bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are Dialysate Sodium Levels Too High?
Authors: Marshall Mark R. , Dunlop Joanna L.
Published: April 2012

Universal lower dialysate [Na+] is often advocated as a means of improving the dire cardiovascular plight of our dialysis patients. However, there is evidence associating lower dialysate [Na+] and increased morbidity and mortality especially in frailer patients, probably as a result of more frequent intra‐dialytic hypotension. In this editorial, we summarize arguments for and against lower dialysate [Na+], and provide recommendations around selecting the most appropriate dialysate [Na+] for specific clinical subsets that may benefit from manipulation of salt and water balance. The lack of overall clarity on relative benefits and risks of lower dialysate [Na+] does not support the case for empirical “across the board” change, and experimental testing in clinical trials is required to determine safe and effective use.
Evolution of yolk protein genes in the Echinodermata
Authors: Prowse Thomas A. A. , Byrne Maria
Published: April 2012

Vitellogenin genes (vtg) encode large lipid transfer proteins (LLTPs) that are typically female‐specific, functioning as precursors to major yolk proteins (MYPs). Within the phylum Echinodermata, however, the MYP of the Echinozoa (Echinoidea + Holothuroidea) is expressed by an unrelated transferrin‐like gene that has a reproductive function in both sexes. We investigated egg proteins in the Asterozoa (Asteroidea + Ophiuroidea), a sister clade to the Echinozoa, showing that eggs of the asteroid Parvulastra exigua contain a vitellogenin protein (Vtg). vtg is expressed by P. exigua, a species with large eggs and nonfeeding larvae, and by the related asterinid Patiriella regularis which has small eggs and feeding larvae. In the Asteroidea, therefore, the reproductive function of vtg is conserved despite significant life history evolution. Like the echinozoan MYP gene, asteroid vtg is expressed in both sexes and may play a role in the development of both ovaries and testes. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that a putative Vtg from the sea urchin genome, a likely pseudogene, does not clade with asteroid Vtg. We propose the following sequence as a potential pathway for the evolution of YP genes in the Echinodermata: (1) the ancestral echinoderm produced YPs derived from Vtg, (2) bisexual vtg expression subsequently evolved in the echinoderm lineage, (3) the reproductive function of vtg was assumed by a transferrin‐like gene in the ancestral echinozoan, and (4) redundant echinozoan vtg was released from stabilizing selection.
Differential deployment of paralogous Wnt genes in the mouse and chick embryo during development
Authors: Martin Audrey , Maher Stephanie , Summerhurst Kristen , Davidson Duncan , Murphy Paula
Published: April 2012

Genes encoding Wnt ligands are crucial in body patterning and are highly conserved among metazoans. Given their conservation at the protein‐coding level, it is likely that changes in where and when these genes are active are important in generating evolutionary variations. However, we lack detailed knowledge about how their deployment has diverged. Here, we focus on four Wnt subfamilies (Wnt2, Wnt5, Wnt7, and Wnt8) in mammalian and avian species, consisting of a paralogous gene pair in each, believed to have duplicated in the last common ancestor of vertebrates. We use three‐dimensional imaging to capture expression patterns in detail and carry out systematic comparisons. We find evidence of greater divergence between these subgroup paralogues than the respective orthologues, consistent with some level of subfunctionalization/neofunctionalization in the common vertebrate ancestor that has been conserved. However, there were exceptions; in the case of chick Wnt2b, individual sites were shared with both mouse Wnt2 and Wnt2b. We also find greater divergence, between paralogues and orthologues, in some subfamilies (Wnt2 and Wnt8) compared to others (Wnt5 and Wnt7) with the more highly similar expression patterns showing more extensive expression in more structures in the embryo. Wnt8 genes were most restricted and most divergent. Major sites of expression for all subfamilies include CNS, limbs, and facial region, and in general there were more similarities in gene deployment in these territories with divergent patterns featuring more in organs such as heart and gut. A detailed comparison of gene expression patterns in the limb showed similarities in overall combined domains across species with notable differences that may relate to lineage‐specific morphogenesis.
Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Trough and Tower Concentrating Solar Power Electricity Generation
Authors: Burkhardt John J. , Heath Garvin , Cohen Elliot
Published: April 2012

In reviewing life cycle assessment (LCA) literature of utility‐scale concentrating solar power (CSP) systems, this analysis focuses on reducing variability and clarifying the central tendency of published estimates of life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through a meta‐analytical process called harmonization. From 125 references reviewed, 10 produced 36 independent GHG emissions estimates passing screens for quality and relevance: 19 for parabolic trough (trough) technology and 17 for power tower (tower) technology. The interquartile range (IQR) of published estimates for troughs and towers were 83 and 20 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per kilowatt‐hour (g CO2‐eq/kWh),1 respectively; median estimates were 26 and 38 g CO2‐eq/kWh for trough and tower, respectively.

