bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence of tongue lesions in Malaysian dental outpatients from the Klang Valley area
Authors: Koay CL , Lim JA , Siar CH
Published: August 2010

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 210–216

Objectives:  To determine the prevalence of tongue lesions in Malaysian dental outpatients from the Klang Valley area.

Subjects and Methods:  A cross sectional study was conducted on 600 Malaysian outpatients (257 men, 343 women, mean age, 37.7 years) attending the Primary Dental Care Unit at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya. Demographic and medical data were recorded for all respondents.

Results:  One hundred eighty‐one patients (30.2%) (81 men, 100 women, mean age 42.0 years) were diagnosed with at least one tongue lesion (n = 207) at the time of examination. Of these, 24 patients (4%) had two or more tongue lesions present synchronously. Seven different lesions were diagnosed: fissured tongue (13.8%), crenated tongue (7.8%), pigmented tongue (6.2%), geographic tongue (2.2%), ankyloglossia (1.7%), hairy tongue (1.0%) and median rhomboid glossitis (0.2%). Their racial prevalences were Malays (n = 65, 10.8%), Indians (n = 62, 10.3%), Chinese (n = 53, 8.8%) and other race (n = 1, 0.2%). A significant relationship was observed between crenated tongue and race; between four types of tongue lesions (fissured tongue, geographic tongue, crenated tongue and pigmented tongue) and age; and between fissured tongue and gender (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Distribution characteristics of tongue lesions in Malaysians are important as local reference data in the daily clinical practice.
Reduced statherin reactivity of human submandibular gland in diabetes
Authors: Isola M , Solinas P , Proto E , Cossu M , Lantini MS
Published: August 2010

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 217–220

Background and Objectives:  Statherin is a salivary protein involved in the formation of enamel pellicle and in regulation of calcium homeostasis. Diabetes and other pathologies affect both salivary flow and protein secretion by salivary glands, causing increased susceptibility to mucosal infections, tooth demineralization, and caries. The purpose of this study was to compare the statherin expression in submandibular glands of healthy and diabetic subjects.

Materials and Methods:  Fragments of submandibular glands obtained from diabetic and non diabetic patients were fixed, dehydrated, embedded in Epon Resin and processed for the immunogold histochemistry. The results were statistically evaluated.

Results:  Specific statherin labeling was demonstrated in secretory granules of acinar cells in both diabetic and normal samples. The staining was much more intense in the latter compared to those of diabetics. The labeling density was quantified by evaluating the number and spatial distribution of gold particles within the granules. The number of gold particles was significantly lower in glands from diabetics than in control glands.

Conclusions:  The results obtained suggest that a reduced statherin secretion by salivary glands might be partly responsible for a less effective protection of the oral tissues, resulting in an higher incidence of caries and oral infections associated with diabetes.
Responses of periodontal ligament stem cells on various titanium surfaces
Authors: Heo Y‐Y , Um S , Kim S‐K , Park J‐M , Seo BM
Published: August 2010

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 320–327

Objective:  Periodontal ligament has been reported to have adult stem cells (PDLSCs) which are responsible to regenerate the alveolar bone tissue after tooth is removed from its socket. Also PDLSCs may be the stem cells responsible for the osseointegration of titanium implants after installing the implant immediately in the fresh extracted socket. Here we tested cellular responses of PDLSCs on the various titanium surfaces to verify this notion.

Materials and methods:  Titanium disc were prepared for the different surface textures; smooth machined, blasted with 75 and 125 μm Al2O3 particles, and anodized. PDLSCs were cultured on these titanium discs and tested their proliferation and gene expressions of osteocalcin, osteopontin, type I collagen, and GAPDH.

Results:  Proliferation of PDLSCs was higher on the rough surface blasted with 75 μm Al2O3 particles. Osteocalcin expression was increased on the Al2O3 particle treated‐surface regardless of its particle size. Type I collagen expression was generally decreased with time in 6 days culture.

