bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis as a Risk Factor for Dental Implant Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Monje Alberto , Alcoforado Gil , Padial‐Molina Miguel , Suarez Fernando , Lin Guo‐Hao , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: May 2014

Background: Dental implant placement is a widely used treatment that provides functional and esthetic resolution for patients suffering from tooth loss. However, the incidence of peri‐implant diseases has been rising recently. Periodontal diseases and peri‐implant diseases share many similarities. Hence, it is important to find out whether patients with aggressive periodontal disease possess a higher risk of developing peri‐implant diseases. The aim of this study is to study whether generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP) has similar survival rates (SRs) and marginal bone loss (MBL) when compared with patients with chronic periodontitis (CP) and/or healthy patients (HPs).

Methods: An electronic literature search was conducted by one reviewer (AM) in several databases from 2000 to 2013, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register databases, for articles written in English up to November 2013. Human clinical trials, either prospective or retrospective, that compared implant SR and MBL in patients with a history of GAgP versus those with CP or HPs were included.

Results: A total of six non‐randomized prospective clinical trials met the inclusion criteria. The results showed SRs of 83.3% to 100% (GAgP), 96.4% to 100% (CP), and 96.9% to 100% (HP) over a mean period of 48.01 ± 71.99 months, with an overall risk ratio of 0.96 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.91 to 1.01, P = 0.14, GAgP versus HP) and 0.94 (95% CI = 0.87 to 1.01, P = 0.09, GAgP versus CP). However, when the “failure rate” as studied outcome was examined, meta‐analysis presented an overall risk ratio of 4.00 for the comparison between patients with AgP and HPs and an overall risk ratio of 3.97 when compared with patients with CP. The MBL weighted mean difference for each subgroup was 0.15 mm (95% CI = 0.04 to 0.26, HP versus CP), −0.28 mm (95% CI = −0.36 to −0.19, HP versus GAgP), and −0.43 mm (95% CI = −0.53 to −0.33, CP versus GAgP) over a mean period of 30 ± 18 months.

Conclusions: Implant placement in patients with a history of GAgP might be considered a viable option to restore oral function with survival outcomes similar to those found in both patients with CP and HPs. However, the risk ratio for failure in patients with AgP is significantly higher when compared with HPs (4.0) and those with CP (3.97).
The Open University System of Brazil: A Study of Learner Support Facilities in the Northern, North-Eastern and Southern Regions
Authors: Da Cruz Duran Maria Renata , Da Costa Celso José , Amiel Tel
Published: May 2014

Since June 2011, research on the Open University System of Brazil's (UAB's) official evaluation processes relating to learner support facilities has been carried out by the Teachers' Training, New Information, Communication and Technologies research group, which is linked to the Laboratory of New Technologies for Teaching at Fluminense Federal University, Brazil. This study has followed 70 learner support facility coordinators in the northern, north-eastern and southern regions of Brazil, who were struggling to define their professional profile, analyse the official evaluation systems and suggest optimisation procedures for them. The data was obtained, organised and consolidated, firstly, by means of interviews in which the professional trajectory of the learner support facilities and management profile were highlighted; secondly, through ‘crossed visits’, in which elective regional pairs were established and a simulation of mutual evaluation was performed; and, finally, with the participation of two representatives from each region. The entire process was monitored via Moodle and what is presented here is a summary of these collaborative efforts whose goals were to (1) materialise information about the UAB's learner support facilities and (2) promote a wider debate on the official assessments between the facility coordinators and the participants of the UAB system as a whole.
The Neo-Liberalisation Policy Agenda and its Consequences for Education in England: A Focus on Resistance Now and Possibilities for the Future
Authors: Maisuria Alpesh
Published: May 2014

In this article, the author explores the way that neo-liberalism is becoming more entrenched in the fabric of the education system in England. The article begins by setting out a very brief historical trajectory of neo-liberalism to provide a working definition of a complex and disarticulated socio-political and economic system. In part two, this context then allows for a focused analysis of the way that neo-liberalism is becoming part of the higher education system in England, and the way that it is reconfiguring the purpose of universities and practices of academics and students. In part three, a similar analytical treatment is applied to schooling, drawing particularly on the example of the Academies Programme, which represents a move away from state-provided education but fails to deliver on promises of improvement in achievement. The final part of this article discusses resistance, highlighting a grass-roots campaign against the Academies Programme and an example of an alternative model of higher education emerging. In this final section, the author also explores some of the limitations to such initiatives and concludes by suggesting that, whilst these initiatives may be limited, it is vital to have optimism and rally against the pessimism engendered by fatalism.
Depression and Risk Perceptions in Older African Americans With Diabetes
Authors: Rovner Barry W. , Haller Julia A. , Casten Robin J. , Murchison Ann P. , Hark Lisa A.
Published: May 2014

Objective. The purpose of this study is to describe the impact of depression on perceptions of risks to health, diabetes self-management practices, and glycemic control in older African Americans with type 2 diabetes.

Methods. The authors analyzed data on depression, risk perceptions, diabetes self-management, and A1C in African Americans with type 2 diabetes. T-tests, χ2, and multivariate regression were used to analyze the data.

