bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of ATM Expression, Localization, and Associated DNA-dependent Protein Kinase Activity
Authors: Gately Dennis P. , Hittle James C. , Chan Gordon K. T. , Yen Tim J.
Published: July 2013

Ataxia telangiectasia–mutated gene (ATM) is a 350-kDa protein whose function is defective in the autosomal recessive disorder ataxia telangiectasia (AT). Affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies were used to characterize ATM. Steady-state levels of ATM protein varied from undetectable in most AT cell lines to highly expressed in HeLa, U2OS, and normal human fibroblasts. Subcellular fractionation showed that ATM is predominantly a nuclear protein associated with the chromatin and nuclear matrix. ATM protein levels remained constant throughout the cell cycle and did not change in response to serum stimulation. Ionizing radiation had no significant effect on either the expression or distribution of ATM. ATM immunoprecipitates from HeLa cells and the human DNA-dependent protein kinase null cell line MO59J, but not from AT cells, phosphorylated the 34-kDa subunit of replication protein A (RPA) complex in a single-stranded and linear double-stranded DNA–dependent manner. Phosphorylation of p34 RPA occurred on threonine and serine residues. Phosphopeptide analysis demonstrates that the ATM-associated protein kinase phosphorylates p34 RPA on similar residues observed in vivo. The DNA-dependent protein kinase activity observed for ATM immunocomplexes, along with the association of ATM with chromatin, suggests that DNA damage can induce ATM or a stably associated protein kinase to phosphorylate proteins in the DNA damage response pathway.
First Report of Stem Rot in Canola Caused by Sclerotinia minor in Western Australia
Authors: Khangura R. , MacLeod W. J.
Published: July 2013

Canola (Brassica napus L.) is a significant oilseed break crop in Western Australia. In late October 2012, canola plants (cv. Jackpot) showing typical symptoms of stem rot with bleached appearance and fluffy white fungal growth on the infected tissues were observed in an experimental plot at Katanning, Western Australia. Severely affected plants were lodged with partially filled pods and shriveled seeds. Small, irregular sclerotia (<2 mm) were found inside the plants and were more concentrated in the root and basal stem than in the upper stem regions. Ten sclerotia from three symptomatic plants were surface sterilized with 1.25% NaOCl for 1 minute, rinsed twice in sterile distilled water and plated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) supplemented with 10 mg liter–1 Aureomycin. Plates were incubated under a black light at 22 ± 2°C. Sclerotinia minor Jagger was consistently isolated as identified by colony morphology, abundant sclerotia on PDA, and size of sclerotia <2 mm (3). A pathogenicity test was conducted on six 7-week-old canola plants cv. Tawriffic. Mycelial plugs (5 mm diameter) were excised from the margins of actively growing 3-day-old cultures and attached on to the 2nd and the 4th internodes of the main stem with Parafilm. Three plants inoculated with agar plugs without mycelium served as controls. Following inoculation, the plants were kept in a misting chamber for 48 h and then transferred to a growth room at 18 ± 2°C with a 12-h photoperiod. Typical lesions of stem rot similar to those observed in the field were noticed 3 days after inoculation. Within a week, all the inoculated plants were completely girdled by the lesions with stems breaking off and collapsing at the point of inoculation. Small sclerotia formed within lesions on the outside of the diseased stems. S. minor was reisolated from the stems of symptomatic plants, fulfilling Koch's postulates. No symptoms developed on the control plants. S. minor has previously been reported on host plants other than canola in Western Australia (4), canola petals in New South Wales, Australia (2), and also on canola stems in Argentina (1). To our knowledge, this is the first report of occurrence of S. minor on canola in Western Australia. Although S. sclerotiorum is the predominant species causing stem rot in canola in Western Australia, S. minor has the potential to cause significant yield losses under favorable environmental conditions. Correct identification and monitoring a shift in pathogens is essential for implementing effective management strategies and breeding resistant varieties.

References: (1) S. A. Gaetán et al. Plant Dis. 92:172, 2008. (2) T. Hind-Lanoiselet et al. Aust Plant Pathol. 30:289, 2001. (3) L. M. Kohn. Phytopathology 69:881, 1979. (4) R. Shivas. J. Royal. Soc. Western Australia 72:1, 1989.
miR‐17 targets tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 and 2 to modulate cardiac matrix remodeling
Authors: Li Shu‐Hong , Guo Jian , Wu Jun , Sun Zhuo , Han Mihan , Shan Sze Wan , Deng Zhaoqun , Yang Burton B. , Weisel Richard D. , Li Ren‐Ke
Published: July 2013