Conclusions:  In this experiment, it was shown that cultured PDLSCs proliferate in higher rate on the rough surface especially at the 75 μm Al2O3 particle treated surface than other surfaces. Also, osteocalcin was highly expressed on the rough surfaces treated with 75 μm and 125 μm Al2O3 particles.
Proteomic mining in the dysplastic liver of WHV/c‐myc mice – insights and indicators for early hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Liu Yansheng , Li Chen , Xing Zhen , Yuan Xingyu , Wu Yi , Xu Mengjie , Tu Kang , Li Qingrun , Wu Chaochao , Zhao Mujun , Zeng Rong
Published: August 2010

Because of the asymptomatic process of carcinogenesis, the early detection of cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is very challenging. Tumor‐prone transgenic mouse models of oncogenesis can provide a stable and powerful tool for the analysis of cancer initiation, and are therefore promising for the discovery of early putative biomarkers of HCC. Using a label‐free proteomic quantification strategy, we comprehensively investigated the protein expression profile in the livers of three 2‐month‐old WHV/c‐myc mice at the dysplastic stage, with age‐matched wt‐C57 mice as controls. We identified 2781 proteins, 540 of which were differentially expressed. These proteins successfully characterized certain precancerous biological processes and alterations in transcriptional regulators before tumor onset. Two candidates, FK506‐binding protein 4 (FKBP52) and ferritin heavy chain, were taken as examples for a search from the mouse model to clinical human tissues. Their levels in serum samples were determined by western blotting, and showed a noteworthy ability to distinguish between HCC and control cases. Immunohistochemical analysis with tissue microarrays confirmed the differential expression of FKBP52 between HCC and the paired controls (P < 0.001). The regulation of FKBP52 was also discovered to be relevant to HCC staging, with a dramatic decline at stage III (P < 0.05). The potentials of the candidate pool in this study were discussed in terms of delineating c‐myc‐induced hepatocarcinogenesis and facilitating biomarker discovery for early HCC diagnosis.
Control of transferrin expression by β‐amyloid through the CP2 transcription factor
Authors: Jang Sang‐Min , Kim Jung‐Woong , Kim Chul‐Hong , An Joo‐Hee , Kang Eun‐Jin , Kim Chul Geun , Kim Hyun‐Jung , Choi Kyung‐Hee
Published: August 2010

Accumulation of β‐amyloid protein (Aβ) is one of the most important pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease. Although Aβ induces neurodegeneration in the cortex and hippocampus through several molecular mechanisms, few studies have evaluated the modulation of transcription factors during Aβ‐induced neurotoxicity. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the transcriptional activity of transcription factor CP2 in neuronal damage mediated by Aβ (Aβ1–42 and Aβ25–35). An unbiased motif search of the transferrin promoter region showed that CP2 binds to the transferrin promoter, an iron‐regulating protein, and regulates transferrin transcription. Ectopic expression of CP2 led to increased transferrin expression at both the mRNA and protein levels, whereas knockdown of CP2 down‐regulated transferrin mRNA and protein expression. Moreover, CP2 trans‐activated transcription of a transferrin reporter gene. An electrophoretic mobility shift assay and a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that CP2 binds to the transferrin promoter region. Furthermore, the binding affinity of CP2 to the transferrin promoter was regulated by Aβ, as Aβ (Aβ1–42 and Aβ25–35) markedly increased the binding affinity of CP2 for the transferrin promoter. Taken together, these results suggest that CP2 contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease by inducing transferrin expression via up‐regulating its transcription.
The heat shock factor family and adaptation to proteotoxic stress
Authors: Fujimoto Mitsuaki , Nakai Akira
Published: August 2010

The heat shock response was originally characterized as the induction of a set of major heat shock proteins encoded by heat shock genes. Because heat shock proteins act as molecular chaperones that facilitate protein folding and suppress protein aggregation, this response plays a major role in maintaining protein homeostasis. The heat shock response is regulated mainly at the level of transcription by heat shock factors (HSFs) in eukaryotes. HSF1 is a master regulator of the heat shock genes in mammalian cells, as is HSF3 in avian cells. HSFs play a significant role in suppressing protein misfolding in cells and in ameliorating the progression of Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila and mouse models of protein‐misfolding disorders, by inducing the expression of heat shock genes. Recently, numerous HSF target genes were identified, such as the classical heat shock genes and other heat‐inducible genes, called nonclassical heat shock genes in this study. Importance of the expression of the nonclassical heat shock genes was evidenced by the fact that mouse HSF3 and chicken HSF1 play a substantial role in the protection of cells from heat shock without inducing classical heat shock genes. Furthermore, HSF2 and HSF4, as well as HSF1, shown to have roles in development, were also revealed to be necessary for the expression of certain nonclassical heat shock genes. Thus, the heat shock response regulated by the HSF family should consist of the induction of classical as well as of nonclassical heat shock genes, both of which might be required to maintain protein homeostasis.
Regulation of the members of the mammalian heat shock factor family
Authors: Björk Johanna K. , Sistonen Lea
Published: August 2010

