bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Identification and Evolution of HECT Genes in Soybean
Authors: Meng Xianwen , Wang Chen , Rahman Siddiq , Wang Yaxu , Wang Ailan , Tao Shiheng
Published: April 2015

Proteins containing domains homologous to the E6-associated protein (E6-AP) carboxyl terminus (HECT) are an important class of E3 ubiquitin ligases involved in the ubiquitin proteasome pathway. HECT-type E3s play crucial roles in plant growth and development. However, current understanding of plant HECT genes and their evolution is very limited. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis of the HECT domain-containing genes in soybean. Using high-quality genome sequences, we identified 19 soybean HECT genes. The predicted HECT genes were distributed unevenly across 15 of 20 chromosomes. Nineteen of these genes were inferred to be segmentally duplicated gene pairs, suggesting that in soybean, segmental duplications have made a significant contribution to the expansion of the HECT gene family. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these HECT genes can be divided into seven groups, among which gene structure and domain architecture was relatively well-conserved. The Ka/Ks ratios show that after the duplication events, duplicated HECT genes underwent purifying selection. Moreover, expression analysis reveals that 15 of the HECT genes in soybean are differentially expressed in 14 tissues, and are often highly expressed in the flowers and roots. In summary, this work provides useful information on which further functional studies of soybean HECT genes can be based.
VEGFR-1 Overexpression Identifies a Small Subgroup of Aggressive Prostate Cancers in Patients Treated by Prostatectomy
Authors: Tsourlakis Maria , Khosrawi Puya , Weigand Philipp , Kluth Martina , Hube-Magg Claudia , Minner Sarah , Koop Christina , Graefen Markus , Heinzer Hans , Wittmer Corinna , Sauter Guido , Krech Till , Wilczak Waldemar , Huland Hartwig , Simon Ronald , Schlomm Thorsten , Steurer Stefan
Published: April 2015

The VEGFR-1 is suggested to promote tumor progression. In the current study we analyzed prevalence and prognostic impact of the VEGFR-1 by immunohistochemistry on a tissue microarray containing more than 3000 prostate cancer specimens. Results were compared to tumor phenotype, ETS-related gene (ERG) status, and biochemical recurrence. Membranous VEGFR-1 expression was detectable in 32.6% of 2669 interpretable cancers and considered strong in 1.7%, moderate in 6.7% and weak in 24.2% of cases. Strong VEGFR-1 expression was associated with TMPRSS2:ERG fusion status as determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemistry (p < 0.0001 each). Elevated VEGFR-1 expression was linked to high Gleason grade and advanced pT stage in TMPRSS2:ERG negative cancers (p = 0.0008 and p = 0.001), while these associations were absent in TMPRSS2:ERG positive cancers. VEGFR-1 expression was also linked to phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) deletions. A comparison with prostate specific antigen (PSA) recurrence revealed that the 1.7% of prostate cancers with the highest VEGFR-1 levels had a strikingly unfavorable prognosis. This could be seen in all cancers, in the subsets of TMPRSS2:ERG positive or negative, PTEN deleted or undeleted carcinomas (p < 0.0001 each). High level VEGFR-1 expression is infrequent in prostate cancer, but identifies a subgroup of aggressive cancers, which may be candidates for anti-VEGFR-1 targeted therapy.
Tissue-Specific Immune Gene Expression in the Migratory Locust, Locusta Migratoria
Authors: Pulpitel Tamara , Pernice Mathieu , Simpson Stephen , Ponton Fleur
Published: April 2015

The ability of hosts to respond to infection involves several complex immune recognition pathways. Broadly conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) allow individuals to target a range of invading microbes. Recently, studies on insect innate immunity have found evidence that a single pathogen can activate different immune pathways across species. In this study, expression changes in immune genes encoding peptidoglycan-recognition protein SA (PGRP-SA), gram-negative binding protein 1 (GNBP1) and prophenoloxidase (ProPO) were investigated in Locusta migratoria, following an immune challenge using injected lipopolysaccharide (LPS) solution from Escherichia coli. Since immune activation might also be tissue-specific, gene expression levels were followed across a range of tissue types. For PGRP-SA, expression increased in response to LPS within all seven of the tissue-types assayed and differed significantly between tissues. Expression of GNBP1 similarly varied across tissue types, yet showed no clear expression difference between LPS-injected and uninfected locusts. Increases in ProPO expression in response to LPS, however, could only be detected in the gut sections. This study has revealed tissue-specific immune response to add a new level of complexity to insect immune studies. In addition to variation in recognition pathways identified in previous works, tissue-specificity should be carefully considered in similar works.
How Does Dissipation Affect the Transition from Static to Dynamic Macroscopic Friction?
Authors: Gershenzon Naum , Bambakidis Gust , Skinner Thomas
Published: April 2015

