to surgically implanted valves, the durability of the flow characteristics remains unknown. As biological prostheses are at potential risk for early degeneration, the aim of our study was to compare Doppler hemodynamics and effective orifice area (EOA) directly after and at least 1 year after valve implantation.

Methods

In this monocentric, prospective study, we determined peak velocity, peak and mean systolic gradients, and EOA by echocardiography in 75 patients (Edwards SAPIEN, n = 20; CoreValve, n = 55) 1 week (median 7 ± 25 days) and 1 year (median 378 ± 157 days, maximum 1034 days) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Results

After 12 months, Doppler performance of the aortic valve prostheses remained unchanged. The peak instantaneous velocity was 1.9 ± 0.4 m/s directly after TAVI versus 1.8 ± 0.5 m/s (P = ns) at follow‐up, with a mean gradient of 8.5 ± 3.7 mmHg and 8.1 ± 4.2 (P = ns), respectively. Interestingly, the degree of mitral regurgitation (MR) decreased significantly (P = 0.007) over time, and the severity of aortic regurgitation (AR) remained unchanged during follow‐up (P = ns).

Conclusion

For at least 1 year after TAVI, the excellent Doppler hemodynamics and EOA are preserved in transcatheter aortic valve prostheses, and the severity of MR decreased significantly. In addition, we found no evidence of early valve deterioration or progression of AR.
Cardiac Metastasis of a Low‐Grade Myofibroblastic Sarcoma
Authors: Oylumlu Muhammed , Yildiz Abdulkadir , Ercan Suleyman , Oylumlu Mustafa , Davutoglu Vedat
Published: October 2013

We aim to present a rare case of low‐grade myofibroblastic sarcoma arising in the inguinal region accompanied by cardiac metastasis. A 36‐year‐old male patient suffering from recurrent inguinal swelling was operated on and the initial histopathological evaluation mistakenly diagnosed the condition as benign. During follow‐up, a recurrence of mass was detected in the same region and a pathological examination revealed a low‐grade myofibroblastic sarcoma. Cardiac metastasis was diagnosed shortly before rapid disease progression and death. The learning points relevant to this case are as follows: (1) Echocardiographic screening in patients with noncardiac myofibroblastic sarcomas may be helpful in the detection of silent metastasis. (2) Low‐grade myofibroblastic sarcomas in the inguinal region may be misdiagnosed as benign after enucleation. Thus, rigorous histopathological examination of myofibroblastic sarcomas is crucial. (3) According to our knowledge, this is the first report of a low‐grade myofibroblastic sarcoma to have a potential for cardiac metastasis with potentially fatal course.
Delayed orthodontic extrusion of a traumatically intruded immature upper permanent incisor – a case report
Authors: Umesan Uday Kumar , Chua Kui Lay , Kok Ei Chuen
Published: October 2013

Dental injuries are probably the most common orofacial injuries sustained during sports and play. Intrusion or intrusive luxations occur when the teeth are driven into the alveolus by an axially directed impact. This article describes the clinical case of an 8‐year‐old patient who suffered complete intrusive luxation of an immature permanent central incisor following an accident. An attempt at spontaneous re‐eruption failed to facilitate re‐emergence of the tooth beyond 2 mm. The recommended wait‐and‐see strategy in anticipation of spontaneous re‐eruption should cease to be an option when no further elongation can be observed. Orthodontic extrusion or surgical re‐positioning is a valid treatment alternative when the former fails. In this case, although the recommended time period for effecting orthodontic extrusion had elapsed, this procedure was undertaken successfully presumably owing to the application of controlled, biologically optimal forces. A review of the extruded tooth a year later revealed no clinical or radiographic signs of loss of vitality. This was confirmed radiographically by the completion of root development, an intact lamina dura and no evident signs of resorption.
Bumble bee pollen use and preference across spatial scales in human‐altered landscapes
Authors: JHA SHALENE , STEFANOVICH LEV , KREMEN CLAIRE
Published: October 2013

While the discussion of native pollinator decline has grown dramatically worldwide, information on how native pollinators utilise floral resources in natural and human‐altered landscapes remains relatively limited. Specifically, little is known about the collection of pollen, an essential component of larval and adult bee food, and whether pollen collection patterns change across habitats, spatial scales, and/or native and non‐native floral resource distributions.

In this study, the pollen collection patterns and preferences of the yellow‐faced bumble bee, Bombus vosnesenskii, were examined across a gradient of natural and human‐altered sites.

Three hypotheses were investigated: (i) landscape‐scale (2 km) but not local‐scale (250 m) floral and habitat composition factors are most predictive of bee‐collected pollen composition; (ii) collection of native pollen is greater in sites with greater proportions of natural habitat at landscape scales; and (iii) bees exhibit greater ‘preference’ for native versus non‐native pollen.

Bombus vosnesenskii collected more species of pollen when landscape‐scale riparian forest cover was low but local‐ and landscape‐scale floral species richness was high. Also, B. vosnesenskii collected pollen from a wide range of plant families and did not exhibit a significant preference for native versus non‐native species.