We aimed to investigate the role of miR‐17 in cardiac matrix remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI). Using real‐time PCR, we quantified endogenous miR‐17 in infarcted mouse hearts. Compared with related microRNAs, miR‐17 was up‐regulated most dramatically: 3.7‐fold and 2.4‐fold in the infarct region 3 and 7 d post‐MI, respectively, and 2.4‐fold in the border zone at d 3 compared to sham control (P<0.01). Chimeric luciferase reporter constructs were cloned for miR‐17 target validation. miR‐17 targeted the 3'‐UTR of TIMP2 and the protein coding region of TIMP1. The miR‐17 mimic decreased TIMP2 (P<0.01) and TIMP1 (P<0.05) protein expression compared with the scrambled control. Inhibition of endogenous miR‐17 by in vivo antagomir delivery enhanced TIMP2 (P<0.01) and TIMP1 (P<0.05) protein expression compared to the mismatch group, decreased MMP9 activity (P<0.05), reduced infarct size as early as 7 d post‐MI (P<0.05), and improved cardiac function (fractional shortening and fractional area contraction, P<0.05) at d 21 and 28 post‐MI. Transgenic mice overexpressing miR‐17 in the heart confirmed the deleterious role of miR‐17 in matrix modulation. Our study suggests that miR‐17 participates in the regulation of cardiac matrix remodeling and provides a novel therapeutic approach using miR‐17 inhibitors to prevent remodeling and heart failure after MI.—Li, S.‐H., Guo, J., Wu, J., Sun, Z., Han, M., Shan, S. W., Deng, Z., Yang, B. B., Weisel, R D., Li, R‐K. miR‐17 targets tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 and 2 to modulate cardiac matrix remodeling. FASEB J. 27, 4254–4265 (2013). www.fasebj.org
Selective β1-Antagonism with Bisoprolol Is Associated with Fewer Postoperative Strokes than Atenolol or Metoprolol
Authors: Ashes Catherine , Judelman Saul , Wijeysundera Duminda N. , Tait Gordon , Mazer C. David , Hare Gregory M. T. , Beattie W. Scott
Published: July 2013

Background:

Perioperative metoprolol increases postoperative stroke. Animal studies indicate that the mechanism may be related to attenuated β2-adrenoreceptor-mediated cerebral vasodilatation. The authors therefore conducted a cohort to study whether the highly β1-specific β-blocker (bisoprolol) was associated with a reduced risk of postoperative stroke compared with less selective β-blockers (metoprolol or atenolol).

Methods:

The authors conducted a single-center study on 44,092 consecutive patients with age 50 yr or more having noncardiac, nonneurologic surgery. The primary outcome was stroke within 7 days of surgery. The secondary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality, postoperative myocardial injury, and stroke. A propensity score-matched cohort was created to assess the independent association between bisoprolol and less β1-selective agents metoprolol or atenolol. A secondary analysis using logistic regression, based on previously identified confounders, also compared selective β1-antagonism.

Results:

Twenty-four percent (10,756) of patients were exposed to in-hospital β-blockers. A total of 88 patients (0.2%) suffered a stroke within 7 days of surgery. The matched cohort consisted of 2,462 patients, and the pairs were well matched for all variables. Bisoprolol was associated with fewer postoperative strokes than the less selective agents (odds ratio = 0.20; 95% CI, 0.04–0.91). Multivariable risk-adjustment in the β-blockers-exposed patients comparing bisoprolol with the less selective agents was associated with a similarly reduced stroke rate.

Conclusions:

The use of metoprolol and atenolol is associated with increased risks of postoperative stroke, compared with bisoprolol. These findings warrant confirmation in a pragmatic randomized trial.
Emergency Department Revisits in Children With Gastroenteritis
Authors: Freedman Stephen B. , Thull‐Freedman Jennifer D. , Rumantir Maggie , Atenafu Eshetu G. , Stephens Derek
Published: July 2013

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to determine whether intravenous fluid administration is independently associated with a reduction in unscheduled emergency department (ED) revisits within 7 days.

Methods:

We conducted a single‐center, retrospective observational cohort study in a pediatric ED in Toronto, Canada. Participants were younger than 18 years, diagnosed as having gastroenteritis, and discharged home between July 2003 and June 2008. Multivariable regression models were used to determine the associations between the exposures (intravenous rehydration, triage severity score, age) and ED revisits and revisits with intravenous rehydration. Accuracy was assessed using bootstrap analysis.

Results:

There were 22,125 potentially eligible visits; 3346 were included in our final cohort. A total of 497 children (15%) received intravenous rehydration and 543 (16%) had an unscheduled revisit. Regression analysis included 2874 children with complete data, and identified 5 independent predictors of an ED revisit: intravenous rehydration (odds ratio [OR] 1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36–2.26); number of vomiting episodes (1.20; 95% CI 1.04–1.28/5 episode increase); days of diarrhea (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.88–0.97/day increase); frequency of diarrhea (1.19; 95% CI 1.03–1.38/5 episode increase); and age (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.91–0.98/year). Bootstrap methodology identified intravenous rehydration, age, number of vomiting episodes, days of diarrhea, and number of diarrheal stools a minimum of 500 of 1000 iterations.

Conclusions:

Intravenous rehydration is associated with unscheduled ED revisits after adjustment for clinical findings. Although children experiencing revisits were likely more unwell, our data do not support the provision of intravenous fluids to prevent unscheduled ED revisits in children with mild‐to‐moderate dehydration.
Prospects and performance limitations for Cu–Zn–Sn–S–Se photovoltaic technology
Authors: Mitzi David B. , Gunawan Oki , Todorov Teodor K. , Barkhouse D. Aaron R.
Published: July 2013