Two levels of harmonization were applied. Light harmonization reduced variability in published estimates by using consistent values for key parameters pertaining to plant design and performance. The IQR and median were reduced by 87% and 17%, respectively, for troughs. For towers, the IQR and median decreased by 33% and 38%, respectively. Next, five trough LCAs reporting detailed life cycle inventories were identified. The variability and central tendency of their estimates are reduced by 91% and 81%, respectively, after light harmonization. By harmonizing these five estimates to consistent values for global warming intensities of materials and expanding system boundaries to consistently include electricity and auxiliary natural gas combustion, variability is reduced by an additional 32% while central tendency increases by 8%. These harmonized values provide useful starting points for policy makers in evaluating life cycle GHG emissions from CSP projects without the requirement to conduct a full LCA for each new project.
Transplantation of adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells into a murine model of passive chronic immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Xiao Jianhong , Zhang Changran , Zhang Yangchun , Zhang Xiangzhong , Zhao Jiangning , Liang Jiayi , Zhong Xueyun , Chen Yunxian
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a bleeding disorder characterized by antibody‐opsonized platelets (PLTs) being prematurely destroyed by macrophages in the reticuloendothelial system. T helper (Th) cells and different Th cytokines play an important role in the pathophysiology of ITP. As immunomodulators, adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) regulate Th cells and show therapeutic effects in autoimmune diseases. However, it is not clear how ADSCs affect ITP. In this study, we explored the specific effects of ADSCs on ITP in mice.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: BALB/c mice were randomly divided into three groups: normal controls, ITP controls, and ITP with ADSC transplantation. PLT levels were monitored by an automatic blood cell counter, and the cytokines interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ); interleukin (IL)‐2, ‐4, ‐10, and ‐17; and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

RESULTS: Compared to the untreated ITP mice, the PLT level of the ITP mice significantly increased after ADSC treatment. In the ADSC group, IFN‐γ, IL‐2, and IL‐17 significantly decreased, while IL‐4, IL‐10, and TGF‐β1 increased.

CONCLUSION: These findings constitute the first experimental evidence that ADSCs are efficacious in improving PLT levels and reducing the related Th cytokines mediating proinflammatory response in ITP mice, which may provide a scientific basis for using ADSCs as a new therapy for ITP.
A Study of Online Auction Sellers’ Intention to Switch Platform: The Case of Yahoo!Kimo Versus Ruten_eBay*
Authors: Lin Tung‐Ching , Cheng Hsing Kenneth , Wang Feng‐Sheng , Chang Kuei‐Jung
Published: April 2012

The study of consumers’ switching from one service provider to another has a long tradition in economics, information systems, and marketing. The emergence of electronic commerce presents new challenges in understanding consumers’ switching intentions in the context of e‐commerce in general and online auctions in particular. With the abundance of literature on online auctions, there is a surprising lack of research on auction sellers’ intentions to switch from one online auction platform to another. Using the competition between Yahoo!Kimo and Ruten_eBay, two leading auction platforms in Taiwan, as the backdrop, we developed a research model and collected empirical data based on this real case to study what factors influence auction sellers to switch to a competing service provider. We find that the higher the procedural switching costs, financial switching costs, relational switching costs, site design quality, or interaction quality, the lower the intention of an auction seller to switch to a competing auction service provider. A higher perceived transaction fee, however, leads to a higher switching intention.
Innovation Strategy, Human Resource Policy, and Firms' Revenue Growth: The Roles of Environmental Uncertainty and Innovation Performance*
Authors: Oke Adegoke , Walumbwa Fred O. , Myers Andrew
Published: April 2012

This study investigates the interactions of innovation strategy execution and innovation‐focused human resource (HR) policy adoption on innovation performance and revenue growth. In addition, we investigate the moderating role of environmental uncertainty on the effects of innovation strategy execution and innovation‐focused HR policy on innovation performance. Results show that the interaction of innovation strategy execution and innovation‐focused HR policy is positively related to innovation performance. Results also show that environmental uncertainty positively moderates the innovation strategy execution–innovation performance relationship. Finally, innovation performance mediates the interaction of innovation strategy execution and environmental uncertainty on firms’ revenue growth. Implications of these findings for theory and practice are discussed.
Left Ventricular Mechanics Following Restrictive Mitral Annuloplasty for Functional Mitral Regurgitation: Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiographic Study
Authors: Shudo Yasuhiro , Nakatani Satoshi , Sakaguchi Taichi , Miyagawa Shigeru , Yoshikawa Yasushi , Takeda Koji , Saito Shunsuke , Takeda Yasuharu , Sakata Yasushi , Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Sawa Yoshiki
Published: April 2012

Background: Restrictive mitral annuloplasty (RMA) is widely employed for patients with functional mitral regurgitation (MR). Its improvement of left ventricular (LV) function has been demonstrated by only a gradual increase in LV ejection fraction (EF) in the chronic phase. However, the detailed evaluation of changes in LV function has not been fully elucidated in functional MR patients before and after RMA. Therefore, we performed two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D‐STE), which enables accurate evaluation of myocardial deformation and rotation that are undetectable by conventional echocardiography. Methods: We studied 13 patients (mean age 61 ± 10 years) with functional MR associated with cardiomyopathy undergoing RMA. In addition to conventional echocardiographic measurements, 2D‐STE was performed to measure peak systolic radial (RS), circumferential (CS), and longitudinal (LS) strains and twist before and 4 ± 2 weeks after surgery. LV twist was defined as the difference between the apical and basal rotations. Results: After RMA, EF and LS remained unchanged, but RS and CS were significantly improved at the mid‐LV (RS, 20.6 ± 10.8 vs 24.5 ± 11.6%; CS, −9.6 ± 5.2 vs −12.8 ± 5.6%) and at the apex (RS, 15.0 ± 12.2 vs 18.7 ± 8.6%; CS, −4.4 ± 3.0 vs −7.8 ± 4.8%). RS and CS were unchanged at the base. The apical and basal rotations changed significantly, from 3.5°± 0.7° to 9.2°± 2.1°, and −2.1°± 0.7° to −3.8°± 1.0°, respectively. Consequently, the LV twist increased significantly, from 5.6°± 1.0° to 13.0°± 1.9°. Conclusions: Radial and circumferential strains and LV twist increased significantly in the early postoperative period in functional MR patients after RMA and concomitant procedures. (Echocardiography 2012;29:445‐450)
Integrative Frontiers in Environmental Policy Theory and Research
Authors: Niles Meredith T. , Lubell Mark
Published: April 2012

