bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of blood rheology on wall shear stress in a model of the middle cerebral artery
Authors: Bernabeu Miguel O. , Nash Rupert W. , Groen Derek , Carver Hywel B. , Hetherington James , Krüger Timm , Coveney Peter V.
Published: February 2013

Perturbations to the homeostatic distribution of mechanical forces exerted by blood on the endothelial layer have been correlated with vascular pathologies, including intracranial aneurysms and atherosclerosis. Recent computational work suggests that, in order to correctly characterize such forces, the shear-thinning properties of blood must be taken into account. To the best of our knowledge, these findings have never been compared against experimentally observed pathological thresholds. In this work, we apply the three-band diagram (TBD) analysis due to Gizzi
et al.
(Gizzi
et al.
2011 Three-band decomposition analysis of wall shear stress in pulsatile flows.
Phys. Rev. E
83
, 031902. (
doi:10.1103/PhysRevE.83.031902
)) to assess the impact of the choice of blood rheology model on a computational model of the right middle cerebral artery. Our results show that, in the model under study, the differences between the wall shear stress predicted by a Newtonian model and the well-known Carreau–Yasuda generalized Newtonian model are only significant if the vascular pathology under study is associated with a pathological threshold in the range 0.94–1.56 Pa, where the results of the TBD analysis of the rheology models considered differs. Otherwise, we observe no significant differences.
Creating a large topic map by integrating Wandora and Ontopia
Authors: Wu Yejun , Dunaway David J.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present conceptual and technical knowledge about creating a large topic map by integrating the strengths of two topic maps creation tools (i.e. Ontopia and Wandora).

Design/methodology/approach

This study is focused on the testing of the usefulness of the two topic map creation tools. Each tool is used to create a topic map with dozens of topics in order to find out the strengths and weaknesses of each tool and the interoperability of the two tools.

Findings

When creating a large topic map, a developer may have many requirements of a desired topic maps creation tool, but may not be able to find a single tool that meets all the requirements. If multiple such tools implement the topic maps standard, there is some interoperability between the tools, and the developer may integrate these tools to meet the requirements.

Practical implications

Although this paper presents the strengths, weakness, and interoperability of two topic maps creation tools (i.e. Ontopia and Wandora), the findings can be applied to integrating other topic maps creation tools if they implement the topic maps standard. The technical knowledge presented in the paper can also serve as a tutorial of creating a topic map.

Originality/value

There is no published paper presenting the technical knowledge of how to integrate two topic map creation tools to create a large topic map.
Understanding science and technology information users through transaction log analysis
Authors: Park Minsoo , Lee Tae‐seok
Published: February 2013

Purpose

This study seeks to provide insight into user interaction with a web‐based information system of science and technology, as extending the large‐scale research of search queries. Ultimately, this study aims to gain knowledge of user behavior in order to improve the IR system for the users.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper quantitatively analyzed queries submitted to a web‐based IR system in science and technology. The data were collected in a full one‐year period beginning on Friday, 1 January 2010 through on Friday, 31 December 2010. More than 7,240,000 queries and 20,700,000 records were quantitatively analyzed in this period for this study.

Findings

In general, queries themselves tend to be short and simple (1.4 terms) for the web‐based IR system in science and technology. This indicates that users tend to invest a minimum of effort (cognitive and physical) and time in structuring their information needs to look for information on the system. However, user sessions on the IR system are longer (8.2 queries) than on web search engines. Most search sessions last less than 30 minutes with a mean of 24 minutes and 15 seconds, a minimum of one second, a maximum of ten hours, and a mode of ten seconds. Regarding the topic trends in science and technology, Life Science ranked first in 2010. Environment ranked first and Life Science, 11th in 2009.

Originality/value

The authors have presented a study which has characterized users' searching behaviors of an information system in science and technology over a full one‐year period, and suggested improvement issues in user interface and search functionality for the system. From this recent exploratory analysis, the authors believe that the user behavioral characteristics are valuable in monitoring the patterns and trends in use of an information system in the field of science and technology.
Design data for footwear: sweating distribution on the human foot
Authors: Smith Caroline J. , Machado‐Moreira Christiano A. , Plant Gijs , Hodder Simon , Havenith George , Taylor Nigel A.S.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide footwear designers, manikin builders and thermo‐physiological modellers with sweat distribution information for the human foot.

Design/methodology/approach

Independent research from two laboratories, using different techniques, is brought together to describe sweat production of the foot. In total, 32 individuals were studied. One laboratory used running at two intensities in males and females, and measured sweat with absorbents placed inside the shoe. The other used ventilated sweat capsules on a passive, nude foot, with sweating evaluated during passive heating and incremental exercise to fatigue.