While cadmium telluride and copper–indium–gallium–sulfide–selenide (CIGSSe) solar cells have either already surpassed (for CdTe) or reached (for CIGSSe) the 1 GW yr
−1
production level, highlighting the promise of these rapidly growing thin-film technologies, reliance on the heavy metal cadmium and scarce elements indium and tellurium has prompted concern about scalability towards the terawatt level. Despite recent advances in structurally related copper–zinc–tin–sulfide–selenide (CZTSSe) absorbers, in which indium from CIGSSe is replaced with more plentiful and lower cost zinc and tin, there is still a sizeable performance gap between the kesterite CZTSSe and the more mature CdTe and CIGSSe technologies. This review will discuss recent progress in the CZTSSe field, especially focusing on a direct comparison with analogous higher performing CIGSSe to probe the performance bottlenecks in Earth-abundant kesterite devices. Key limitations in the current generation of CZTSSe devices include a shortfall in open circuit voltage relative to the absorber band gap and secondarily a high series resistance, which contributes to a lower device fill factor. Understanding and addressing these performance issues should yield closer performance parity between CZTSSe and CdTe/CIGSSe absorbers and hopefully facilitate a successful launch of commercialization for the kesterite-based technology.
The use of solar energy can enhance the conversion of carbon dioxide into energy-rich products: stepping towards artificial photosynthesis
Authors: Aresta Michele , Dibenedetto Angela , Angelini Antonella
Published: July 2013

The need to cut CO
2
emission into the atmosphere is pushing scientists and technologists to discover and implement new strategies that may be effective for controlling the CO
2
atmospheric level (and its possible effects on climate change). One option is the capture of CO
2
from power plant flue gases or other industrial processes to avoid it entering the atmosphere. The captured CO
2
can be either disposed in natural fields (geological cavities, spent gas or oil wells, coal beads, aquifers; even oceans have been proposed) or used as a source of carbon in synthetic processes. In this paper, we present the options for CO
2
utilization and make an analysis of possible solutions for the conversion of large volumes of CO
2
by either combining it with H
2
, that must be generated from water, or by directly converting it into fuels by electrolysis in water using solar energy. A CO
2
–H
2
-based economy may address the issue of reducing the environmental burden of energy production, also saving fossil carbon for future generations. The integration of CO
2
capture and utilization with CO
2
capture and storage would result in a more economically and energetically viable practice of CO
2
capture.
Can solar power deliver?
Authors: Nelson Jenny , Emmott Christopher J. M.
Published: July 2013

Solar power represents a vast resource which could, in principle, meet the world's needs for clean power generation. Recent growth in the use of photovoltaic (PV) technology has demonstrated the potential of solar power to deliver on a large scale. Whilst the dominant PV technology is based on crystalline silicon, a wide variety of alternative PV materials and device concepts have been explored in an attempt to decrease the cost of the photovoltaic electricity. This article explores the potential for such emerging technologies to deliver cost reductions, scalability of manufacture, rapid carbon mitigation and new science in order to accelerate the uptake of solar power technologies.
Serum amyloid A stimulates cultured endothelial cells to migrate and proliferate: inhibition by the multikinase inhibitor BIBF1120
Authors: Cai Xiaoping , Freedman S Ben , Witting Paul K
Published: July 2013

In the present study, we tested whether serum amyloid A (SAA) protein, an established biomarker of inflammation, also plays a role in stimulating neovascularization. To evaluate this possibility, human carotid artery endothelial (HCtAE) cells were cultured and cellular migration and the proinflammatory and/or thrombotic activity of SAA (0, 1 or 10 μg/mL) on vascular endothelial cells was verified by determining gene regulation relative to control (in the absence of SAA).

Exposure of HCtAE cells to SAA increased expression of the transcription factor nuclear factor‐κB (NFKB), tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and pro‐coagulative tissue factor (F3), and stimulated phosphorylation of the P65 subunit of the NFKB complex.

Enhanced production of TNF and NFKB was paralleled by increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA and protein expression, as demonstrated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and ELISA.

Administration of 10 μg/mL SAA enhanced endothelial cell migration (1.6‐fold vs control), stimulated regrowth of HCtAE cells after mechanical injury (˜1.2‐fold vs control) and increased endothelial tube formation relative to control after 6 h.

The SAA‐mediated enhancement of endothelial cell migration, proliferation and tube formation were markedly inhibited by pretreatment of HCtAE cells with the multi‐angiokinase receptor inhibitor BIBF1120 (100 nmol/L), although SAA‐stimulated gene responses for F3 and NFKB were unaffected by 100 nmol/L BIBF1120 pretreatment.

Overall, BIBF1120 inhibited the pro‐angiogenic activity of SAA on vascular endothelial cells in this experimental model of inflammation.
‘Life Stage Dissolution’ in Anglo-American Advertising and Popular Culture: Kidults, Lil' Britneys and Middle Youths
Authors: Hayward Keith
Published: July 2013

The ‘long road to adulthood’ that supposedly now characterizes the period from the teens to the late twenties (for individuals in developed countries) has been the subject of much recent media and academic commentary. This paper adopts a sociological perspective to review and critique this commentary, and in particular the argument made by certain developmental psychologists that the period between adolescence and fully-fledged adulthood is now distinct enough to constitute a new stage in the life cycle known as ‘emerging adulthood’. In contrast, it is argued that, rather than anything as significant as a new life stage, what is actually happening is the erosion of established ones. To illustrate this point, the article introduces the new theoretical concept of ‘ life stage dissolution’ (and its attendant bi-directional processes of ‘adultification’ and ‘infantilization’) – a blurring (or more accurately merging) process that makes it increasingly difficult for young people to differentiate and disassociate themselves from the generation immediately ahead of them, and indeed vice versa. The paper argues that, whilst this process takes a number of cultural/psychosocial forms, it is at its most prominent in contemporary Anglo-American advertising and marketing practices that actively seek to erode traditionally demarcated adult and childhood roles, differences, and oppositions as a new and distinct message within contemporary consumerism.
Genomics of corneal wound healing: a review of the literature
Authors: Maycock Nick J. R. , Marshall John
Published: July 2013

