bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ketamine for chronic pain: risks and benefits
Authors: Niesters Marieke , Martini Christian , Dahan Albert
Published: February 2013

The anaesthetic ketamine is used to treat various chronic pain syndromes, especially those that have a neuropathic component. Low dose ketamine produces strong analgesia in neuropathic pain states, presumably by inhibition of the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor although other mechanisms are possibly involved, including enhancement of descending inhibition and anti‐inflammatory effects at central sites. Current data on short term infusions indicate that ketamine produces potent analgesia during administration only, while three studies on the effect of prolonged infusion (4–14 days) show long‐term analgesic effects up to 3 months following infusion. The side effects of ketamine noted in clinical studies include psychedelic symptoms (hallucinations, memory defects, panic attacks), nausea/vomiting, somnolence, cardiovascular stimulation and, in a minority of patients, hepatoxicity. The recreational use of ketamine is increasing and comes with a variety of additional risks ranging from bladder and renal complications to persistent psychotypical behaviour and memory defects. Blind extrapolation of these risks to clinical patients is difficult because of the variable, high and recurrent exposure to the drug in ketamine abusers and the high frequency of abuse of other illicit substances in this population. In clinical settings, ketamine is well tolerated, especially when benzodiazepines are used to tame the psychotropic side effects. Irrespective, close monitoring of patients receiving ketamine is mandatory, particularly aimed at CNS, haemodynamic, renal and hepatic symptoms as well as abuse. Further research is required to assess whether the benefits outweigh the risks and costs. Until definite proof is obtained ketamine administration should be restricted to patients with therapy‐resistant severe neuropathic pain.
The distribution of MLL breakpoints correlates with outcome in infant acute leukaemia
Authors: Emerenciano Mariana , Meyer Claus , Mansur Marcela B. , Marschalek Rolf , Pombo‐de‐Oliveira Maria S. ,   The Brazilian Collaborative Study Group of Infant Acute Leukaemia
Published: February 2013

Acute leukaemia in early childhood ‐ and mainly infant leukaemia (IL) – is characterized by acquired genetic alterations, most commonly by the presence of distinct MLL rearrangements (MLL‐r). The aim of this study was to investigate possible correlations between clinical features and molecular analyses of a series of 545 childhood leukaemia (≤24 months of age) cases: 385 acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and 160 acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The location of the genomic breakpoints was determined in a subset of 30 MLL‐r cases. The overall survival of the investigated cohort was 60·5%, as determined by the Kaplan‐Meier method. Worse outcomes were associated with age at diagnosis ≤6 months (P < 0·001), high white blood cell count (P = 0·001), and MLL‐r (P = 0·002) in ALL, while children with AML displayed a poorer outcome (P = 0·009) regardless of their age strata. Moreover, we present first evidence that MLL‐r patients with poor outcome preferentially displayed chromosomal breakpoints within MLL intron 11. Based on the literature, most MLL‐r IL display a breakpoint localization towards intron 11, which in turn may explain their worse clinical course. In summary, the MLL breakpoint localization is of clinical importance and should be considered as a novel outcome predictor for MLL‐r patients.
Autism spectrum disorder in the genetics clinic: a review
Authors: Carter MT , Scherer SW
Published: February 2013

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders affecting social communication, language and behavior. The underlying cause(s) in a given individual is often elusive, with the exception of clinically recognizable genetic syndromes with readily available molecular diagnosis, such as fragile X syndrome. Clinical geneticists approach patients with ASDs by ruling out known genetic and genomic syndromes, leaving more than 80% of families without a definitive diagnosis and an uncertain risk of recurrence. Advances in microarray technology and next‐generation sequencing are revealing rare variants in genes with important roles in synapse formation, function and maintenance. This review will focus on the clinical approach to ASDs, given the current state of knowledge about their complex genetic architecture.
Interactive Planarization and Optimization of 3D Meshes
Authors: Poranne Roi , Ovreiu Elena , Gotsman Craig
Published: February 2013

Constraining 3D meshes to restricted classes is necessary in architectural and industrial design, but it can be very challenging to manipulate meshes while staying within these classes. Specifically, polyhedral meshes—those having planar faces—are very important, but also notoriously difficult to generate and manipulate efficiently. We describe an interactive method for computing, optimizing and editing polyhedral meshes. Efficiency is achieved thanks to a numerical procedure combining an alternating least‐squares approach with the penalty method. This approach is generalized to manipulate other subsets of polyhedral meshes, as defined by a variety of other constraints.
Epidermotropic marginal zone lymphoma simulating mycosis fungoides†
Authors: Lee Bonnie A. , Jacobson Mark , Seidel Gregory
Published: February 2013