Finally, preference analysis indicated that the only significant preference exhibited by B. vosnesenskii during the study period was for Heteromeles arbutifolia, a native shrub. Overall, results from this study reveal the importance of species‐rich floral patches (native and non‐native) for pollinator provisioning across natural and human‐altered landscapes.
Typology of historical sources and the reconstruction of long‐term historical changes of riverine fish: a case study of the Austrian Danube and northern Russian rivers
Authors: Haidvogl Gertrud , Lajus Dmitry , Pont Didier , Schmid Martin , Jungwirth Mathias , Lajus Julia
Published: October 2013

Historical data are widely used in river ecology to define reference conditions or to investigate the evolution of aquatic systems. Most studies rely on printed documents from the 19th century, thus missing pre‐industrial states and human impacts. This article discusses historical sources that can be used to reconstruct the development of riverine fish communities from the Late Middle Ages until the mid‐20th century. Based on the studies of the Austrian Danube and northern Russian rivers, we propose a classification scheme of printed and archival sources and describe their fish ecological contents. Five types of sources were identified using the origin of sources as the first criterion: (i) early scientific surveys, (ii) fishery sources, (iii) fish trading sources, (iv) fish consumption sources and (v) cultural representations of fish. Except for early scientific surveys, all these sources were produced within economic and administrative contexts. They did not aim to report about historical fish communities, but do contain information about commercial fish and their exploitation. All historical data need further analysis for a fish ecological interpretation. Three case studies from the investigated Austrian and Russian rivers demonstrate the use of different source types and underline the necessity for a combination of different sources and a methodology combining different disciplinary approaches. Using a large variety of historical sources to reconstruct the development of past fish ecological conditions can support future river management by going beyond the usual approach of static historical reference conditions.
Suitability of biochars (pyro‐ and hydrochars) for metal immobilization on former sewage‐field soils
Authors: Wagner A. , Kaupenjohann M.
Published: October 2013

Mineralization of organic material and decreasing pH are expected to increase bioavailability and leaching of metals in soils formerly contaminated by irrigation with wastewater. Biochar has recently been proposed as a sorbent for metals, although the effects described in the literature are still inconsistent. Therefore, we conducted pot experiments to study the effects of the application of two different biochars to a sewage‐field soil on growth and nutrition of oat (Avena sativa L.) as well as on the mobility of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in the soil solution. Poplar‐derived hydrochar (obtained by hydrothermal carbonization) and maize‐derived pyrochar (obtained by pyrolysis) were mixed with the soil at concentrations of 0, 1, 2.5 and 5% (g 100 g−1). Soils were leached after 2, 3 and 5 weeks with deionized water. Hydrochar reduced biomass production and had almost no effect on metal concentrations in plants and leachates. The negative effect on biomass yield may be attributable to decreased nitrogen (N) availability. Pyrochar increased biomass production and reduced plant Zn and Cd concentrations. In contrast, metal concentrations in soil leachates generally increased. Comparison of ultra‐centrifuged and filtered samples, microprobe analysis of centrifugation residues and Visual Minteq calculations suggest colloidal transport of Zn precipitates, whereas Cu is transported in the dissolved fraction. We conclude that the tested hydrochar is not suitable for metal immobilization. In the case of pyrochar, further research on colloidal transport of metal precipitates is needed to assess its suitability for soil remediation, despite positive effects on plant growth and the reduced uptake of Zn and Cd.
The Multiple‐Use of Accountability Assessments: Implications for the Process of Validation
Authors: Koch Martha J.
Published: October 2013

Implications of the multiple‐use of accountability assessments for the process of validation are examined. Multiple‐use refers to the simultaneous use of results from a single administration of an assessment for its intended use and for one or more additional uses. A theoretical discussion of the issues for validation which emerge from multiple‐use is provided focusing on the increased stakes that result from multiple‐use and the need to consider the interactions that may take place between multiple‐uses. To further explore this practice, an empirical study of the multiple‐use of the Education Quality and Accountability Office Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics, a mandatory assessment administered in Ontario, Canada, is presented. Drawing on data gathered in an in‐depth case study, practices associated with two of the multiple‐uses of this assessment are considered and evidence of ways these two uses interact is presented. Given these interactions, the limitations of an argument‐based approach to validation for this instance of multiple‐use are demonstrated. Some ways that the process of validation might better address the practice of multiple‐use are suggested and areas for further investigation of this frequently occurring practice are discussed.
Appliance‐induced osteopenia of dentoalveolar bone in the rat: effect of reduced bone strains on serum bone markers and the multifunctional hormone leptin
Authors: Vinoth Jayaseelan K. , Patel Kaval J. , Lih Wei‐Song , Seow Yian‐San , Cao Tong , Meikle Murray C.
Published: October 2013