Corneal wound healing is a complex process: its mechanisms and the underlying genetic control are not fully understood. It involves the integrated actions of multiple growth factors, cytokines and proteases produced by epithelial cells, stromal keratocytes, inflammatory cells and lacrimal gland cells. Following an epithelial insult, multiple cytokines are released triggering a cascade of events that leads to repair the epithelial defect and remodelling of the stroma to minimize the loss of transparency and function. In this review, we examine the literature surrounding the genomics of corneal wound healing with respect to the following topics: epithelial and stromal wound healing (including inhibition); corneal neovascularisation; the role of corneal nerves in wound healing; the endothelium; the role of aquaporins and aptamers. We also examine the effect of ectasia on corneal wound healing with regard to keratoconus and following corneal surgery. A better understanding of the cellular and molecular changes that occur during repair of corneal wounds will provide the opportunity to design treatments that selectively modulate key phases of the healing process resulting in scars that more closely resemble normal corneal architecture.
The Portuguese formal social support for autonomy and dependence in pain inventory (FSSADI_PAIN): A preliminary validation study
Authors: Matos Marta , Bernardes Sónia F.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Development and preliminary validation of a Portuguese measure of perceived Formal Social Support for Autonomy and Dependence in Pain (FSSADI_PAIN).

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐one older adults (88.1% women), between 56 and 94 years of age (M = 75.41; SD = 9.11), who attended one of the following institutions – day care centre (33.1%), nursing home (36.4%) and senior university (30.5%) – were recruited for this study. Along with the FSSADI_PAIN, participants filled out the Portuguese versions of the Brief Pain Inventory (Azevedo et al., 2007, Dor, 15, 6) and the Social Support Scale of Medical Outcomes Survey (Pais‐Ribeiro & Ponte, 2009, Psicologia, Saúde & Doença, 10, 163).

Results

The factorial structure reflected the functions of perceived promotion of (1) dependence and (2) autonomy, showing good internal consistency (α > .70) and sensitivity indices. The FSSADI_PAIN showed good content, discriminant and criterion validity; it differentiated the perceptions of promotion of dependence/autonomy according to individual's pain severity and disability, as well as the type of institution.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest that the FSSADI_PAIN is an innovative and promising measure of perceived formal social support adapted to pain‐related contexts.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject? Some studies with Chronic Pain patients suggest a negative relationship between perceived social support (PSS) and pain interference and severity (e.g., Evers, Kraaimaat, Geenen, Jacobs & Bijlsma, 2003; Turk, Kerns & Rosenberg, 1992), avoidance of daily activities and associated physical disability (e.g., Cohen & Wills, 1985; Jamison & Virts, 1990) and emotional distress (e.g., depression, anxiety; Zyrianova et al., 2006). Moreover, evidence shows that the higher the PSS, the less frequent the adoption of passive coping strategies, like physical and social activity avoidance or relational withdrawal (e.g., Katz, Ritvo, Ivine & Jackson, 1996). Overall, these studies emphasize the benefits of high PSS in chronic pain patients.

What does this study add? This study brings theoretical and methodological innovations: The conceptualization and operationalization of the functions of perceived promotion of autonomy and perceived promotion of dependence (PPD). Our results stress the importance of taking into consideration and differentiating these functions of PSS. Highlights the central role of PPD among older adults with chronic pain.
Clinical significance of ureteric ‘skip lesions’ at the time of radical cystectomy: the M.D. Anderson experience and literature review
Authors: Hoang Anthony N. , Agarwal Piyush K. , Walton‐Diaz Annerleim , Wood Christopher G. , Metwalli Adam R. , Kassouf Wassim , Brown Gordon A. , Black Peter C. , Urbauer Diana L. , Grossman H. Barton , Dinney Colin P.N. , Kamat Ashish M.
Published: July 2013

Objective

To assess the incidence and clinical significance of ‘skip lesions’ that are present in proximal but not in distal ureteric sections, which are occasionally found during the pathological examination of ureteric margins during radical cystectomy (RC).

Patients and Methods

We identified 660 patients who underwent a RC and had at least two permanent margins for a given ureter.

In all, 1173 ureters were analysed and classified as follows: ‘normal’ (no tumour, reactive atypia, mild or moderate dysplasia) or ‘abnormal’ (severe dysplasia, carcinoma in situ (CIS), or tumour).

Transitions from ‘normal’ distal pathology to ‘abnormal’ on proximal section(s) determined frequency of skip lesions.

Fisher's exact test and the log‐rank test were used to study correlations.

Results

Ureteric skip lesions were found in 4.8% patients (2.9% ureters).

Pathology of skip lesions was CIS in 55.9%, transitional cell carcinoma in 23.5% and severe dysplasia in 20.6%.

Skip lesions were associated with lymphovascular invasion (34.4% vs 13.7%, P = 0.004) and advanced pT stage (P = 0.007).

On multivariate analysis, skip lesions correlated with lower median overall survival (OS) (inestimable vs 8.2 years, P = 0.014) in patients with pT0 or pTa disease and a trend towards lower OS (2.7 vs 8.8 years, P = 0.066) in pTis disease.