Description of the transitional process from a static to a dynamic frictional regime is a fundamental problem of modern physics. Previously, we developed a model based on the well-known Frenkel-Kontorova model to describe dry macroscopic friction. Here, this model has been modified to include the effect of dissipation in derived relations between the kinematic and dynamic parameters of a transition process. The main (somewhat counterintuitive) result is a demonstration that the rupture (i.e., detachment front) velocity of the slip pulse which arises during the transition does not depend on friction. The only parameter (besides the elastic and plastic properties of the medium) controlling the rupture velocity is the shear to normal stress ratio. In contrast to the rupture velocity, the slip velocity does depend on friction. The model we have developed describes these processes over a wide range of rupture and slip velocities (up to 7 orders of magnitude) allowing, in particular, the consideration of seismic events ranging from regular earthquakes, with rupture velocities on the order of a few km/s, to slow slip events, with rupture velocities of a few km/day.
Phytochemicals and Estrogen-Receptor Agonists from the Aerial Parts of Liriope platyphylla
Authors: Tsai Yu-Chi , Hsu Chia-Chun , El-Shazly Mohamed , Chiang Shang-Yu , Wu Chau-Chung , Wu Chin-Chung , Lai Wan-Chun , Yen Ming-Hong , Wu Yang-Chang , Chang Fang-Rong
Published: April 2015

One new benzofuran, (2R)-(2',4'-dihydroxybenzyl)-6,7-methylenedioxy-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran (1), one new phenylisocoumarin, 3-(2'-hydroxyphenyl)-6,8-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-isocoumarin (2), and one new benzofuroisocoumarin, platyphyllarin C (3), were isolated from the ethanolic extract of Liriope platyphylla aerial parts, along with seventeen known compounds. The structures of the isolates were established by spectroscopic analysis and comparison with the literature data. The results indicated that structures 1–3 are uncommon in Nature. Benzofuroisocoumarin 4, flavonoids 9, 10, and 13–15, and homoisoflavonoids 19 and 20 exhibited significant binding activity to estrogen-receptor α and/or β as demonstrated by the SEAP reporter assay system in an MCF-7 cell-line.
Efficient Synthesis of Readily Water-Soluble Sulfonic Acid Carbamates
Authors: Idzik Krzysztof , Nödler Karsten , Licha Tobias
Published: April 2015

A series of various readily water-soluble carbamates were synthesized with good yields. These compounds are useful chemical tracers for assessing the cooling progress in a georeservoir during geothermal power plant operation. Acylation of primary amines was carried out as well as using a solution of sodium bicarbonate and without the presence of salt. Products were characterized by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR. Purity was confirmed through elemental analysis.
Simultaneous Quantification of Diazepam and Dexamethasone in Plasma by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Its Application to a Pharmacokinetic Comparison between Normoxic and Hypoxic Rats
Authors: Gong Wenwen , Liu Shuhong , Xu Pingxiang , Fan Ming , Xue Ming
Published: April 2015

In order to investigate the pharmacokinetics of a combination of diazepam and dexamethasone under hypoxic conditions, a novel, sensitive and specific liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous determination of diazepam and dexamethasone in rat plasma was developed and validated. The chromatographic separation of analytes was successfully achieved on an XTerra® MS C18 column using a gradient elution of methanol and water containing 0.1% formic acid at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. This method demonstrated good linearity and no endogenous material interferences. The linear ranges were 1.0–100 ng/mL for diazepam and 2.0–200 ng/mL for dexamethasone. The intra- and inter-day precision for the two compounds in plasma were lower than 10.0%, and the accuracy was between −7.9% and 11.5%. Our method was then successfully applied in a pharmacokinetic comparison between normoxic and hypoxic rats. The results indicated that there were significant differences in the main pharmacokinetics parameters of diazepam and dexamethasone between normoxic and hypoxic rats. The results provide the important and valuable information for discovering and developing novel anti-hypoxia drug combinations, as well as a better understanding of the safety and efficacy of these drugs.
Discovery of Metal Ions Chelator Quercetin Derivatives with Potent Anti-HCV Activities
Authors: Zhong Dongwei , Liu Mingming , Cao Yang , Zhu Yelin , Bian Shihui , Zhou Jiayi , Wu Fengjie , Ryu Kum-Chol , Zhou Lu , Ye Deyong
Published: April 2015

Analogues or isosteres of α,γ-diketoacid (DKA) 1a show potent inhibition of hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B polymerase through chelation of the two magnesium ions at the active site. The anti-HCV activity of the flavonoid quercetin (2) could partly be attributed to it being a structural mimic of DKAs. In order to delineate the structural features required for the inhibitory effect and improve the anti-HCV potency, two novel types of quercetin analogues, 7-O-arylmethylquercetins and quercetin-3-O-benzoic acid esters, were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their anti-HCV properties in cell-based assays. Among the 38 newly synthesized compounds, 7-O-substituted derivative 3i and 3-O-substituted derivative 4f were found to be the most active in the corresponding series (EC50 = 3.8 μM and 9.0 μΜ, respectively). Docking studies suggested that the quercetin analogues are capable of establishing key coordination with the two magnesium ions as well as interactions with residues at the active site of HCV NS5B.
Analysis of Geometric Primitives in Quantitative Structure Models of Tree Stems
Authors: Markku Åkerblom , Raumonen Pasi , Kaasalainen Mikko , Casella Eric
Published: April 2015

One way to model a tree is to use a collection of geometric primitives to represent the surface and topology of the stem and branches of a tree. The circular cylinder is often used as the geometric primitive, but it is not the only possible choice. We investigate various geometric primitives and modelling schemes, discuss their properties and give practical estimates for expected modelling errors associated with the primitives. We find that the circular cylinder is the most robust primitive in the sense of a well-bounded volumetric modelling error, even with noise and gaps in the data. Its use does not cause errors significantly larger than those with more complex primitives, while the latter are much more sensitive to data quality. However, in some cases, a hybrid approach with more complex primitives for the stem is useful.
Operational Safety Assessment of Turbo Generators with Wavelet Rényi Entropy from Sensor-Dependent Vibration Signals
Authors: Zhang Xiaoli , Wang Baojian , Chen Xuefeng
Published: April 2015

