bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Combining Plasma Exchange With Continuous Hemodiafiltration on Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy Complicated by Multiple Organ Dysfunction
Authors: Chu Yu‐Feng , Meng Mei , Zeng Juan , Zhou Hai‐Yan , Jiang Jin‐Jiao , Ren Hong‐Sheng , Zhang Ji‐Cheng , Zhu Wen‐Ying , Wang Chun‐Ting
Published: March 2012

Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) is a rare disease of progressive hepatic insufficiency and secondary systemic complications that induce significant maternal risk. The application of combining plasma exchange (PE) and continuous hemodiafiltration (CHDF) is a novel concept for patients with AFLP. Since 2002, we have utilized the combination of PE with CHDF as adjunctive medical therapy for 11 AFLP patients with multiple organ dysfunction. Before PE and CHDF initiation, four patients had signs and symptoms of encephalopathy, four required ventilatory support, and all 11 were developing liver failure, significant renal compromise, and coagulopathy. PE combined with CHDF for patients was initiated a mean of 2 days postpartum (range, days 0–3). Daily or every other day PE combined with CHDF was undertaken on two to eight occasions for each of the 11 patients. Ten patients responded with composite clinical and laboratory improvement and were discharged to the ward, then cured and discharged from hospital; one patient died of septic shock. Average duration of hospitalization was 17 days (range, days 9–38) from time of admission to discharge; the average duration of intensive care unit was 10 days (range, days 4–23). No significant PE‐ and CHDF‐related complications occurred. These results indicate that combing PE and CHDF in a series‐parallel circuit is an effective and safe treatment for patients with severe AFLP. This finding may have important implications for the development of an effective treatment for patients with AFLP suffering multiple organ dysfunction.
Hemodiafiltration in Infants With Complications During Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Rödl Siegfried , Marschitz Ingrid , Mache Christoph J. , Nagel Bert , Koestenberger Martin , Zobel Gerfried
Published: March 2012

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) in neonates still has a high mortality, particularly in the first year of life. We present the combination of peritoneal dialysis (PD) with intermittent hemodiafiltration (iHDF) in neonates with ESRD. Four infants younger than 28 days were treated with PD and iHDF. Renal diagnoses leading to ESRD were cortical necrosis, prune belly syndrome, neonatal hemolytic uremic syndrome, and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. Initially, three patients were on iHDF until PD was started. At the time when complications occurred during PD, patients were switched back to iHDF. iHDF was used five times as a bridge to PD in case of abdominal surgery. Two of the four patients were switched to iHDF because of peritoneal ultrafiltration failure due to recurrent peritoneal leaks. Once, iHDF became necessary due to refractory peritonitis. All four patients survived the first year of life. Two patients were transplanted successfully at an age of 35 and 22 months, respectively. The others are on renal replacement therapy, one on PD at the age of 28 months and one on iHDF at the age of 25 months, respectively. In case of PD complications, iHDF may be an appropriate bridge to achieve long‐term survival until kidney transplantation.
Imaging language networks before and after anterior temporal lobe resection: Results of a longitudinal fMRI study
Authors: Bonelli Silvia B. , Thompson Pamela J. , Yogarajah Mahinda , Vollmar Christian , Powell Robert H. W. , Symms Mark R. , McEvoy Andrew W. , Micallef Caroline , Koepp Matthias J. , Duncan John S.
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  Anterior temporal lobe resection (ATLR) controls seizures in up to 70% of patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) but, in the language dominant hemisphere, may impair language function, particularly naming. Functional reorganization can occur within the ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres. We investigated reorganization of language in left‐hemisphere–dominant patients before and after ATLR; whether preoperative functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) predicts postoperative naming decline; and efficiency of postoperative language networks.

Methods:  We studied 44 patients with TLE due to unilateral hippocampal sclerosis (24 left) on a 3T GE‐MRI scanner. All subjects performed language fMRI and neuropsychological testing preoperatively and again 4 months after left or right ATLR.

Key Findings:  Postoperatively, individuals with left TLE had greater bilateral middle/inferior frontal fMRI activation and stronger functional connectivity from the left inferior/middle frontal gyri to the contralateral frontal lobe than preoperatively, and this was not observed in individuals with right TLE. Preoperatively, in left and right TLE, better naming correlated with greater preoperative left hippocampal and left frontal activation for verbal fluency (VF). In left TLE, stronger preoperative left middle frontal activation for VF was predictive of greater decline in naming after ATLR. Postoperatively, in left TLE with clinically significant naming decline, greater right middle frontal VF activation correlated with better postoperative naming. In patients without postoperative naming decline, better naming correlated with greater activation in the remaining left posterior hippocampus. In right TLE, naming ability correlated with left hippocampal and left and right frontal VF activation postoperatively.