Concordance between frozen distal margin and permanent proximal margin varied; sensitivity was 80% in those without and 20% in those with skip lesions.

Conclusions

The presence of a ureteric skip lesion may be associated with lower survival in patients with pT0, pTa or pTis urothelial carcinoma.

Thus, while uncommon, ureteric skip lesions should be reported in pathological findings.
Deformity stabilization and improvement in men with untreated Peyronie's disease
Authors: Berookhim Boback M. , Choi Judy , Alex Byron , Mulhall John P.
Published: July 2013

Objective

To define predictors of the deformity stabilisation and improvement in men with untreated Peyronie's disease (PD).

Patients and Methods

The study population consisted of patients with PD‐associated uniplanar curvature, who opted for no treatment and were followed for at least 12 months.

All patients had deformity assessment (DA) performed on initial presentation and at follow‐up. Stabilisation of PD was defined as no change between DAs (±10°), while improvement and progression were defined as ≥10° change.

Patients were subdivided into different groups based on time to presentation: ≤6 months (A), 7–12 months (B), and 13–18 months (C).

Multivariable analysis was used to define predictors of stabilisation and improvement.

Results

In all, 176 men met the inclusion criteria.

The mean age was 54 years, with a mean (sd) PD duration of 9 (12) months and mean curvature of 42 (27)°.

In all, 67% of the entire population had no change in deformity over time, 12% improved with a mean (sd) change of 27 (14)°, and 21% worsened with a mean (sd) change of 22 (11)°.

On multivariate analysis, predictors of stabilisation included: time to presentation of >6 months (odds ratio [OR] 2.4, P < 0.01), per decade increase in age (OR 1.5, P < 0.05), and age (r = 0.32, P < 0.05).

Predictors of improvement included: time to presentation of ≤6 months (OR 4.1, P < 0.001), and per decade decrease in age (OR 2.1, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

In men with uniplanar curvature, PD stabilisation and improvement rates change with time‐to‐presentation and patient age.

These data may aid in counselling patients with PD.
Bladder function in a cannabinoid receptor type 1 knockout mouse
Authors: Füllhase Claudius , Campeau Lysanne , Sibaev Andrei , Storr Martin , Hennenberg Martin , Gratzke Christian , Stief Christian , Hedlund Petter , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: July 2013

Objective

To evaluate bladder function in an established cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptor knockout (KO) mouse model via organ‐bath (in vitro) and urodynamic (cystometric; in vivo) experiments.

Materials and Methods

In all, 20 8‐week‐old female wildtype (WT) mice (C57BL/6) and 20 age‐matched CB1 KO mice were used.

Six mice from each group were used for the organ‐bath experiments, where the contractile responses of bladder tissue strips after carbachol exposure (carbachol concentration response curve [CCRC]; myogenic contraction) and during electrical field stimulation (EFS; neurogenic contraction) were assessed.

In all, 14 mice per group were used for cystometric experiments without any anaesthesia, in which standard urodynamic variables were assessed 3 days after bladder catheterisation.

Results

The CCRCs of bladder strips from CB1 KO mice were similar to those of WT mice. However, during EFS the bladder strips from the CB1 KO mice had significantly lower contractile responses than WT preparations, indicating that in CB1 KO mice the neuronal component of bladder contraction was different.

In cystometric experiments the CB1 KO mice had a higher micturition frequency (shorter mean [sem] inter‐micturition interval of 3.24 [0.29] vs 7.32 [0.5] min), a lower bladder capacity (0.09 [0.01] vs 0.18 [0.01] mL) and micturition volume (0.07 [0.01] vs 0.14 [0.01] mL), a lower bladder compliance (0.007 [0.001] vs 0.02 [0.002] mL/cmH2O), and higher spontaneous bladder activity (5.1 [0.5] vs 2.6 [0.6] cmH2O) than WT mice (all P < 0.05, Student's t‐test).

In WT mice, systemic administration of rimonabant (SR141716), a CB1 receptor antagonist, resulted in urodynamic changes similar to those seen in the CB1 KO mice.

Conclusions

In vitro, bladder strips from CB1 KO mice responded to muscarinic receptor stimulation similarly as the WT controls, but were less responsive to electrical stimulation of nerves. In vivo, CB1 KO mice had a higher micturition frequency and more spontaneous activity than WT mice.

The present findings suggest that CB1 receptors are involved in peripheral and central nervous control of micturition.
Systematic Study of Non‐Natural Short Cationic Lipopeptides as Novel Broad‐Spectrum Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Lohan Sandeep , Cameotra Swaranjit S. , Bisht Gopal S.
Published: July 2013

We describe the design and synthesis of a new series of non‐natural short cationic lipopeptides (MW = 700) as antimicrobial agents. All of the synthesized lipopeptides were tested against a range of microbes such as Gram‐positive, Gram‐negative bacteria, fungi including methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE). By systematic study of design template, we found that three ornithine residues conjugated with myristic acid are minimum requirement for a compound to be an antimicrobial agent. The most potent lipopeptide LP16 possesses broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity and has MICs in the range of 1.5–6.25 μg/mL against Escherichia coli, S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and MRSE. All lipopeptides showed high selectivity toward microbial strains as compared to human red blood cells (HC50 > 250 μg/mL). Moreover, most potent lipopeptides (LP16 and LP23) did not induce drug resistance in S. aureus even after 15 rounds of passaging. In addition, a representative lipopeptide (LP16) showed tryptic stability for 24 h. These results suggest the potential of short cationic lipopeptides to boost the discovery of future antimicrobial therapeutics.
The Role of Planning Skills in the Income–Achievement Gap
Authors: Crook Stephen R. , Evans Gary W.
Published: July 2013