Findings

Results from both laboratories are in agreement. Males secreted more than twice the volume of sweat produced by the females (p<0.01) at the same relative work rate. Both genders demonstrated a non‐uniform sweat distribution, though this was less variable in females. Highest local sweat rates were observed from the medial ankles (p<0.01). The dorsal foot sweated substantially more than the plantar (sole) areas (p<0.01). Sweating on the plantar side of the foot was uniform. Wearing shoes limited the increase in sweat production with increasing load, while the sweat rate of uncovered feet kept increasing with work and thermal load.

Practical implications

The observed variation in sweat rate across the foot shows that footwear design should follow the body mapping principle. Fabrics and materials with different properties can be used to improve comfort if applied to different foot surfaces. The data also demonstrate that foot models, whether physical (manikins) or mathematical, need to incorporate the observed variation across the foot to provide realistic simulation/testing of footwear.

Originality/value
Understanding the role of representation in interorganizational knowledge integration
Authors: Werr Andreas , Runsten Philip
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The current paper aims at contributing to the understanding of interorganizational knowledge integration by highlighting the role of individuals' understandings of the task and how they shape knowledge integrating behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a framework of knowledge integration as heedful interrelating. Knowledge integration is conceptualized as help seeking, help giving and reflective reframing, and the paper discusses how these knowledge integrating behaviors are shaped by actors' representations of the situation and their role in it. The framework is illustrated and refined in relation to a qualitative case study of an IT outsourcing project.

Findings

Narrow and separating representations of actors' roles, partly based on institutionalized ideas of the proper behaviors of “buyers” and “suppliers”, impede knowledge integration. Such representations render the knowledge integrating behaviors help seeking, help giving and reflective reframing illegitimate.

Research limitations/implications

Results call for attention to actors' representations of the situation and their role in it in order to understand knowledge integration. The interorganizational setting, with its institutionalized roles, provides unique challenges that need to be investigated further. As findings are based on a single case study, further research needs to extend the findings to other kinds of interorganizational collaboration.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the understanding of interorganizational knowledge integration by drawing attention to the importance of individual actors' representations and behaviors. Hereby, the dominant organizational and network levels of analysis in the literature on interorganizational knowledge integration are complemented by an individual level of analysis.
Corrosion and environmental degradation of bonded composite repair
Authors: Gkikas G. , Paipetis A. , Lekatou A. , Barkoula N.M. , Sioulas D. , Canflanca B. , Florez S.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Bonded composite patches are ideal for aircraft structural repair as they offer enhanced specific properties, case‐tailored performance and excellent corrosion resistance. Bonding minimizes induced stress concentrations unlike mechanical fastening, whilst it seals the interface between the substrate and the patch and reduces the risk of fretting fatigue that could occur in the contact zone. The purpose of this paper is to assess the electrochemical corrosion performance and the environmentally induced mechanical degradation of aerospace epoxy adhesives when carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are used as an additive to the neat epoxy adhesive.

Design/methodology/approach

The galvanic effect between aluminium substrates and either plain or CNT enhanced carbon fibre composites, was measured using a standard galvanic cell. Also, rest potential measurements and cyclic polarizations were carried out for each of the studied systems. The effect of the CNT introduction to a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) on the adhesion efficiency, before and after salt‐spraying for 10, 20 and 30 days, was studied. The adhesion efficiency was evaluated by the single lap joint test.

Findings

The corrosion behaviour of the system is polymer matrix type dependent. CNT introduction to a CFRP may induce small scale localized degradation.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how the shear strength and the response to galvanic corrosion are affected by epoxy resins modified by carbon nanotubes.
Base of the pyramid success: a relational view
Authors: Sánchez Carol M. , Schmid Alexandra S.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The paper uses a relational view of strategy framework to measure and assess the sustainable success of base of the pyramid (BoP) projects. The authors posit that the relational view is a powerful way to determine if a firm's project might lead to sustainable competitive advantage, because if partner resources combine to create relation‐specific capabilities and competences, they may provide sustainable value, and the paper applies this method of strategic analysis to selected BoP projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper separates the secondary data analysis from the primary data analysis and offers four propositions, based on the combined relational view and BoP criteria. The authors apply the relational view framework to two BoP projects from Michigan‐based organizations. Each case is analysed using the framework, and the authors discuss how the resources of each of the BoP project partners create value, how tailored and scalable the projects are, how BoP end user needs are addressed, what resources partners contribute, and if the relation‐specific combination of resources create project level capabilities that are sustainable.

Findings

The sustainable success of BoP projects may be best achieved when the BoP project partners contribute valuable resources and when those resources combine to create relation‐specific capabilities that create sustainable success. It reinforces the importance of scale, BoP user needs, and engaging BoP customers as partners.