Cutaneous lymphomas can usually be distinguished by architectural features, where most atypical lichenoid infiltrates implicate cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). We report a case of an 80‐year‐old man who presented with asymptomatic golden brown patches and diffuse pink papules on his trunk, buttocks and hips. Biopsies revealed a lichenoid infiltrate and areas of epidermotropism. Although the overall architectural pattern was compatible with mycosis fungoides, the lymphocytes had a more monocytoid and plasmacytoid appearance, and there were interspersed mature plasma cells. Immunohistological studies revealed that the pleomorphic lymphocytes were predominantly B cells (CD20\+ and CD79a\+) with a subpopulation of smaller bland T cells (CD3\+). Moreover, the B‐cell immunophenotype was compatible with marginal zone differentiation (bcl‐2+, bcl‐6−, CD10− and CD5−) and showed a lambda light chain restriction, confirming monoclonality. These findings were diagnostic for cutaneous marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma (MZL) with epidermotropism an entity which has only been reported twice in the literature, once in the setting of primary cutaneous disease, and once as cutaneous involvement of systemic disease. This case illustrates a rare pattern of cutaneous MZL, and underscores the importance of immunophenotypic characterization of cutaneous lymphomas in order to prevent the misdiagnosis of a CTCL.
Efficacy and safety of fumaric acid esters in patients with psoriasis on medication for comorbid conditions – a retrospective evaluation (FACTS)
Authors: Thaçi Diamant , Weisenseel Peter , Philipp Sandra , Rosenbach Thomas , Rotterdam Sebastian , Augustin Matthias , Neureither Marcus , Reich Kristian
Published: February 2013

Background

Safety and efficacy of fumaric acid esters (FAE) in patients with psoriasis requiring treated comorbidit condition were investigated.

Patients and Methods

Data collected from 7 dermatology centers were used for a retrospective analysis of patients treated continuously with FAE for at least 6 weeks who required at least one medication for a comorbid condition. The records were analyzed at baseline and after 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months of therapy. Safety parameters were monitored and the severity of skin symptoms was assessed by ‘Physician's Global Assessment’ (PGA).

Results

A total of 69 patients with moderate to severe psoriasis and a mean duration of 27.4 months of continuous treatment were included in the study. In less than 5% were interactions between FAE and co‐medications observed. Changes of hepatic, renal or hematological laboratory parameters were usually insignificant and required a modification of FAE treatment in less than 12% of the cases. The percentage of patients documented as markedly improved or clear was 61% after 6 months, 77% after 12 months, and 75% after 24 months of therapy.

Conclusions

In patients with moderate to severe psoriasis on co‐medications, FAE were effective and safe without any noteworthy drug interactions.
Agricultural intensification in Brazil and its effects on land‐use patterns: an analysis of the 1975–2006 period
Authors: Barretto Alberto G. O. P. , Berndes Göran , Sparovek Gerd , Wirsenius Stefan
Published: February 2013

Does agricultural intensification reduce the area used for agricultural production in Brazil? Census and other data for time periods 1975–1996 and 1996–2006 were processed and analyzed using Geographic Information System and statistical tools to investigate whether and if so, how, changes in yield and stocking rate coincide with changes in cropland and pasture area. Complementary medium‐resolution data on total farmland area changes were used in a spatially explicit assessment of the land‐use transitions that occurred in Brazil during 1960–2006. The analyses show that in agriculturally consolidated areas (mainly southern and southeastern Brazil), land‐use intensification (both on cropland and pastures) coincided with either contraction of both cropland and pasture areas, or cropland expansion at the expense of pastures, both cases resulting in farmland stability or contraction. In contrast, in agricultural frontier areas (i.e., the deforestation zones in central and northern Brazil), land‐use intensification coincided with expansion of agricultural lands. These observations provide support for the thesis that (i) technological improvements create incentives for expansion in agricultural frontier areas; and (ii) farmers are likely to reduce their managed acreage only if land becomes a scarce resource. The spatially explicit examination of land‐use transitions since 1960 reveals an expansion and gradual movement of the agricultural frontier toward the interior (center‐western Cerrado) of Brazil. It also indicates a possible initiation of a reversed trend in line with the forest transition theory, i.e., agricultural contraction and recurring forests in marginally suitable areas in southeastern Brazil, mainly within the Atlantic Forest biome. The significant reduction in deforestation that has taken place in recent years, despite rising food commodity prices, indicates that policies put in place to curb conversion of native vegetation to agriculture land might be effective. This can improve the prospects for protecting native vegetation by investing in agricultural intensification.
Bryophyte‐cyanobacteria associations as regulators of the northern latitude carbon balance in response to global change
Authors: Lindo Zoë , Nilsson Marie‐Charlotte , Gundale Michael J.
Published: February 2013

Ecosystems in the far north, including arctic and boreal biomes, are a globally significant pool of carbon (C). Global change is proposed to influence both C uptake and release in these ecosystems, thereby potentially affecting whether they act as C sources or sinks. Bryophytes (i.e., mosses) serve a variety of key functions in these systems, including their association with nitrogen (N2)‐fixing cyanobacteria, as thermal insulators of the soil, and producers of recalcitrant litter, which have implications for both net primary productivity (NPP) and heterotrophic respiration. While ground‐cover bryophytes typically make up a small proportion of the total biomass in northern systems, their combined physical structure and N2‐fixing capabilities facilitate a disproportionally large impact on key processes that control ecosystem C and N cycles. As such, the response of bryophyte‐cyanobacteria associations to global change may influence whether and how ecosystem C balances are influenced by global change. Here, we review what is known about their occurrence and N2‐fixing activity, and how bryophyte systems will respond to several key global change factors. We explore the implications these responses may have in determining how global change influences C balances in high northern latitudes.
Novel effect of ezetimibe to inhibit the development of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in Fatty Liver Shionogi mouse
Authors: Wang Xiang , Sugimoto Ken , Fujisawa Tomomi , Shindo Nobuyasu , Minato Satomi , Kamada Yoshihiro , Hamano Mina , Ohishi Mitsuru , Ikegami Hiroshi , Rakugi Hiromi
Published: February 2013