Results. The sample included 177 African Americans (68% women) whose average age was 72.8 years. Thirty-four participants (19.2%) met criteria for depression. Compared to nondepressed participants, depressed participants scored significantly higher on Personal Disease Risk (the perception of being at increased risk for various medical problems), Environmental Risk (i.e., increased risk for environmental hazards), and Composite Risk Perception (i.e., overall perceptions of increased risk); adhered less to diabetes self-management practices; and had marginally worse glycemic control. Depression and fewer years of education were independent predictors of overall perception of increased health risks.

Conclusion. Almost 20% of older African Americans with type 2 diabetes in this study were depressed. Compared to nondepressed participants, they tended to have fewer years of education, perceived themselves to be at higher risk for multiple health problems, and adhered less to diabetes self-management practices. It is important for diabetes educators to recognize the impact of low education and the fatalistic perceptions that depression engenders in this population.
Sport Science: Ontological and Methodological Considerations
Authors: Pisk Jernej
Published: May 2014

Sport is the research object of variety of sciences. But, what is sport and how to think it? The aim of this article is to give some basic thoughts about the nature of sport and to present, confront and evaluate different concepts of science with their different rival approaches and understanding of sport. In general three major groups of sciences can be differentiated: natural sciences and social sciences which share common quantitative (empirical and mathematical based) methodology of research, and human sciences or humanities with their method of reflection (the analysis of concepts and rational argumentation) which go beyond empirically measurable things. Because of different scientific approaches, different understanding and concepts of sport arise which try to prevail over in society. Our comprehension of sport is therefore greatly influenced by pre-accepted methodological position. If sport is equated with physical human body movement, then natural science with its empirical methodology seems to be adequate way for cognition of sport. For social scientists sport has important role in society, therefore it cannot be reduced to mere “body movement”. But humanists would say that sport is more than “body in movement” with influence in society: sport is a powerful idea or concept which needs a special unempirical method of research. Therefore human sciences with their rational reflection of human (personal) experiences can reveal us additional, but yet familiar dimensions of sport. Although their method is not empirically objective, they can deal with important life matters, moreover, their “a priori” qualitative approach to sport can give meaning and make sense out of sport, reflect about the aim and purpose of sport as well as make some ethical considerations about sport. In the article some examples are given and some problems regarding reduction of sport science to just one scientific approach are considered.
License to Kill: Assassination and the Politics of Murder in Elizabethan and Early Stuart England
Authors: Kesselring K.J.
Published: May 2014

If we understand “assassinations” to be the targeted killing of public figures by people who believe themselves to be acting in the public interest, then the history of modern assassination begins in late sixteenth-century Europe. Prompted by the observation that the word itself was new to late sixteenth-century English, this article examines the altered scope and significance of political killings in post-Reformation England. Individuals from a broad range of backgrounds came to think themselves authorized to shape their polity by killing their leaders. Their efforts, along with authorities’ responses to such plots, speak to an increasingly participatory political culture. Murder had long been a political tool; but as politics changed, this article argues, so too did the nature and meanings of political killings.
Intraspinal hemangioblastomas: analysis of 92 cases in a single institution
Authors: Deng Xiaofeng , Wang Kai , Wu Liang , Yang Chenlong , Yang Tao , Zhao Lei , Yang Jun , Wang Guihuai , Fang Jingyi , Xu Yulun
Published: May 2014

Object

Intraspinal hemangioblastomas are relatively uncommon benign tumors. The surgical strategies remain controversial, and the risk factors with regard to clinical outcome are unclear. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics, imaging findings, surgical strategies, and functional outcomes associated with intraspinal hemangioblastomas.

Methods

A series of 92 patients who underwent 102 operations for resection of 116 intraspinal hemangioblastomas at a single institution during 2007–2011 were consecutively enrolled in this study. Of these, 60 patients (65.2%) had sporadic hemangioblastomas and 32 (34.8%) had von Hippel-Lindau disease. Preoperatively, 13 patients underwent digital subtraction angiography (DSA), 15 patients underwent 3D CT angiography (3D CTA), and none underwent preoperative embolization. Clinical characteristics, imaging findings, and operative records were analyzed. The advantages and disadvantages of DSA and 3D CTA were compared. For identification of risk factors that affect prognosis, logistic analysis was performed.

Results

The male/female patient ratio was 1.8:1.0 (59 male and 33 female patients). Of the tumors, 41% were intramedullary, 37% were intramedullary-extramedullary, and 22% were primarily extramedullary. Three-dimensional CTA and DSA did not differ significantly in the ability to identify the feeding arteries (p = 1.000) and image qualities (p = 0.367). However, compared with 3D CTA, the effective x-ray dose of spinal DSA was 2.73 times higher and the mean amount of contrast media injected was 1.88 times higher. Spinal DSA was more time consuming (mean 120 minutes) than 3D CTA (scanning time < 1 minute). No complications were observed after 3D CTA; acute paraparesis developed in 1 patient after DSA.