With the rapid development of sensor technology, various professional sensors are installed on modern machinery to monitor operational processes and assure operational safety, which play an important role in industry and society. In this work a new operational safety assessment approach with wavelet Rényi entropy utilizing sensor-dependent vibration signals is proposed. On the basis of a professional sensor and the corresponding system, sensor-dependent vibration signals are acquired and analyzed by a second generation wavelet package, which reflects time-varying operational characteristic of individual machinery. Derived from the sensor-dependent signals’ wavelet energy distribution over the observed signal frequency range, wavelet Rényi entropy is defined to compute the operational uncertainty of a turbo generator, which is then associated with its operational safety degree. The proposed method is applied in a 50 MW turbo generator, whereupon it is proved to be reasonable and effective for operation and maintenance.
Ultra-High Sensitivity Zinc Oxide Nanocombs for On-Chip Room Temperature Carbon Monoxide Sensing
Authors: Pan Xiaofang , Zhao Xiaojin
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we report an on-chip gas sensor based on novel zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocombs for carbon monoxide (CO) sensing. With ZnO gas sensing nanocombs fully integrated on a single silicon chip, the concept of low cost complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) microsensor capable of on-chip gas sensing and processing is enabled. Compared with all previous implementations, the proposed ZnO nanocombs feature much larger effective sensing area and exhibit ultra-high sensitivity even at the room temperature. Specifically, at room temperature, we demonstrate peak sensitivities as high as 7.22 and 8.93 for CO concentrations of 250 ppm and 500 ppm, respectively. As a result, by operating the proposed ZnO-nanocomb-based gas sensor at the room temperature, the widely adopted power consuming heating components are completely removed. This leads to not only great power saving, but also full compatibility between the gas sensor and the on-chip circuitry in term of acceptable operating temperature. In addition, the reported fast response/recovery time of ~200 s/~50 s (250 ppm CO) makes it well suited to real-life applications.
A Reliable and Simple Method for Fabricating a Poly(Dimethylsiloxane) Electrospray Ionization Chip with a Corner-Integrated Emitter
Authors: Qian Xiang , Xu Jie , Yu Cilong , Chen Yan , Yu Quan , Ni Kai , Wang Xiaohao
Published: April 2015

Monolithically integrated emitters have been increasingly applied to microfluidic devices that are coupled to mass spectrometers (MS) as electrospray ionization sources (ESI). A new method was developed to fabricate a duplicable structure which integrated the emitter into a poly(dimethylsiloxane) chip corner. Two photoresist layers containing a raised base which guaranteed the precise integration of the electrospray tip emitter and ensured that the cutting out of the tip exerted no influence even during repeated prototyping were used to ease the operation of the process. Highly stable ESI-MS performance was obtained and the results were compared with those of a commercial fused-silica capillary source. Furthermore, chip-to-chip and run-to-run results indicated both reliability and reproducibility during repeated fabrication. These results reveal that the proposed chip can provide an ideal ion source for MS across many applications, especially with the perspective to be widely used in portable MS during on-site analysis.
Assessing Green Development Efficiency of Municipalities and Provinces in China Integrating Models of Super-Efficiency DEA and Malmquist Index
Authors: Yang Qing , Wan Xingzi , Ma Huimin
Published: April 2015

In order to realize economic and social green development, to pave a pathway towards China’s green regional development and develop effective scientific policy to assist in building green cities and countries, it is necessary to put forward a relatively accurate, scientific and concise green assessment method. The research uses the CCR (A. Charnes & W. W. Cooper & E. Rhodes) Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model to obtain the green development frontier surface based on 31 regions’ annual cross-section data from 2008–2012. Furthermore, in order to classify the regions whereby assessment values equal to 1 in the CCR model, we chose the Super-Efficiency DEA model for further sorting. Meanwhile, according to the five-year panel data, the green development efficiency changes of 31 regions can be manifested by the Malmquist index. Finally, the study assesses the reasons for regional differences; while analyzing and discussing the results may allude to a superior green development pathway for China.
Zero-Acreage Farming in the City of Berlin: An Aggregated Stakeholder Perspective on Potential Benefits and Challenges
Authors: Specht Kathrin , Siebert Rosemarie , Thomaier Susanne , Freisinger Ulf , Sawicka Magdalena , Dierich Axel , Henckel Dietrich , Busse Maria
Published: April 2015

How can buildings be combined with agricultural production and what are the major potential benefits and challenges for the introduction of zero-acreage farming (ZFarming) in Berlin from the relevant stakeholders’ perspectives? These questions were explored through a series of interviews and stakeholder workshops held between 2011 and 2013. The aim was to identify the most suitable building-integrated farming model for the Berlin metropolitan area and to develop guidelines for the model’s successful and sustainable implementation through a stakeholder-driven approach. This paper provides an aggregated synthesis of the outcomes derived from the qualitative interviews and stakeholder workshops. As the results reveal, the stakeholders perceive potential benefits and challenges related to the issue of ZFarming in all dimensions (economic, social, environmental and political). They largely agreed on the importance of focusing on local resources, using energy-efficient production—including social and educational aspects—and developing new market structures when introducing ZFarming to the city of Berlin. The stakeholders identified urban rooftop greenhouses (RTG) as the most promising farming model for Berlin. In a joint collaboration of all stakeholders, a manual for RTG was developed within the participatory innovation process that addresses the identified problems and challenges associated with future implementation and governance of RTG in Berlin and beyond.
Raltegravir plus Two Nucleoside Analogues as Combination Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV-Infected Patients who Require Cancer Chemotherapy
Authors: Casado José L , Machuca Isabel , Bañón Sara , Moreno Ana , Moltó José , Rodriguez Miguel A
Published: April 2015

Background

There are few data on the best combination antiretroviral therapy in patients with HIV infection who need cancer chemotherapy because of drug–drug interactions and increased risk of toxic effects.