Regulation of gene expression is fundamental in all living organisms and is facilitated by transcription factors, the single largest group of proteins in humans. For cell‐ and stimulus‐specific gene regulation, strict control of the transcription factors themselves is crucial. Heat shock factors are a family of transcription factors best known as master regulators of induced gene expression during the heat shock response. This evolutionary conserved cellular stress response is characterized by massive production of heat shock proteins, which function as cytoprotective molecular chaperones against various proteotoxic stresses. In addition to promoting cell survival under stressful conditions, heat shock factors are involved in the regulation of life span and progression of cancer and they are also important for developmental processes such as gametogenesis, neurogenesis and maintenance of sensory organs. Here, we review the regulatory mechanisms steering the activities of the mammalian heat shock factors 1–4.
Novel aspects of heat shock factors: DNA recognition, chromatin modulation and gene expression
Authors: Sakurai Hiroshi , Enoki Yasuaki
Published: August 2010

Heat shock factor (HSF) is an evolutionarily conserved stress‐response regulator that activates the transcription of heat shock protein genes, whose products maintain protein homeostasis under normal physiological conditions, as well as under conditions of stress. The promoter regions of the target genes contain a heat shock element consisting of multiple inverted repeats of the pentanucleotide sequence nGAAn. A single HSF of yeast can bind to heat shock elements that differ in the configuration of the nGAAn units and can regulate the transcription of various genes that function not only in stress resistance, but also in a broad range of biological processes. Mammalian cells have four HSF family members involved in different, but in some cases similar, biological functions, including stress resistance, cell differentiation and development. Mammalian HSF family members exhibit differential specificity for different types of heat shock elements, which, together with cell type‐specific expression of HSFs is important in determining the target genes of each HSF. This minireview focuses on the molecular mechanisms of DNA recognition, chromatin modulation and gene expression by yeast and mammalian HSFs.
Roles of heat shock factors in gametogenesis and development
Authors: Abane Ryma , Mezger Valérie
Published: August 2010

Heat shock factors form a family of transcription factors (four in mammals), which were named according to the first discovery of their activation by heat shock. As a result of the universality and robustness of their response to heat shock, the stress‐dependent activation of heat shock factor became a ‘paradigm’: by binding to conserved DNA sequences (heat shock elements), heat shock factors trigger the expression of genes encoding heat shock proteins that function as molecular chaperones, contributing to establish a cytoprotective state to various proteotoxic stress and in several pathological conditions. Besides their roles in the stress response, heat shock factors perform crucial roles during gametogenesis and development in physiological conditions. First, during these process, in stress conditions, they are either proactive for survival or, conversely, for apoptotic process, allowing elimination or, inversely, protection of certain cell populations in a way that prevents the formation of damaged gametes and secure future reproductive success. Second, heat shock factors display subtle interplay in a tissue‐ and stage‐specific manner, in regulating very specific sets of heat shock genes, but also many other genes encoding growth factors or involved in cytoskeletal dynamics. Third, they act not only by their classical transcription factor activities, but are necessary for the establishment of chromatin structure and, likely, genome stability. Finally, in contrast to the heat shock gene paradigm, heat shock elements bound by heat shock factors in developmental process turn out to be extremely dispersed in the genome, which is susceptible to lead to the future definition of ‘developmental heat shock element’.
Molecular defect of isovaleryl‐CoA dehydrogenase in the skunk mutant of silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Urano Kei , Daimon Takaaki , Banno Yutaka , Mita Kazuei , Terada Tohru , Shimizu Kentaro , Katsuma Susumu , Shimada Toru
Published: August 2010