Gross-total resection was achieved for 109 tumors (94.0%), and resection was subtotal for 7 tumors. Mean duration of follow-up was 50 months (range 24–78 months). At the most recent follow-up visit, the functional outcome was improved for 38 patients (41.3%), remained stable for 40 (43.5%), and deteriorated for 14 (15.2%). Logistic analysis showed that subtotal resection was a risk factor affecting prognosis (p = 0.003, OR 12.833, 95% CI 2.429–67.806).

Conclusions

The authors' study suggests that safe and effective treatment of intraspinal hemangioblastomas can be achieved for most patients, even without preoperative embolization. Gross-total resection, when safe to perform, leads to better outcomes. Compared with spinal DSA, 3D CTA is a promising technique because it is noninvasive, takes less time to perform, requires lower x-ray doses and less contrast media, results in fewer complications, and offers high accuracy for delineating the feeding arteries.
Systemic inflammatory response syndrome in patients with spinal cord injury: does its presence at admission affect patient outcomes?
Authors: Kesani Anil K. , Urquhart Jennifer C. , Bedard Nathan , Leelapattana Pittavat , Siddiqi Fawaz , Gurr Kevin R. , Bailey Christopher S.
Published: May 2014

Object

The object in this study was to determine whether the presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) in patients with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) on admission is related to subsequent clinical outcome in terms of length of stay (LOS), complications, and mortality.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 193 patients with acute traumatic SCI who had been hospitalized at their institution between 2006 and 2012. Patients were excluded from analysis if they had insufficient SIRS data, a cauda equina injury, a previous SCI, a preexisting neurological condition, or a condition on admission that prevented appropriate neurological assessment. Complications were counted only once per patient and were considered minor if they were severe enough to warrant treatment and major if they were life threatening. Demographics, injury characteristics, and outcomes were compared between individuals who had 2 or more SIRS criteria (SIRS+) and those who had 0 or 1 SIRS criterion (SIRS−) at admission. Multivariate logistic regression (enter method) was used to determine the relative contribution of SIRS+ at admission in predicting the outcomes of mortality, LOS in the intensive care unit (ICU), hospital LOS, and at least one major complication during the acute hospitalization. The American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade and patient age were included as covariates.

Results

Ninety-three patients were eligible for analysis. At admission 47.3% of patients had 2 or more SIRS criteria. The SIRS+ patients had higher Injury Severity Scores (24.3 ±10.6 vs 30.2 ±11.3) and a higher frequency of both at least one major complication during acute hospitalization (26.5% vs 50.0%) and a fracture-dislocation pattern of injury (26.5% vs 59.1%) than the SIRS− patients (p < 0.05 for each comparison). The SIRS+ patients had a longer median hospital stay (14 vs 18 days) and longer median ICU stay (0 vs 5 days). However, mortality was not different between the groups. Having SIRS on admission predicted an ICU LOS > 10 days, hospital LOS > 25 days, and at least one complication during the acute hospitalization.

Conclusions

A protocol to identify SCI patients with SIRS at admission may be beneficial with respect to preventing adverse outcomes and decreasing hospital costs.
Analysis of 30-day readmissions among neurosurgical patients: surgical complication avoidance as key to quality improvement
Authors: Buchanan Colin C. , Hernandez Estebes A. , Anderson Jody M. , Dye Justin A. , Leung Michelle , Buxey Farzad , Bergsneider Marvin , Afsar-Manesh Nasim , Pouratian Nader , Martin Neil A.
Published: May 2014

Object

In terms of measuring quality of care and hospital performance, an outcome of increasing interest is the 30-day readmission rate. Recent health care policy making has highlighted the necessity of understanding the factors that influence readmission. To elucidate the rate, reason, and predictors of readmissions at a tertiary/quaternary neurosurgical service, the authors studied 30-day readmissions for the Department of Neurosurgery at two University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), hospitals.

Methods

Over a 3-year period, the authors retrospectively identified adult and pediatric patients who had been discharged from the UCLA Medical Center after having undergone a major neurosurgical procedure and being readmitted within 30 days. Data were obtained on demographics, follow-up findings, diagnosis and reason for readmission, major operations performed, and length of stay during index admission and readmission. Reasons for readmission were broadly categorized into surgical, medical diagnosis/complication, problem associated with the original diagnosis, neurological decompensation, pain management, and miscellaneous. For further characterization, subgroup analysis and in-depth chart review were performed.

Results

Over the study period, 365 (6.9%) of 5569 patients were readmitted within 30 days. The most common diagnosis at index admission was brain tumor (102 patients), followed by CSF shunt malfunction (63 patients). The most common reason for readmission was surgical complication (50.1%). Among those with surgical complications, the largest subgroup consisted of patients with CSF shunt–related problems (77 patients). The second and third largest subgroups were surgical site infection and CSF leakage (41 and 31 patients, respectively). Medical diagnosis/complication was the second most frequent (27.9%) reason for readmission.