Originality/value

This paper tries to help explain why some BoP projects successfully create a sustainable competitive advantage, by building on strategic themes and using a variation of the relational view framework to examine resources and capabilities of the organizations that partner to serve people at the BoP.
Complementary role of a polymerase chain reaction test in the diagnosis of onychomycosis
Authors: Chandran Nisha Suyien , Pan Jiun‐Yit , Pramono Zacharias AD , Tan Hiok‐Hee , Seow Chew‐Swee
Published: February 2013

Background

The successful treatment of onychomycosis depends on accurate diagnosis. Conventional diagnostic methods, including direct microscopy and fungal culture, are non‐specific, insensitive and time‐consuming. Recently, PCR has shown promise in improving the diagnosis of onychomycosis. We aimed to evaluate a commercially available PCR kit for the in vitro detection of dermatophytes and specifically Trichophyton rubrum in nail specimens with suspected onychomycosis, and to compare the detection rates of PCR with conventional diagnostic methods.

Methods

Nail specimens were prospectively collected from patients with clinically suspected onychomycosis. All nail specimens were positive on direct microscopic examination. PCR and fungal cultures were administered, and the detection rates of dermatophytes were compared.

Results

 In all, 107 nail specimens were analysed. The fungal culture was positive in 57 (53%) specimens (38 dermatophytes and 19 non‐dermatophytes). PCR was positive in 77 (72%) specimens (63 T. rubrum and 14 pan‐dermatophyte). A total of 37 specimens (35%) were positive for both fungal culture and PCR. PCR detected dermatophytes in 39 specimens that were missed by the fungal culture, increasing the diagnosis of dermatophyte‐positive specimens by 37%. Five dermatophyte–culture‐positive specimens were negative for PCR.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that PCR increases the sensitivity of detection of dermatophytes in nail specimens. Despite its limitations, the use of PCR can complement direct microscopic examination and fungal cultures to aid clinicians in the diagnosis of suspected dermatophytic onychomycosis.
Biofuel Subsidies and International Trade
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Subhayu , Bhaumik Sumon , Wall Howard J.
Published: February 2013

This paper explores optimal biofuel subsidies in a general equilibrium trade model. The focus is on the production of biofuels such as corn‐based ethanol, which diverts corn from use as food. In the small‐country case, when the tax on crude is not available as a policy option, a second‐best biofuel subsidy may or may not be positive. In the large‐country case, the twin objectives of pollution reduction and terms‐of‐trade improvement justify a combination of crude tax and biofuel subsidy for the food exporter. Finally, we show that when both nations engage in biofuel policies, the terms‐of‐trade effects encourage the Nash equilibrium subsidy to be positive (negative) for the food exporting (importing) nation.
Isolating the influence of pH on the amounts and forms of soil organic phosphorus
Authors: Turner B. L. , Blackwell M. S. A.
Published: February 2013

Soil pH influences the chemistry, dynamics and biological availability of phosphorus (P), but few studies have isolated the effect of pH from other soil properties. We studied phosphorus chemistry in soils along the Hoosfield acid strip (Rothamsted, UK), where a pH gradient from 3.7 to 7.8 occurs in a single soil with little variation in total phosphorus (mean ± standard deviation 399 ± 27 mg P kg−1). Soil organic phosphorus represented a consistent proportion of the total soil phosphorus (36 ± 2%) irrespective of soil pH. However, organic phosphorus concentrations increased by about 20% in the most acidic soils (pH < 4.0), through an accumulation of inositol hexakisphosphate, DNA and phosphonates. The increase in organic phosphorus in the most acidic soils was not related to organic carbon, because organic carbon concentrations declined at pH  < 4.0. Thus, the organic carbon to organic phosphorus ratio declined from about 70 in neutral soils to about 50 in strongly acidic soils. In contrast to organic phosphorus, inorganic phosphorus was affected strongly by soil pH, because readily‐exchangeable phosphate extracted with anion‐exchange membranes and a more stable inorganic phosphorus pool extracted in NaOH–EDTA both increased markedly as soil pH declined. Inorganic orthophosphate concentrations were correlated negatively with amorphous manganese and positively with amorphous aluminium oxides, suggesting that soil pH influences orthophosphate stabilization via metal oxides. We conclude that pH has a relatively minor influence on the amount of organic phosphorus in soil, although some forms of organic phosphorus accumulate preferentially under strongly acidic conditions.
Root caries: a survey of Queensland dentists
Authors: Garton BJ , Ford PJ
Published: February 2013

Background

Root caries stands to be a significant burden for Australia's ageing population. The objective of this study was to describe Queensland dental practitioners' perceptions of root caries prevalence, presentation and predisposing factors as well as diagnosis and recording practices.

Methods

Using the Queensland Dental Board register, all 2 515 dentists and dental specialists practising in Queensland were invited to participate in a questionnaire‐based postal survey.

Results

Of the 660 responses received, 638 were included for final analysis. Use of diagnostic measures such as surface elasticity and contour were reported frequently. A majority of respondents (77%) reported not recording root caries in a way that could be distinguished from coronal caries. Dietary analysis was the most commonly reported adjunctive aid for risk assessment. Recommendations for use of remineralizing agents were frequently reported (home use 90%; in office use 71%). Salivary impairment was reported to be an important risk factor for root caries by 93% of respondents, but only 18% reported performing salivary analysis. A large proportion of respondents (32%) considered patients with diabetes to be of low or no risk of root caries.