To understand, in greater detail, the molecular mechanisms regulating the complex relationship between mechanical strain and alveolar bone metabolism during orthodontic treatment, passive cross‐arch palatal springs were bonded to the maxillary molars of 6‐wk‐old rats, which were killed after 4 and 8 d. Outcome measures included serum assays for markers of bone formation and resorption and for the multifunctional hormone leptin, and histomorphometry of the inter‐radicular bone. The concentration of the bone‐formation marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was significantly reduced at both time points in the appliance group, accompanied by a 50% reduction in inter‐radicular bone volume; however, osteocalcin (bone Gla protein) levels remained unaffected. Bone collagen deoxypyridinoline (DPD) crosslinks increased 2.3‐fold at 4 d only, indicating a transient increase in bone resorption; in contrast, the level of the osteoclast‐specific marker, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b), was unchanged. Leptin levels closely paralleled ALP reductions at both time points, suggesting an important role in the mechanostat negative‐feedback loop required to normalize bone mass. These data suggest that an orthodontic appliance, in addition to remodeling the periodontal ligament (PDL)–bone interface, may exert unexpected side‐effects on the tooth‐supporting alveolar bone, and highlights the importance of recognizing that bone strains can have negative, as well as positive, effects on bone mass.
Persistence to Unrewarding Feeding Locations by Honeybee Foragers (Apis mellifera): the Effects of Experience, Resource Profitability and Season
Authors: Al Toufailia Hasan
Published: October 2013

Honeybee foragers that find a profitable food source quickly establish spatiotemporal memories, which allow them to return to this foraging site on subsequent days. The aim of this study was to investigate how the previous experience of honeybee foragers at a feeding location affects their persistence at that location once food is no longer available. We hypothesised that persistence would be greater to locations that were more rewarding (closer to the hive, higher concentration of sucrose solution), for which a bee had greater prior experience (0.5‐h vs. 2‐h training access), and at times of the year of lower nectar availability in the environment. We studied individually marked worker bees from four colonies trained to sucrose‐solution feeders. Our results support most of these predictions. Persistence, measured both in duration and number of visits, was greater to locations that previously offered sucrose solution of higher concentration (2 m vs. 1 m) or were closer to the hive (20 m vs. 450 m). Persistence was also greater in bees that had longer access at the feeder before the syrup was terminated (2 h vs. 0.5 h). However, contrary to our prediction, persistence was not higher in the season of the lowest nectar availability in the environment in the study year. In summary, honeybees show considerable persistence at foraging sites that ceased providing rewards. The decision to abandon a foraging site depends on the profitability the forager experienced when the foraging site was still rewarding.
Commentary on: Hairless and the polyamine putrescine form a negative regulatory loop in the epidermis
Authors: Ramot Yuval , Vardy Leah A.
Published: October 2013

Polyamines are cationic amines essential for cellular proliferation. Recently, their role in hair follicle (HF) growth has started to be explored, but their exact function is still obscure. In the October issue of Experimental Dermatology, Luke et al. follow the observation that putrescine overproducing mice and hairless (HR) mutant mice show a similar clinical phenotype of hair loss and dermal cyst formation. They show that HR and putrescine form a negative regulatory feedback mechanism, which might regulate hair cycling and therefore control hair growth. This study clearly demonstrates that a strong connection exists between HR and polyamines although there are probably additional molecular pathways involved in the polyamine regulation of hair growth which remain to be discovered.
No human virus sequences detected by next‐generation sequencing in benign verrucous skin tumors occurring in BRAF‐inhibitor‐treated patients
Authors: Ganzenmueller Tina , Hage Elias , Yakushko Yuri , Kluba Jeanette , Woltemate Sabrina , Schacht Vivien , Schulz Thomas F. , Gutzmer Ralf
Published: October 2013

Patients treated with BRAF inhibitors (e.g. vemurafenib), a novel targeted therapy for advanced melanoma harbouring certain BRAF mutations, develop numerous adverse cutaneous side effects, including skin tumors such as squamous cell carcinoma or non‐malignant verruciform keratinocyte proliferations, termed ‘BRAF‐inhibitor‐associated verrucous keratosis (BAVK) lesions’. These keratinocyte proliferations are believed to be caused by paradoxical hyperactivation of the MAPK pathway in cells with wild‐type BRAF, but mutated RAS. However, due to the clinical and histological verruca‐like appearance of these lesions, additional aetiologic cofactors, such as infectious agents (i.e. oncogenic viruses), might be suspected. Therefore, we performed 454 high‐throughput sequencing of BAVK lesions from vemurafenib‐treated patients on the transcript level to identify actively transcribed viral sequences of known [e.g. human papilloma viruses (HPV)] or even yet‐unknown viruses. Next‐generation sequencing did not identify transcripts of any human viruses out of 1 595 161 reads obtained from BAVK lesions of four patients. Nevertheless, all controls were recognized correctly, and the detection of sequences derived from the cutaneous microbiome (e.g. skin commensals and bacterial phages) confirmed the validity and sensitivity of the sequencing data. Our results are consistent with preliminary histological and immunohistochemical findings recently reported by others, who also failed to detect the expression of HPV proteins in BAVK. Although the patient number is limited and we cannot exclude the possibility of having missed a viral transcript of very low abundance, our study argues against a viral aetiology of BRAF‐inhibitor‐associated verruciform keratoses occurring under vemurafenib.
Simvastatin induces the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Zhao Bing‐jiao , Liu Yue‐hua
Published: October 2013