Conclusions

Surgical complications seem to be a major reason for readmission at the neurosurgical practice studied. Results indicate that the outcomes that are amenable to and would have the greatest effect on quality improvement are CSF shunt–related complications, surgical site infections, and CSF leaks.
Hypothalamic hamartoma simulating a suprasellar arachnoid cyst: resolution of precocious puberty following microsurgical lesion resection
Authors: Manjila Sunil , Vogel Timothy W. , Chen Yunwei , Rodgers Mark S. , Cohen Alan R.
Published: May 2014

Hypothalamic hamartomas (HHs) are rare developmental lesions arising from the inferior hypothalamus that may cause gelastic seizures and central precocious puberty. Cystic changes in HHs are rare, usually occurring in giant lesions. The authors describe an unusual case of cystic HH masquerading as a suprasellar arachnoid cyst in an 18-month-old girl presenting with precocious puberty. Microsurgical removal of the lesion led to complete resolution of the precocious puberty on long-term follow-up. This case is the first reported HH with pathological demonstration of corticotropin-releasing hormone immunostaining in the solid tumor and glial cells in the cyst wall of the lesion. The clinical and radiological characteristics of HHs are reviewed, along with the unique surgical strategies used to manage cystic lesions in the suprasellar region.
Spinal deformity caused by hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome
Authors: Araya Naoko , Inose Hiroyuki , Kato Tsuyoshi , Saito Masanori , Sumiya Satoshi , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Yoshii Toshitaka , Kawabata Shigenori , Okawa Atsushi
Published: May 2014

Hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES) is a rare primary immunodeficiency syndrome characterized by recurrent staphylococcal infections in the skin and lungs, with an incidence of less than one case per million persons. Skeletal and connective tissue abnormalities, such as scoliosis, osteoporosis, pathological fractures, and hyperextensive joints, are other manifestations of HIES. However, only one report documents the use of implants to treat spinal deformity caused by HIES, which was discovered following corrective surgery resulting in postoperative infection. In this case report, the authors describe a 16-year-old male with low-back pain and infections of the soft tissue. Radiological findings showed deteriorated kyphotic deformity due to the pathological compression fracture of T-11 with intensive conservative treatment. Anterior and posterior fixation surgery was performed. Thereafter, the patient showed no signs of infection. An investigation was conducted to avoid any postoperative infection.
CERN-MEDICIS (Medical Isotopes Collected from ISOLDE): A New Facility
Authors: Dos Santos Augusto Ricardo , Buehler Leo , Lawson Zoe , Marzari Stefano , Stachura Monika , Stora Thierry , CERN-MEDICIS collaboration
Published: May 2014

About 50% of the 1.4 GeV CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research, www.cern.ch) protons are sent onto targets to produce radioactive beams by online mass separation at the Isotope Separator Online Device (ISOLDE) facility, for a wide range of studies in fundamental and applied physics. CERN-MEDICIS is a spin-off dedicated to R&D in life sciences and medical applications. It is located in an extension of the Class A building presently under construction. It will comprise laboratories to receive the irradiated targets from a new station located at the dump position behind the ISOLDE production targets. An increasing range of innovative isotopes will thus progressively become accessible from the start-up of the facility in 2015 onward; for fundamental studies in cancer research, for new imaging and therapy protocols in cell and animal models and for pre-clinical trials, possibly extended to specific early phase clinical studies up to Phase I trials. Five hundred megabecquerel isotope batches purified by electromagnetic mass separation combined with chemical methods will be collected on a weekly basis. A possible future upgrade with gigabecquerel pharmaceutical-grade i.e., current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) batch production capabilities is finally presented.
Systemic Therapy for Merkel Cell Carcinoma: What’s on the Horizon?
Authors: Rabinowits Guilherme
Published: May 2014

Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer that usually affects elderly patients. Despite being uncommon, incidence has been steadily increasing over the last two decades, likely due to increased awareness, better diagnostic methods and aging of the population. It is currently one of the most lethal cutaneous malignancies, with a five-year overall survival of approximately 50%. With the better understanding of the molecular pathways that lead to the development of Merkel cell carcinoma, there has been an increasing excitement and optimism surrounding novel targeted therapies, in particular to immunotherapy. Some of the concepts surrounding the novel targeted therapies and currently ongoing clinical trials are reviewed here.
Influence of the Azulene Ring on the Enantioseparation of 1,5-Diols
Authors: Horgen Dana , Garner Charles
Published: May 2014