Conclusions

While the Queensland dental practitioners who participated in this survey demonstrated an awareness of root caries and its predisposing factors, clinical risk assessment particularly for patients with diabetes should be further examined.
Amorphous Ternary Ceramics Instability Below 450°C: Nano‐Scale Arguments from the Lattice Compatibility Theory (LCT)
Authors: Boubaker Karem , Amlouk Mosbah
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we present some elements of the lattice compatibility theory (LCT) as plausible explanations to the problem of instability of some ternary ceramics under some circumstances. Particular attention is paid to ceramics nano‐scale patterns.
Effect of roasting parameters on soy‐butter product quality
Authors: Agrahar Murugkar Dipika , Kotwaliwale, Nachiket , Kumar Manoj , Gupta Chetan
Published: February 2013

Effect of roasting temperature and time on the hardness, moisture content and colour of whole‐kernel of soybean was studied using response surface method (RSM). Colour of reference soy‐butter (RSB) was used to indicate the time and temperature suitable for roasting soybean kernels to prepare soy‐butter (SB). Temperature (160 °C) and time (90 min) for roasting were identified, soybean kernels were roasted, subsequently made into SB and compared with RSB on the basis of nutrient content, particle size, colour and rheology. SB contained 45 g% protein and 34 g% fat on dry matter basis. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between RSB and SB on the basis of L* values, D3,2 and D4,3. Rheology showed that SB samples behaved like a viscoelastic material. The mean apparent viscosity was significantly different (P < 0.0001) between SB (7.18 Pa.s) and RSB (4.72 Pa.s) which may be due to the significant difference in the particle size distribution (PSD). The Herschel‐Bulkley model could successfully explain the rheological behaviour of SB.
Comparison of Long‐Term Outcomes Associated With Three Surgical Techniques for Treatment of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease in Dogs
Authors: Christopher Scott A. , Beetem Jodi , Cook James L.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To evaluate long‐term (>1 year) outcomes with respect to function and complications in dogs undergoing TightRope (TR), tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), or tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease.

Study Design

Retrospective clinical cohort study.

Methods

Medical records from 2006 to 2009 were searched and cases included when all data were available and clients returned a completed questionnaire based on their assessment of their dog at least 1 year after surgery. Outcomes associated with TPLO, TTA, and TR were determined and compared based on medical records and questionnaires data regarding return to function, presence and degree of pain, and complications.

Results

Case meeting inclusion criteria were: TPLO (n = 65), TR (n = 79), and TTA (n = 18). TTA was associated with significantly (P < .03) higher rates of major complications and subsequent meniscal tears than TPLO and TR, and TPLO had significantly higher rates of major complications and meniscal tears than TR. Percent of function >1 year after surgery was 93.1% + 10.0% for TPLO, 92.7% + 19.3% for TR, and 89.2% + 11.6% for TTA. Significantly (P = 0.016) more TPLO and TR cases were classified as reaching full function than TTA. The highest levels, frequency, and severity of pain were noted in TTA cases, however, no significant differences were noted among groups.

Conclusion

Long‐term outcomes for TPLO and TR were superior to TTA based on subjective client and DVM assessments. Each technique was associated with a high long‐term success rate with TR showing the highest safety‐to‐efficacy ratio.
The Use of Conjunctions in Cognitively Simple Versus Complex Oral L2 Tasks
Authors: Michel Marije C.
Published: February 2013

The present study explores the use of conjunctions in simple versus complex argumentative tasks performed by second language (L2) learners as a specific measure for the amount of reasoning involved in task performance. The Cognition Hypothesis (Robinson, 2005) states that an increase in cognitive task complexity promotes improvements in L2 performance. This effect should become particularly visible when task‐specific performance measures are used (Robinson & Gilabert, 2007). This article evaluates these claims by investigating the oral performance of 64 L2 learners on cognitively simple, as compared with cognitively complex, oral argumentative reasoning tasks. The analysis focuses first on the overall frequency and occurrence of conjunctions. Next, 5 conjunctions that are considered to be highly task‐relevant are examined more closely. Results are discussed in light of the speech production of 44 native speakers who performed the same tasks under the same conditions. The discussion addresses implications of the findings for the cognitive approach to task‐based L2 research in light of Robinson's (2005) Cognition Hypothesis. From the standpoint of research methodology it highlights the benefits of native speaker data as a baseline for comparison.
Analysing and mapping species range dynamics using occupancy models
Authors: Kéry Marc , Guillera‐Arroita Gurutzeta , Lahoz‐Monfort José J.
Published: February 2013

Aim

Our aims are: (1) to highlight the power of dynamic occupancy models for analysing species range dynamics while accounting for imperfect detection; (2) to emphasize the flexibility to model effects of environmental covariates in the dynamics parameters (extinction and colonization probability); and (3) to illustrate the development of predictive maps of range dynamics by projecting estimated probabilities of occupancy, local extinction and colonization.