Aim

Several studies using experimental non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) models have shown that ezetimibe, an inhibitor of cholesterol absorption mainly in the intestine, not only protects against diet‐induced hyperlipidemia, but also attenuates liver steatosis. The aim of this study was to clarify whether ezetimibe inhibits the development of NAFLD and to elaborate the mechanism of ezetimibe to inhibit the development of NAFLD using Fatty Liver Shionogi (FLS) mice, a spontaneous model of NAFLD/non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Methods

Male FLS mice at 20 weeks of age were divided into two groups (n = 7 in each group). Mice fed a normal laboratory chow, CRF‐1 or CRF‐1 containing 0.005% w/w ezetimibe (7 mg/kg per day) for 4 weeks. After 4‐week treatment with ezetimibe, the livers of each group of mice were subjected to histological as well as molecular evaluation.

Results

Ezetimibe administration for 4 weeks was associated with improvement of steatosis and fibrosis of the liver in normal diet‐fed FLS mice. Ezetimibe reduced hepatic reactive oxygen species generation and prevented ubiquitination and protein degradation of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP), a key molecule for very low‐density lipoprotein assembly and export, via downregulation of the protein expression of Skp2 and CDC20.

Conclusion

Ezetimibe not only reduced lipid synthesis in the liver, but also promoted lipid discharge from the liver by preventing post‐translational degradation of MTP via a reduction of hepatic reactive oxygen species generation, leading to inhibition of the development of NAFLD.
Application of Thin‐Film Manufacturing Technologies to Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Gas Separation Membranes
Authors: Menzler Norbert H. , Han Feng , van Gestel Tim , Schafbauer Wolfgang , Schulze‐Küppers Falk , Baumann Stefan , Uhlenbruck Sven , Meulenberg Wilhelm A. , Blum Ludger , Buchkremer Hans Peter
Published: February 2013

The implementation of thin‐film technologies in energy‐related applications, such as special fuel cells and gas separation membranes for low‐emission power plants, is essential in terms of enhancing the functionality, reducing operating temperatures, and increasing lifetime. Introducing thin electrolyte layers into solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) decreases the internal cell resistance and thus drastically enhances the power density. This supports the goal of reducing the operation temperature from ~800°C to temperatures below 700°C. As the operation temperature is lowered, the temperature‐activated degradation processes are slowed down, and 40,000 h of operation becomes feasible. Reducing the thickness of the gas separation membranes also reduces internal losses, and therefore, the rate‐limiting steps within the layer. Thinner functional layers possess higher permeabilities but also involve a risk of more layer defects. This also holds for the fuel cells. Thus, the manufacturing of the supports and the intermediate layers is also very important. The paper gives an overview of the application of thin‐film technologies to SOFCs and gas separation membranes and highlights the efforts to date. Examples include SOFC stacks operated stably for in excess of 40,000 h and submicron‐sized membranes with high permeability and good separation factors.
Student feedback on teaching: Some issues for consideration for nurse educators
Authors: Cleary Michelle , Happell Brenda , Lau Siew Tiang , Mackey Sandra
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we outline some key points about student feedback for nurse educators to consider. For nursing students, providing feedback offers an opportunity to communicate whether relevant and effective learning has occurred. Given the importance of student feedback for the quality of learning and teaching, and the significant resources invested in it, it is essential that accurate feedback is obtained and responded to by nurse educators. The aim of this paper, therefore, is to present an overview of factors influencing the quality and reliability of student feedback of their theoretical and clinical learning experiences, and ways the feedback might be used by educators for improving teaching and career enhancement. Nurse educators need to be prepared to respond to well‐intentioned feedback without undue defensiveness to ensure good and effective teaching. Ultimately, feedback systems that are well managed should benefit nursing students, nurse educators and their respective institutions.
Social work with middle‐class Spanish families: The challenge of the work–family conflict
Authors: Segado Sánchez‐Cabezudo Sagrario , López Peláez Antonio
Published: February 2013

In the current economic crisis, middle‐class families often find themselves immersed in a process of downward social mobility. These are families in which both spouses work, and where many relational conflicts begin in the sphere of work–family reconciliation and the allocation of household responsibilities. This article presents the results of a research study we conducted on middle‐class families in Spain. We focus specifically on the problems associated with work–family reconciliation and gender, and the mitigating role played by social support. Based on our results, we want to call the attention to a prevalent and ‘new’ conflict in family‐based practice social work in Spain: the work–family conflict.
Trephination of the Frontal Sinuses and Instillation of Clotrimazole Cream: A Computed Tomographic Study in Canine Cadavers
Authors: Burrow Rachel , Baker Martin , White Lindsay , McConnell James Fraser
Published: February 2013

Objective

To use computed tomography (CT) to assess the distribution of surgically administered clotrimazole cream and associated filling of the frontal sinuses and caudal aspect of the nasal cavities in canine cadavers.