The pervasive income–achievement gap has been attributed in part to deficiencies in executive functioning (EF). The development of EF is related to children's planning ability, an aspect of development that has received little attention. Longitudinal data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development study of early child care show that early childhood poverty (1 and 24 months) is significantly related to fifth grade, math, and reading achievement (n = 1,009). The ability to plan in Grade 3, indexed by the Tower of Hanoi task, mediates the income–achievement gap in math and to a lesser extent in reading. IQ was incorporated as a statistical control throughout.
Treatment of vitiligo with a chimeric monoclonal antibody to CD20: a pilot study
Authors: Ruiz-Argüelles A , García-Carrasco M , Jimenez-Brito G , Sánchez-Sosa S , Pérez-Romano B , Garcés-Eisele J , Camacho-Alarcón C , Reyes-Núñez V , Sandoval-Cruz M , Mendoza-Pinto C , López-Colombo A
Published: July 2013

Five patients with active disseminated vitiligo were given 1 g of a chimeric (murine/human) monoclonal antibody to CD20 in a single intravenous infusion and followed-up for 6 months. Three of the patients showed an overt clinical and histological improvement of the disease, one presented slight improvement and the remaining patient showed no changes. Improvement was neither associated with changes in laboratory parameters nor to a specific human leucocyte antigen D-related (HLA-DR) phenotype. We believe that these preliminary results are encouraging, and further clinical trials should be undertaken. An important aim should be the finding of a marker with a good response to this therapeutic approach.
Immediate Placement of Implants into Infected Sites: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chrcanovic Bruno Ramos , Martins Maximiliano Delany , Wennerberg Ann
Published: July 2013

Background

Traditionally, before placing dental implants, the compromised teeth are removed and the extraction sockets are left to heal for several months. To preserve the alveolar bone level from the collapse caused by healing and to reduce treatment time in situations in which tooth extraction precedes implant placement, some clinicians began to install the implant immediately into the postextraction socket without waiting for the site to heal.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to review the literature regarding treatment outcomes of immediate implant placement into sites exhibiting pathology after clinical procedures to perform the decontamination of the implant's site. The following questions were raised: Does the presence of periodontal or endodontic infection affect immediate implant placement success? What is suggested to address the infection in the socket prior to immediate placement?

Materials and Methods

An electronic search in PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA) was undertaken in March 2013. The titles and abstracts from these results were read to identify studies within the selection criteria. Eligibility criteria included both animal and human studies, and excluded any review and case reports articles. The publication's intervention had to have been implant placement into a site classified as having an infection (periapical, endodontic, perioendodontic, and periodontal).

Results

The search strategy initially yielded 706 references. Thirty‐two studies were identified within the selection criteria, from which nine were case reports and review articles and were excluded. Additional hand‐searching of the reference lists of selected studies yielded five additional papers.

Conclusions

The high survival rate obtained in several studies supports the hypothesis that implants may be successfully osseointegrated when placed immediately after extraction of teeth presenting endodontic and periodontal lesions, provided that appropriate clinical procedures are performed before the implant surgical procedure such as meticulous cleaning, socket curettage/debridement, and chlorhexidine 0.12% rinse. However, more randomized controlled clinical trials with a longer follow‐up are required to confirm this procedure as a safe treatment. Moreover, the outcome measures were not related to the type of infection; the classification of infection was often vague and varied among the studies. The benefits of antibiotic solution irrigation and systemic antibiotic administration in such conditions are not yet proved and remain unclear.
Clinical Applications of Cell‐Based Approaches in Alveolar Bone Augmentation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shanbhag Siddharth , Shanbhag Vivek
Published: July 2013

Background

Cell‐based approaches, utilizing adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), are reported to overcome the limitations of conventional bone augmentation procedures.

Purpose

The study aims to systematically review the available evidence on the characteristics and clinical effectiveness of cell‐based ridge augmentation, socket preservation, and sinus‐floor augmentation, compared to current evidence‐based methods in human adult patients.

Materials and Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched for related literature. Both observational and experimental studies reporting outcomes of “tissue engineered” or “cell‐based” augmentation in ≥5 adult patients alone, or in comparison with noncell‐based (conventional) augmentation methods, were eligible for inclusion. Primary outcome was histomorphometric analysis of new bone formation. Effectiveness of cell‐based augmentation was evaluated based on outcomes of controlled studies.

Results

Twenty‐seven eligible studies were identified. Of these, 15 included a control group (8 randomized controlled trials [RCTs]), and were judged to be at a moderate‐to‐high risk of bias. Most studies reported the combined use of cultured autologous MSCs with an osteoconductive bone substitute (BS) scaffold. Iliac bone marrow and mandibular periosteum were frequently reported sources of MSCs. In vitro culture of MSCs took between 12 days and 1.5 months. A range of autogenous, allogeneic, xenogeneic, and alloplastic scaffolds was identified. Bovine bone mineral scaffold was frequently reported with favorable outcomes, while polylactic–polyglycolic acid copolymer (PLGA) scaffold resulted in graft failure in three studies. The combination of MSCs and BS resulted in outcomes similar to autogenous bone (AB) and BS. Three RCTs and one controlled trial reported significantly greater bone formation in cell‐based than conventionally grafted sites after 3 to 8 months.