Significance:  In left TLE, early postoperative reorganization to the contralateral frontal lobe suggests multiple systems support language function. Postoperatively, ipsilateral recruitment involving the posterior hippocampal remnant is important for maintaining language, and reorganization to the contralateral hemisphere is less effective. Preoperative left middle frontal activation for VF was predictive of naming decline in left TLE after ATLR.
Early onset West syndrome with severe hypomyelination and coloboma‐like optic discs in a girl with SPTAN1 mutation
Authors: Writzl Karin , Primec Zvonka Rener , Stražišar Barbara Gnidovec , Osredkar Damjan , Pečarič‐Meglič Nuška , Kranjc Branka Stirn , Nishiyama Kiyomi , Matsumoto Naomichi , Saitsu Hirotomo
Published: March 2012

Recent study has shown that mutations in the alpha‐II‐spectrin (SPTAN1) gene cause early onset intractable seizures, severe developmental delay, diffuse hypomyelination, and widespread brain atrophy. We report a Slovene girl with hypotonia, lack of visual attention, early onset epileptic encephalopathy, and severe developmental delay. The patient presented with segmental myoclonic jerks at the age of 6 weeks, and infantile spasms at the age of 3.5 months. Her seizures were resistant to treatment. Multiple electroencephalography recordings showed deterioration of the background activity, followed by multifocal abnormalities before progressing to hypsarrhythmia. Ophthalmologic examination revealed bilateral dysplastic, coloboma‐like optic discs. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed diffusely reduced white matter and brainstem volumes with hypomyelination. A de novo heterozygous in‐frame deletion was detected in SPTAN1: c.6619_6621delGAG (p.E2270del). This report supports the causative relationship between SPTAN1 mutations and early onset intractable seizures with severe hypomyelination and widespread brain volume reduction. Coloboma‐like optic discs might be an additional feature observed in patients with SPTAN1 mutations.
Attitudes and Expectations Regarding Exercise in the Hospital of Hospitalized Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: So Cynthia , Pierluissi Edgar
Published: March 2012

Objectives

To describe expectations of, and perceived motivators and barriers to, in‐hospital exercise of hospitalized older adults.

Design

Qualitative study using the framework theory.

Setting

Public hospital general medical wards.

Participants

Twenty‐eight English‐ or Spanish‐speaking inpatients aged 65 to 103.

Measurements

Semistructured interviews were conducted at the bedside. Questions explored attitudes and expectations regarding in‐hospital exercise. Interviews were tape recorded and transcribed, and content analysis was performed to identify major themes.

Results

For most participants (71%), exercise in the hospital meant walking. Only 29% of participants expected to be exercising in the hospital, although three‐quarters perceived it to be appropriate. Major themes included motivating factors and barriers to in‐hospital exercise. Motivating factors included avoiding the negative effects of prolonged bed rest, promoting a sense of well‐being, promoting functional recovery, and being asked to exercise. Barriers included symptoms related to one's illness, institutional barriers, and fear of injury. Most respondents (85%) felt that if the physician suggested exercise, it would influence their decision to do so, yet few (27%) reported that they had spoken to their physician about exercise.

Conclusion

Hospitalized older adults have positive perceptions about in‐hospital exercise, although they must overcome significant barriers to do so. Medical professionals have a strong influence over the exercise behavior of elderly adults in the hospital yet infrequently address the issue. Incorporating motivating factors and removing barriers may increase the effectiveness of in‐hospital exercise programs.
A Novel Approach to Facilitating Balloon Crossing Chronic Total Occlusions: The “Wire‐Cutting” Technique
Authors: HU XIN‐QUN , TANG LIANG , ZHOU SHENG‐HUA , FANG ZHEN‐FEI , SHEN XIANG‐QIAN
Published: March 2012

Background:
 Following successful guidewire passage, inability to cross the occluded lesion with a balloon is the most common cause of procedural failure for percutaneous recanalization of chronic total occlusions (CTOs). We sought to evaluate the efficacy of “wire‐cutting” technique for facilitating the balloon passage through the lesion during CTO‐percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods:
 Sixteen consecutive patients with CTOs were treated by “wire‐cutting” technique when a lubricious balloon could not be passed through the lesion after successful guidewire crossing. The main process of the “wire‐cutting” technique involved: inserting 2 percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) guidewires (A and B) into the distal true lumen; advancing a balloon over guidewire A to the site of the occlusion abutting the proximal cap, the balloon was then inflated and guidewire B was pressed between the balloon and the proximal cap; rapidly withdrawing guidewire B produced a cutting power that crushed the proximal cap thus facilitating balloon crossing. Technique success was defined as balloon having crossed CTO lesions successfully after performing wire‐cutting procedure.

Results:
 Both technical success and procedural success were obtained in 10 (62.5%) cases. Technique failure occurred in 6 (37.5%) cases, of which 2 were due to the inability to place a second guidewire into the distal true lumen and the other 4 were due to severe coronary calcification. Of these 4 failures, 2 have final procedure success with the use of Rotablator and the remaining 2 patients were referred for bypass surgery. Major complication included severe coronary dissection that occurred in 1 (6.3%) patient, which was successfully treated by stenting. No other complications were observed.

Conclusion:
 The wire‐cutting technique may be considered as a simple and effective approach for facilitating balloon crossing resistant CTO lesions. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:297–303)
We‐Talk, Communal Coping, and Cessation Success in a Couple‐Focused Intervention for Health‐Compromised Smokers
Authors: Rohrbaugh Michael J. , Shoham Varda , Skoyen Jane A. , Jensen Michaeline , Mehl Matthias R.
Published: March 2012