Environmental policy research continues to advance toward a more Kuhnian “normal” science where theory and empirical tools are brought to bear on real‐world policy systems to better understand social processes and determine the context in which policies work best. Traditional environmental policy tools now involve more flexible market‐based instruments, voluntary agreements, and information provision tools like ecolabels and sustainability indicators. Policy process theories continue to be refined through hypothesis testing and are evolving into more integrative and multidisciplinary frameworks. Interdisciplinary methods are also being employed to better measure and analyze environmental outcomes, which has always been a major challenge in environmental policy research. These research tools are being explored in emerging policy approaches like collaborative partnerships and with novel environmental issues like climate change adaptation, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, and nanotechnology.
The Knowledge‐Learning‐Instruction Framework: Bridging the Science‐Practice Chasm to Enhance Robust Student Learning
Authors: Koedinger Kenneth R. , Corbett Albert T. , Perfetti Charles
Published: April 2012

Despite the accumulation of substantial cognitive science research relevant to education, there remains confusion and controversy in the application of research to educational practice. In support of a more systematic approach, we describe the Knowledge‐Learning‐Instruction (KLI) framework. KLI promotes the emergence of instructional principles of high potential for generality, while explicitly identifying constraints of and opportunities for detailed analysis of the knowledge students may acquire in courses. Drawing on research across domains of science, math, and language learning, we illustrate the analyses of knowledge, learning, and instructional events that the KLI framework affords. We present a set of three coordinated taxonomies of knowledge, learning, and instruction. For example, we identify three broad classes of learning events (LEs): (a) memory and fluency processes, (b) induction and refinement processes, and (c) understanding and sense‐making processes, and we show how these can lead to different knowledge changes and constraints on optimal instructional choices.
Oral contraception in Denmark 1998–2010
Authors: WILSON NADIA M. , LAURSEN MAJA , LIDEGAARD ØJVIND
Published: April 2012

Background. Oral contraceptives (OC) are the most popular contraception in Denmark. Overall figures on use are well described, but more detailed use patterns according to type and age need to be updated. Objectives. To assess trends in the use of OC including progestogen‐only pills among Danish women in 1998–2010 and to describe in detail use patterns in 2010. Design. Annual cross‐sectional prescription statistics. Setting. Denmark. Population. Danish women 10–49 years old. Material and methods. Analysis of prescription data from the National Registry of Medicinal Products Statistics from 1 January 1998 through 31 December 2010. Results. Combined OC (COC) with 50 μg estrogen decreased their market share from 3% in 1998 to zero in 2010, and COC with 30–40 μg estrogen decreased to 50% in 2010, in contrast, COC with 20 μg estrogen increased to 46% in 2010. Progestogen‐only pills accounted for 4%. COC with levonorgestrel decreased, while the use of pills with desogestrel and gestodene among two‐thirds of current users was constant. Conclusion. Low‐dose COCs gradually replaced middle‐dose pills. Pills with newer progestogens are used primarily by young women, and 85% of users in 2010 were on products with desogestrel, gestodene, drospirenone or cyproteroneacetate. We still need low‐dose pills with 1st and 2nd generation progestogens on the Scandinavian market.
The influence of the cementation margin position on the amount of undetected cement. A prospective clinical study
Authors: Linkevicius Tomas , Vindasiute Egle , Puisys Algirdas , Linkeviciene Laura , Maslova Natalja , Puriene Alina
Published: April 2012

Objective

To evaluate the amount of undetected cement after cementation and cleaning of implant‐supported restorations.

Materials and methods

Fifty three patients were treated with 53 single implant‐supported metal‐ceramic restorations. The subgingival location of the margin of each implant was measured with a periodontal probe mesially, distally, buccaly, and lingually, resulting in 212 measurements. The data were divided into four groups: equally with tissue level (14 samples), 1 mm subgingivally (56), 2 mm (74), and 3 mm (68) below tissues contour. Metal‐ceramic restorations were fabricated with occlusal openings and cemented on standard abutments with resin‐reinforced glass‐ionomer. After cleaning, a radiograph was taken to assess if all cement had been removed. Then the abutment/crown unit was unscrewed for evaluation. All quadrants of the specimens and peri‐implant tissues were photographed and analyzed with Adobe Photoshop. Two proportions were calculated: (1) the relation between the cement remnants area and the total area of the abutment/restoration and (2) the relation between the cement remnants and the total area of implant soft tissue contour. Significance set to 0.05.