Location

Switzerland.

Methods

We used data from the Swiss breeding bird survey to model the Swiss range dynamics of the European crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) from 2000 to 2007. Within‐season replicate surveys at each 1 km2 sample unit allowed us to fit dynamic occupancy models that account for imperfect detection, and thus estimate the following processes underlying the observed range dynamics: local extinction, colonization and detection. For comparison, we also fitted a model variant where detection was assumed to be perfect.

Results

All model parameters were affected by elevation, forest cover and elevation‐by‐forest cover interactions and exhibited substantial annual variation. Detection probability varied seasonally and among years, highlighting the need for its estimation. Projecting parameter estimates in environmental or geographical space is a powerful means of understanding what the model is telling about covariate relationships. Geographical maps were substantially different between the model where detection was estimated and that where it was not, emphasizing the importance of accounting for imperfect detection in studies of range dynamics, even for high‐quality data.

Main conclusions

The study of species range dynamics is among the most exciting avenues for species distribution modelling. Dynamic occupancy models offer a robust framework for doing so, by accounting for imperfect detection and directly modelling the effects of covariates on the parameters that govern distributional change. Mapping parameter estimates modelled by spatially indexed covariates is an under‐used way to gain insights into dynamic species distributions.
Selective sunscreen application on nevi: frequency and determinants of a wrong sun‐protective behaviour
Authors: Suppa M. , Argenziano G. , Moscarella E. , Hofmann‐Wellenhof R. , Thomas L. , Catricalà C. , Gutiérrez‐González E. , Fargnoli M.C. , Peris K. , Zalaudek I.
Published: February 2013

Background

Sunscreen use is generally recommended in order to prevent skin cancer but erroneous patterns of use were reported, including the selective application on melanocytic nevi.

Objective

To assess prevalence and determinants of selective sunscreen application on nevi and participants' behavioural risk profile overall.

Methods

A multilingual, dichotomous, funnel‐designed questionnaire about sun exposure/protection habits and perceived nevus count was administered to patients attending five Dermatology Departments in three countries (Italy, Austria and France). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine independent predictors of each answer.

Results

Among the 1816 subjects surveyed (59.3% females, age 14–90 (median 45) years, 44.7% Italians), 1273 (70.1%) reported intentional sun exposure and 1109/1273 (87.1%) reported sunscreen use. Among the latter, 1086 (97.9%) stated they have moles on their skin. Fifty‐one/1086 (4.7%) reported selective sunscreen application on nevi. Reported information sources were: dermatologist (49.0%), personal belief (31.4%), relative/friend (7.8%), media (7.8%), paediatrician (2.0%) and general practitioner (2.0%). Increasing age (P < 0.05) and being Italian (P < 0.001) were independent predictors of selective sunscreen application on nevi. Sun‐seeking behaviours were predicted by decreasing age, female sex and being Italian.

Conclusion

Selective sunscreen application on nevi was more common than expected. It is of concern that this was recommended mostly by physicians. There is a need to educate patients, non‐expert clinicians, media and the sunscreen industry on this matter. Tan patients presenting with halo nevi should be questioned about this behaviour in order to avoid false positive diagnoses.
Acidic deoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid induce interleukin‐8 production through p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase and protein kinase A in a squamous epithelial model
Authors: Shan Jing , Oshima Tadayuki , Fukui Hirokazu , Watari Jiro , Miwa Hiroto
Published: February 2013

Background and Aim

Immune‐mediated mucosal inflammation characterized by the production of interleukin (IL)‐8 is associated with the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The effects of bile acids, which are major components of reflux fluid, on the production of IL‐8 and related mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to address these questions using an esophageal stratified squamous epithelial model.

Methods

Normal human esophageal epithelial cells were seeded on the Transwell inserts and cultured with the air‐liquid interface system to establish the model. Bile acids under different pH conditions were added to the apical compartment to examine their effects on IL‐8 production and the underlying cellular signaling.

Results

Conjugated bile acids under a neutral or acidic condition did not induce IL‐8 production, and unconjugated bile acids, deoxycholic acid (DCA), and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) all significantly induced IL‐8 production, dose‐ and time‐dependently, only under weakly acid conditions. Inhibition of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and protein kinase A (PKA) attenuated the production of IL‐8 induced by acidic DCA and CDCA. Inhibition of PKA did not block the bile acid‐induced p38 MAPK activation.