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are considered as potential mesenchymal stem cell sources for future clinical applications in periodontal regeneration therapy. Simvastation, widely used for lowering serum cholesterol, is known to have a bone stimulatory effect. However, it is not clear whether simvastation affects the differentiation of PDLSCs. This study examined the effects of simvastatin on human PDLSCs in vitro and in vivo. Using the limiting dilution technique, human PDLSCs were isolated and expanded. PDLSCs were cultured with simvastatin (0.01–10 μm), and the proliferation was measured. The osteogenic differentiation was characterized by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and Alizarin Red‐S staining for calcium deposition. The gene expression levels of osteogenic markers were evaluated by RT‐PCR. In addition, PDLSCs were transplanted into nude mice with ceramic bovine bone powders as carriers to observe the capacity of mineralized tissue formation in vivo. Simvastatin at concentrations <1 μm did not suppress the proliferation of PDLSCs. After the administration of 0.1 μm simvastatin, the expression of ALP, bone sialoprotein, and bone morphogenetic protein‐2 genes were significantly upregulated, and the ALP activity and mineralized nodule formation were significantly higher in the simvastatin‐treated cells than the control cells. In addition, the in vivo transplantation results showed that simvastatin treatment promoted the degree of mineralized tissue formation. Collectively, simvastatin has positive effects on osteogenic differentiation of human PDLSCs in vitro and in vivo. This suggests that simvastatin might be a useful osteogenic induction agent for periodontal bone regeneration.
Investigation of peptide splicing using two‐peptide‐chain analogs of trypsin inhibitor SFTI‐1
Authors: Karna Natalia , Dębowski Dawid , Gitlin Agata , Łęgowska Anna , Rolka Krzysztof
Published: October 2013

This study examines peptide splicing catalyzed by serine proteinases. A series of two‐peptide‐chain analogs of trypsin inhibitor SFTI‐1 were designed and synthesized via the solid‐phase method. All consisted of two peptide chains (also called N‐ and C‐terminal fragments) joined together by one disulfide bridge. The analogs were incubated with bovine β‐trypsin or bovine α‐chymotrypsin. Analysis of MS data analysis showed that, after enzyme‐catalyzed degradation of the single peptide bond between the Lys and Ser residues located at the C‐terminus of the C‐terminal peptide chain, a new peptide bond was formed. This bond brought together the separated peptide chains, and, as a result, monocyclic SFTI‐1 was recovered. This proteolytic route of peptide rearrangement appears to be similar to peptide splicing catalyzed by proteasomes. However, the proteasome is much more complex than ‘classical’ serine proteinases.
Aerobic vs. anaerobic scope: sibling species of fish indicate that temperature dependence of hypoxia tolerance can predict future survival
Authors: Sørensen Christina , Munday Philip L. , Nilsson Göran E.
Published: October 2013

The temperature dependence of aerobic scope has been suggested to be a major determinant of how marine animals will cope with future rises in environmental temperature. Here, we present data suggesting that in some animals, the temperature dependence of anaerobic scope (i.e., the capacity for surviving severe hypoxia) may determine present‐day latitudinal distributions and potential for persistence in a warmer future. As a model for investigating the role of anaerobic scope, we studied two sibling species of coral‐dwelling gobies, Gobiodon histrio, and G. erythrospilus, with different latitudinal distributions, but which overlap in equal abundance at Lizard Island (14°40′S) on the Great Barrier Reef. These species did not differ in the temperature dependence of resting oxygen consumption or critical oxygen concentration (the lowest oxygen level where resting oxygen consumption can be maintained). In contrast, the more equatorial species (G. histrio) had a better capacity to endure anaerobic conditions at oxygen levels below the critical oxygen concentration at the high temperatures (32–33 °C) more likely to occur near the equator, or in a warmer future. These results suggest that anaerobic scope, in addition to aerobic scope, could be important in determining the impacts of global warming on some marine animals.
First experiences with a two‐step method for discussing goals with community‐dwelling frail older people
Authors: Robben Sarah H. M. , Heinen Maud M. , Perry Marieke , van Achterberg Theo , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Schers Henk J. , Melis René J. F.
Published: October 2013

Background

Although frail older people can be more reluctant to become involved in clinical decision making, they do want professionals to take their concerns and wishes into account. Discussing goals can help professionals to achieve this.

Objective

To describe the development of a two‐step method for discussing goals with frail older people in primary care and professionals' first experiences with it.