目的:我们考察健康受损的吸烟者及其配偶使用第一人称复数代词的情况(我们–话语),以此作为适应性共同解决问题过程的一种可能的隐形标志。方法:其中一方心脏或肺部有问题,但一方或双方依然吸烟的20对夫妇参加多达10场专为改善共同应对而设计的家庭咨询(FAMCON)戒烟治疗,在治疗中,夫妇双方把吸烟定义为’我们的’问题,而不是’你的’或’我的’问题,并采取协作行动来解决问题。我们采用自动文本分析软件《语言获得和词汇计数》(LIWC)把治疗前婚姻互动任务及干预后期的文字本中夫妇双方第一人称代词的使用情况列表。结果:在相关和回归分析中,病人配偶(而非病人本人)在治疗前的我们—话语使用情况预测了病人在戒烟12个月后是否保持戒烟;夫妇双方在干预治疗期间(控制到基线水平)我们—话语使用情况的残余改变也预测了这个结果。结论:这些结果进一步证明了配偶使用我们—话语对病人健康的预测价值,并为共同应对作为一种可能的家庭咨询(FAMCON)变化机制提供初步证明。这些发现突显了自动文本分析在夫妇治疗研究中的效用。
Reduction of Amphibious Vehicle Resistance and Bow Swamping by Fitting a Wave Cancellation Bow Plate
Authors: LATORRE ROBERT , ARANA JULIO
Published: March 2012

Amphibious vehicles and other blunt‐shaped floating vehicles encounter the problem of a large bow wave forming at high speeds. This wave formation is accompanied by higher resistance and at a critical speed results in bow submergence or swamping. A 1/4 scale model of a tracked amphibious vehicle was tested at speeds corresponding to 3–7 km/h full scale to investigate the phenomena. The experiment showed that at speeds of 5–6 km/h, there is a significant increase in the trim by the bow. The vehicle's “breakwater” plate was able to break up this wave and avoid swamping. Comparative tests with the vehicle fitted with the wave cancellation bow plate showed that this bow plate reduced the bow wave formation and achieved a 10% reduction in the towing resistance. The wave cancellation bow plate can reduce the vehicle's power and extend its amphibious operating range or increase its amphibious speed.
Generator Life and Power Electronics
Authors: DAVEY KENT R. , JORDAN HOWARD E. , RODRIGUEZ RIGOBERTO J. , HEBNER ROBERT E.
Published: March 2012

The deleterious effect of full bridge rectifiers on the output of an AC generator deserves attention from the Naval community. The harmonics observed at the stator of the generator not only introduce hysteresis and eddy current losses, but voltage spikes that impact the life of the generator. The two primary factors compromising life are localized heating due to harmonics and voltage spikes that cause insulation failure through partial discharge. Induced eddy currents are proportional to frequency squared.
One‐piece zirconia oral implants: one‐year results from a prospective cohort study. 1. Single tooth replacement
Authors: Kohal Ralf‐Joachim , Knauf Marko , Larsson Birgitta , Sahlin Herman , Butz Frank
Published: March 2012

Aim

To investigate the clinical and radiographic outcome of a one‐piece zirconia oral implant for single tooth replacement after 1 year.

Materials and Methods

A total of 65 patients received a one‐stage implant surgery with immediate temporization. Standardized radiographs were taken at implant insertion and after 1 year to monitor peri‐implant bone loss. A univariate analysis of the influence of different baseline parameters on marginal bone loss from implant insertion to 12 months was performed. Soft tissue parameters were evaluated at prosthesis insertion and at the 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

After 1 year, three implants were lost, giving a cumulative survival rate of 95.4%. The marginal bone loss after 1 year was 1.31 mm. Thirty‐four per cent of the implants lost at least 2 mm bone, and 14% more than 3 mm. The univariate analysis could not depict any parameter influencing marginal bone loss. Probing depth, Clinical Attachment Level, Bleeding and Plaque Index decreased over 1 year.

Conclusions

The cumulative survival rate of the presented ceramic implant was comparable to the reported survival rate of titanium implants when immediately restored. However, the frequency of increased radiographic bone loss (>2 mm) after 1 year was considerably higher as compared to conventional two‐piece titanium implants. The presented zirconia implant can therefore not be recommended for clinical usage.
Variation in microhabitat use of the threatened spotfin chub (Erimonax monachus) among stream sites and seasons
Authors: Kanno Yoichiro , Schmidt Christina U. , Cook Steven B. , Mattingly Hayden T.
Published: March 2012

Abstract –  The spotfin chub Erimonax monachus is a rare cyprinid fish endemic to the Tennessee River drainage, and it is federally listed as threatened in the USA. Microhabitat use of spotfin chubs was studied via stream snorkelling in the Emory River watershed, Tennessee, one of the last remaining populations of this species. We used a Bayesian generalised linear mixed model to evaluate microhabitat covariates related to the presence/absence of spotfin chubs among eight stream sites across three seasons (early summer, late summer and fall). In general, spotfin chubs were more likely to be present in microhabitats characterised by boulder/bedrock substrates, medium to high velocity, and medium depth (typical of the run habitat). However, the patterns were not necessarily consistent among seasons or stream sites, due partly to interactions between microhabitat and macrohabitat covariates. Specifically, spotfin chubs were more selective of bedrock and boulder substrate at smaller stream sites where they were less abundant, and they were more selective of higher velocity at warmer stream temperatures (early and late summer). Our data indicate that spotfin chubs may exhibit flexible microhabitat use to some extent, and their microhabitat use may differ by macrohabitat characteristics such as stream size and water temperature. This study provided a refined understanding of microhabitat use of spotfin chubs and suggests that effective conservation of this declining species should identify and protect available suitable habitat across space and time.
Diet of non‐native northern snakehead (Channa argus) compared to three co‐occurring predators in the lower Potomac River, USA
Authors: Saylor Ryan K. , Lapointe Nicolas W.R. , Angermeier Paul L.
Published: March 2012