Conclusions

Compared with conjugated bile acids, the unconjugated bile acids DCA and CDCA are more likely to induce IL‐8 production in vivo, especially under weakly acid conditions. This process involves two independent signaling pathways, p38 MAPK and PKA.
Comparison of periodontal destruction patterns among patients with and without the habit of smokeless tobacco use – a retrospective study
Authors: Anand P. S. , Kamath K. P. , Bansal A. , Dwivedi S. , Anil S.
Published: February 2013

Background and Objective

The effects of tobacco smoking on the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease have been well documented. However, very few studies have assessed the effects of oral smokeless tobacco (ST) on the periodontium. Considering the widespread use of ST products globally, the effects of such products on the periodontal tissues may be important. The present study was performed to compare retrospectively the patterns of periodontal destruction among oral ST users and never‐users with periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Data from 149 patients with periodontitis (60 ST users and 89 never‐users) were compared for mean scores of probing depth, recession (REC) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) and the mean percentage of sites with different ranges of probing depth, REC and CAL.

Results

For full‐mouth scores, mean REC and CAL were significantly higher in ST users than in never‐users (p < 0.001 and p = 0.008, respectively). For different regions of the dentition, mean scores of REC were significantly higher among ST users than among never‐users (p < 0.001 for all regions), and mean scores of CAL were significantly higher for ST users in mandibular (p < 0.001), buccal (p = 0.008), lingual (p = 0.022), anterior (p = 0.012) and molar (p = 0.009) sites. Generally, there were higher percentages of sites with shallow pockets (0–3 mm), REC of ≥ 1 mm and CAL of ≥ 3 mm in ST users than in never‐users. However, only differences for REC categories were significant for all regions (p < 0.001). ST users had a significantly higher proportion of sites with CAL of ≥8 mm for full‐mouth sites (p = 0.003), mandibular teeth (p < 0.001), buccal sites (p = 0.002), anterior teeth (p = 0.040) and molars (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

ST users tend to have more severe REC and CAL and a greater proportion of sites with higher values of REC and CAL compared with never‐users. The greatest increase in severity of CAL was found to be localized to sites on mandibular teeth, buccal surfaces, anteriors and molars, which may be a result of the retention of the ST product in the oral cavity.
Incremental shuttle walk test in the assessment of patients with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome
Authors: Billings Catherine G. , Aung Thida , Renshaw Stephen A. , Bianchi Stephen M.
Published: February 2013

Obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome is associated independently with an increase in cardiovascular risk factors and is associated with self‐reported lack of exercise. We aimed to investigate the utility of the incremental shuttle walk test in routine clinical practice to monitor physical capacity of patients with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome and explore whether continuous positive airway pressure therapy alters exercise capacity. Participants with symptomatic moderate/severe obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome attending for a trial of continuous positive airway pressure therapy completed questionnaires assessing sleepiness and physical activity and underwent an incremental shuttle walk test. Subjects compliant or partially compliant with continuous positive airway pressure therapy underwent reassessment at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months post‐initiation of therapy. Participants unable to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure therapy completed a single reassessment 6 months after their initial visit. Continuous positive airway pressure therapy resulted in an increased distance walked during the incremental shuttle walk test. Improvements in cardiovascular responses to exercise were identified. Compliant patients reported increased daily activity. The incremental shuttle walk test is a simple, reproducible and safe test that is responsive to continuous positive airway pressure treatment. Our findings support the use of the incremental shuttle walk test for monitoring the effects of continuous positive airway pressure treatment and may suggest its use in rehabilitation programmes designed to reduce obesity and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome.
Balancing genetic uniqueness and genetic variation in determining conservation and translocation strategies: a comprehensive case study of threatened dwarf galaxias, Galaxiella pusilla (Mack) (Pisces: Galaxiidae)
Authors: Coleman R. A. , Weeks A. R. , Hoffmann A. A.
Published: February 2013

Genetic markers are widely used to define and manage populations of threatened species based on the notion that populations with unique lineages of mtDNA and well‐differentiated nuclear marker frequencies should be treated separately. However, a danger of this approach is that genetic uniqueness might be emphasized at the cost of genetic diversity, which is essential for adaptation and is potentially boosted by mixing geographically separate populations. Here, we re‐explore the issue of defining management units, focussing on a detailed study of Galaxiella pusilla, a small freshwater fish of national conservation significance in Australia. Using a combination of microsatellite and mitochondrial markers, 51 populations across the species range were surveyed for genetic structure and diversity. We found an inverse relationship between genetic differentiation and genetic diversity, highlighting a long‐term risk of deliberate isolation of G. pusilla populations based on protection of unique lineages. Instead, we adopt a method for identifying genetic management units that takes into consideration both uniqueness and genetic variation. This produced a management framework to guide future translocation and re‐introduction efforts for G. pusilla, which contrasted to the framework based on a more traditional approach that may overlook important genetic variation in populations.
Large‐scale characterization of drought pattern: a continent‐wide modelling approach applied to the Australian wheatbelt – spatial and temporal trends
Authors: Chenu Karine , Deihimfard Reza , Chapman Scott C.
Published: February 2013

Plant response to drought is complex, so that traits adapted to a specific drought type can confer disadvantage in another drought type. Understanding which type(s) of drought to target is of prime importance for crop improvement.