The enantioseparation of a series of six azulene-centered 1,5-diol enantiomers was studied employing two cellulose-based chiral stationary phases under normal phase conditions (isopropanol/hexanes). The separations were generally quite good on Chiralcel-OD-H, with α values ranging from 1.2 to 8.4 (average 4.0) and resolution values of 0.4–8.3 (average 4.7). Only one of the six enantiomer pairs was not well resolved, but was well separated on Lux cellulose 2 (α 1.4, Rs 8.7). It was observed that the enantioseparations of the RS/SR diastereomers (ave α = 7.8, Rs = 8.2) were dramatically better than that of the corresponding RR/SS diastereomers (ave α = 2.1, Rs = 3.0) on Chiralcel-OD-H. The better-resolved diastereomer pairs correspond to the more strongly retained diastereomers on silica gel. The enantiomers of two benzene 1,5-diols were much more poorly separated on both stationary phases, suggesting that the unusual polarity of the azulene ring enhances critical interactions with these phases.
Contribution of Small-Scale Gum and Resin Commercialization to Local Livelihood and Rural Economic Development in the Drylands of Eastern Africa
Authors: Abtew Asmamaw , Pretzsch Jürgen , Secco Laura , Mohamod Tarig
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the extent to which the economic gains derived from gum and resin commercialization impact rural livelihood improvement under different resource management regimes in the drylands of Ethiopia and Sudan. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 240 randomly selected small-scale producers in four regions with gradients of resource management regimes. The survey was supplemented by secondary data, group discussions and key informant interviews. In the four regions, gum and resin income contributes to 14%–23% of the small-scale producers’ household income. Absolute income was positively correlated with resource management regime and commercialization level. It was higher from cultivated resources on private lands, followed by regulated access to wild resources. In open-access resources, the producers’ income was the lowest, although accessed by the poor and women. However, dependence on gum and resin was higher in open-access resource areas. Households’ socioeconomic characteristics, resource access, production and marketing variables determining income from gum and resin were identified and their variation across the cases is discussed. Overall, gum and resin commercialization in the study areas play a potential poverty alleviation role as a source of regular income, a safety net, and a means of helping producers move out of poverty.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Alpharetroviral Integration in Human Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells
Authors: Moiani Arianna , Suerth Julia , Gandolfi Francesco , Rizzi Ermanno , Severgnini Marco , De Bellis Gianluca , Schambach Axel , Mavilio Fulvio
Published: May 2014

Gene transfer vectors derived from gamma-retroviruses or lentiviruses are currently used for the gene therapy of genetic or acquired diseases. Retroviral vectors display a non-random integration pattern in the human genome, targeting either regulatory regions (gamma-retroviruses) or the transcribed portion of expressed genes (lentiviruses), and have the potential to deregulate gene expression at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level. A recently developed alternative vector system derives from the avian sarcoma-leukosis alpha-retrovirus (ASLV) and shows favorable safety features compared to both gamma-retroviral and lentiviral vectors in preclinical models. We performed a high-throughput analysis of the integration pattern of self-inactivating (SIN) alpha-retroviral vectors in human CD34+ hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) and compared it to previously reported gamma-retroviral and lentiviral vectors integration profiles obtained in the same experimental setting. Compared to gamma-retroviral and lentiviral vectors, the SIN-ASLV vector maintains a preference for open chromatin regions, but shows no bias for transcriptional regulatory elements or transcription units, as defined by genomic annotations and epigenetic markers (H3K4me1 and H3K4me3 histone modifications). Importantly, SIN-ASLV integrations do not cluster in hot spots and target potentially dangerous genomic loci, such as the EVI2A/B, RUNX1 and LMO2 proto-oncogenes at a virtually random frequency. These characteristics predict a safer profile for ASLV-derived vectors for clinical applications.
A Randomized Longitudinal Factorial Design to Assess Malaria Vector Control and Disease Management Interventions in Rural Tanzania
Authors: Kramer Randall , Mboera Leonard , Senkoro Kesheni , Lesser Adriane , Shayo Elizabeth , Paul Christopher , Miranda Marie
Published: May 2014

The optimization of malaria control strategies is complicated by constraints posed by local health systems, infrastructure, limited resources, and the complex interactions between infection, disease, and treatment. The purpose of this paper is to describe the protocol of a randomized factorial study designed to address this research gap. This project will evaluate two malaria control interventions in Mvomero District, Tanzania: (1) a disease management strategy involving early detection and treatment by community health workers using rapid diagnostic technology; and (2) vector control through community-supported larviciding. Six study villages were assigned to each of four groups (control, early detection and treatment, larviciding, and early detection and treatment plus larviciding). The primary endpoint of interest was change in malaria infection prevalence across the intervention groups measured during annual longitudinal cross-sectional surveys. Recurring entomological surveying, household surveying, and focus group discussions will provide additional valuable insights. At baseline, 962 households across all 24 villages participated in a household survey; 2,884 members from 720 of these households participated in subsequent malariometric surveying. The study design will allow us to estimate the effect sizes of different intervention mixtures. Careful documentation of our study protocol may also serve other researchers designing field-based intervention trials.
Decrease of Pirimiphos-Methyl and Deltamethrin Residues in Stored Rice with Post-Harvest Treatment
Authors: Yu Chuanshan , Li Yanjie , Zhang Qian , Zou Nan , Gu Kejia , Li Xuesheng , Pan Canping
Published: May 2014

A modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged (QuEChERS) method with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as reversed-dispersive solid phase extraction (r-DSPE) material was applied to the analysis of pirimiphos-methyl and deltamethrin residues in stored rice. Two dustable powder (DP) formulations (2% pirimiphos-methyl and deltamethrin DP; 5% pirimiphos-methyl DP) were applied in simulated storehouse trials in the lab. The residues and dissipation of the two pesticides in stored rice were investigated. Slow dissipation of both pesticides was observed in stored rice. The half-lives of pirimiphos-methyl were 23.9–28.9 days, and those of deltamethrin were 23.9–24.8 days. Residues of pirimiphos-methyl from application rates of 4.5–6.75 a.i. mg/kg (active ingredient milligram per kilogram) and 10–15 a.i. mg/kg were 1.6–3.8 mg/kg and 3.0–4.5 mg/kg at 60 days Pre-harvest Interval (PHI). Residues of deltamethrin from an application rate of 0.5–0.75 a.i. mg/kg were 0.13–0.14 mg/kg at 60 days PHI. Both pesticides residues were below the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC). Therefore, at the recommended dosages they are safe for use on stored rice.
Range-Finding Risk Assessment of Inhalation Exposure to Nanodiamonds in a Laboratory Environment
Authors: Koivisto Antti , Palomäki Jaana , Viitanen Anna-Kaisa , Siivola Kirsi , Koponen Ismo , Yu Mingzhou , Kanerva Tomi , Norppa Hannu , Alenius Harri , Hussein Tareq , Savolainen Kai , Hämeri Kaarle
Published: May 2014

This study considers fundamental methods in occupational risk assessment of exposure to airborne engineered nanomaterials. We discuss characterization of particle emissions, exposure assessment, hazard assessment with in vitro studies, and risk range characterization using calculated inhaled doses and dose-response translated to humans from in vitro studies. Here, the methods were utilized to assess workers’ risk range of inhalation exposure to nanodiamonds (NDs) during handling and sieving of ND powder. NDs were agglomerated to over 500 nm particles, and mean exposure levels of different work tasks varied from 0.24 to 4.96 µg·m−3 (0.08 to 0.74 cm−3). In vitro-experiments suggested that ND exposure may cause a risk for activation of inflammatory cascade. However, risk range characterization based on in vitro dose-response was not performed because accurate assessment of delivered (settled) dose on the cells was not possible. Comparison of ND exposure with common pollutants revealed that ND exposure was below 5 μg·m−3, which is one of the proposed exposure limits for diesel particulate matter, and the workers’ calculated dose of NDs during the measurement day was 74 ng which corresponded to 0.02% of the modeled daily (24 h) dose of submicrometer urban air particles.
Plant Growth and Morphogenesis under Different Gravity Conditions: Relevance to Plant Life in Space
Authors: Hoson Takayuki
Published: May 2014

The growth and morphogenesis of plants are entirely dependent on the gravitational acceleration of earth. Under microgravity conditions in space, these processes are greatly modified. Recent space experiments, in combination with ground-based studies, have shown that elongation growth is stimulated and lateral expansion suppressed in various shoot organs and roots under microgravity conditions. Plant organs also show automorphogenesis in space, which consists of altered growth direction and spontaneous curvature in the dorsiventral (back and front) directions. Changes in cell wall properties are responsible for these modifications of growth and morphogenesis under microgravity conditions. Plants live in space with interesting new sizes and forms.
A Complete Design of a Rare Earth Metal-Free Permanent Magnet Generator
Authors: Eklund Petter , Sjökvist Stefan , Eriksson Sandra , Leijon Mats
Published: May 2014

The price of rare-earth metals used in neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets (PMs) has fluctuated greatly recently. Replacing the NdFeB PMs with more abundant ferrite PMs will avoid the cost insecurity and insecurity of supply. Ferrite PMs have lower performance than NdFeB PMs and for similar performance more PM material has to be used, requiring more support structure. Flux concentration is also necessary, for example, by a spoke-type rotor. In this paper the rotor of a 12 kW NdFeB PM generator was redesigned to use ferrite PMs, reusing the existing stator and experimental setup. Finite element simulations were used to calculate both electromagnetic and mechanical properties of the design. Focus was on mechanical design and feasibility of construction. The result was a design of a ferrite PM rotor to be used with the old stator with some small changes to the generator support structure. The new generator has the same output power at a slightly lower voltage level. It was concluded that it is possible to use the same stator with either a NdFeB PM rotor or a ferrite PM rotor. A ferrite PM generator might require a larger diameter than a NdFeB generator to generate the same voltage.
MicroRNAs in Cervical Cancer: Evidences for a miRNA Profile Deregulated by HPV and Its Impact on Radio-Resistance
Authors: Pedroza-Torres Abraham , López-Urrutia Eduardo , García-Castillo Verónica , Jacobo-Herrera Nadia , Herrera Luis , Peralta-Zaragoza Oscar , López-Camarillo César , De Leon David , Fernández-Retana Jorge , Cerna-Cortés Jorge , Pérez-Plasencia Carlos
Published: May 2014