Abstract – Introductions of large, non‐native, carnivorous fishes continue to occur worldwide and represent a substantial management concern to global biodiversity. One of the most recent non‐native fishes to successfully establish in North America is the northern snakehead (Channa argus), found in the lower Potomac River catchment. Dispersal of the northern snakehead throughout this system has been well documented since its original discovery in May 2004; however, little is known about the foraging habits of this species and its interactions with co‐occurring predators. Here, we quantify northern snakehead diet in comparison with the diets of naturalised largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), and native American eel (Anguilla rostrata) and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) collected from tidal freshwaters bordering Virginia and Maryland near Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Over 97% of northern snakehead gut contents were fishes, with fundulid and centrarchid species consumed most frequently. Dietary overlap was biologically significant only between northern snakehead and largemouth bass. Aquatic invertebrates were >10 times more common in native predator diets, reducing dietary overlap with northern snakehead. Ontogenic shifts in adult northern snakehead diet were also detected, which may be explained by optimal foraging rather than true prey specificity. Northern snakehead may be occupying a novel niche based on a piscivorous diet, therefore limiting competition with resident predators in the lower Potomac River. Further research into interactions between largemouth bass and northern snakehead is needed to inform management decisions and understand the ecological impacts of this non‐native species.
Effect of osteoporosis on periodontal therapy among post‐menopausal women
Authors: Gomes‐Filho Isaac S. , Oliveira Tiago J. S. , Passos Johelle S. , Cerqueira Eneida de M. M. , da Cruz Simone S. , Barreto Maurício L. , Coelho Julita M. F. , Trindade Soraya C. , Santos Carlos A. S. T. , Sarmento Viviane A.
Published: March 2012

Objective:  This intervention study aimed to investigate the effect of osteoporosis on periodontal condition among 48 post‐menopausal women undergoing periodontal therapy.

Material and methods:  The experimental group, which underwent non‐surgical periodontal therapy, was composed of 16 women with periodontitis to be treated, and the control group was formed by 32 women without periodontitis. Oral condition was assessed on three occasions: at the start of the treatment (first examination), 1 month (first re‐examination) and 4 months after the end of the therapy (second re‐examination). In the second re‐examination, recurrence of periodontal disease was evaluated by comparing the clinical measurements obtained pre‐ and post‐treatment. The diagnosis of osteoporosis was made by investigating densitometry reports obtained previously. Descriptive analysis, analysis of variance and the Bonferroni post hoc test were applied to the data gathered, with statistical significance level of 5%.

Results:  The frequency of periodontitis was 50% in the treated group and 25% in the group without periodontitis. In both groups, this recurrence was greater in subjects with osteoporosis (37.5 and 18.75%, respectively) than in the individuals without osteoporosis (12.5 and 6.25%, respectively).

Conclusions:  The preliminary results indicate that osteoporosis possibly has an influence on periodontal condition among individuals undergoing non‐surgical periodontal treatment.
Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Inhibition Improves Erectile Function by Activation of Nitric Oxide/Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate Pathway in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Li Wen Ji , Peng YuBing , Zhou Juan , Li Bao , Wang Hao , Zhang Jun , Wang Zhong
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Endothelial dysfunction-induced abnormalities of the nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway in the corpus cavernosum are thought to be the main factors involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction (ED). Recent studies have shown that the poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase (PARP) pathway plays a critical role in diabetic endothelial dysfunction.

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine whether activation of the PARP pathway is involved in diabetic cavernosal endothelial dysfunction and abnormalities of the NO/cGMP pathway.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: age-matched controls, diabetic controls (DM), and the 3-aminobenzamide (3-AB, a PARP inhibitor)-treated diabetic group (DM+3-AB). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Eight weeks after inducing diabetes, the DM+3-AB group was treated with 3-AB for 4 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures

Erectile function was assessed at 12 weeks after inducing diabetes by stimulating the cavernous nerve. Expression of poly(ADP-ribose), protein kinase B (Akt), phospho-Akt, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), phospho-eNOS, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) were evaluated by Western blot. Cavernous NO generation and cGMP levels were also determined.

Results

The DM group showed impaired erectile function and significantly increased PARP activity. Expression of total eNOS and nNOS, phospho-Akt, and eNOS decreased significantly in the DM group compared with those in the control group. In addition, cavernous NO generation and cGMP levels decreased significantly in the DM group compared with those in the control group. Treatment with 3-AB restored erectile function and significantly reversed all molecular alterations except decreased nNOS expression.

Conclusion

Overactivation of the PARP pathway in the corpus cavernosum of diabetic rats was involved in cavernosal endothelial dysfunction and abnormalities of the NO/cGMP pathway resulting in ED. These findings may be applied to develop novel therapies for patients with diabetic ED.
A Randomized Open-Label Trial with a Crossover Comparison of Sexual Self-Confidence and Other Treatment Outcomes Following Tadalafil Once a Day Vs. Tadalafil or Sildenafil On-Demand in Men with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Rubio-Aurioles Eusebio , Porst Hartmut , Kim Edward D. , Montorsi Francesco , Hackett Geoff , Morales Antonio Martin , Stuckey Bronwyn , Būttner Hartwig , West Teena M. , Huynh Ngan N. , Lenero Enrique , Burns Patrick , Kopernicky Vladimir
Published: March 2012

Aim

To compare Sexual Self-Confidence and other treatment outcomes following 8 weeks of treatment with tadalafil 5 mg once a day (OaD) vs. tadalafil 20 mg or sildenafil 100 mg as needed (pro re nata [PRN]) in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

A randomized, open-label, crossover study in men ≥18 years of age with history of ED and satisfactory response to current oral phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor PRN. Data were analyzed with a mixed effects model for crossover design.