Results

Excess on the crown groups: 1 (0.002 ± 0.001); 2 (0.024 ± 0.005); 3 (0.036 ± 0.004); 4 (0.055 ± 0.007). Undetected excess increased when the margin was located deeper subgingivally (P = 0.000), significant difference was found among all groups (P ≤ 0.05). Remnants in the soft tissue groups: 1 (0.014 ± 0.006); 2 (0.052 ± 0.011); 3 (0.057 ± 0.009); 4 (0.071 ± 0.012). The increase of the remnants was statistically reliable (P = 0.0045), significant difference was found between group 1 and 2 (P ≤ 0.05). Radiographic evaluation showed that cement remnants mesially were visible in four cases of 53 or 7.5%, and in six cases of 53 distally (11.3%).

Conclusions

The deeper the position of the margin, the greater amount of undetected cement was discovered. Dental radiographs should not be considered as a reliable method for cement excess evaluation.
Differential effects of behaviour, propensity to migrate and recruitment season on glass eels and elvers’ growing performance
Authors: Geffroy Benjamin , Bardonnet Agnès
Published: April 2012

Abstract –  Social interactions impact growth rate of animals in different ways such as direct or indirect competition for food and/or territories. In this study, behaviour of glass eels and elvers was described throughout three trials of 9 days spread out over 3 months. The impact of recruitment season (spring and autumn runs) and glass eels’ propensity to migrate (assessed thanks to an experimental sorting) on individual growth was studied. Overall, spring elvers were more aggressive and active than autumn elvers while autumn fish were more gregarious and reached a higher specific growth rate than spring fish. At the individual level, gregariousness and swimming, respectively, promote and impair growth rate. In addition, skinny individuals and individuals with high motivation to get food achieved better growth rate suggesting catch‐up growth processes. These findings may help in clarifying the complex relations between behaviour, growth, river basin colonisation and future sex (which is environmentally determined in eel) and then contribute to the urgent need of scientific knowledge to guide the stocking programme of this endangered species.
Storage media enhance osteoclastogenic potential of human periodontal ligament cells via RANKL‐independent signaling
Authors: Zhan Xuan , Zhang Chengfei , Dissanayaka Waruna L. , Cheung Gary S. P. , Jin Lijian , Yang Yangqi , Yan Fuhua , Tong Edith H. Y.
Published: April 2012

Abstract –  Background:  Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS) and milk have gained wide acceptance as storage media for avulsed tooth. However, the effect of the media and storage time on the periodontal ligament (PDL) cells involvement in the development of root resorption is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether precultured PDL cells in HBSS, milk, or modified Eagle’s medium alpha (α‐MEM) would affect osteoclastogenesis.

Materials and methods:  PDL cells were precultured in HBSS, milk, or α‐MEM for 1 h or 6 h before being co‐cultured with RAW 264.7 cells for an additional 3 days for mRNA analysis and 11 days for osteoclastogenesis assay.

Results:  Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) mRNA was detected immediately in PDL cells precultured in the three storage media. The expression was up‐regulated markedly in all co‐cultures when compared with RAW cells alone. As a result of the co‐culture, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) expression was detectable in both PDL and RAW cells. TRAP+ multinucleated, osteoclast‐like cells developed in all co‐cultures; the number of TRAP+ cells was highest (P < 0.05) in the co‐cultures that PDL cells precultured in milk for 6 h. The mRNA level of receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand (RANKL) was not detected in PDL cells. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA expression reduced with increased preculture time, but the difference was not significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:  PDL cells kept in the three storage media led to TRAP+ multinucleated, osteoclast‐like cells formation via RANKL‐independent signaling. The ability to induce osteoclastogenesis may be considered as one of the factors to evaluate the ability of storage medium to maintain PDL viability after tooth avulsion.
Co‐producing novel wound care products for Epidermolysis bullosa; an empirical case study of the use of surrogates in the design and prototype development process
Authors: Grocott Patricia , Blackwell Rebecca , Currie Conchita , Pillay Elizabeth , Robert Glenn
Published: April 2012

The Woundcare for Epidermolysis bullosa (WEB) project aims to enable people with Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), their carers and clinicians to co‐produce wound care products to meet their needs. EB is an inherited disorder causing extensive, painful skin blistering and wounds. It is relatively rare, with approximately 300 000 patients worldwide, but it incurs high costs (up to £50 000 per month on products alone). During the course of four workshops, adults with EB, their carers and specialist nurses gave detailed accounts of their experiences with pre‐sized, pre‐shaped dressings, including the need to patchwork individual dressings over large areas of broken skin. Five themes were identified from the workshop data relating to the limitations of existing products for EB wounds: dressing fit, stability, comfort, temperature and exudate. Novel designs were generated from these themes and although the intention was to develop the designs iteratively with the workshop participants, issues arose necessitating the interim use of surrogates. Our account of the design process is given, presenting the arguments for and against the use of surrogates, with suggestions for incorporating surrogate input into product development in a way that does not undermine the integrity of patient experiences or the co‐production process.
Methiocarb poisoning of a horse in Australia
Authors: Kaye BM , Elliott CRB , Jalim SL
Published: April 2012