Methods

We evaluated the safety, efficacy and interactions of a raltegravir (RAL)-based regimen in 30 HIV-infected patients who received antineoplastic agents.

Results

A total of 17 patients had a non-AIDS-defining malignancy (7 with Hodgkin disease) and 13 had an HIV-related cancer (9 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, 2 Kaposi sarcoma and 2 anal cancer). Overall, they received 49 cycles of chemotherapy with 19 different antineoplastic drugs, including antimetabolites in 4 patients (5-FU, gemcitabine), alkylating agents in 10 cases (cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide), vinca alkaloids in 17 patients (vincristine, vinblastine), anti-tumour antibiotics in 18 cases (doxorubicin), cisplatin or carboplatin in 6, and monoclonal antibodies in 13 patients (rituximab, trastuzumab, cetuximab). Six patients modified the doses of antineoplastic agents due to toxicity not related to raltegravir. During a median follow-up of 67.8 patient-years (median 170 days in concomitant therapy) there was only 1 case of virological failure and no patient discontinued RAL. Geometric mean trough levels of RAL were 143 ng/ml (79–455). There were no opportunistic infections, median CD4+ T-cell count increased by 49 cells/ml and four (13%) patients died during the study (not related to AIDS progression).

Conclusions

Our results show that a RAL-based regimen is safe and effective in patients requiring chemotherapy, irrespective of type and of duration of chemotherapy.
Criminalisation, israélisation et couleur de peau. Les demandeurs d’asile africains en Israël
Authors: Anteby-Yemini Lisa
Published: April 2015

L’article examine la situation des demandeurs d’asile africains, venus d’Érythrée ou du Soudan, qui ont commencé à arriver massivement en Israël à partir de 2007 en traversant clandestinement la frontière israélo-égyptienne. En réaction à cette migration non juive, l’état d’Israël a resserré ses frontières géographiques et politiques, alors que ces demandeurs d’asile participent de manière croissante à l’économie et la société israélienne. Cet article se propose en outre d’examiner les relations entre les Éthiopiens-Israéliens et les demandeurs d’asile africains qui défient des questions de racialisation, d’appartenance et de catégorisation de migrants.
Décision prénatale de prise en charge palliative
Authors: Moriette Guy
Published: April 2015

Pour certains nouveau-nés, décider avant la naissance d’une prise en charge palliative au nom du refus de l’obstination déraisonnable s’inscrit pleinement dans l’approche de la fin de vie introduite en 2005 par la loi Leonetti. Cependant, les conséquences d’une telle décision ne seront pas les mêmes selon la situation considérée – naissance aux limites de la viabilité ou fœtus présentant des malformations ou des anomalies génétiques « d’une particulière gravité ».
Le rapport à l’école des familles déclarant une origine immigrée : enquête dans quatre lycées de la banlieue populaire
Authors: Ichou Mathieu , Oberti Marco
Published: April 2015

Cet article propose une analyse empirique du rapport à l’école des familles immigrées résidant dans des communes populaires de la périphérie parisienne. Les résultats se fondent sur l’analyse multivariée d’une enquête par questionnaires (N = 1 191) ainsi que sur l’exploitation d’entretiens semi-directifs réalisés auprès des parents des élèves de quatre lycées du département de Seine-Saint-Denis. Nous montrons que l’origine migratoire fait des différences dans le rapport à l’école. C’est en particulier le cas pour la plus forte entraide éducative locale et les plus hautes aspirations scolaires des parents immigrés par rapport aux parents natifs de mêmes milieux sociaux résidant dans les mêmes quartiers. Parmi les familles immigrées, ce sont les parents originaires de Turquie et d’Asie pour qui le rapport à l’école diffère le plus de celui des parents natifs. Les premières ont davantage recours à l’entraide éducative de proximité, alors que les secondes sont caractérisées par des aspirations scolaires nettement plus élevées. Ces résultats militent pour une analyse plus systématique des caractéristiques et des expériences des migrants dans le pays d’origine pour éclairer leurs trajectoires et attitudes dans le pays d’immigration.
Comprendre le travail de soins à l’hôpital
Authors: Seferdjeli Laurence , Terraneo Fabienne
Published: April 2015