Main Outcome Measures

The primary outcome measure was the Sexual Self-Confidence domain of the Psychological and Interpersonal Relationship Scales (PAIRS) between tadalafil OaD and sildenafil PRN.

Secondary Outcomes Included

Time Concerns and Spontaneity domains of PAIRS, and the Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) scale.

Results

Men naive to tadalafil OaD were enrolled (N = 378), with 61–69% prior PDE5 inhibitor use. There were improvements in all PAIRS domains from baseline when comparing tadalafil OaD and PRN with sildenafil PRN (P < 0.001). The Sexual Self-Confidence domain improved from baseline and was 0.50 ± 0.78 following tadalafil OaD, 0.5 ± 0.72 for tadalafil PRN, and 0.39 ± 0.67 for sildenafil PRN. The difference in least-squares mean was 0.12 ± 0.04 (confidence interval [CI] = 0.04, 0.19; P = 0.001) between tadalafil OaD and sildenafil PRN and 0.01 ± 0.04 (CI = −0.06, 0.08; P = 0.872) between tadalafil OaD and tadalafil PRN. The Time Concerns domain score was lower with tadalafil OaD than tadalafil PRN (P < 0.001). There were no differences in SEAR scores between treatments.

Conclusions

Tadalafil OaD and tadalafil PRN compared with sildenafil PRN demonstrated greater improvements in Sexual Self-Confidence, Time Concerns, and Spontaneity. There was no significant difference in Sexual Self-Confidence between tadalafil OaD and tadalafil PRN. Changes in SEAR, the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function, and the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction scores from baseline to end point were similar.
Activation of Gastrin-releasing Peptide Receptors in the Lumbosacral Spinal Cord is Required for Ejaculation in Male Rats
Authors: Kozyrev Natalie , Lehman Michael N. , Coolen Lique M.
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Ejaculation is a complex reflex mediated by a spinal ejaculation generator located in the lumbosacral spinal cord and consisting of a population of lumbar spinothalamic (LSt) neurons. LSt neurons and their intraspinal axonal projections contain several neuropeptides, including gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP).

Aim

To test the hypothesis that GRP is critically involved in mediating ejaculation by acting in autonomic and motor areas of the lumbosacral spinal cord, utilizing a physiological paradigm to investigate ejaculatory reflexes in isolation of supraspinal inputs.

Methods

Dual immunohistochemistry for GRP and galanin was performed to investigate co-expression of GRP in LSt cells of control male rats. Next, anesthetized, spinalized male rats received intrathecal infusions of either GRP antagonist RC-3095 (0, 10, or 20 nmol/10 µL) or GRP (0, 0.2, 0.5 nmol/10 µL). Ejaculatory reflexes were induced by electrical stimulation of the dorsal penile nerve (DPN) which reliably triggers rhythmic increases in seminal vesicle pressure (SVP) and contractions of the bulbocavernosus muscle (BCM), indicative of the emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation, respectively.

Main Outcome Measures

GRP in LSt cells was expressed as percentages of co-expression. SVP and electromyographic recording (EMG) of BCM activity following drug treatment and DPN stimulation were recorded and analyzed for numbers of SVP increases, BCM events and bursts.

Results

GRP was exclusively expressed in LSt cells and axons. Intrathecal infusion of RC-3095, but not saline, blocked SVP increases and BCM bursting induced by DPN stimulation. Intrathecal infusions of GRP, but not saline, triggered SVP increases and BCM bursting in 43–66% of animals and facilitated SVP increases and BCM bursting induced by subthreshold DPN stimulation in all animals.

Conclusion

These data support a critical role for GRP for control of the emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation in male rats by acting in LSt target areas in the lumbosacral spinal cord.
Soil Carbon and Nutrient Changes Associated with Deforestation for Pasture in Southern Costa Rica
Authors: Huth Timothy , Porder Stephen , Chaves Joaquin , Whiteside Jessica H.
Published: March 2012

We assessed the effects of deforestation on soil carbon (C) and nutrient stocks in the premontane landscape near Las Cruces Biological Station in southern Costa Rica, where forests were cleared for pasture in the mid‐1960s. We excavated six soil pits to a depth of 1 m in both pasture and primary forest, and found that C stocks were ~20 kg C/m2 in both settings. Nevertheless, soil δ13C suggests ~50 percent of the forest‐derived soil C above 40 cm depth has turned over since deforestation. Soil nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stocks derived from the soil pits were not significantly different between land uses (P = 0.43 and 0.61, respectively). At a larger spatial scale, however, the ubiquity of ruts produced by cattle‐induced erosion indicates that there are substantial soil effects of grazing in this steep landscape. Ruts averaged 13 cm deep and covered ~45 percent of the landscape, and thus are evidence of the removal of 0.7 Mg C/ha/yr, and 70, 9 and 40 kg/ha/yr of N, P and potassium (K), respectively. Subsoils in this region are ~10 times less C‐ and N‐rich, and ~2 times less P‐ and K‐rich than the topsoil. Thus, rapid topsoil loss may lead to a decline in pasture productivity in the coming decades. These data also suggest that the soil C footprint of deforestation in this landscape may be determined by the fate of soil C as it is transported downstream, rather than C turnover in situ.
Discovery of Novel Acyl Coenzyme A: Cholesterol Acyltransferase Inhibitors: Pharmacophore‐Based Virtual Screening, Synthesis and Pharmacology
Authors: Chhabria Mahesh T. , Brahmkshatriya Pathik S. , Mahajan Bhushan M. , Darji Urvesh B. , Shah Gaurang B.
Published: March 2012