Study Design

Observational study.

Animals

Small (n = 1) and medium‐large (n = 11) breed canine cadavers.

Methods

CT scans of 12 cadaveric canine heads were used to confirm absence of sinonasal disease. Then after creating an opening into the left and right frontal sinuses with a 3.2 mm Steinmann pin at standardized landmarks, clotrimazole cream (20 g) was instilled into each side. Postoperative CT scans of the heads was used to assess the distribution and degree of filling of the sinonasal cavities with clotrimazole cream, and to identify any damage to local structures.

Results

Filling was excellent in 22 sinuses, very poor in 2, and excellent in all caudal nasal cavities. Two cadavers had damage: unilateral penetration of the cranium (2) and unilateral penetration of the lateral sinus wall (1).

Conclusion

Excellent filling of most of the frontal sinuses and caudal nasal cavity of cadavers with clotrimazole cream is achieved when administered by this technique. Damage to local structures may occur intraoperatively using this technique.
Frequency of rebleeding events in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding with negative capsule endoscopy
Authors: Kim Ji‐Beom , Ye Byong Duk , Song Yelim , Yang Dong‐Hoon , Jung Kee Wook , Kim Kyung‐Jo , Byeon Jeong‐Sik , Myung Seung‐Jae , Yang Suk‐Kyun , Kim Jin‐Ho
Published: February 2013

Background and Aims

Although capsule endoscopy (CE) is widely used as a first‐line diagnostic modality for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB), the rebleeding rate after negative CE varies according to different studies. We tried to elucidate the outcomes after negative CE for OGIB and to determine the risk factors associated with rebleeding.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data from 125 patients who had received CE for OGIB.

Results

PillCam SB capsules were used for 92 patients (73.6%) and SB2 capsules for the other 33 (26.4%). The complete visualization of the small bowel was achieved in 93 patients (74.4%). Of the 63 patients (50.4%) who showed negative CE results, 60 patients did not receive any further specific treatment for OGIB, and were analyzed for the rebleeding rate and risk factors for rebleeding. Of the 60 patients, rebleeding episodes were observed in 16 patients (26.7%), and the cumulative rebleeding rates after 6, 12, 24, and 36 months were 12.4%, 14.3%, 28.7%, and 35.9%, respectively. Substantial rebleeding events were observed with similar frequency both after negative CE without subsequent treatment (26.7%) and after positive CE without specific treatment (21.2%) (P = 0.496).

Conclusions

Considerable rebleeding episodes were observed after negative CE result for OGIB. Further complementary diagnostic work‐ups and close follow‐up are needed to be considered for patients with OGIB and negative CE results.
A Bayesian Approach to Analyzing Replicated Preference Tests
Authors: Dubnicka Suzanne R.
Published: February 2013

Replicated preference tests have become important tools for assessing consistency in consumer preferences in repeated tests as well as overall consumer preference. Replicated preference tests can also provide the means for separating discriminators from nondiscriminators. Despite the increasing popularity of replicated preference tests, there are relatively few statistical tools for their analysis, especially when one is interested in examining the consistency of consumer preferences across tests. This paper presents flexible Bayesian methods for examining overall consumer preference and consistency of consumer preference in replicated preference tests. In particular, this paper presents Bayesian methods for forced‐choice preference testing with two tests and then extends this methodology to include forced‐choice preference testing with more than two tests and replicated preference testing with a no‐preference or no‐choice option. The methods produce intuitive and easily interpreted probabilities. These methods are applied to various replicated preferences test data from the literature.

Practical Applications

The Bayesian methods presented in this paper will help sensory scientists and statisticians working with sensory data to explore data from replicated preference tests more thoroughly. Much of the currently used methodology only allows scientists to assess the overall preference for a particular product, although a measure of overdispersion is sometimes incorporated. The methodology in this paper allows for a wider array of questions to be answered. In particular, this paper focuses on consumers' ability to consistently choose the same product. Initiallly, the methods apply to forced‐choice tests, but they are later extended to include a no‐preference option. Allowing for a no‐preference options is another important contribution of this work.
Fluoxetine reduces periodontal disease progression in a conditioned fear stress model in rats
Authors: Aguiar J. C. A. , Gomes E. P. P. , Fonseca‐Silva T. , Velloso N. A. , Vieira L. T. , Fernandes M. F. , Santos S. H. S. , Neto J. F. R. , De‐Paula A. M. B. , Guimarães A. L. S.
Published: February 2013

Background and Objective

Recent evidence suggests that the use of fluoxetine could reduce periodontal disease severity. However, the effect of fluoxetine on periodontal disease has not been tested in the context of conditioned fear stress (CFS). We hypothesized that inhibition of chronic stress by fluoxetine might decrease the levels of bone loss in periodontal disease. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of fluoxetine on bone loss in chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Fourteen Wistar rats were submitted to ligature‐induced periodontal disease and divided into four groups (A–D). Groups A (n = 3) and B (n = 4) were not stressed, while Groups C (n = 3) and D (n = 4) were submitted to a CFS paradigm for 38 d. Daily fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) was administered to Groups B and D from day 20 to day 39, at which point the rats were submitted to an open field test and killed on day 40. Mandibles were removed for histological and immunohistochemical analyses.