Modelling was used to quantify seasonal drought patterns for a check variety across the Australian wheatbelt, using 123 yr of weather data for representative locations and managements. Two other genotypes were used to simulate the impact of maturity on drought pattern.

Four major environment types summarized the variability in drought pattern over time and space. Severe stress beginning before flowering was common (44% of occurrences), with (24%) or without (20%) relief during grain filling. High variability occurred from year to year, differing with geographical region. With few exceptions, all four environment types occurred in most seasons, for each location, management system and genotype.

Applications of such environment characterization are proposed to assist breeding and research to focus on germplasm, traits and genes of interest for target environments. The method was applied at a continental scale to highly variable environments and could be extended to other crops, to other drought‐prone regions around the world, and to quantify potential changes in drought patterns under future climates.
Optimization of Hexadecylpyridinium Chloride Decontamination for Culture of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis from Milk
Authors: Bradner L. , Robbe-Austerman S. , Beitz D. C. , Stabel J. R.
Published: February 2013

A protocol was optimized for the isolation ofMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis(MAP) from milk and colostrum, with parameters including chemical decontamination, antibiotics, and different culture media. This study demonstrates that the efficiency of MAP recovery from milk is highly dependent upon the culturing protocol, and such protocols should be optimized to ensure that low concentrations of MAP in milk can be detected.
Magnetic Bead Protocol for Culturing Mycobacterium tuberculosis from Sputum Specimens
Authors: Ghodbane Ramzi , Drancourt Michel
Published: February 2013

A magnetic bead protocol and a standard centrifugation protocol yielded
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
in 40/50 sputum specimens in 12 ± 1 days and 11 ± 2 days, respectively (
P
> 0.05 by Student's
t
test). Manipulation took 35 ± 5 min and 45 ± 10 min, respectively (
P
< 0.05). The magnetic bead protocol could advantageously replace centrifugation for culturing
M. tuberculosis
from sputum.
ORF11 Protein Interacts with the ORF9 Essential Tegument Protein in Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection
Authors: Che Xibing , Oliver Stefan L. , Reichelt Mike , Sommer Marvin H. , Haas Jürgen , Roviš Tihana L. , Arvin Ann M.
Published: February 2013

The tegument proteins encoded by ORF11 and ORF9 of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) are conserved among all alphaherpesvirus. We previously demonstrated that the ORF9 gene is essential, whereas ORF11 is dispensable
in vitro
but its deletion severely impairs VZV infection of skin xenografts in the SCID mouse model
in vivo
. Here we report that ORF11 protein interacts with ORF9 protein in infected cells as well as in the absence of other viral proteins, and we have mapped the ORF11 protein domain involved in their interaction. Although ORF11 is an RNA binding protein, the interaction between ORF11 and ORF9 proteins was not mediated by RNA or DNA bridging. VZV recombinants with mutations preventing ORF11 protein binding to ORF9 protein had no effect on 6-day growth kinetics based on plaque numbers, but plaque sizes were reduced
in vitro
. However, disruption of the ORF11 and ORF9 protein interaction was associated with failure to replicate in skin xenografts
in vivo
. Further, we demonstrate that in the absence of their interaction, the ORF9 protein displays an identical cellular localization, accumulating in the
trans
-Golgi region, whereas the ORF11 protein exhibits aberrant localization, dispersing throughout the cytoplasm. Overall, our observations suggest that while complete tegument assembly may not be necessary for VZV replication
in vitro
, the interaction between the ORF11 and ORF9 proteins appears to be critical for the proper localization of ORF11 protein to the assembly complex and for production of infectious virus during VZV pathogenesis in skin.
Construction and Characterization of an Infectious Molecular Clone of Koala Retrovirus
Authors: Shojima Takayuki , Hoshino Shigeki , Abe Masumi , Yasuda Jiro , Shogen Hiroko , Kobayashi Takeshi , Miyazawa Takayuki
Published: February 2013

Koala retrovirus (KoRV) is a gammaretrovirus that is currently endogenizing into koalas. Studies on KoRV infection have been hampered by the lack of a replication-competent molecular clone. In this study, we constructed an infectious molecular clone, termed plasmid pKoRV522, of a KoRV isolate (strain Aki) from a koala reared in a Japanese zoo. The virus KoRV522, derived from pKoRV522, grew efficiently in human embryonic kidney (HEK293T) cells, attaining 10
6
focus-forming units/ml. Several mutations in the Gag (L domain) and Env regions reported to be involved in reduction in viral infection/production
in vitro
are found in pKoRV522, yet KoRV522 replicated well, suggesting that any effects of these mutations are limited. Indeed, a reporter virus pseudotyped with pKoRV522 Env was found to infect human, feline, and mink cell lines efficiently. Analyses of KoRV L-domain mutants showed that an additional PPXY sequence, PPPY, in Gag plays a critical role in KoRV budding. Altogether, our results demonstrate the construction and characterization of the first infectious molecular clone of KoRV. The infectious clone reported here will be useful for elucidating the mechanism of endogenization of the virus in koalas and screening for antiretroviral drugs for KoRV-infected koalas.
Genetic Screen of a Library of Chimeric Poxviruses Identifies an Ankyrin Repeat Protein Involved in Resistance to the Avian Type I Interferon Response
Authors: Buttigieg Karen , Laidlaw Stephen M. , Ross Craig , Davies Marc , Goodbourn Stephen , Skinner Michael A.
Published: February 2013