Methods

The method consisted of (i) an open‐ended question: If there is one thing we can do for you to improve your situation, what would you like? if necessary, followed by (ii) a bubble diagram with goal subject categories. We reviewed the goals elaborated with the method and surveyed professionals' (primary care nurses and social workers) experiences, using questions concerning time investment, reasons for not formulating goals, and perceived value of the method.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐seven community‐dwelling frail older people described 173 goals. These most frequently concerned mobility (n = 43; 24.9%), well‐being (n = 52; 30.1%) and social context (n = 57; 32.9%). Professionals (n = 18) were generally positive about the method, as it improved their knowledge about what the frail older person valued. Not all frail older people formulated goals; reasons for this included being perfectly comfortable, not being used to discussing goals or cognitive problems limiting their ability to formulate goals.

Conclusions

This two‐step method for discussing goals can assist professionals in gaining insight into what a frail older person values. This can guide professionals and frail older people in choosing the most appropriate treatment option, thus increasing frail older people's involvement in decision making.
Finding of nevirapine extended release tablet remnants in stools does not threaten the success of combination antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Stephan C , León W
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The finding of nevirapine extended release (XR) tablet remnants in stools has raised concerns about emerging HIV‐1 resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics and pharmacokinetic and virological outcomes of affected patients from clinical trials.

Methods

HIV‐1‐infected individuals reporting tablet remnants in stools during phase III (VERxVE and TRANxITION‐studies)‐clinical trials were evaluated for mean pharmacokinetic nevirapine concentrations in available blood trough samples and remnants from stool. Patient characteristics including age, race, geographical region and primary study endpoint outcome were investigated for risk factor association with the finding of tablet remnants.

Results

Of 800 patients receiving the nevirapine XR formulation, 15 reported tablet remnants in stools, an incidence rate of 1.19% in VERxVE and 3.05% in the TRANxITION study. The difference in event rate was highly significant between the XR and immediate release (IR) formulations (P < 0.001), but not between trials (P = 0.061). All patients (15 of 15) reporting remnants achieved the primary study endpoint of HIV‐1 suppression (< 50 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL), whereas overall 81% of patients in the VERxVE trial and 94% in the TRANxITION trial did so. The mean nevirapine trough concentration was 3431.4 ng/mL in patients reporting remnants. Tablet remnants retrieved from the stools of three subjects revealed a percentage nevirapine recovery of 22.8–42.2% of original drug. Subgroup analysis of gender, age, race and geographical region revealed no risk factor association with the finding of remnants.

Conclusions

The finding of nevirapine tablet remnants in stools is a rare event, with an incidence of approximately 2%, restricted to the XR formulation. Affected patients responded fully to antiretroviral therapy by achieving the primary study endpoint and demonstrating no relevant safety risks; nevirapine pharmacokinetic analysis of blood and stool samples ruled out underexposure.
Supervising Rioters: The Role of Probation
Authors: Fitzgibbon Wendy , Curry Devinder , Lea John
Published: October 2013

This article aims to investigate the current response to the riots in the UK in August 2011 by comparing and contrasting the political and institutional factors with the reaction to the riots that occurred in Brixton and Toxteth 1981 and those in Bradford, Burnley and Oldham in 2001. The article focuses on the changes which have occurred within the probation service over that period and by interviewing twelve frontline practitioners, seeks to gain an insight into the ways these transformations reflect wider differences within the role of probation, the community, political and government attitudes and the ways this is communicated within the media.
Detrital anisotropic grandite garnet as an indicator of denudation level of Permian volcanic arc in the provenance of the South Kitakami Belt, Northeast Japan
Authors: Takeuchi Makoto
Published: October 2013

In this study, the chemical and optical features of detrital garnets from the Middle Permian to Upper Triassic sandstones in the South Kitakami Belt, Northeast Japan, were examined to reveal the tectonic movement in the provenance. The sandstones contain a large amount of detrital grandite garnet grains with a wide range of andradite content. Among them, some grandite garnet grains show optically anisotropic features and rarely oscillatory zoning and sector twinning. The proportion of the detrital anisotropic grandite garnet increases from the Permian to the Middle Triassic and decreases in the Late Triassic. Such grandite garnets with various andradite contents occur in skarn deposits. Isotropic grandite garnets in the early stage of skarn evolution are distributed widely around a pluton, which affects the thermal metamorphism of the surrounding strata. However, anisotropic grandite garnets are formed along veinlets and fractures in the middle to late hydrothermal stage as the pluton cools, and their distribution is limited to a narrower area near the pluton compared to the metamorphic aureoles formed in the early stage. Changes in the chemical and optical features of the detrital garnets indicate a progressive denudation of the plutonic body accompanying skarn deposits in the provenance. The proportion of detrital anisotropic grandite garnet grains among all of the detrital grandite garnet is considered to be a sensitive indicator of the denudation level in a deeper part of the volcanic arc in association with skarn deposits, together with traditional sandstone composition datasets. This newly proposed method should be useful for clarifying the paleogeography during the Permian to Triassic in the East Asian continental margin, associated with uplift and denudation of the Permian volcanic arc, which seems to have been induced by the collision of the North China and South China Blocks.
Effect of reciprocating file motion on microcrack formation in root canals: an SEM study
Authors: Ashwinkumar V. , Krithikadatta J. , Surendran S. , Velmurugan N.
Published: October 2013

Aim

To compare dentinal microcrack formation whilst using Ni–Ti hand K‐files, ProTaper hand and rotary files and the WaveOne reciprocating file.