Results

Stress was associated with a higher level of bone loss in Group C compared with Group A. Additionally, no differences in bone loss were observed among Groups A, B and D.

Conclusion

We showed that stress is associated with the progression of bone loss in a CFS model in rats and that fluoxetine treatment reduces the bone loss.
A narrowly endemic photosynthetic orchid is non‐specific in its mycorrhizal associations
Authors: Pandey Madhav , Sharma Jyotsna , Taylor Donald. Lee , Yadon Vern L.
Published: February 2013

Mycorrhizal association is a common characteristic in a majority of land plants, and the survival and distribution of a species can depend on the distribution of suitable fungi in its habitat.Orchidaceae is one of the most species‐rich angiosperm families, and all orchids are fully dependent on fungi for their seed germination and some also for subsequent growth and survival. Given this obligate dependence, at least in the early growth stages, elucidating the patterns of orchid–mycorrhizal relationships is critical to orchid biology, ecology and conservation. To assess whether rarity of an orchid is determined by its specificity towards its fungal hosts, we studied the spatial and temporal variability in the host fungi associated with one of the rarest NorthAmerican terrestrial orchids,Piperia yadonii. The fungal internal transcribed spacer region was amplified and sequenced by sampling roots from eight populations ofP. yadoniidistributed across two habitats,Pinus radiataforest and maritime chaparral, inCalifornia. Across populations and sampling years, 26 operational taxonomic units representing three fungal families, theCeratobasidiaceae,Sebacinaceae andTulasnellaceae, were identified. Fungi belonging to theSebacinaceae were documented in orchid roots only atP. radiataforest sites, while those from theCeratobasidiaceae andTulasnellaceae occurred in both habitats. Our results indicate that orchid rarity can be unrelated to the breadth of mycorrhizal associations. Our data also show that the dominance of various fungal families in mycorrhizal plants can be influenced by habitat preferences of mycorrhizal partners.
Strigolactone signaling in the endodermis is sufficient to restore root responses and involves SHORT HYPOCOTYL 2 (SHY2) activity
Authors: Koren Dikla , Resnick Nathalie , Gati Einav Mayzlish , Belausov Eduard , Weininger Smadar , Kapulnik Yoram , Koltai Hinanit
Published: February 2013

Strigolactones (SLs) are plant hormones and regulators of root development, including lateral root (LR) formation, root hair (RH) elongation and meristem cell number, in a MORE AXILLARY GROWTH 2 (MAX2)‐dependent way. However, whether SL signaling is acting cell‐autonomously or in a non‐cell‐autonomous way in roots is unclear.

We analyzed root phenotype, hormonal responses and gene expression in multiple lines of Arabidopsis thaliana max2‐1 mutants expressing MAX2 under various tissue‐specific promoters and shy2 mutants.

The results demonstrate for the first time that expression of MAX2 under the SCARECROW (SCR) promoter, expressed mainly in the root endodermis, is sufficient to confer SL sensitivity in the root for RH, LR and meristem cell number. Moreover, loss of function mutation of SHORT HYPOCOTYL 2 (SHY2), a key component in auxin and cytokinin regulation of meristem size, has been found to be insensitive to SLs in relation to LR formation and meristem cell number.

Endodermal SL signaling, mediated by MAX2, is sufficient to confer SL sensitivity in root, and SHY2 may participate in SL signaling to regulate meristem size and LR formation. These SL signaling pathways thus may act through modulation of auxin flux in the root tip, and may indicate a root‐specific, yet non‐cell‐autonomous regulatory mode of action.
Treatment of FGF‐2 on stem cells from inflamed dental pulp tissue from human deciduous teeth
Authors: Kim JC , Park J‐C , Kim S‐H , Im G‐I , Kim B‐S , Lee J‐B , Choi E‐Y , Song J‐S , Cho K‐S , Kim C‐S
Published: February 2013

Objective

The purposes of this study were to isolate and characterize stem cells from inflamed pulp tissue of human functional deciduous teeth (iSHFD) and to evaluate the influence of fibroblastic growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) on the regenerative potential.

Materials and methods

We successfully isolated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from the inflamed dental pulp tissue of human deciduous teeth and demonstrated that their regenerative potential could be enhanced by the application of FGF‐2 (20 ng ml−1) during ex vivo expansion. Isolated stem cells expanded in FGF‐2 were characterized using a colony‐forming assay, proliferation, migration, in vitro differentiation, in vivo ectopic transplantation assay, and gene expression profiling.

Results

MSCs isolated from the inflamed pulp tissue of functional deciduous teeth potentially possess the qualities of those from human exfoliated deciduous teeth. FGF‐2 applied to iSHFD during expansion enhanced the colony‐forming efficiency of these cells, increased their proliferation and migration potential, and reduced their differentiation potential in vitro. However, the ectopic transplantation of iSHFD/FGF‐2 in vivo increased the formation of dentin‐like material.