Viruses must be able to resist host innate responses, especially the type I interferon (IFN) response. They do so by preventing the induction or activity of IFN and/or by resisting the antiviral effectors that it induces. Poxviruses are no exception, with many mechanisms identified whereby mammalian poxviruses, notably, vaccinia virus (VACV), but also cowpox and myxoma viruses, are able to evade host IFN responses. Similar mechanisms have not been described for avian poxviruses (avipoxviruses). Restricted for permissive replication to avian hosts, they have received less attention; moreover, the avian host responses are less well characterized. We show that the prototypic avipoxvirus, fowlpox virus (FWPV), is highly resistant to the antiviral effects of avian IFN. A gain-of-function genetic screen identified
fpv014
to contribute to increased resistance to exogenous recombinant chicken alpha IFN (ChIFN1).
fpv014
is a member of the large family of poxvirus (especially avipoxvirus) genes that encode proteins containing N-terminal ankyrin repeats (ANKs) and C-terminal F-box-like motifs. By binding the Skp1/cullin-1 complex, the F box in such proteins appears to target ligands bound by the ANKs for ubiquitination. Mass spectrometry and immunoblotting demonstrated that tandem affinity-purified, tagged fpv014 was complexed with chicken cullin-1 and Skp1. Prior infection with an
fpv014
-knockout mutant of FWPV still blocked transfected poly(I·C)-mediated induction of the beta IFN (ChIFN2) promoter as effectively as parental FWPV, but the mutant was more sensitive to exogenous ChIFN1. Therefore, unlike the related protein fpv012, fpv014 does not contribute to the FWPV block to induction of ChIFN2 but does confer resistance to an established antiviral state.
Wildlife-mitigated precommercial thinning maintains the abundance of fruit shrubs in a boreal forest
Authors: Major Mélanie , Desrochers André
Published: February 2013

In boreal forests, fruits are an abundant resource in late summer and benefit many wildlife species. Fruits are mainly found in early successional stands, which are often subject to precommercial thinning designed to increase diameter growth of residual trees and manage stand species composition. Concerns about the consequences of precommercial thinning on wildlife have led to various methods of precommercial thinning with mitigation for wildlife. In summers 2007 and 2008, we examined the impact of wildlife-mitigated thinning on fruit shrub abundance and distribution at the Forêt Montmorency, Quebec. The abundance of fruit shrubs of all species except Amelanchier was similar in thinned and control stands but was highly variable among individual stands. Amelanchier shrubs appeared to benefit from thinning, especially 10 to 20 years after clearcutting. Fruit shrubs were highly clustered within early successional stands, but less so after thinning. We conclude that wildlife-mitigated precommercial thinning does not reduce access to fruits for birds and other frugivores and may even facilitate it in eastern Canadian boreal forests.
Dynamics of tracheal compression in the horned passalus beetle
Authors: Waters James S. , Lee Wah-Keat , Westneat Mark W. , Socha John J.
Published: February 2013

Rhythmic patterns of compression and reinflation of the thin-walled hollow tubes of the insect tracheal system have been observed in a number of insects. These movements may be important for facilitating the transport and exchange of respiratory gases, but observing and characterizing the dynamics of internal physiological systems within live insects can be challenging due to their size and exoskeleton. Using synchrotron X-ray phase-contrast imaging, we observed dynamical behavior in the tracheal system of the beetle, Odontotaenius disjunctus. Similar to observations of tracheal compression in other insects, specific regions of tracheae in the thorax of O. disjunctus exhibit rhythmic collapse and reinflation. During tracheal compression, the opposing sides of a tracheal tube converge, causing the effective diameter of the tube to decrease. However, a unique characteristic of tracheal compression in this species is that certain tracheae collapse and reinflate with a wavelike motion. In the dorsal cephalic tracheae, compression begins anteriorly and continues until the tube is uniformly flattened; reinflation takes place in the reverse direction, starting with the posterior end of the tube and continuing until the tube is fully reinflated. We report the detailed kinematics of this pattern as well as additional observations that show tracheal compression coordinated with spiracle opening and closing. These findings suggest that tracheal compression may function to drive flow within the body, facilitating internal mixing of respiratory gases and ventilation of distal regions of the tracheal system.