The isovaleric acid‐emanating silkworm mutant skunk (sku) was first studied over 30 years ago because of its unusual odour and prepupal lethality. Here, we report the identification and characterization of the gene responsible for the sku mutant. Because of its specific features and symptoms similar to human isovaleryl‐CoA dehydrogenase (IVD) deficiency, also known as isovaleric acidaemia, IVD dysfunction in silkworms was predicted to be responsible for the phenotype of the sku mutant. Linkage analysis revealed that the silkworm IVD gene (BmIVD) was closely linked to the odorous phenotype as expected, and a single amino acid substitution (G376V) was found in BmIVD of the sku mutant. To investigate the effect of the G376V substitution on BmIVD function, wild‐type and sku‐type recombinants were constructed with a baculovirus expression system and the subsequent enzyme activity of sku‐type BmIVD was shown to be significantly reduced compared with that of wild‐type BmIVD. Molecular modelling suggested that this reduction in the enzyme activity may be due to negative effects of G376V mutation on FAD‐binding or on monomer–monomer interactions. These observations strongly suggest that BmIVD is responsible for the sku locus and that the molecular defect in BmIVD causes the characteristic smell and prepupal lethality of the sku mutant. To our knowledge, this is, aside from humans, the first characterization of IVD deficiency in metazoa. Considering that IVD acts in the third step of leucine degradation and the sku mutant accumulates branched‐chain amino acids in haemolymph, this mutant may be useful in the investigation of unique branched‐chain amino acid catabolism in insects.
Expression of Concern
Authors: Roberts Jason
Published: September 2010

Regmi K. Opportunities and challenges of sexual health services among young people: A study in Nepal. J Sex Med 2009;6:35261
Is There Enough Science for Conservation Action?
Authors: Shaanker Ramanan U. , Ganeshaiah Kotiganahalli N.
Published: August 2010

We argue that there is not enough science to appropriately support many of the conservation measures currently being proposed, and hence, we cannot be sure of the objectivity of the conservation actions being implemented. The objectivity claimed to be underlying conservation actions is more assumed than real. We also suggest that the approach to conservation is driven more by moral commitments than by tested concepts, and it is further biased by our anthropocentric evaluation of ecological processes and their outcomes. Conservation science is a young subject, which needs to be nourished while it continues to feed on its roots‐ecology and evolutionary biology.
Proteomic Study Identifies Proteins Involved in Brassinosteroid Regulation of Rice Growth
Authors: Wang Fengru , Bai Ming‐Yi , Deng Zhiping , Oses‐Prieto Juan A. , Burlingame Alma L. , Lu Tiegang , Chong Kang , Wang Zhi‐Yong
Published: August 2010

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are essential hormones for growth and development of plant. In rice, BRs regulate multiple developmental processes and affect many important traits such as height, leaf angle, fertility and seed filling. We identified brassinosteroid‐regulated proteins in rice using proteomic approaches and performed functional analysis of some BR‐regulated proteins by overexpression experiments. Using two‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2‐D DIGE) followed by protein identification by mass spectrometry, we compared proteomic differences in the shoots and roots of the BR‐insensitive mutant d61‐4 and BR‐deficient mutant brd1‐3. We identified a large number of proteins differentially expressed in the mutants compared with wild type control. These include a glycine‐rich RNA‐binding protein (OsGRP1) and a DREPP2 protein, which showed reduced levels in the BR mutants. Overexpression of these two proteins partially suppressed the dwarf phenotype of the Arabidopsis BR‐insensitive mutant bri1‐5. In contrast to the reduced protein level, the RNA level of OsGRP1 was not significantly affected in the BR mutants or by BR treatment, suggesting BR regulation of OsGRP1 at the posttranslational level. This study identifies many BR‐regulated proteins and demonstrates that OsGRP1 functions downstream in the BR signal transduction pathway to promote cell expansion.
Active versus passive microleakage of Resilon/Epiphany and gutta‐percha/AH Plus
Authors: Kqiku Lumnije , Städtler Peter , Gruber Hans Jürgen , Baraba Anja , Anic Ivica , Miletic Ivana
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this in vitro study was to assess the active versus passive dye microleakage and apical sealing ability of laterally condensed gutta‐percha/AH Plus versus Resilon/Epiphany. One hundred and twenty teeth were instrumented and divided into experimental, positive and negative control groups. In group 1, the teeth were obturated with gutta‐percha/AH Plus and in group 2 the teeth were obturated with Resilon/Epiphany. The apical seal was evaluated with a passive and active dye penetration test. Absorbance of the extracted dye was determined with a spectrophotometer. Resilon/Epiphany showed less dye penetration in comparison with the gutta‐percha/AH Plus group (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the passive and active dye penetration tests (P > 0.05). In this in vitro study, canals obturated with Resilon/Epiphany showed less apical leakage than those obturated with gutta‐percha/AH Plus, regardless of the type of dye penetration test used.
How older people nurses assess cognitive function through daily observation
Authors: Persoon Anke , Van der Cruijsen Marga , Schlattmann Noortje , Simmes Friede , Van Achterberg Theo
Published: August 2010

persoon a., van der cruijsen m., schlattmann n., simmes f. & van achterberg t. (2011) How older people nurses assess cognitive function through daily observation.International Journal of Older People Nursing6, 102–109 doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2010.00234.x

Aim. To obtain knowledge and insight into how older people nurses observe the cognitive function of their patients.