Snail bait poisoning is rare in horses. Cases have been reported, but clinical signs and subsequent prognostic indicators have been poorly documented and must be extrapolated from cases in companion animals. We describe in detail the poisoning of a horse that consumed a lethal dose of the carbamate, methiocarb. There are currently no guidelines for treating equine methiocarb toxicoses, but the principles of management are based on supportive therapy.
Light Source Spectrum Strongly Influences the In Vitro Estimation of Sun Protection Factor
Authors: Miura Yoshimasa , Suzuki Sayaka , Hirao Tetsuji , Hatao Masato
Published: April 2012

Irradiation from an artificial solar simulator that matches the relative cumulative erythema effectiveness (RCEE) of sunlight is used for in vivo sun protection factor (SPF) testing, whereas irradiation that matches the spectrum of natural sunlight (NS) is generally used for in vitro SPF testing. This study was designed to clarify whether this difference is important. Eight sunscreens spread on artificial substrates and several optical filters as sunscreen mimics were used. Their in vitro SPF values were evaluated using RCEE‐compliant and NS spectrum‐matching light sources in calculation. The calculated in vitro SPF values obtained using NS light (SPF [NS]) were lower than those obtained using RCEE light (SPF [RCEE]). The in vitro SPF (RCEE) values showed a better correlation and better agreement with in vivo SPF values, as compared with the in vitro SPF (NS) values. A marked difference between in vitro SPF values obtained with the two light sources in calculation was found for sunscreens showing low transmittance in the ultraviolet B region. To obtain in vitro SPF values that correspond well to in vivo SPF values measured with currently accepted methodology, it is important to use an RCEE‐compliant light source.
Extent of industrial plantations on Southeast Asian peatlands in 2010 with analysis of historical expansion and future projections
Authors: Miettinen Jukka , Hooijer Aljosja , Shi Chenghua , Tollenaar Daniel , Vernimmen Ronald , Liew Soo Chin , Malins Chris , Page Susan E.
Published: April 2012

Tropical peatlands cover over 25 Mha in Southeast Asia and are estimated to contain around 70 Gt of carbon. Peat swamp forest ecosystems are an important part of the region's natural resources supporting unique flora and fauna endemic to Southeast Asia. Over recent years, industrial plantation development on peatland, especially for oil palm cultivation, has created intense debate due to its potentially adverse social and environmental effects. The lack of objective up‐to‐date information on the extent of industrial plantations has complicated quantification of their regional and global environmental consequences, both in terms of loss of forest and biodiversity as well as increases in carbon emissions. Based on visual interpretation of high‐resolution (30 m) satellite images, we find that industrial plantations covered over 3.1 Mha (20%) of the peatlands of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo in 2010, surpassing the area of Belgium and causing an annual carbon emission from peat decomposition of 230–310 Mt CO2e. The majority (62%) of the plantations were located on the island of Sumatra, and over two‐thirds (69%) of all industrial plantations were developed for oil palm cultivation, with the remainder mostly being Acacia plantations for paper pulp production. Historical analysis shows strong acceleration of plantation development in recent years: 70% of all industrial plantations have been established since 2000 and only 4% of the current plantation area existed in 1990. ‘Business‐as‐usual’ projections of future conversion rates, based on historical rates over the past two decades, indicate that 6–9 Mha of peatland in insular Southeast Asia may be converted to plantations by the year 2020, unless land use planning policies or markets for products change. This would increase the annual carbon emission to somewhere between 380 and 920 Mt CO2e by 2020 depending on water management practices and the extent of plantations.
Prevalence of postpartum depression in a hospital setting among Malaysian mothers
Authors: Zainal Nor Zuraida , Kaka Anandjit Singh , Ng Chong Guan , Jawan Rosy , Singh Gill Jesjeet
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a disorder that affects not only mothers, but also can lead to family, social, economic and vocational breakdown. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with postpartum depression among mothers in an urban hospital setting in Malaysia.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, mothers attending routine visits at six to eight weeks postpartum at a postnatal clinic were assessed on socio‐demographic data, obstetric history, social support, breastfeeding status and psychiatric history. Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) was administered to establish a diagnosis of postpartum depression.

Results

A total of 411 subjects participated in the study. The prevalence rate of postpartum depression was 6.8%. Univariate analysis found that being a housewife, having a cesarian section, low social support, family history of depression, previous history of depression and non‐exclusive breastfeeding were significantly associated with postpartum depression. Predictors for postpartum depression were non‐exclusive breastfeeding (P < 0.01, OR = 23.7, 95% CI 3.1–179.7) and previous history of depression (P < 0.05, OR = 82.3, 95% CI 1.2–5897.6).

Discussion

The prevalence rate of postpartum depression in urban Malaysian mothers was comparable to the rates in other countries. Mothers who did no exclusively breast feeding their babies appeared to have more risk for postpartum depression. Therefore, screening for depression should become a routine during postpartum period and mothers must be encouraged to exclusively breastfeed their babies.
Adhesion to Er:YAG laser and bur prepared root and crown dentine
Authors: Shirani F , Birang R , Malekipur MR , Zeilabi A , Shahmoradi M , Kazemi S , Khazaei S
Published: April 2012

Background:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the bond strengths between dentine and resin composite obtained after Er:YAG laser treatment of crown or root dentine used together with self‐etch and total‐etch adhesive systems.