Methodology

One hundred and fifty mandibular first molars were selected. Thirty teeth were left unprepared and served as controls, and the remaining 120 teeth were divided into four groups. Ni–Ti hand K‐files, ProTaper hand files, ProTaper rotary files and WaveOne Primary reciprocating files were used to prepare the mesial canals. Roots were then sectioned 3, 6 and 9 mm from the apex, and the cut surface was observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM) and checked for the presence of dentinal microcracks.

Results

The control and Ni–Ti hand K‐files groups were not associated with microcracks. In roots prepared with ProTaper hand files, ProTaper rotary files and WaveOne Primary reciprocating files, dentinal microcracks were present. There was a significant difference between control/Ni–Ti hand K‐files group and ProTaper hand files/ProTaper rotary files/WaveOne Primary reciprocating file group (P < 0.001) with ProTaper rotary files producing the most microcracks. No significant difference was observed between teeth prepared with ProTaper hand files and WaveOne Primary reciprocating files.

Conclusion

ProTaper rotary files were associated with significantly more microcracks than ProTaper hand files and WaveOne Primary reciprocating files. Ni–Ti hand K‐files did not produce microcracks at any levels inside the root canals.
Immunotherapy following relapse of acute leukaemia after T‐cell‐replete allogeneic peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation: importance of new onset chronic graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Curley C. , Hill G. R. , McLean A. , Kennedy G.A.
Published: October 2013

Introduction

To further define the relative impact of immunotherapy and subsequent development of graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) on survival in patients with relapsed acute leukaemia postallogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (SCT), we performed a single‐centre retrospective analysis of 32 actively treated patients between 2003 and 2011.

Methods

A total of 13 patients were identified who were treated actively with cessation of immunosuppression ± Fludarabine, Cytarabine, G‐CSF (FLAG) induction, but no donor leucocyte infusion (DLI) (non‐DLIgroup) and 19 patients received the same step‐wise therapy plus G‐CSFmobilizedDLI(G‐DLIgroup).

Results

Groups were not statistically different with regards to baseline characteristics; however, the G‐DLIgroup contained more sibling donors as opposed to unrelated donors than the non‐DLIgroup. With a median follow‐up of 47 months, the median overall survival (OS) of the non‐DLIand G‐DLIgroups was not statistically different (8 monthsvs. 9 months, respectively,P = 0.5). Survival at 3 years was <10% in both groups. Univariate analysis identified response toFLAG, and new onset chronicGVHDas the only factors associated with improvedOS.

Conclusion

Second donor stem cell infusions are unwarranted in the treatment of relapse after allogeneicSCTand therapeutic strategies should focus on cytoreduction followed by immune modulation with the aim of invoking chronicGVHD.
A study examining the appropriateness of a self‐rated alcohol‐related clinical confidence tool as a method of measurement among registered hospital nurses using Rasch analysis
Authors: Holloway Aisha , Blackman Ian , Flynn Fiona
Published: October 2013

Aims

This paper is a report of a study, which seeks to determine if self‐reported estimates of RNs' self‐rated confidence in responding to alcohol use in patients is a psychometrically sound measure.

Background

Alcohol‐related harm is a global public health problem. Nurses are the largest group of health professionals worldwide, with evidence showing that despite being well placed to respond, they are not engaging in this important role.

Design

Instrument development.

Method

The study was a survey set in a large teaching hospital in England, UK. The Clinical Confidence Questionnaire was made available to a convenience sample of 200 RNs in 2007, with a response rate of 22%. Rasch analysis was used to develop a scale for future learning based on the conjoint estimates of registered hospital nurses abilities to meet needs of patients requiring nursing care of different complexities related to alcohol use in patients.

Results

Outcomes verify that registered hospital nurses' self‐rated clinical confidence measures for their own nursing abilities in responding to alcohol use in patients can be reliably estimated and a hierarchical scale of learning can be generated to inform curricula content and learning processes.