Dans un contexte où les institutions sanitaires ont une obligation de transparence tant vis-à-vis des autorités que de leurs patients, le management de la qualité et l’introduction de « bonnes pratiques » définies selon des standards scientifiques sont devenus une préoccupation majeure pour la gestion interne des établissements. Or, si les protocoles et prescriptions sont indispensables à l’orientation du travail, ils ne s’appliquent pas tout seuls. Ces divers documents, du fait qu’ils présentent des descriptions standardisées et stabilisées du travail, contribuent à masquer ce que tout travailleur met effectivement en œuvre pour accomplir sa tâche dans des situations instables, variables, dans lesquelles il faut faire tenir ensemble une diversité d’éléments parfois contradictoires. C’est ce que nous enseigne le courant d’ergonomie de langue française sur lequel nous nous appuyons, qui prend au sérieux l’écart irréductible entre le « travail prescrit » et le « travail réel ». La compréhension du travail issue de la recherche s’en trouve ainsi mieux ajustée aux réalités professionnelles et devient une ressource pour la formation de futures professionnelles. Par le biais de trois études menées en analyse du travail par notre équipe en milieu hospitalier, nous approfondirons ces notions et leurs implications pour la pratique et la formation.
Anatomical study of anterior supramalleolar artery and its potential application to design a bi-foliate fasciocutaneous flap
Authors: He Ji-Yin , Chen Shih-Heng , Kumar Kannan Karuppiah , Fan Zhi-Hong , Lao Jie , Tien Huey
Published: April 2015

Purpose: A further understanding of the anterior supramalleolar artery (ASMA) and its potential applications in reconstructive surgery. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 fresh lower limbs from fresh cadavers were injected with red latex for dissection. The type of origin, course, diameter of the pedicle, and the distance between the origin of the ASMA from the anterior tibial artery to the extensor retinaculum (O-R) were recorded. Bi-foliate fasciocutaneous flaps were harvested using the branches of the ASMA. Results: We found four types of origin of the ASMA, and we have accordingly classified them into four types. 10 of them were type A, 7 were type B, 6 were type C and 1 was type D. The mean O-R (origin of ASMA to retinaculum) distance was 2.0 ± 0.8 cm. The diameter of the medial branch (D1), the diameter of the lateral branch (D2), and the diameter of artery stem (D3) (only in type A) were 1.0 ± 0.2 mm, 0.8 ± 0.3 mm, 1.1 ± 0.2 mm, respectively. The mean pedicle length of the lateral flap (L1) and medial flap (L2) were 5.1 ± 1.0 cm and 3.7 ± 0.6 cm, respectively. Conclusions: The ASMA exists constantly with four different types of origin. Its sizable diameter and lengthy pedicle make it suitable for bi-foliate fasciocutaneous flap transfer.
Effects of limited access dressing in chronic wounds: A biochemical and histological study
Authors: Honnegowda Thittamaranahalli Muguregowda , Kumar Pramod , Udupa E G Padmanabha , Sharan Anurag , Singh Rekha , Prasad Hemanth K. , Rao Pragna
Published: April 2015

Background: Negative pressure wound therapy has emerged as an attractive treatment modality for the management and healing of chronic ulcers. Though numerous clinical studies are available, there is a lack of biochemical and histological studies evaluating the healing of chronic wounds. Materials and Methods: In the present study, a total 60 patients were divided into two groups: Limited access dressing (LAD) group (n = 30) and conventional dressing group (n = 30). Various biochemical parameters such as hydroxyproline, total protein and antioxidants such as reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) and oxidative biomarker malondialdhyde (MDA) are measured in the granulation tissue. Histologically amount of inflammatory infiltrate, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition are studied to assess wound healing. Results: Patients treated with LAD have shown significant increase in the mean (±standard deviation) hydroxyproline (77.3 ± 30.1 vs. 32.3 ± 16.18; P = 0.026), total protein (13.89 ± 9.0 vs. 8.9 ± 4.59; P = 0.004), GSH (7.4 ± 1.91 vs. 5.1 ± 1.28; P = 0.039), GPx (122.3 ± 59.3 vs. 88.7 ± 34.11; P = 0.030), CAT (1.80 ± 1.14 vs. 0.9 ± 0.71; P = 0.002) and decrease in MDA (13.4 ± 5.5 vs. 8.6 ± 3.8; P = 0.004). Histological study showed comparatively fewer inflammatory cells, increased and well organised collagen bundles, and more angiogenesis in the LAD group when compared with that with conventional dressing after 10 days of treatment. Conclusion: In the present study, we have found beneficial effect of newer intermittent negative pressure therapy in combination with moist environment (LAD) on chronic wound healing by increasing collagen deposition and angiogenesis; and reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory infiltrate.
Role of platelet-rich plasma in chronic alopecia areata: Our centre experience
Authors: Singh Sukhbir
Published: April 2015

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of chronic alopecia areata (AA). Material and Methods: This is a prospective study that was conducted at Kamal Hospital, Kaushambi in which 20 patients who attended the outpatient department were enrolled for the study. All the patients had h/o patches and taken various line of treatments for a duration of 2 years. All the patients were biopsy-proven positive for AA disease. There was no randomisation done since all of them were healthy young adults. The patients′age ranged from 25 to 35 years, and none of them had any co-morbidities. Results: Of 20 patients, only one patient had a relapse. None of the patients had any side effects, and all of them tolerated the procedure well. Conclusion: We wish to conclude that PRP has a definite role in treating AA infections. However, still more long-term follow-up, studies are required for further validation of results and labelling it as a 100% cure for people suffering from AA with recurrences which are so common.
Successful pregnancy “during” pedicled transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap for breast reconstruction with normal vaginal delivery
Authors: Chai Siew Cheng , Umayaal Shahlini , Saad Arman Zaharil Mat
Published: April 2015

A transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap is a popular choice for breast reconstruction. Pregnancies in women following a TRAM flap present concerns regarding both safety and the integrity of the abdominal wall. We report a case of a patient who was pregnant during immediate breast reconstruction with pedicled TRAM flap and had a successful spontaneous vaginal delivery. We also conducted a literature review using PubMed on pregnancy post TRAM flap, type of reconstruction, timing of pregnancy after TRAM flap, complication, and mode of delivery, which are summarised in this report. We concluded that patients may have safe pregnancies and normal deliveries following TRAM flap breast reconstruction regardless of the time frame of pregnancy after the procedure. Therefore, TRAM flaps can continue to be a reconstruction option, even in women of childbearing age.
Sarcoidosis presenting as acute pancreatitis
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Rana Surinder S. , Chaudhary Vinita , Sharma Ravi K. , Nahar Uma , Gupta Dheeraj , Dutta Usha , Bhasin Deepak K.
Published: April 2015

Hypercalcemic states may result in acute pancreatitis. Sarcoidosis has been rarely reported as a cause of acute pancreatitis. A 42-year-old female came with abdominal pain and was found to have acute pancreatitis. Evaluation revealed hypercalcemia and evidence of pulmonary infiltrates and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Transbronchial lung biopsy revealed noncaseating granulomas consistent with sarcoidosis. In conclusion, sarcoidosis may result in acute pancreatitis by causing hypercalcemia.
Normalization of Lung Function following Treatment of Secondary Usual Interstitial Pneumonia: A Case Report
Authors: Hohberger Laurie A. , Montero-Arias Felicia , Roden Anja C. , Vassallo Robert
Published: April 2015

Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) is the most common idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) and is associated with a poor prognosis and poor responsiveness to immunosuppressive therapy. We present a case of a woman with steroid-responsive biopsy-proven UIP with significant and sustained improvement in pulmonary function. A female in her 40s presented following a one-year history of progressive dyspnea, a 20 lb weight loss, and fatigue. Imaging of the chest with computed tomography (CT) showed bibasilar subpleural reticular opacities and minimal peripheral honeycombing. Comprehensive connective tissue disease (CTD) antibody testing was negative. Pulmonary function testing showed moderate impairment with reduction in forced vital capacity (FVC, 69% predicted), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1 73% predicted), and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO, 52% predicted). Surgical lung biopsy showed UIP with prominent inflammatory infiltrates. Following treatment with prednisone and azathioprine, the patient's symptoms resolved, while objective pulmonary function testing showed normalization of lung function, which is sustained at >4 years of follow-up. Improvement in lung function following immunosuppressive therapy is distinctly uncommon in either idiopathic or secondary UIP. This report suggests that occasionally, patients with secondary UIP occurring in the context of otherwise undefinable autoimmune clinical syndromes may be responsive to immunosuppressive therapy.
Applications of Second-Harmonic Generation Imaging Microscopy in Ovarian and Breast Cancer
Authors: Tilbury Karissa , Campagnola Paul J.
Published: April 2015

In this perspective, we discuss how the nonlinear optical technique of second-harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy has been used to greatly enhance our understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) of breast and ovarian cancer. Striking changes in collagen architecture are associated with these epithelial cancers, and SHG can image these changes with great sensitivity and specificity with submicrometer resolution. This information has not historically been exploited by pathologists but has the potential to enhance diagnostic and prognostic capabilities. We summarize the utility of image processing tools that analyze fiber morphology in SHG images of breast and ovarian cancer in human tissues and animal models. We also describe methods that exploit the SHG physical underpinnings that are effective in delineating normal and malignant tissues. First we describe the use of polarization-resolved SHG that yields metrics related to macromolecular and supramolecular structures. The coherence and corresponding phase-matching process of SHG results in emission directionality (forward to backward), which is related to sub-resolution fibrillar assembly. These analyses are more general and more broadly applicable than purely morphology-based analyses; however, they are more computationally intensive. Intravital imaging techniques are also emerging that incorporate all of these quantitative analyses. Now, all these techniques can be coupled with rapidly advancing miniaturization of imaging systems to afford their use in clinical situations including enhancing pathology analysis and also in assisting in real-time surgical determination of tumor margins.
Influence of feeding increasing levels of dry or modified wet corn distillers’ grains plus solubles in whole corn grain-based finishing diets on hepatic and renal mass, and glutathione peroxidase and urea cycle enzyme activities in finishing cattle
Authors: Salim H. , Wood K. M. , Cant J. P. , Swanson K. C.
Published: April 2015

Salim, H., Wood, K. M., Cant, J. P. and Swanson, K. C. 2015. Influence of feeding increasing levels of dry or modified wet corn distillers’ grains plus solubles in whole corn grain-based finishing diets on hepatic and renal mass, and glutathione peroxidase and urea cycle enzyme activities in finishing cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 407–415. Forty-two cross-bred steers (BW=357±5.8 kg) fed whole corn grain-based finishing diets were used in a completely randomized block (60, 120, or 180 d on feed) design (2×3 factorial arrangement of treatments plus control) to determine the effect of inclusion level [0 (control), 16.7, 33.3, and 50% of diet DM) and form (dry (DDGS) or modified wet (MWDGS)] of distillers’ grains plus solubles (DGS) on hepatic and renal glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and hepatic urea cycle enzyme activities. Kidney weight (g kg−1of BW) increased linearly (P=0.004) with increasing inclusion levels of DGS. There were no effects (P≥0.11) of dietary treatment on hepatic and renal GPx activity (U g−1, U mg−1of protein, and kU liver−1). Hepatic carbamoyl phosphate synthetase activity (kU liver−1and U kg−1of BW) tended to linearly increase (P=0.09 and P=0.10, respectively) with increasing inclusion level of DGS. Hepatic ornithine transcarbamoylase and argininosuccinate synthetase activity (kU liver−1and U kg−1of BW) increased linearly (P≤0.05) with increasing inclusion levels of DGS. These data indicate that steers adapt to feeding up to 50% DGS by increasing kidney mass and activity of urea cycle enzymes in liver to allow for clearance of excess nitrogen. Also, hepatic and renal GPx activity, as an indicator of Se status, is not affected when typical finishing diets are fed.
Effect of heat and precipitation on pea yield and reproductive performance in the field
Authors: Bueckert Rosalind A. , Wagenhoffer Stacey , Hnatowich Garry , Warkentin Thomas D.
Published: April 2015