Methods:  One etch‐and‐rinse adhesive (Single Bond, 3M, USA) and one self‐etch system (Clearfil SE Bond, Kuraray, Japan) were applied to root and crown dentine prepared with a regular bur in a turbine or with an Er:YAG laser. The shear bond strength was determined after thermocycling and statistically analysed using independent t‐tests.

Results:  Crown sites bonded using Clearfil SE Bond and Single Bond adhesives yielded bond strengths similar to that of root dentine sites (p > 0.05). Clearfil SE Bond was stronger in both the lased and non‐lased groups (p < 0.05). The lowest bond strength was obtained when Single Bond without acid etching was used on Er:YAG ablated dentine. When total‐etch adhesive was used, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the laser‐ablated and laser‐ablated/acid‐etched and bur‐cut/acid‐etched groups.

Conclusions:  Er:YAG laser irradiation of root and crown dentine conducted prior to the adhesive protocol adversely affected adhesion and decreased bond strength compared with traditional preparation.
Film and Video
Authors: Schattschneider Ellen
Published: April 2012

Film reviewed in this issue.

“Bethel: Community Schizophrenia in Northern Japan” 2007 (41 minutes) Director: Karen Nakamura.
Mapping Dimensions of Conflict at the Federal Convention of 1787
Authors: POPE JEREMY C. , TREIER SHAWN
Published: April 2012

Previous work on the Federal Convention of 1787 hypothesized multiple dimensions of conflict. We evaluate the dimensionality of conflict using a new method for estimating state delegation positions and proposals that incorporates the many divided votes at the convention. The results suggest that three dimensions are adequate for most analyses and the first dimension—proportional representation in the legislature—the most important. Finally, we examine how the agenda unfolds by mapping changes to the status quo throughout the convention. We conclude that, despite the lack of parties, the nature of the conflict is quite organized with a low number of dimensions.
Freeze-Coring Method for Characterization of Microbial Community Structure and Function in Wetland Soils at High Spatial Resolution
Authors: Franchini Alessandro G. , Zeyer Josef
Published: April 2012

A simple freeze-coring method was developed to obtain structurally intact cores from wetland soils. A copper tube was inserted into the wetland and filled with ethanol and dry ice to freeze the surrounding soil. Biological structure and function could be analyzed, and labile compounds such as mRNA were recovered.
Norwegian Sheep Are an Important Reservoir for Human-Pathogenic Escherichia coli O26:H11
Authors: Brandal Lin T. , Sekse Camilla , Lindstedt Bjørn-Arne , Sunde Marianne , Løbersli Inger , Urdahl Anne Margrete , Kapperud Georg
Published: April 2012

A previous national survey ofEscherichia coliin Norwegian sheep detectedeae-positive (eae+)E. coliO26:H11 isolates in 16.3% (80/491) of the flocks. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the human-pathogenic potential of these ovine isolates by comparing them withE. coliO26 isolates from humans infected in Norway. All humanE. coliO26 isolates studied carried theeaegene and shared flagellar type H11. Two-thirds of the sheep flocks and 95.1% of the patients harbored isolates containingarcAallele type 2 andespKand were classified as enterohemorrhagicE. coli(EHEC) (stxpositive) or EHEC-like (stxnegative). These isolates were further divided into group A (EspK2 positive), associated withstx2-EDL933andstcEO103, and group B (EspK1 positive), associated withstx1a. Although thestxgenes were more frequently present in isolates from patients (46.3%) than in those from sheep flocks (5%), more than half of the ovine isolates in the EHEC/EHEC-like group had multiple-locus variable number of tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) profiles that were identical to those seen instx-positive human O26:H11 isolates. This indicates that EHEC-like ovine isolates may be able to acquirestx-carrying bacteriophages and thereby have the possibility to cause serious illness in humans. The remaining one-third of the sheep flocks and two of the patients had isolates fulfilling the criteria for atypical enteropathogenicE. coli(aEPEC):arcAallele type 1 andespKnegative (group C). The majority of these ovine isolates showed MLVA profiles not previously seen inE. coliO26:H11 isolates from humans. However, according to their virulence gene profile, the aEPEC ovine isolates should be considered potentially pathogenic for humans. In conclusion, sheep are an important reservoir of human-pathogenicE. coliO26:H11 isolates in Norway.
Distribution of Monoclonal Antibody Subgroups and Sequence-Based Types among Legionella pneumophila Serogroup 1 Isolates Derived from Cooling Tower Water, Bathwater, and Soil in Japan
Authors: Amemura-Maekawa Junko , Kikukawa Kiyomi , Helbig Jürgen H. , Kaneko Satoko , Suzuki-Hashimoto Atsuko , Furuhata Katsunori , Chang Bin , Murai Miyo , Ichinose Masayuki , Ohnishi Makoto , Kura Fumiaki ,   and the Working Group for Legionella in Japan
Published: April 2012