Conclusion

Current health policy in the UK identifies nurses as having a role in responding to alcohol‐related harm. More focus should, therefore, be placed on ensuring that they are prepared to fully engage with patients in assessing and responding to alcohol use through specific education, training and skill development. The self‐rated clinical confidence tool offers evidence as an acceptable method of measurement in this area.
Angiotensin II type 2 receptor correlates with therapeutic effects of losartan in rats with adjuvant‐induced arthritis
Authors: Wang Di , Hu Shanshan , Zhu Jie , Yuan Jun , Wu Jingjing , Zhou Aiwu , Wu Yujing , Zhao Wendi , Huang Qiong , Chang Yan , Wang Qingtong , Sun Wuyi , Wei Wei
Published: October 2013

The angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blocker losartan ameliorates rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in an experimental model. In RA, AT2R mainly opposes AT1R, but the mechanism by which this occurs still remains obscure. In the present study, we investigated the role of AT2R in the treatment of rats with adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AIA) by losartan. Adjuvant‐induced arthritis rats were treated with losartan (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg) and methotrexate (MTX; 0.5 mg/kg) in vivo from day 14 to day 28. Arthritis was evaluated by the arthritis index and histological examination. Angiotensin II, tumour necrosis factor‐α, and VEGF levels were examined by ELISA. The expression of AT1R and AT2R was detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis. After stimulation with interleukin‐1β in vitro, the effects of the AT2R agonist CGP42112 (10−8–10−5 M) on the chemotaxis of monocytes induced by 10% foetal calf serum (FCS) were analysed by using Transwell assay. Subsequently, the therapeutic effects of CGP42112 (5, 10 and 20 μg/kg) were evaluated in vivo by intra‐articular injection in AIA rats. After treatment with losartan, the down‐regulation of AT1R expression and up‐regulation of AT2R expression in the spleen and synovium of AIA rats correlated positively with reduction in the polyarthritis index. Treatment with CGP42112 inhibited the chemotaxis of AIA monocytes in vitro, possibly because of the up‐regulation of AT2R expression. Intra‐articular injection with CGP42112 (10 and 20 μg/kg) ameliorated the arthritis index and histological signs of arthritis. In summary, the present study strongly suggests that the up‐regulation of AT2R might be an additional mechanism by which losartan exerts its therapeutic effects in AIA rats.
A new gamboge derivative Compound 2 inhibits cancer stem‐like cells via suppressing EGFR tyrosine phosphorylation in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Deng Rongxin , Wang Xu , Liu Yang , Yan Ming , Hanada Sayaka , Xu Qin , Zhang Jianjun , Han Zeguang , Chen Wantao , Zhang Ping
Published: October 2013

Cancer stem‐like cells represent a population of tumour‐initiating cells that lead to the relapse and metastasis of cancer. Conventional anti‐cancer therapeutic drugs are usually ineffective in eliminating the cancer stem‐like cells. Therefore, new drugs or therapeutic methods effectively targeting cancer stem‐like cells are in urgent need to successfully cure cancer. Gamboge is a natural anti‐cancer medicine whose pharmacological effects are different from those of conventional chemotherapeutical drugs and they can kill some kinds of cancer cells selectively. In this study, we identified a new gamboge derivative, Compound 2 (C2), which presents eminent suppression effects on cancer cells. Interestingly, when compared with cisplatin (CDDP), C2 effectively suppresses the growth of both cancer stem‐like cells and non‐cancer stem‐like cells derived from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), inhibiting the formation of tumour spheres and colony in vitro, resulting in the loss of expression of multiple cancer stem cell (CSC)‐related molecules in HNSCC. Treating with C2 effectively inhibited the growth of HNSCC in BALB/C nude mice. Further investigation found that C2 notably inhibits the activation of epithelial growth factor receptor and the phosphorylation of its downstream protein kinase homo sapiens v‐akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT) in HNSCC, resulting in down‐regulation of multiple CSC‐related molecules in HNSCC. Our study has demonstrated that C2 effectively inhibits the stem‐like property of cancer stem‐like cells in HNSCC and may be a hopeful targeting drug in cancer therapy.
Efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes switched from glinides
Authors: Tanaka Tsuyoshi , Goto Hiroyuki , Araki Rika , Yamamoto Mika , Tanaka Takashi , Fujiwara Ryoko , Murata Kazuya
Published: October 2013

Aims/Introduction

The efficacy and safety of sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)‐4 inhibitor, were compared with those of glinides in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

The participants were 82 patients with type 2 diabetes (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] ≥6.0% and <10%) under treatment with glinides for glucose control. The participants were randomly assigned to a group (n = 44) receiving continuous treatment with glinides and a group (n = 38) switched to sitagliptin. Patients were followed for 12 weeks to evaluate glucose control. A meal tolerance test was carried out in weeks 0 and 12 to examine the pancreatic secretory response to postprandial hyperglycemia.