Bueckert, R. A., Wagenhoffer, S., Hnatowich, G. and Warkentin, T. D. 2015. Effect of heat and precipitation on pea yield and reproductive performance in the field. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 629–639. Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is important globally as a cool season crop. Pea cultivars are heat-sensitive so our goal was to investigate how weather impacted growth and yield in recent cultivars in the Co-operative pea yield trials (2000 to 2009) for a dryland (Saskatoon) and an irrigated (Outlook) location. We explored relationships between days to maturity, days spent in reproductive growth (flowering to maturity), yield and various weather factors. Yield and the length of reproductive growth increased with seasonal precipitation. Pea was sensitive to heat but heat units did not satisfactorily describe growth and yield in all environments. Strong relationships were observed between crop growth and mean maximum daily temperature experienced during reproductive growth, and between crop growth and mean minimum temperature. The greater the mean maximum temperature (>25.5°C), the fewer the number of days (<35) spent in reproductive growth at the dryland location. At Outlook, 35 to 40 d in reproductive growth occurred in a much wider temperature range from 24.5 to 27°C, and irrigation mitigated some reduction in yield. For dryland pea, more than 20 d in the season above 28°C were associated with less time in reproductive growth and less yield. The threshold maximum temperature for yield reduction in the field was closer to 28°C than 32°C from published studies, and above 17.5°C mean seasonal daily temperature. Western Canadian cultivars currently have short lifecycles, which make them heat sensitive. Heat tolerance could be improved by earlier flowering and a longer duration of flowering via an indeterminate habit. Future research will investigate pea nodal development, flowering and abortion patterns in a range of pea cultivars in field conditions.
CDC Carbide durum wheat
Authors: Pozniak C. J. , Clarke J. M.
Published: April 2015

Pozniak, C. J. and Clarke, J. M. 2015. CDC Carbide durum wheat. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 1007–1012. CDC Carbide durum wheat is adapted to the durum production area of the Canadian prairies. This conventional-height durum wheat cultivar combines high grain yield potential with high grain pigment and protein concentrations, and low grain cadmium. CDC Carbide carries the Sm1 gene conferring resistance to the Orange Wheat Blossom Midge [Sitodiplosis modellana (Gehin)]. CDC Carbide is resistant to prevalent races of leaf, stem and stripe rust, and common bunt, and expresses end-use quality suitable for the Canada Western Amber Durum class.
Awareness of Bisphosphonate Use and Its Dental Complications among the Dental Practitioners
Authors: Khalid Imran , Galinde Jyotsna , Sidana Sunil , Kokane Gauri
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To assess the awareness, among dental practitioners, of the use of bisphosphonates (BP) and its complications related to dental extractions as well as to outline protocol for its prevention and management.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in department of oral and maxillofacial surgery, MGM Dental College and Hospital, Kamothe, Navi Mumbai, in December 2013. Data collection was carried out by a selfadministered questionnaire distributed among interns, postgraduate students and staff members at the hospital.

Results

Total of 159 people were included in to the study. Out of which 95 were interns, 25 were postgraduate students and 39 were staff members. Four out of 39 staff members, six postgraduate students out of 25 and 18 out of 99 interns were unaware of trade name of drug alendronate as Fosamax. Eight staff out of 39, six postgraduate students of 25 and 23 interns out of 95 were unaware of term BRONJ. Thirty-three out of 39 staff, 20 out of 25 postgraduate student and 81 out of 95 interns were aware of clinical use of BP. Thirty-eight out of 39 staff, 23 out of 25 postgraduate student and 93 out of 95 interns were familiar with BP. Fourteen out of 39 staff, three out of 25 postgraduate students and 25 out of 95 interns were aware of guidelines on treating patients on BP. Thirty-seven out of 39 staff, four out of 25 postgraduate students and 21 out of 95 interns have asked patients about past history of BP use.

Conclusion

There is a lack of complete awareness about BP use, its dental complications and prevention and treatment strategies for BP-related osteoradionecrosis of jaws. Bisphosphonates and its related dental complications and management should be included in the undergraduate dental curriculum.

How to cite this article

Kokane G, Sidana S, Galinde J, Khalid I. Awareness of Bisphosphonate Use and Its Dental Complications among the Dental Practitioners. J Contemp Dent 2015;5(1):1-6.
Occlusal Rehabilitation of Severely Mutilated Dentition
Authors: Khanna Tulika S , Gurav Sandeep Vivek
Published: April 2015

Severe caries, attrition, abrasion, erosions of anterior teeth lead to loss of anterior guidance. This in turn causes attrition of posterior teeth and loss of occlusal vertical dimension. To gain the space for esthetic rehabilitation in these cases is challenging task. The required space can be achieved by crown lengthening and increasing the occlusal vertical dimension within physiologic limits. Unmethodical alteration of vertical dimension may lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory muscle problems. Careful treatment planning and stable occlusion are key point of successful treatment. This case report describes the methodical multidisciplinary approach used to treat severely mutilated dentition.