Conclusion

FGF‐2 expansion of stem cells from inflamed pulp tissues of human deciduous teeth can be a good source of stem cells for future clinical applications and a novel way of using discarded inflamed tissues.
Interactions between Golli‐MBP and Th1/Th2 cytokines in patients with oral lichen planus
Authors: Ding M , Zeng J , Sroussi H , Yu J , Xu J , Cheng X , Fan Y
Published: February 2013

Objective

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a prevalent cell‐mediated autoimmune disease of unknown etiology. Disruption in the Th1/Th2 equilibrium has been suspected to contribute to the pathogenesis of OLP. In this study, we aimed at exploring, in OLP, the interactions between Th1/Th2 cytokines and Golli‐MBP, a regulator of autogenic T cells.

Subjects and Methods

Thirty‐six OLP patients aged 18–79 and nineteen control subjects aged 20–69 were enrolled in the dental clinics of Nanjing Medical University. OLP was diagnosed clinically and verified by histopathological examination. All subjects were free of other autoimmune diseases. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and serum were collected from all subjects. Gene expression and protein levels of Golli‐MBP, IFN‐γ and IL‐4 were measured, respectively, by semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Result

When compared with control, PBMC and serum from OLP patients exhibited a significantly higher expression and concentration of Golli‐MBP and IL‐4 and lower levels of IFN‐γ. A strong negative correlation (r = −0.838, P < 0.000) was detected between the ratio of IFN‐γ/IL‐4 and Golli‐MBP gene expression in PBMCs of OLP patients.

Conclusion

These data support a potential link between Golli‐MBP and the dysregulation of the Th1/Th2 equilibrium in OLP.
Orthology Guided Assembly in highly heterozygous crops: creating a reference transcriptome to uncover genetic diversity in Lolium perenne
Authors: Ruttink Tom , Sterck Lieven , Rohde Antje , Bendixen Christian , Rouzé Pierre , Asp Torben , Van de Peer Yves , Roldan‐Ruiz Isabel
Published: February 2013

Despite current advances in next‐generation sequencing data analysis procedures, de novo assembly of a reference sequence required for SNP discovery and expression analysis is still a major challenge in genetically uncharacterized, highly heterozygous species. High levels of polymorphism inherent to outbreeding crop species hamper De Bruijn Graph‐based de novo assembly algorithms, causing transcript fragmentation and the redundant assembly of allelic contigs. If multiple genotypes are sequenced to study genetic diversity, primary de novo assembly is best performed per genotype to limit the level of polymorphism and avoid transcript fragmentation. Here, we propose an Orthology Guided Assembly procedure that first uses sequence similarity (tBLASTn) to proteins of a model species to select allelic and fragmented contigs from all genotypes and then performs CAP3 clustering on a gene‐by‐gene basis. Thus, we simultaneously annotate putative orthologues for each protein of the model species, resolve allelic redundancy and fragmentation and create a de novo transcript sequence representing the consensus of all alleles present in the sequenced genotypes. We demonstrate the procedure using RNA‐seq data from 14 genotypes of Lolium perenne to generate a reference transcriptome for gene discovery and translational research, to reveal the transcriptome‐wide distribution and density of SNPs in an outbreeding crop and to illustrate the effect of polymorphisms on the assembly procedure. The results presented here illustrate that constructing a non‐redundant reference sequence is essential for comparative genomics, orthology‐based annotation and candidate gene selection but also for read mapping and subsequent polymorphism discovery and/or read count‐based gene expression analysis.
Rural Agricultural Change and Fertility Transition in Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Prem , Ghimire Dirgha
Published: February 2013

Using longitudinal panel data from the Western Chitwan Valley of Nepal, this study examines the impact of the use of modern farm technologies on fertility transition—specifically, the number of births in a farm household. Previous explanations for the slow pace of fertility transition in rural agricultural settings often argued that the demand for farm labor is the primary driver of high fertility. If this argument holds true, the use of modern farm technologies that are designed to carry out labor‐intensive farm activities ought to substitute for farm labor and discourage births in farm families. However, little empirical evidence is available on the potential influence of the use of modern farm technologies on the fertility transition. To fill this gap, the panel data examined in this study provide an unusual opportunity to test this long‐standing, but unexplored, argument. The results demonstrate that the use of modern farm technologies, particularly the use of a tractor and other modern farm implements, reduce subsequent births in farm households. This offers important insight for understanding the fertility transition in Nepal, a setting that is experiencing high population growth and rapidly changing farming practices.
Global Patterns of Groundwater Table Depth
Authors: Fan Y. , Li H. , Miguez-Macho G.
Published: February 2013

Water Flowing Underground

In addition to serving as an out-of-sight, yet much-needed water source, groundwater influences ecosystems on land—especially when the groundwater depth is shallow.

Fan
et al.