Cervical carcinoma (CC) is one of the most common cancers and a leading cause of mortality in women worldwide. Epidemiologic and experimental data have clearly demonstrated a causal role of high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HR-HPV) types in CC initiation and progression, affecting the cellular processes by targeting and inactivating p53 and pRB host proteins. HR-HPV E5, E6 and E7 oncoproteins have the ability to deregulate several cellular processes, mostly apoptosis, cell cycle control, migration, immune evasion, and induction of genetic instability, which promote the accumulation of mutations and aneuploidy. In this scenario, genomic profiles have shown that aberrant expression of cellular oncogenic and tumor suppressive miRNAs have an important role in CC carcinogenesis. It has been stated that HPV infection and E6/E7 expression are essential but not sufficient to lead to CC development; hence other genetic and epigenetic factors have to be involved in this complex disease. Recent evidence suggests an important level of interaction among E6/E7 viral proteins and cellular miRNA, and other noncoding RNAs. The aim of the current review is to analyze recent data that mainly describe the interaction between HR-HPV established infections and specific cellular miRNAs; moreover, to understand how those interactions could affect radio-therapeutic response in tumor cells.
Bifunctionalized Allenes. Part XIII. A Convenient and Efficient Method for Regioselective Synthesis of Phosphorylated α-Hydroxyallenes with Protected and Unprotected Hydroxy Group
Authors: Ismailov Ismail , Ivanov Ivaylo , Christov Valerij
Published: May 2014

The paper describes a convenient and efficient method for regioselective synthesis of phosphorylated α-hydroxyallenes using an atom economical [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement of intermediate propargyl phosphites or phosphinites. These can be readily prepared via reaction of protected alkynols with dimethyl chlorophosphite or chlorodiphenyl phosphine respectively in the presence of a base.
Mixture-Based Combinatorial Libraries from Small Individual Peptide Libraries: A Case Study on α1-Antitrypsin Deficiency
Authors: Chang Yi-Pin , Chu Yen-Ho
Published: May 2014

The design, synthesis and screening of diversity-oriented peptide libraries using a “libraries from libraries” strategy for the development of inhibitors of α1-antitrypsin deficiency are described. The major buttress of the biochemical approach presented here is the use of well-established solid-phase split-and-mix method for the generation of mixture-based libraries. The combinatorial technique iterative deconvolution was employed for library screening. While molecular diversity is the general consideration of combinatorial libraries, exquisite design through systematic screening of small individual libraries is a prerequisite for effective library screening and can avoid potential problems in some cases. This review will also illustrate how large peptide libraries were designed, as well as how a conformation-sensitive assay was developed based on the mechanism of the conformational disease. Finally, the combinatorially selected peptide inhibitor capable of blocking abnormal protein aggregation will be characterized by biophysical, cellular and computational methods.
Single Sodium Pyruvate Ingestion Modifies Blood Acid-Base Status and Post-Exercise Lactate Concentration in Humans
Authors: Olek Robert , Kujach Sylwester , Wnuk Damian , Laskowski Radoslaw
Published: May 2014

This study examined the effect of a single sodium pyruvate ingestion on a blood acid-base status and exercise metabolism markers. Nine active, but non-specifically trained, male subjects participated in the double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. One hour prior to the exercise, subjects ingested either 0.1 g·kg−1 of body mass of a sodium pyruvate or placebo. The capillary blood samples were obtained at rest, 60 min after ingestion, and then three and 15 min after completing the workout protocol to analyze acid-base status and lactate, pyruvate, alanine, glucose concentrations. The pulmonary gas exchange, minute ventilation and the heart rate were measured during the exercise at a constant power output, corresponding to ~90% O2max. The blood pH, bicarbonate and the base excess were significantly higher after sodium pyruvate ingestion than in the placebo trial. The blood lactate concentration was not different after the ingestion, but the post-exercise was significantly higher in the pyruvate trial (12.9 ± 0.9 mM) than in the placebo trial (10.6 ± 0.3 mM, p < 0.05) and remained elevated (nonsignificant) after 15 min of recovery. The blood pyruvate, alanine and glucose concentrations, as well as the overall pulmonary gas exchange during the exercise were not affected by the pyruvate ingestion. In conclusion, the sodium pyruvate ingestion one hour before workout modified the blood acid-base status and the lactate production during the exercise.
Optimal Consumption and Investment with Labor Income and European/American Capital Guarantee
Authors: Kronborg Morten
Published: May 2014

We present the optimal consumption and investment strategy for an investor, endowed with labor income, searching to maximize utility from consumption and terminal wealth when facing a binding capital constraint of a European (constraint on terminal wealth) or an American (constraint on the wealth process) type. In both cases, the optimal strategy is proven to be of the option-based portfolio insurance type. The optimal strategy combines a long position in the optimal unrestricted allocation with a put option. In the American case, where the investor is restricted to fulfill a capital guarantee at every intermediate time point over the interval of optimization, we prove that the investor optimally changes his budget constraint for the unrestricted allocation whenever the constraint is active. The strategy is explained in a step-by-step manner, and numerical illustrations are presented in order to support intuition and to compare the restricted optimal strategy with the unrestricted optimal counterpart.
Evaluating the Potential of WorldView-2 Data to Classify Tree Species and Different Levels of Ash Mortality
Authors: Waser Lars , Küchler Meinrad , Jütte Kai , Stampfer Theresia
Published: May 2014