Conclusions

Based on limited controlled evidence at a moderate‐to‐high risk of bias, cell‐based approaches are comparable, if not superior, to current evidence‐based bone grafting methods, with a significant advantage of avoiding AB harvesting. Future clinical trials should additionally evaluate patient‐based outcomes and the time‐/cost‐effectiveness of these approaches.
Plasma rich in growth factors had limited effect on early bone formation in extraction sockets
Authors: Farina Roberto , Bressan Eriberto , Taut Andrei , Cucchi Alessandro , Trombelli Leonardo
Published: July 2013

Aim

To address the criticisms raised by Anitua et al. (European Journal of Oral Implantology, 6, 2013, 9–11) to the article “Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) in Human Post‐Extraction Sockets: an Histological and Histomorphometric Study.”, recently published by Farina and colleagues (Clinical Oral Implants Research2012; doi:10.1111/clr.12033).

Methods

All the methodological aspects criticized in the letter by Anitua et al. were thoroughly reconsidered and discussed in a structured short communication. When indicated, pertinent, additional material was included to reinforce our considerations.

Results

As most clinical studies in implant dentistry, including previous studies evaluating the efficacy/effectiveness ofPRGF, the study by Farina et al. has some limitations. However, it is currently the only published controlled trial using quantitative parameters related toPRGF‐induced early bone formation.

Conclusions

Despite all limitations, the results of the study by Farina et al., which were based on different quantitative parameters (micro‐CTscan, immunohistochemical markers of wound healing and bone deposition), indicated a limited effect ofPRGFon early bone formation in extraction sockets.
Management of malignant left colonic obstruction: is an initial temporary colostomy followed by surgical resection a better option?
Authors: Chéreau N. , Lefevre J. H. , Lefrancois M. , Chafai N. , Parc Y. , Tiret E.
Published: July 2013

Aim

The surgical management of obstructed left colorectal cancer (OLCC) is still a matter of debate, and current guidelines recommend Hartmann's procedure (HP). The study evaluated the results of the surgical management with a focus on a strategy of initial colostomy (IC) followed by elective resection.

Method

All patients operated on for OLCC were reviewed. Clinical, surgical, histological, morbidity and long‐term results were noted.

Results

From 2000–11, 83 patients (48 men) with a mean age of 70.3 ± 15.1 years underwent surgery for OLCC. Eleven (13.3%) had a subtotal colectomy owing to a laceration of the caecal wall. Eleven had a HP for tumour perforation (n = 6) or as palliation in a severely ill patient (n = 5). The remaining 61 (73.5%) patients had an IC, with the intention of performing an elective resection shortly after recovery. Postoperative complications occurred in six (9.8%) and there were two (3.3%) deaths. Fifty‐nine operation survivors had a colonoscopy shortly afterwards which showed a synchronous cancer in two (3.4%). Twelve of the 59 patients had synchronous metastases. The subsequent elective resection including the colostomy site could be performed in 45 (74%) patients during the same admission at a median interval of 11 (7–17) days. The overall median length of hospital stay was 20 days and the 30‐day mortality was 3/61 (5%).

Conclusion

IC followed by surgical resection is a technically simple strategy, allowing initial abdominal exploration with a short period of having a colostomy, and permitting elective surgery with a low morbidity and full oncological lymphadenectomy.
Methods and impact of reducing salt in dyeing cellulose: a case study with CI Direct Blue 90
Authors: Jasper Samuel M , Jasper Warren J
Published: July 2013

The addition of large amounts of salt is one of the most important environmental problems in the dyeing of cellulosic fibres with direct or reactive dyes. This study was undertaken to determine an accurate and effective method for measuring the impact of salt on the dyeing process. This method has been applied to the case of CI Direct Blue 90 by utilising real‐time measurements of dye exhaustion for different salt and dye concentrations. Reductions in salt by a factor of 4 were achieved with no effect on the final shade. It is proposed that this method could be used to reduce the amount of salt for many other direct dyes, or to enable the dyer to quantify the trade‐off between time to final exhaustion and salt addition.
Physical strain during activities of daily living of patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Nieuwenburg‐van Tilborg E. M. , Horstman A. M. , Zwarts B. , de Groot S.
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to determine the physical strain of activities of daily living (ADL) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) compared with healthy controls. Seventeen patients with CAD and 15 controls performed a graded exercise bicycle test and 5 ADL tasks: walking with/without load, vacuum cleaning, undressing, and walking stairs. Peak heart rate (HRpeak) and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) were determined during the bicycle test. Heart rate (HR) and oxygen uptake (VO2) were continuously measured during all ADL tasks. Physical strain during ADL tasks was calculated using HR and VO2 response, expressed relative to individual HR and VO2 reserves (%HRR, %VO2R, respectively). Perceived strain was measured using the Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. HRpeak and VO2peak were lower (P<0·001) in patients. Patients performed the ADL tasks slower and with lower absolute VO2, except for undressing. HR was only higher in patients during stair climbing. No differences in RPE scores were found between both groups, except for undressing. However, physical strain was significantly higher in patients (mean %VO2R ranged from 43% to 51%; mean %HRR ranged from 38% to 47%) compared with controls (mean %VO2R: 14% to 30%; mean %HRR: 14% to 29%) for all ADL tasks. In general, ADL tasks were performed slower and with higher physical strain in patients with CAD compared with controls.
Impact of continuous glucose monitoring on diabetes management and marital relationships of adults with Type 1 diabetes and their spouses: a qualitative study
Authors: Ritholz M. D. , Beste M. , Edwards S. S. , Beverly E. A. , Atakov‐Castillo A. , Wolpert H. A.
Published: July 2013

Aims

To examine the impact of continuous glucose monitoring on diabetes management and marital relationships of adults with Type 1 diabetes and their spouses.