(p.
940
) used government archives and published studies to construct a global map of groundwater depth based on over 1,000,000 direct well measurements. A groundwater model was then used to construct a continuous global map of groundwater depth. The findings reveal the global influence of sea level and climate on groundwater depths across several regions and ecosystems.
Preservation of Recalcitrant Seeds
Authors: Walters Christina , Berjak Patricia , Pammenter Norman , Kennedy Kathryn , Raven Peter
Published: February 2013

Cryogenic technologies help to preserve plant biodiversity in seed banks, particularly in the tropics.
Graphene Nanophotonics
Authors: García de Abajo F. Javier
Published: February 2013

Graphene allows us to control light in innovative ways, providing the prospect of unprecedented nanophotonic devices.
Multicenter Quality Control of Hepatitis C Virus Protease Inhibitor Resistance Genotyping
Authors: Vallet Sophie , Larrat Sylvie , Laperche Syria , Le Guillou-Guillemette Hélène , Legrand-Abravanel Florence , Bouchardeau Françoise , Pivert Adeline , Henquell Cécile , Mirand Audrey , André-Garnier Elisabeth , Giordanengo Valérie , Lagathu Gisèle , Thibault Vincent , Scholtes Caroline , Schvoerer Evelyne , Gaudy-Graffin Catherine , Maylin Sarah , Trimoulet Pascale , Brochot Etienne , Hantz Sébastien , Gozlan Joël , Roque-Afonso Anne-Marie , Soussan Patrick , Plantier Jean-Christophe , Charpentier Charlotte , Chevaliez Stéphane , Colson Philippe , Mackiewicz Vincent , Aguilera Lina , Rosec Sylvain , Gouriou Stéphanie , Magnat Nelly , Lunel-Fabiani Françoise , Izopet Jacques , Morand Patrice , Payan Christopher , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel
Published: February 2013

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitor resistance-associated substitutions are selected during triple-therapy breakthrough. This multicenter quality control study evaluated the expertise of 23 French laboratories in HCV protease inhibitor resistance genotyping. A panel of 12 well-defined blinded samples comprising two wild-type HCV strains, nine transcripts from synthetic NS3 mutant samples or from clinical strains, and one HCV RNA-negative sample was provided to the participating laboratories. The results showed that any laboratory with expertise in sequencing techniques should be able to provide reliable HCV protease inhibitor resistance genotyping. Only a 0.7% error rate was reported for the amino acid sites studied. The accuracy of substitution identification ranged from 75% to 100%, depending on the laboratory. Incorrect results were mainly related to the methodology used. The results could be improved by changing the primers and modifying the process in order to avoid cross-contamination. This study underlines the value of quality control programs for viral resistance genotyping, which is required prior to launching observational collaborative multicenter studies on HCV resistance to direct-acting antiviral agents.
Generalised insulin oedema after intensification of treatment with insulin analogues
Authors: Adamo Luigi , Thoelke Mark
Published: February 2013

We report a case of generalised insulin oedema after intensification of treatment with genetically modified insulin. This is the first case of generalised oedema in response to treatment with insulin analogues in a patient not insulin naive.
Liposarcoma of the spermatic cord
Authors: Aziz Rizwan , Jamil Anwer , Alubaidi Kassem , Jamil Waqas
Published: February 2013

A 43-years-old male patient presented through general practitioner  with a complaint of right scrotal mass and was operated through inguinal approach. A 4 cm mass was excised and was found to be a liposarcoma of the spermatic cord upon histopathology, which is a diagnostic dilemma and very rare entity.
Triggers in advanced neurological conditions: prediction and management of the terminal phase
Authors: Hussain Jamilla , Adams Debi , Allgar Victoria , Campbell Colin
Published: February 2013

Context

The challenge to provide a palliative care service for individuals with advanced neurological conditions is compounded by variability in disease trajectories and symptom profiles. The National End of Life Care Programme (2010) recommended seven ‘triggers’ for a palliative approach to care for patients with advanced neurological conditions.

Objectives

To establish the frequency of triggers in the palliative phase, and if they could be reduced to fewer components. Management of the terminal phase also was evaluated.

Method

Retrospective study of 62 consecutive patients under the care of a specialist palliative neurology service, who had died. Principle component analysis (PCA) was performed to establish the interrelationship between triggers.

Results

Frequency of triggers increased as each patient approached death. PCA found that four symptom components explained 76.8% of the variance. These represented:rapid physical decline;significant complex symptoms, including pain;infection in combination with cognitive impairment;andrisk of aspiration. Median follow-up under the palliative care service was 336 days. In 56.5% of patients, the cause of death was pneumonia. The terminal phase was recognised in 72.6%. The duration of the terminal phase was 8.8 days on average, and the Liverpool Care of the dying Pathway was commenced in 33.9%. All carers were offered bereavement support.

Conclusions

Referral criteria based on the triggers can facilitate appropriate and timely patient access to palliative care. The components deduced through PCA have face validity; however larger studies prospectively validating the triggers are required. Closer scrutiny of the terminal phase is necessary to optimise management.
Interleukin-10 inhibits angiotensin II-induced decrease in neuronal potassium current
Authors: Jiang Nan , Shi Peng , Desland Fiona , Kitchen-Pareja M. Cristina , Sumners Colin
Published: February 2013