The present study describes ligand‐based pharmacophore modeling of a series of structurally diverse acyl coenzyme A cholesterol acyltransferase inhibitors. Quantitative pharmacophore models were generated using HypoGen module of Discovery Studio 2.1, whereby the best pharmacophore model possessing two hydrophobic, one ring aromatic, and one hydrogen bond acceptor feature for inhibition of acyl coenzyme A cholesterol acyltransferase showed a very good correlation coefficient (r = 0.942) along with satisfactory cost analysis. Hypo1 was also validated by test set and cross‐validation methods. Developed models were found to be predictive as indicated by low error values for test set molecules. Virtual screening against Maybridge database using Hypo1 was performed. The two most potent compounds (47 and 48; predicted IC50 = 1 nm) of the retrieved hits were synthesized and biologically evaluated. These compounds showed 86% and 88% inhibition of acyl coenzyme A cholesterol acyltransferase (at 10 μg/mL) with IC50 value of 3.6 and 2.5 nm, respectively. As evident from the close proximity of biological data to the predicted values, it can be concluded that the generated model (Hypo1) is a reliable and useful tool for lead optimization of novel acyl coenzyme A cholesterol acyltransferase inhibitors.
Causation in personal injury after (and before) Sienkiewicz
Authors: Miller Chris
Published: March 2012

Three forms of ‘material contribution’ are discussed within the context of the traditional ‘but for’ test of causation. The NESS test (Necessary Element in at least one Sufficient Set) is shown to offer a more appropriate approach when causal over-determination is present as in, for instance, Fairchild and other cases involving multiple sources of asbestos. The particular problems posed by the recent Sienkiewicz case are then examined. It is argued that removing the incoherence in the common law of causation in personal injury will require the judiciary to overcome its antipathy to statistical evidence.
Rethinking Territory: Social Justice and Neoliberalism in Latin America’s Territorial Turn
Authors: Bryan Joe
Published: March 2012

The “territorial turn” in Latin America describes the trend towards state recognition of community property rights. This partial recognition of indigenous peoples’ and Afro‐descendants’ demands for territory has become a focal point for expanding neoliberal approaches to governance through the extension of new property rights regimes. This partial recognition of social movements’ demands has resulted in widespread efforts to rethink territory by social movements and scholars alike in order to better understand the conceptual work that the term does, its historical constitution, and its relevance to struggles for social justice. Those debates provide a grounded critique of territory, drawing attention to the calculative techniques used to bring it into being and their role in marginalizing other understandings of space and rights with far‐reaching implications for processes of subject formation. This review uses those debates to argue for a reconsideration of territory as process, highlighting the ways in which governing works through the term and how it constrains approaches to social justice.
Ecological Disaster or the Limits of Observation? Reconciling Modern Declines with the Long‐Term Dynamics of Whitebark Pine Communities
Authors: Larson Evan R. , Kipfmueller Kurt F.
Published: March 2012

The history of whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) forests over the past century exemplifies modern environmental change and the particular challenges faced in reconciling the scales of human observation with long‐term ecological changes. A number of factors are implicated in driving observed declines in whitebark pine populations including fire suppression, climate change, the exotic pathogenCronartium ribicolaand associated white pine blister rust, and mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) outbreaks, yet the actual effects of these factors vary widely across the range of whitebark pine that encompasses considerable environmental heterogeneity. Furthermore, the specific effects of these agents are difficult to isolate or predict in a forest type where disturbance regimes and succession operate on scales of centuries rather than decades. The resulting situation is highly complex, yet the urgency for restoration in some areas is leading to generalizations elsewhere that do not always account for the diversity of forests considered as whitebark pine communities. Our research reviews the current state of knowledge on the biogeography, disturbance regimes, and mechanisms of decline in whitebark pine communities. We then use an expanded temporal perspective based on dendroecological case studies to critically assess the potential effects of fire suppression in whitebark pine communities and the ecological relationship between whitebark pine and mountain pine beetle. Based on our findings, it appears that fire suppression is not the ubiquitous factor leading to whitebark pine declines, as often implicated in the published literature, and that whitebark pine may be well adapted to recover following mountain pine beetle outbreaks in areas that have not been impacted too severely from white pine blister rust.
Mastodons and Mammoths in the Great Lakes Region, USA and Canada: New Insights into their Diets as they Neared Extinction
Authors: Yansa Catherine H. , Adams Kristin M.
Published: March 2012