Background. In cases of cognitive decline not due to delirium, the daily observation of cognitive function by nurses has not been standardised in hospital wards specialised in the care of older people.

Design. A qualitative study with purposive sampling and semi‐structured interviews.

Methods. Data were obtained by interviewing 10 Dutch nursing experts in the field of cognitive function in older patients. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed by two independent researchers.

Results. All the respondents stated that daily observation of cognitive function yields valuable information. The concept of cognitive function was operationalised differently by institute and by nurse. Observation and reporting methods varied, as did the goals set by the nurses. Nurses reported using many days of observation to reach final judgements.

Conclusions. Observations of cognitive functioning should include several cognitive domains, be restricted to a few days of observation and aim to both contribute to medical diagnoses and guide nursing interventions.

Relevance to clinical practice. Until a valid instrument becomes available, nursing staff must standardise daily observations themselves. This paper describes input to achieve this.
Vertebral and rib anatomy in Caperea marginata: Implications for evolutionary patterning of the mammalian vertebral column
Authors: Buchholtz Emily A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract

The pygmy right whale, Caperea marginata, is a rare mysticete cetacean with an unusual suite of axial skeletal characters. Distally expanded first ribs, a long thorax with broadly overlapping vertebral transverse processes, plate‐like posterior ribs, and a short tail contrast with other cetaceans and suggest unique developmental patterning. Twenty‐four individuals of diverse ontogenetic age were available for analysis. Multiple, variable examples of incomplete rib fusion in dependent calves indicate that the first rib of adults is an ontogenetic fusion product of ribs 1 and 2. The composite rib articulates by way of its anterior (Rib1) component to the sternum and by way of its posterior (Rib2) component with thoracic vertebra 2. Thoracic vertebra 1 lacks rib articulations. When rib fusion is taken into account, the most frequent column formulas are C7T18L1Cd16–17 = 42–43 and C7T17L1Cd16–18 = 41–43. Thoracic and lumbar series are not reciprocal in count, arguing against their developmental linkage. Instead, parallel reduction in both lumbar and caudal counts supports the existence of neocete patterning in Caperea, as in all other living cetaceans. Ontogenetic vertebral column elongation is most marked in the posterior thorax, lumbos, and anterior tail. Vertebrae in these column regions are excellent predictors of total body length.
Coastal, offshore, and migratory movements of South African right whales revealed by satellite telemetry
Authors: Mate B. R. , Best P. B. , Lagerquist B. A. , Winsor M. H.
Published: August 2010

Abstract

In September 2001, 21 satellite‐monitored radio tags were deployed on southern right whales in South African waters, 15 of which transmitted for 25–161 d. Most coastwise movement on the south coast occurred in a westerly direction with cow‐calf pairs moving slowest. Three whales tagged on the west coast and one tagged on the south coast moved north into St Helena Bay, a probable feeding ground, where residence times were 36–100 d. Five animals tracked after leaving the coast maintained a bearing of 201°–220° before branching out over the southeast Atlantic from 37° to 60°S and between 13°W and 16°E, traveling 3,800–8,200 km over the ensuing 53–110 d before transmissions ceased. Their locations were categorized as migrating or nonmigrating based on the relative orientation of the track and net speed. An average of 42% of nonmigrating locations were between 37°S and 45°S, and 53% were south of 52°S, possibly associated with the Subtropical Convergence and Antarctic Polar Front, respectively. Whaling data suggest right whales fed largely on copepods at the former and euphausiids at the latter. If the nonmigrating locations represented feeding at these frontal zones, switching between them would seem to have obvious cost‐benefit implications.
Latitudinal variation in diet and patterns of human interaction in the marine otter
Authors: Mangel J. C. , Whitty T. , Medina‐Vogel G. , Alfaro‐Shigueto J. , Cáceres C. , Godley B. J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract

The marine otter (Lontra felina) inhabits patches of rocky coastline from central Peru to southern Chile and is classified as Endangered by the IUCN. Given the limited information available about the species, we set out to assess marine otter diet with a view to detecting latitudinal differences, and to assess marine otter activity budgets and interspecific interactions (including anthropogenic) at Peruvian fishing villages and to compare results with similar Chilean studies. Nine study sites from central Chile to southern Peru were sampled for otter spraints to assess relative frequency of prey types and two fishing ports in southern Peru were monitored through focal and scan observations to assess activity patterns, interspecific interactions, habitat use patterns, and dive durations. Results indicate that toward the northern part of its range, crustaceans become less important and fish more important in the diet. Interactions were observed between marine otters and other species, including stray dogs and cats. The strong dependence of marine otters on the availability of safe rocky shelters, and the species’ apparent tolerance to living alongside humans raise conservation concerns about vulnerability to anthropogenic threats. These factors, if not correctly managed, could turn some of these rocky seashore patches into population sinks.
Propriospinal transmission of the locomotor command signal in the neonatal rat
Authors: Cowley Kristine C. , Zaporozhets Eugene , Schmidt Brian J.
Published: September 2010

Long direct bulbospinal projections are known to convey descending activation of locomotor networks. Less is understood about the role, if any, of propriospinal mechanisms in this function. Here we review our recent studies on propriospinal neurons in thein vitroneonatal rat brainstem‐spinal cord preparation. Neurochemical suppression of synaptic activity in the cervicothoracic spinal cord blocked locomotor‐like activity, suggesting synaptic relays make a critical contribution to descending transmission of the locomotor signal. Staggered contralateral hemisections in the cervicothoracic region, intended to eliminate all long direct bulbospinal transmission, failed to suppress locomotion, suggesting the propriospinal system alone is sufficient. Midsagittal lesion experiments showed that locomotor‐related commissural components are required for rhythm generation in response to electrical stimulation of the brainstem and are redundantly distributed. No single segment was essential, although a bi‐directional gradient was noted, centered on the thoracolumbar junction. These results strongly favor a role for propriospinal mechanisms in the activation of locomotion and suggest that propriospinal neurons are a logical target for interventions to restore locomotor function after spinal cord injury.
Sensory‐induced activation of pattern generators in the absence of supraspinal control
Authors: Lev‐Tov A. , Etlin A. , Blivis D.
Published: September 2010

Sacrocaudal afferent (SCA) stimulation is used in this work to study neural pathways involved in sensory‐activation of central pattern generators (CPGs) in the isolated spinal cord of the neonatal rat. Surgical manipulations of the white matter funiculi and confocal imaging of back‐labeled funicular pathways suggest that the CPGs are activated during SCA stimulation by crossed and uncrossed multifunicular projections of sacral neurons and that activation of short projecting proprioneurons is sufficient for the generation of the rhythm by SCA stimulation. The versatile organization of the pathways involved in the SCA‐induced rhythm makes it a potent and durable activator of the CPGs in the absence of descending control from the brain. The significance of our findings and their potential clinical use are discussed.
Immune response by microglia in the spinal cord
Authors: Olson Julie K.
Published: September 2010

Microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and share many immunological characteristics with peripheral macrophage. Microglia exist in a quiescent state in the healthy CNS, however, upon injury or infection, microglia become activated immune cells. Microglia have been implicated in playing an important role in several neurological diseases that affect the spinal cord, especially multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuropathic pain. However, most studies, which examined the immune response by microglia have been conducted using microglia cultures generated from brain microglia. Therefore, our studies examined the immune response by microglia in the spinal cord compared to the immune response by microglia in the brain. Microglia in the spinal cord of mice expressed higher levels of surface immune molecules than microglia in the brain, and upon virus infection, microglia in the spinal cord expressed higher levels of immune molecules than microglia in the brain. These studies suggest that microglia in the spinal cord may have different immune reactivity than microglia in the brain, which may contribute to spinal cord diseases.
Human stem cells as a model of motoneuron development and diseases
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhang Su‐Chun
Published: September 2010