How to cite this article

Gurav SV, Ram SM, Khanna TS. Occlusal Rehabilitation of Severely Mutilated Dentition. J Contemp Dent 2015;5(1):48-52.
Comparison of the CMAM30 data set with ACE-FTS and OSIRIS: polar regions
Authors: Pendlebury D. , Plummer D. , Scinocca J. , Sheese P. , Strong K. , Walker K. , Degenstein D.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. CMAM30 is a 30 year data set extending from 1979 to 2010 that is generated using a version of the Canadian Middle Atmosphere Model (CMAM) in which the winds and temperatures are relaxed to the Interim Reanalysis product from the European Centre Medium-Range for Weather Forecasts (ERA-Interim). The data set has dynamical fields that are very close to the reanalysis below 1 hPa and chemical tracers that are self-consistent with respect to the model winds and temperature. The chemical tracers are expected to be close to actual observations. The data set is here compared to two satellite records – the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment Fourier Transform Spectometer and the Odin Optical Spectrograph and InfraRed Imaging System – for the purpose of validating the temperature, ozone, water vapour and methane fields. Data from the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder is also used for validation of the chemical processing in the polar vortex. It is found that the CMAM30 temperature is warm by up to 5 K in the stratosphere, with a low bias in the mesosphere of ~ 5–15 K. Ozone is reasonable (± 15%) except near the tropopause globally, and in the Southern Hemisphere winter polar vortex. Water vapour is consistently low by 10–20%, with corresponding high methane of 10–20%, except in the Southern Hemisphere polar vortex. Discrepancies in this region are shown to stem from the treatment of polar stratospheric cloud formation in the model.
The impact of shipping emissions on air pollution in the Greater North Sea region – Part 1: Current emissions and concentrations
Authors: Aulinger A. , Matthias V. , Zeretzke M. , Bieser J. , Quante M. , Backes A.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The North Sea is one of the areas with the highest ship traffic densities worldwide. At any time, about 3000 ships are sailing its waterways. Previous scientific publications have shown that ships contribute significantly to atmospheric concentrations of NOx, particulate matter and ozone. Especially in the case of particulate matter and ozone this influence can even be seen in regions far away from the main shipping routes. In order to quantify the effects of North Sea shipping on air quality in its bordering states, it is essential to determine the emissions from shipping as accurately as possible. Within the Interreg IVb project Clean North Sea Shipping (CNSS) a bottom-up approach was developed and used to thoroughly compile such an emission inventory for 2011 that served as the base year for the current emission situation. The innovative aspect of this approach was to use load dependent functions to calculate emissions from the ships' current activities instead of averaged emission factors for the entire range of the engine loads. These functions were applied to ship activities that were derived from hourly records of Automatic Identification System signals together with a data base containing the engine characteristics of the vessels that traveled the North Sea in 2011. The emission model yielded ship emissions among others of NOx and SO2 in high temporal and spatial resolution that were subsequently used in a chemistry transport model in order to simulate the impact of the emissions on pollutant concentration levels. The total emissions of nitrogen reached 540 Gg and of sulfur oxides 123 Gg within the North Sea, which was about twice as much of those of a medium-sized industrialized European state like the Netherlands. The relative contribution of ships to, for example, NO2 concentration levels ashore close to the sea can reach up to 25% in summer and 15% in winter. Some hundred kilometers away from the sea the contribution was about 6% in summer and 4% in winter. The relative contribution of the secondary pollutant NO3− was found to reach 20% in summer and 6% in winter even distant from the shore.
Carbon exchange between the atmosphere and subtropical forested cypress and pine wetlands
Authors: Shoemaker W. B. , Anderson F. , Barr J. G. , Graham S. L. , Botkin D. B.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Carbon dioxide exchange between the atmosphere and forested subtropical wetlands is largely unknown. Here we report a first step in characterizing this atmospheric–ecosystem carbon (C) exchange, for cypress strands and pine forests in the Greater Everglades of Florida as measured with eddy covariance methods at three locations (Cypress Swamp, Dwarf Cypress and Pine Upland) for 2 years. Links between water and C cycles are also examined at these three sites, as are methane emission measured only at the Dwarf Cypress site. Each forested wetland showed net C uptake from the atmosphere both monthly and annually, as indicated by the net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of carbon dioxide (CO2). For this study, NEE is the difference between photosynthesis and respiration, with negative values representing uptake from the atmosphere that is retained in the ecosystem or transported laterally via overland flow (unmeasured for this study). Atmospheric C uptake (NEE) was greatest at the Cypress Swampp (−900 to −1000 g C m2 yr−1), moderate at the Pine Upland (−650 to −700 g C m2 yr−1) and least at the Dwarf Cypress (−400 to −450 g C m2 yr−1). Changes in NEE were clearly a function of seasonality in solar insolation, air temperature and flooding, which suppressed heterotrophic soil respiration. We also note that changes in the satellite-derived enhanced vegetation index (EVI) served as a useful surrogate for changes in NEE at these forested wetland sites.