Forest disturbances in central Europe caused by fungal pests may result in widespread tree mortality. To assess the state of health and to detect disturbances of entire forest ecosystems, up-to-date knowledge of the tree species diversity is essential. The German state Mecklenburg–Vorpommern is severely affected by ash (Fraxinus excelsior) dieback caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus pseudoalbidus. In this study, species diversity and the magnitude of ash mortality was assessed by classifying seven different tree species and multiple levels of damaged ash. The study is based on a multispectral WorldView-2 (WV-2) scene and uses object-based supervised classification methods based on multinomial logistic regressions. Besides the original multispectral image, a set of remote sensing indices (RSI) was derived, which significantly improved the accuracies of classifying different levels of damaged ash but only slightly improved tree species classification. The large number of features was reduced by three approaches, of which the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) clearly outperformed the more commonly used principal component analysis (PCA) and a stepwise selection method. Promising overall accuracies (83%) for classifying seven tree species and (73%) for classifying four different levels of damaged ash were obtained. Detailed tree damage and tree species maps were visually inspected using aerial images. The results are of high relevance for forest managers to plan appropriate cutting and reforestation measures to decrease ash dieback over entire regions.
Metal Oxide Nanosensors Using Polymeric Membranes, Enzymes and Antibody Receptors as Ion and Molecular Recognition Elements
Authors: Willander Magnus , Khun Kimleang , Ibupoto Zafar
Published: May 2014

The concept of recognition and biofunctionality has attracted increasing interest in the fields of chemistry and material sciences. Advances in the field of nanotechnology for the synthesis of desired metal oxide nanostructures have provided a solid platform for the integration of nanoelectronic devices. These nanoelectronics-based devices have the ability to recognize molecular species of living organisms, and they have created the possibility for advanced chemical sensing functionalities with low limits of detection in the nanomolar range. In this review, various metal oxides, such as ZnO-, CuO-, and NiO-based nanosensors, are described using different methods (receptors) of functionalization for molecular and ion recognition. These functionalized metal oxide surfaces with a specific receptor involve either a complex formation between the receptor and the analyte or an electrostatic interaction during the chemical sensing of analytes. Metal oxide nanostructures are considered revolutionary nanomaterials that have a specific surface for the immobilization of biomolecules with much needed orientation, good conformation and enhanced biological activity which further improve the sensing properties of nanosensors. Metal oxide nanostructures are associated with certain unique optical, electrical and molecular characteristics in addition to unique functionalities and surface charge features which shows attractive platforms for interfacing biorecognition elements with effective transducing properties for signal amplification. There is a great opportunity in the near future for metal oxide nanostructure-based miniaturization and the development of engineering sensor devices.
Potential for Introduction of Bat-Borne Zoonotic Viruses into the EU: A Review
Authors: Simons Robin , Gale Paul , Horigan Verity , Snary Emma , Breed Andrew
Published: May 2014

Bat-borne viruses can pose a serious threat to human health, with examples including Nipah virus (NiV) in Bangladesh and Malaysia, and Marburg virus (MARV) in Africa. To date, significant human outbreaks of such viruses have not been reported in the European Union (EU). However, EU countries have strong historical links with many of the countries where NiV and MARV are present and a corresponding high volume of commercial trade and human travel, which poses a potential risk of introduction of these viruses into the EU. In assessing the risks of introduction of these bat-borne zoonotic viruses to the EU, it is important to consider the location and range of bat species known to be susceptible to infection, together with the virus prevalence, seasonality of viral pulses, duration of infection and titre of virus in different bat tissues. In this paper, we review the current scientific knowledge of all these factors, in relation to the introduction of NiV and MARV into the EU.
Evidence for Retrovirus and Paramyxovirus Infection of Multiple Bat Species in China
Authors: Yuan Lihong , Li Min , Li Linmiao , Monagin Corina , Chmura Aleksei , Schneider Bradley , Epstein Jonathan , Mei Xiaolin , Shi Zhengli , Daszak Peter , Chen Jinping
Published: May 2014

Bats are recognized reservoirs for many emerging zoonotic viruses of public health importance. Identifying and cataloguing the viruses of bats is a logical approach to evaluate the range of potential zoonoses of bat origin. We characterized the fecal pathogen microbiome of both insectivorous and frugivorous bats, incorporating 281 individual bats comprising 20 common species, which were sampled in three locations of Yunnan province, by combining reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays and next-generation sequencing. Seven individual bats were paramyxovirus-positive by RT-PCR using degenerate primers, and these paramyxoviruses were mainly classified into three genera (Rubulavirus, Henipavirus and Jeilongvirus). Various additional novel pathogens were detected in the paramyxovirus-positive bats using Illumina sequencing. A total of 7066 assembled contigs (≥200 bp) were constructed, and 105 contigs matched eukaryotic viruses (of them 103 belong to 2 vertebrate virus families, 1 insect virus, and 1 mycovirus), 17 were parasites, and 4913 were homologous to prokaryotic microorganisms. Among the 103 vertebrate viral contigs, 79 displayed low identity (<70%) to known viruses including human viruses at the amino acid level, suggesting that these belong to novel and genetically divergent viruses. Overall, the most frequently identified viruses, particularly in bats from the family Hipposideridae, were retroviruses. The present study expands our understanding of the bat virome in species commonly found in Yunnan, China, and provides insight into the overall diversity of viruses that may be capable of directly or indirectly crossing over into humans.