The conventional image of Ice Age environments of North America includes mammoths feeding on grasses in open tundra or steppe habitats and mastodons browsing on spruce branches in forests. However, re‐examination of plant and animal fossil research in the Great Lakes region of the USA and adjacent Ontario, Canada provides new insights into the changing diets of mammoths and mastodons in this region, particularly as these animals neared extinction between 13,500 and 13,000 calendar years Before Present (cal yr BP). This paper reconstructs the following scenario at the end of the Ice Age. Woolly mammoths primarily inhabited tundra adjacent to the northward receding margin of the Laurentide ice sheet. Meanwhile, to the immediate south, Jefferson mammoths grazed on grasses, sedges and herbs around the edges of wetlands, while American mastodons consumed mainly the leaves and branches of spruce and other trees in first an anomalous spruce parkland/sedge wetland environment and later in spruce‐dominated forest. However, mammoth and mastodon populations began to dwindle at a time when the succeeding vegetation became a closed forest with a lesser amount of spruce trees, grasses and sedges and a greater abundance of invading deciduous trees. The last mammoths and mastodons in the Great Lakes region bear signs of stress and competition for the same foods in dense coniferous‐deciduous forest, which contributed to the extinction of these magnificent beasts by ∼13,000 cal yr BP. This extinction event highlights the fragility of mammal populations under stress; an important lesson given that numerous species today are similarly challenged by climate and landscape change.
Intracameral acetylcholine effectively contracts pupils after dilatation with intracameral mydriatics
Authors: Bäckström Gunnie , Lundberg Björn , Behndig Anders
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  To determine whether intracameral acetylcholine can contract pupils dilated with intracameral mydriatics in phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Methods:  A total of 60 patients were included in this prospective randomized masked study performed at Örnsköldsviks Hospital Eye Clinic. The patients were randomized and were given either topical placebo and an intracameral mydriatic solution (ICM) (cyclopentolate 0.1%, phenylephrine 1.5% and xylocaine 1%) (n = 30) or topical mydriatics (TM) (cyclopentolate 0.85% and phenylephrine 1.5%) and xylocaine 1% intracamerally (n = 30) at the start of surgery. After intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, 0.15 ml 1% acetylcholine was given intracamerally in all cases. The pupil size was registered preoperatively, 45 seconds after intracameral injection, after ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) evacuation, 30 seconds after acetylcholine injection, 2 min after acetylcholine injection and the day after surgery.

Results:  The pupil contraction and pupil size after acetylcholine injection showed no significant differences at 30 seconds (contraction 1.0 ± 0.4 in ICM group versus 0.9 ± 0.4 in TM group; p = 0.75; size 4.8 ± 1.1 in the ICM group versus 5.2 ± 1.1 in the TM group; p = 0.24) or at 2 min (contraction 1.5 ± 0.6 in the ICM group versus 1.4 ± 0.6 in the TM group; p = 0.63; size 4.3 ± 0.9 in the ICM group versus 4.7 ± 1.0 in the TM group; p = 0.13). No difference in baseline pupil size after ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) evacuation was seen between the two groups (5.8 ± 0.9 in the ICM group versus 6.1 ± 1.2 in the TM group; p = 0.28).

Conclusion:  We here show that intracameral acetylcholine contracts pupils as effectively after dilatation with intracameral mydriatics as after dilatation with topical mydriatics. Cataract surgeons can feel comfortable and safe when using intracameral mydriatics, even if pupil contraction with acetylcholine should be required.
Donor cornea transfer from Optisol GS to organ culture storage: a two‐step procedure to increase donor tissue lifespan
Authors: Haug Kristiane , Azqueta Amaya , Johnsen‐Soriano Siv , Shahdadfar Aboulghassem , Drolsum Liv K. , Moe Morten C. , Røger Magnus T. , Romero Francisco J. , Collins Andrew R. , Nicolaissen Bjørn
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  Storage time for donor corneas in Optisol GS is limited compared to Eye Bank Organ Culture (EBOC). We here examine the epithelium on donor corneoscleral rims after primary storage in Optisol GS and subsequent incubation in EBOC.

Methods:  Morphology was monitored by light and electron microscopy, expression of phenotypic and genotypic markers by immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR and changes in oxidative lipid and DNA damage by ELISA and COMET assay.

Results:  A prominent loss of cells was observed after storage in Optisol GS. After maintenance in EBOC, spreading apical cells were Occludin+, while the staining for E‐cadherin and Connexin‐43 was less intense. There were an upregulation of Occludin and a downregulation of E‐cadherin and Connexin‐43. Eye Bank Organ Culture was associated with an ongoing proliferative activity and a downregulation of putative progenitor/stem cell marker ABCG2 and p63. Staining for 8‐OHdG and Caspase‐3 did not increase, while levels of malondialdehyde and number of DNA strand breaks and oxidized bases increased.

Conclusions:  This dual procedure should be pursued as an option to increase the storage time and the pool of available donor corneas. The observed downregulation of markers associated with stemness during EBOC is relevant considering the potential use of donor epithelium in the treatment of ocular surface disorders.
Expression of 12 cytokines in aqueous humour of uveal melanoma before and after combined Ruthenium‐106 brachytherapy and transpupillary thermotherapy
Authors: Lee Christopher Seungkyu , Jun Ik Hyun , Kim Tae‐im , Byeon Suk Ho , Koh Hyoung Jun , Lee Sung Chul
Published: March 2012

Purpose:  To determine the aqueous humour levels of 12 cytokines in eyes with uveal melanoma and whether their expression changes after combined Ru‐106 brachytherapy and transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT).