Results

The changes in HbA1c from week 0 to week 12 were −0.25 and −0.05% in the sitagliptin and glinide groups, respectively, with a significant improvement with sitagliptin. The differences in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycoalbumin and 1,5‐anhydroglucitol between the two groups were 14.2 mg/dL, 0.7% and 1.7 μg/mL, respectively, showing significant improvements with sitagliptin. In the meal tolerance test, glucose at 0 min was lower in the sitagliptin group; however, there were no differences in glucose elevation at 30 and 60 min compared with 0 min. Plasma insulin and glucagon secretion at week 12 were significantly lower than at baseline in the sitagliptin group. Adverse events including hypoglycemia did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

FPG decreased and glucose control improved in patients who switched from glinides to sitagliptin. Sitagliptin decreased secretion of insulin and glucagon in a meal tolerance test compared with glinides, whereas the agents showed similar inhibition of postprandial hyperglycemia. This trial was registered with UMIN (UMIN‐CTR no. 000003479).
Life‐history traits and population decline of the Atlantic mackerel Scomber scombrusin the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Meneghesso C. , Riginella E. , La Mesa M. , Donato F. , Mazzoldi C.
Published: October 2013

This study investigated demographic structure and reproductive characteristics of the Atlantic mackerel Scomber scombrus, in relation to landing trends in the northern‐central Adriatic Sea. Results highlighted the occurrence of only small‐sized and young‐age individuals, and a marked decline from the 1990s to the present in maximum age (from 8 to 3 years) and total length (LT; from 420 to 360 mm). Fecundity ranged between 40 000 and 190 000 eggs, and was related to female LT. High levels of atresia implied lower values of actual fecundity. Sexual maturity was attained by 72·8% of individuals in their first year of life at 200 mm. The reduction in maximum LT resulted in a marked decline in the population egg production, while the reduction in maximum age implied that females participated in fewer spawning events.
Inhibitory Effect of Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) on the Growth of Penicillium citrinum and Citrinin Production
Authors: Aiko Visenuo , Mehta Alka
Published: October 2013

Clove was studied for its effect on the growth of Penicillium citrinum and citrinin production in culture medium and rice. The minimum concentration at which clove inhibited fungal growth and citrinin production was determined and recorded as 1.8 mg/mL in yeast extract sucrose broth. All concentrations of clove inhibited the fungal growth; however, citrinin production was inhibited significantly only at higher concentration. At 1.6 mg/mL, clove inhibited fungal growth and citrinin production by 80 and 58%, respectively; hence, this concentration was used to study the relationship between P. citrinum and citrinin production. Clove inhibited the growth of P. citrinum in culture media by 60–70%, throughout the observation period of 14 days. Along with the fungal growth inhibition, citrinin production was inhibited significantly. In rice, clove delayed the growth of Penicillium by 3 days; however, after 5 days of incubation, fungal growth and citrinin production were equivalent to the control.

Practical Applications

Citrinin is a nephrotoxin and found as a common contaminant in rice, wheat and red yeast rice. This study showed the potential of clove in controlling P. citrinum and citrinin in culture media and rice. As spices are commonly used in many food ingredients, clove may be recommended for use in processed and ready‐to‐eat foods as a preservative. The use of whole clove eliminates the need for extracting essential oils and is more economical.
Comparing the effects of meal replacements with an isocaloric reduced‐fat diet on nutrient intake and lower urinary tract symptoms in obese men
Authors: Khoo J. , Ling P.‐S. , Chen R. Y.‐T. , Ng K.‐K. , Tay T.‐L. , Tan E. , Cho L.‐W. , Cheong M.
Published: October 2013

Background

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men are associated with obesity, particularly central obesity as measured by waist circumference (WC), and may improve with weight loss. We aimed to compare effects of a meal‐replacement based diet with isocaloric reduced‐fat plan on LUTS and nutrient intake in obese Asian men.

Methods

Obese Asian [mean (range) body mass index of 32.9 (30.5–42.3) kg m–2] men [mean (range) age 40.2 (30–61) years] were randomised to a reduced‐fat (< 30% of energy) diet [conventional reduced‐fat diet (CD) group; n = 23] or meal‐replacement‐based plan [meal replacement (MR) group; n = 23], to reduce daily intake by 2000 kJ for 12 weeks.

Results

CD and MR groups had statistically significant and similar reductions in weight (−2.6 ± 1.9 kg versus −4.2 ± 3.8 kg), overall LUTS severity measured with International Prostate Symptom Scale (IPSS) scores (−1.71 ± 1.93 points versus −2.42 ± 2.12 points) and insulin resistance [homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) calculated from plasma glucose and insulin]. The MR group had significantly greater decreases in WC (−4.8 ± 3.3 cm versus −2.5 ± 2.3 cm), fat mass (−2.47 ± 3.63 kg versus −1.59 ± 2.32 kg), fat intake, plasma C‐reactive protein, and in storage LUTS score (−1.59 ± 1.33 points versus −1.00 ± 0.87 points), which was associated with a decreased fat intake (r = 0.48, P = 0.03). A decrease in overall IPSS score was associated with reductions in weight, WC and HOMA.

Conclusions

Weight loss as a result of CD or MR had similar efficacy in relieving LUTS. MR produced greater reductions in fat intake, adiposity and storage LUTS.