Previously we demonstrated that viral-mediated increased expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus significantly reduces blood pressure in normal rats made hypertensive by infusion of angiotensin II. However, the exact cellular locus of this interleukin-10 action within the paraventricular nucleus is unknown. In the present study we tested whether interleukin-10 exerts direct effects at its receptors located on hypothalamic neurons to offset the neuronal excitatory actions of angiotensin II via its type 1 receptors. The results indicated the presence of immunoreactive interleukin-10 receptors on neurons in normal rat paraventricular nucleus and that receptors for this cytokine were also expressed in neurons cultured from the hypothalamus. Patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings from these cultures revealed that extracellular application of interleukin-10 alone did not exert any alterations in neuronal membrane delayed rectifier or transient potassium currents. However, angiotensin II elicited a significant decrease in delayed rectifier potassium current, an effect that was abolished by interleukin-10 application. Since decreases in delayed rectifier potassium current contribute to increased neuronal excitability, this result is consistent with a direct inhibitory action of interleukin-10 on angiotensin-induced excitation of hypothalamic neurons. As such, these data are the first indication of a neuronal locus of action of interleukin-10 to temper the actions of angiotensin II in the hypothalamus.
Hypoxia inhibits cardiomyocyte proliferation in fetal rat hearts via upregulating TIMP-4
Authors: Tong Wenni , Xiong Fuxia , Li Yong , Zhang Lubo
Published: February 2013

Maternal hypoxia inhibits cardiomyocyte proliferation in the heart of fetal and neonatal rats. The present study tested the hypothesis that hypoxia has a direct effect inhibiting cardiomyocyte proliferation via upregulating tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP) in fetal rat hearts. Isolated fetal rat hearts and rat embryonic ventricular myocyte H9c2 cells were treated ex vivo with 20% or 1% O2for 48 or 24 h, respectively. Hypoxia caused a significant reduction in cardiomyocyte Ki-67 expression and bromodeoxyuridine incorporation in fetal hearts and H9c2 cells. In both fetal hearts and H9c2 cells, hypoxia resulted in a significant decrease in a cell division marker cyclin D2 but an increase in a cell division inhibitor p27. Additionally, hypoxia caused an upregulation of TIMP-3 and TIMP-4 in fetal hearts and H9c2 cells. Knockdown of TIMP-3 in H9c2 cells significantly increased cyclin D2 and Ki-67 and partially blocked the hypoxia-induced inhibition of cyclin D2 and Ki-67 in H9c2 cells. Unlike TIMP-3, TIMP-4 knockdown had no significant effects on the basal levels of cell proliferation but completely abrogated the hypoxia-mediated effects. These findings provide evidence of a novel causal role of TIMP-4 and TIMP-3 in the direct inhibitory effect of hypoxia on cardiomyocyte proliferation in the developing heart.
Position Control of a 3-CPU Spherical Parallel Manipulator
Authors: Callegari Massimo , Carbonari Luca , Palmieri Giacomo , Palpacelli Matteo-Claudio , Tina Donatello
Published: February 2013

The paper presents the first experimental results on the control of a prototypal robot designed for the orientation of parts or tools. The innovative machine is a spherical parallel manipulator actuated by 3 linear motors; several position control schemes have been tested and compared with the final aim of designing an interaction controller. The relative simplicity of machine kinematics allowed to test algorithms requiring the closed-loop evaluation of both inverse and direct kinematics; the compensation of gravitational terms has been experimented as well.
Generalized Derivations on Prime Near Rings
Authors: Ali Asma , Bell Howard E. , Miyan Phool
Published: February 2013

LetNbe a near ring. An additive mappingf:N→Nis said to be a right generalized (resp., left generalized) derivation with associated derivationdonNiff(xy)=f(x)y+xd(y)(resp.,f(xy)=d(x)y+xf(y)) for allx,y∈N. A mappingf:N→Nis said to be a generalized derivation with associated derivationdonNiffis both a right generalized and a left generalized derivation with associated derivationdonN. The purpose of the present paper is to prove some theorems in the setting of a semigroup ideal of a 3-prime near ring admitting a generalized derivation, thereby extending some known results on derivations.
The M/M/NRepairable Queueing System with Variable Breakdown Rates
Authors: Lv Shengli , Li Jingbo
Published: February 2013

This paper considers the M/M/Nrepairable queuing system. The customers' arrival is a Poisson process. The servers are subject to breakdown according to Poisson processes with different rates in idle time and busy time, respectively. The breakdown servers are repaired by repairmen, and the repair time is an exponential distribution. Using probability generating function and transform method, we obtain the steady-state probabilities of the system states, the steady-state availability of the servers, and the mean queueing length of the model.
Transparent Runtime Migration of Loop-Based Traces of Processor Instructions to Reconfigurable Processing Units
Authors: Bispo João , Paulino Nuno , Cardoso João M. P. , Ferreira João Canas
Published: February 2013

The ability to map instructions running in a microprocessor to a reconfigurable processing unit (RPU), acting as a coprocessor, enables the runtime acceleration of applications and ensures code and possibly performance portability. In this work, we focus on the mapping of loop-based instruction traces (called Megablocks) to RPUs. The proposed approach considers offline partitioning and mapping stages without ignoring their future runtime applicability. We present a toolchain that automatically extracts specific trace-based loops, called Megablocks, from MicroBlaze instruction traces and generates an RPU for executing those loops. Our hardware infrastructure is able to move loop execution from the microprocessor to the RPU transparently, at runtime, and without changing the executable binaries. The toolchain and the system are fully operational. Three FPGA implementations of the system, differing in the hardware interfaces used, were tested and evaluated with a set of 15 application kernels. Speedups ranging from 1.26 to 3.69 were achieved for the best alternative using a MicroBlaze processor with local memory.