Methods:  Aqueous humour samples were collected from 20 patients with previously untreated uveal melanoma undergoing combined Ru‐106 brachytherapy and TTT, both at the time of plaque placement and removal. Using multiplex biochip array technology, 12 different cytokines were measured, including interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interferon (IFN)‐γ, epidermal growth factor (EGF) and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1. Aqueous humour from 20 patients undergoing cataract surgery was used as control.

Results:  IL‐6, IL‐8, IFN‐γ and MCP‐1 were highly expressed in uveal melanoma, whereas IL‐2, IL‐10 and TNF‐ α were low in expression. There was a positive correlation between tumour height and IL‐8 level (p = 0.020). Vascular endothelial growth factor tends to be highly expressed in melanoma‐containing eyes (p = 0.056). Levels of IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐1β increased after the mean 117 ± 38 hrs of brachytherapy and adjunctive TTT with a tumour apex dose of 61 ± 28 Gy and a scleral contact dose of 786 ± 226 Gy. Increase in levels of IL‐6 (p = 0.003) and IL‐8 (p = 0.046) positively correlated with scleral contact dose.

Conclusions:  Cytokines such as IL‐6, IL‐8, IFN‐γ and MCP‐1 may be implicated in the progression of uveal melanoma. Ocular irradiation from a Ru‐106 plaque promoted an increase in the levels of IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐1β, modulation of which could be useful in managing radiation‐related side effects.
Engineering an in-vitro model of rodent cartilage
Authors: Rogers Catherine M , Woolley Terry S , Cruwys Simon C , Buttery Lee D K , Rose Felicity R A J , Shakesheff Kevin M
Published: March 2012

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify a cell source, scaffold substrate and culture environment suitable for use in engineering an in-vitro model of rodent cartilage.

Methods

The chondrogenic activity and stability of cells isolated at Day 18 of gestation was assessed under normoxia and hypoxia using a cytokine stimulation assay and gene expression analysis. The ability of the selected cells seeded in fibrous electrospun scaffolds to form cartilaginous tissue during longterm static and dynamic culture was assessed using immunocytochemistry and biochemical analysis.

Key findings

Rodent fetal chondrocytes appear to have enhanced phenotypic stability compared with other cell sources. Following 16 weeks under static culture, the engineered constructs were found to have greater cellularity and collagen content that native rodent cartilage.

Conclusions

A cell source, scaffold and culture environment have been identified that support the generation of in-vitro rodent cartilage. In future work, cytokine treatment of the engineered tissues will take place to generate in-vitro osteoarthritis models.
Regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and asymmetric dimethylarginine by matrine attenuates isoproterenol-induced acute myocardial injury in rats
Authors: Li Xiaobing , Wang Xiao , Guo Yafang , Deng Ning , Zheng Ping , Xu Qingbin , Wu Yang , Dai Guidong
Published: March 2012

Objectives

This study was designed to investigate the cardioprotective effects of matrine on regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) in isoproterenol-induced acute myocardial ischaemic rats.

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley rats were pretreated with matrine (200, 100 and 50 mg/kg) orally for 10 days. Acute myocardial injury was induced in rats by subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol. Serum and haemodynamic parameters, histopathological variables and expression of protein levels were analysed.

Key findings

Oral administration of matrine (200, 100 and 50 mg/kg) significantly attenuated isoproterenol-induced cardiac necrosis and left ventricular dysfunction. Matrine treatment restored impaired ventricular Akt and eNOS protein expression with concomitant increased phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473) and eNOS (Ser1177), and also restored glycogen synthase kinase 3β activity, as indicated by increased phosphorylation at Ser 9. Moreover, treatment with matrine had no effect on the isoproterenol-induced elevated protein arginine methyltransferase 1 protein expression, but could significantly normalize the reduced dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 2 expression and attenuate the increased serum level of ADMA. The expression of catechol-o-methyltransferase and monoamine oxidase did not differ among all groups (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggested that matrine protects against isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischaemia via eNOS and ADMA pathway.
The chick chorioallantoic membrane imaging method as a platform to evaluate vasoactivity and assess irritancy of compounds
Authors: Tay Stephanie L M , Heng Paul W S , Chan Lai Wah
Published: March 2012

Objective

To determine if the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) is a potential alternative that is capable of screening test substances for vasoactivity in terms of vessel diameter changes. The CAM was also evaluated as a tool for irritancy screening.

Methods

Visual assessment of the CAM for irritancy after the application of the test substance or solvent to its surface was made. An imaging based-in-vivo CAM model was developed by imaging CAM blood vessels in a pre-defined area using a semi-automatic image processing and analysis technique to measure blood vessel diameters. Solvents and drugs such as 70% v/v ethanol, normal saline, 5% w/v glucose monohydrate, glycerin, glucagon, N-methylpyrrolidone, nicotine, glyceryl trinitrate, glucagon, propranolol and caffeine were tested on the CAM.

Key findings

Propranolol, nicotine and glycerin were irritants on CAM. Changes in the diameters of fine blood vessels were accurately measured by high resolution image analysis. Vasoconstriction was seen with 70% v/v ethanol while vasodilation was displayed with glucagon and caffeine. The results reflected expected trends with evidence of feedback mechanisms ensuring homeostasis.

Conclusion

The CAM model can be applied to assess pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations in early development work to gain useful insights to potential irritancy and biological effects of components and formulations.