Methods

Nine younger (30–49 years) and 11 older (50–70 years) patients with Type 1 diabetes and 14 spouses participated in eight focus groups specific to age and role (patient or spouse). Audio‐recorded data were transcribed, coded and analysed using thematic analysis and aided by NVivo software.

Results

Qualitative analysis revealed participants perceived continuous glucose monitoring as positively influencing hypoglycaemia management by decreasing spouses' anxiety, vigilance and negative experiences. Participants also described continuous glucose monitoring as promoting collaborative diabetes management and increasing spousal understanding of diabetes, especially when planning and managing pregnancy. Couples' conflicts occurred when (1) patients assumed sole responsibility for continuous glucose monitoring and/or did not respond to night‐time glucose alarms and (2) spouses did not understand alarms and felt frustrated and helpless to assist patients.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that continuous glucose monitoring may positively impact collaborative diabetes management and marital relationships of patients with Type 1 diabetes and their spouses. However, reluctance to collaborate and lack of understanding may contribute to couples' conflicts around continuous glucose monitoring. Our findings have important implications for clinical care and point to the need for interventions that include spouses in continuous glucose monitoring training to increase their understanding of continuous glucose monitoring, minimize risk for spousal conflict and enhance collaborative diabetes management. Further studies are needed to explore these issues in more detail and depth with larger and more diverse populations.
Atherogenic dyslipidaemic profiles associated with the development of Type 2 diabetes: a 3.1‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Hwang Y.‐C. , Ahn H.‐Y. , Yu S.‐H. , Park S.‐W. , Park C.‐Y.
Published: July 2013

Aims

While there is thought to be an association between glucose and lipid metabolism, it is largely unknown whether apolipoprotein B and non‐high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are associated with the development of Type 2 diabetes. It is also unknown whether these atherogenic dyslipidaemic profiles have a stronger association with diabetes risk compared with conventional lipid measurements.

Methods

A total of 118 429 subjects without diabetes (70 980 men and 47 449 women), aged 17–90 years (mean age 39.6 years), were enrolled in this study and followed for a mean duration of 3.1 years.

Results

Apolipoprotein B and non‐HDL cholesterol levels showed a strong association with the development of Type 2 diabetes compared with conventional lipid measurements and their ratios [hazard ratio per 1 sd; 1.39 (95% CI 1.37–1.42) and 1.38 (95% CI 1.35–1.40), respectively; both P < 0.001]. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve demonstrated that Type 2 diabetes developed more frequently as apolipoprotein B or non‐HDL cholesterol levels increased across quartiles (both P < 0.001). In multivariate Cox regression analyses, both apolipoprotein B and non‐HDL cholesterol were associated with the development of Type 2 diabetes, independent of other risk factor including age, sex, waist circumference, family history of diabetes, fasting serum glucose and insulin levels, HbA1c, systolic blood pressure and other conventional lipid measurements [hazard ratio per 1 sd; 1.14 (95% CI 1.11–1.18) and 1.13 (95% CI 1.10–1.16), respectively; both P < 0.001].

Conclusions

Atherogenic dyslipidaemia was more strongly associated with the development of Type 2 diabetes than conventional lipid measurements, and this effect was independent of other well‐established risk factor for diabetes.
Farm‐scale dispersal of Bactericera cockerelli in potato crops measured using Bt mark‐capture techniques
Authors: Cameron P.J. , Wigley P.J. , Charuchinda B. , Walker G.P. , Wallace A.R.
Published: July 2013

Natural populations of Bactericera cockerelli (Sulc) (Hemiptera: Triozidae), also known as tomato/potato psyllid, were marked in potato [Solanum tuberosum L. (Solanaceae)] crops using Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) to investigate the impact of dispersal on crop infestation and management of potential insecticide resistance in New Zealand. The technique was adapted from previous studies that used conventional spray applications of Bt to mark Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), and identified marked individuals with selective microbiological assays and identification of characteristic crystal inclusions. Initially, marking rates of B. cockerelli were improved by using ultra‐low volume applications of undiluted Bt, but this result was not consistent. Several other pests and natural enemies were also marked. In mark‐capture studies, marked B. cockerelli were captured over 3 days on yellow sticky traps in small trap plots of potatoes at 60, 120, 180, 250, and 350 m from the sprayed crop. Bactericera cockerelli flight activity occurred throughout daylight hours with evidence of bimodal diurnal peaks. Significantly greater numbers of B. cockerelli were captured in downwind traps. The combined dispersal curve derived from two mark‐capture experiments estimated a mean dispersal distance for B. cockerelli of 100 m in 3 days and indicated that 10% of the population dispersed further than ca. 250 m. Over the period of a growing season, this level of dispersal suggests that B. cockerelli can disperse throughout a vegetable‐growing region, with implications for crop infestation and management of potential insecticide resistance.