Legionella pneumophila
serogroup (SG) 1 is the most frequent cause of legionellosis. This study analyzed environmental isolates of
L. pneumophila
SG 1 in Japan using monoclonal antibody (MAb) typing and sequence-based typing (SBT). Samples were analyzed from bathwater (BW;
n
= 50), cooling tower water (CT;
n
= 50), and soil (SO;
n
= 35). The distribution of MAb types varied by source, with the most prevalent types being Bellingham (42%), Oxford (72%), and OLDA (51%) in BW, CT, and SO, respectively. The ratios of MAb 3/1 positive isolates were 26, 2, and 14% from BW, CT, and SO, respectively. The environmental isolates from BW, CT, and SO were divided into 34 sequence types (STs; index of discrimination [IOD] = 0.973), 8 STs (IOD = 0.448), and 11 STs (IOD = 0.879), respectively. Genetic variation among CT isolates was smaller than seen in BW and SO. ST1 accounted for 74% of the CT isolates. The only common STs between (i) BW and CT, (ii) BW and SO, and (iii) CT and SO were ST1, ST129, and ST48, respectively, suggesting that each environment constitutes an independent habitat.
Catalytic Efficiency Diversification of Duplicate β-1,3-1,4-Glucanases from Neocallimastix patriciarum J11
Authors: Hung Yu-Lung , Chen Hui-Jye , Liu Jeng-Chen , Chen Yo-Chia
Published: April 2012

Four types of β-1,3-1,4 glucanase (β-glucanase, EC 3.2.1.73) genes, designated
bglA13
,
bglA16
,
bglA51
, and
bglM2
, were found in the cDNA library of
Neocallimastix patriciarum
J11. All were highly homologous with each other and demonstrated a close phylogenetic relationship with and a similar codon bias to
Streptococcus equinus
. The presence of expansion and several predicted secondary structures in the 3′ untranslated regions (3′UTRs) of
bglA16
and
bglM2
suggest that these two genes were duplicated recently, whereas
bglA13
and
bglA16
, which contain very short 3′UTRs, were replicated earlier. These findings indicate that the β-glucanase genes from
N. patriciarum
J11 may have arisen by horizontal transfer from the bacterium and subsequent duplication in the rumen fungus. β-Glucanase genes of
Streptococcus equinus
,
Ruminococcus albus
7, and
N. patriciarum
J11 were cloned and expressed by
Escherichia coli
. The recombinant β-glucanases cloned from
S. equinus
,
R. albus
7, and
N. patriciarum
J11 were endo-acting and had similar substrate specificity, but they demonstrated different properties in other tests. The specific activities and catalytic efficiency of the bacterial β-glucanases were also significantly lower than those of the fungal β-glucanases. Our results also revealed that the activities and some characteristics of enzymes were changed during the horizontal gene transfer event. The specific activities of the fungal β-glucanases ranged from 26,529 to 41,209 U/mg of protein when barley-derived β-glucan was used as the substrate. They also demonstrated similar pH and temperature optima, substrate specificity, substrate affinity, and hydrolysis patterns. Nevertheless, BglA16 and BglM2, two recently duplicated β-glucanases, showed much higher
k
cat
values than others. These results support the notion that duplicated β-glucanase genes, namely,
bglA16
and
bglM2
, increase the reaction efficiency of β-glucanases and suggest that the catalytic efficiency of β-glucanase is likely to be a criterion determining the evolutionary fate of duplicate forms in
N. patriciarum
J11.
Colonization by Pneumocystis jirovecii and Its Role in Disease
Authors: Morris Alison , Norris Karen A.
Published: April 2012

Although the incidence ofPneumocystispneumonia (PCP) has decreased since the introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy, it remains an important cause of disease in both HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected immunosuppressed populations. The epidemiology of PCP has shifted over the course of the HIV epidemic both from changes in HIV and PCP treatment and prevention and from changes in critical care medicine. Although less common in non-HIV-infected immunosuppressed patients, PCP is now more frequently seen due to the increasing numbers of organ transplants and development of novel immunotherapies. New diagnostic and treatment modalities are under investigation. The immune response is critical in preventing this disease but also results in lung damage, and future work may offer potential areas for vaccine development or immunomodulatory therapy. Colonization withPneumocystisis an area of increasing clinical and research interest and may be important in development of lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In this review, we discuss current clinical and research topics in the study ofPneumocystisand highlight areas for future research.
Infection Barriers to Successful Xenotransplantation Focusing on Porcine Endogenous Retroviruses
Authors: Denner Joachim , Tönjes Ralf R.
Published: April 2012

Xenotransplantation may be a solution to overcome the shortage of organs for the treatment of patients with organ failure, but it may be associated with the transmission of porcine microorganisms and the development of xenozoonoses. Whereas most microorganisms may be eliminated by pathogen-free breeding of the donor animals, porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs) cannot be eliminated, since these are integrated into the genomes of all pigs. Human-tropic PERV-A and -B are present in all pigs and are able to infect human cells. Infection of ecotropic PERV-C is limited to pig cells. PERVs may adapt to host cells by varying the number of LTR-binding transcription factor binding sites. Like all retroviruses, they may induce tumors and/or immunodeficiencies. To date, all experimental, preclinical, and clinical xenotransplantations using pig cells, tissues, and organs have not shown transmission of PERV. Highly sensitive and specific methods have been developed to analyze the PERV status of donor pigs and to monitor recipients for PERV infection. Strategies have been developed to prevent PERV transmission, including selection of PERV-C-negative, low-producer pigs, generation of an effective vaccine, selection of effective antiretrovirals, and generation of animals transgenic for a PERV-specific short hairpin RNA inhibiting PERV expression by RNA interference.
Genome Sequence of Amycolatopsis sp. Strain ATCC 39116, a Plant Biomass-Degrading Actinomycete
Authors: Davis Jennifer R. , Goodwin Lynne A. , Woyke Tanja , Teshima Hazuki , Bruce David , Detter Chris , Tapia Roxanne , Han Shunsheng , Han James , Pitluck Sam , Nolan Matt , Mikhailova Natalia , Land Miriam L. , Sello Jason K.
Published: April 2012

We announce the availability of a high-quality draft of the genome sequence of
Amycolatopsis
sp. strain 39116, one of few bacterial species that are known to consume the lignin component of plant biomass. This genome sequence will further ongoing efforts to use microorganisms for the conversion of plant biomass into fuels and high-value chemicals.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Thermophilic Methanogen, Methanocella conradii HZ254, Isolated from Chinese Rice Field Soil
Authors: Lü Zhe , Lu Yahai
Published: April 2012

Members of the order
Methanocellales
play a key role in methane emissions in paddy fields. Because of their slow growth and fastidious culture conditions, pure cultures are difficult to isolate and have been unavailable until recently. Here we report the complete genome sequence of a novel isolate in this group,
Methanocella conradii
strain HZ254.
Draft Genome Sequences of Helicobacter pylori Strains 17874 and P79
Authors: Clancy Ceara D. , Forde Brian M. , Moore Stanley A. , O'Toole Paul W.
Published: April 2012

Helicobacter pylori
is a human pathogen that colonizes the human gastric mucosa, causing gastritis, duodenal and gastric ulcers, and gastric carcinoma. Here we announce the draft genomes of
H. pylori
strain 17874, commonly used for studying motility, and P79, a strain for which plasmid vectors have been developed.
HEIGHTS OF FUNCTION FIELD POINTS ON CURVES GIVEN BY EQUATIONS WITH SEPARATED VARIABLES
Authors: AN TA THI HOAI , DIEP NGUYEN THI NGOC
Published: April 2012

Let P and Q be polynomials in one variable over an algebraically closed field k of characteristic zero. Let f and g be elements of a function field K over k such that P(f) = Q(g). We give conditions on P and Q such that the height of f and g can be effectively bounded, and moreover, we give sufficient conditions on P and Q under which f and g must be constant.
SCATTERING OF SCALAR WAVE FROM BLACK HOLE IN HOŘAVA–LIFSHITZ GRAVITY
Authors: LIAO HAO , CHEN JUHUA , WANG YONGJIU
Published: April 2012

Using the partial wave method, we analyze the Schröedinger-type scalar wave equation from black hole in Hořava–Lifshitz gravity and numerically investigate its absorption cross section and scattering cross section. We find that the absorption cross section oscillates around the geometric optical value in the high frequency regime, and the scattering angle width becomes narrower and the damping oscillation pattern becomes more complex as the angular momentum l increases. With fixed frequency of scalar wave ω, the glory peak becomes lower and the glory width becomes wider as the coupling parameter α increases.
LOWER BOUNDS OF CHARACTERISTIC SCALE OF TOPOLOGICAL MODIFICATION OF THE NEWTONIAN GRAVITATION
Authors: IORIO L.
Published: April 2012

We analytically work out the long-term orbital perturbations induced by the leading order of perturbing potential arising from the local modification of the Newton's inverse square law due to a topology ℝ2 × 𝕊1 with a compactified dimension of radius R recently proposed by Floratos and Leontaris. We neither restrict to any specific spatial direction [Formula: see text] for the asymmetry axis nor to particular orbital configurations of the test particle. Thus, our results are quite general. Nonvanishing long-term variations occur for all the usual osculating Keplerian orbital elements, apart from the semimajor axis which is left unaffected. By using recent improvements in the determination of the orbital motion of Saturn from Cassini data, we preliminarily inferred R ≳ 4-6 kau . As a complementary approach, the putative topological effects should be explicitly modeled and solved-for with a modified version of the ephemerides dynamical models with which the same data sets should be reprocessed.
NEW TECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH TO STUDY ROTATOR CUFF PATHOLOGY
Authors: Vercollone Christopher , Rashidifard Christopher , Zan Shiyi , Martin Scott D. , Brezinski Mark E.
Published: April 2012

Rotator cuff repair (RCR) is a crucial surgical procedure, but has unacceptable mechanical failure rates between 25–60%. Examining supplemental synergistic interventions, such as biological augmentations (ex: growth factors) to improve fibrocartilage formation rather than scar tissue formation, would make tears more amenable to surgical repair. Due to the large number of agents and application methods (and times), improved techniques are needed for assessing RCR in animals. In particular, high-resolution real-time imaging is needed to guide tissue engineering in animal models. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is well suited for this role, with resolutions 25 × greater than any clinical imaging modality and an ability to identify organized collagen with polarization sensitive techniques. For example, it can determine severe collagen depletion in visually normal tendons. The images here show the first OCT and PS-OCT of the rotator cuff in male Wistar rats. The structure of the supraspinatus tendon, enthesis, and humerus are well defined. For histological comparison, this sample was stained with both Masson's Trichrome, to expose any structural abnormalities, and Picrosirius Red, to determine collagen content using a polarization filter. OCT studies offer the potential of understanding RCR failure mechanisms and potential tissue altering agents, substantially impacting outcomes.