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) possess the potential to become all cell and tissue types of the human body. Under chemically defined culture systems, hESCs and hiPSCs have been efficiently directed to functional spinal motoneurons and astrocytes. The differentiation process faithfully recapitulates the developmental process predicted from studies in vertebrate animals and human specimens, suggesting the usefulness of stem cell differentiation systems in understanding human cellular development. Motoneurons and astrocytes differentiated from genetically altered hESCs or disease hiPSCs exhibit predicted phenotypes. They thus offer a simplified dynamic model for analyzing pathological processes that lead to human motoneuron degeneration, which in turn may serve as a template for pharmaceutical screening. In addition, the human stem cell‐derived motoneurons and astrocytes, including those specifically derived from a patient, may become a source for cell therapy.
Mechanisms regulating the specificity and strength of muscle afferent inputs in the spinal cord
Authors: Mentis George Z. , Alvarez Francisco J. , Shneider Neil A. , Siembab Valerie C. , O’Donovan Michael J.
Published: September 2010

We investigated factors controlling the development of connections between muscle spindle afferents, spinal motor neurons, and inhibitory Renshaw cells. Several mutants were examined to establish the role of muscle spindles, muscle spindle‐derived NT3, and excess NT3 in determining the specificity and strength of these connections. The findings suggest that although spindle‐derived factors are not necessary for the initial formation and specificity of the synapses, spindle‐derived NT3 seems necessary for strengthening homonymous connections between Ia afferents and motor neurons during the second postnatal week. We also found evidence for functional monosynaptic connections between sensory afferents and neonatal Renshaw cells although the density of these synapses decreases at P15. We conclude that muscle spindle synapses are weakened on Renshaw cells while they are strengthened on motor neurons. Interestingly, the loss of sensory synapses on Renshaw cells was reversed in mice overexpresssing NT3 in the periphery, suggesting that different levels of NT3 are required for functional maintenance and strengthening of spindle afferent inputs on motor neurons and Renshaw cells.
Effect of Agglomeration on Flowability of Baby Food Powders
Authors: Szulc Karolina , Lenart Andrzej
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the wet agglomeration in a fluidized bed on flowability of agglomerated products, such as baby food powders. The agglomeration process was performed in the fluidized bed. The wetting liquid used to the process was: water, 2% lecithin solution, and 50% sugar solution. Food powders flowability was expressed as: Hausner Ratio, pouring time, angles of sliding and of repose and flow function. The composition of materials, used to prepare mixtures, has a significant influence on tested properties. The higher milk powder of the mixtures caused decreasing of their flowability. Wet agglomeration of baby food powders caused an increase in the mean diameter of particles, which made it possible to receive agglomerates with good flowability and decreased bulk density. The increase of milk powder content from 0 to 73% in the mixture before the agglomeration contributed to improve its flowability. Wet agglomeration with 2% lecithin solution and 50% sugar solution reduced particle size and bulk density, improved flowability of received agglomerates in relation to agglomerates received with water as a wetting liquid.

Practical Application:  Agglomeration of baby food powders increases particle size of received agglomerates with a tendency to reduce their bulk density. Agglomerates flowability determined by using practical tests (Hausner ratio, pouring time, angles of sliding and of repose) is not sufficient for a comprehensive assessment of powdered deposit. For complex flow behavior, like that of agglomerated baby food powders, the Jenike shear test only remains as an acceptable test of flowability.
Roles of Water and Solids Composition in the Control of Glass Transition and Stickiness of Milk Powders
Authors: Silalai Nattiga , Roos Yrjö H.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Plasticization and glass transition of amorphous components in food powders often result in stickiness and caking. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of milk powders was measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and a viscometer method was used to determine sticky‐point temperatures. Water sorption isotherms were established for varying solids compositions. Lactose contents were analyzed by high‐performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAE‐PAD) and proteins were identified using SDS‐PAGE gel electrophoresis. Solids composition and water affected both the Tg and stickiness behavior. Stickiness was governed by carbohydrates and water plasticization. At low protein contents, precrystallization of lactose decreased the sticky point temperature, but increasing protein content in all milk powders decreased stickiness at all water activities. The results showed that glass transition can be used to describe time‐dependent stickiness and crystallization phenomena, and it can be used as a parameter to control and reduce stickiness of dairy solids with various compositions.

Practical Application:  Glass transition of component sugars in milk powders with various water contents was responsible for a solid‐liquid transformation which resulted in their viscous flow at particle surfaces and stickiness of the powders. Stickiness leads to wall deposition in dehydration and caking of powders in storage when the amorphous carbohydrate‐rich components gain liquid characteristics. High protein contents in milk powders decreased stickiness, but precrystallization of lactose prior to spray drying increased stickiness at low protein content. Milk powders in storage gained higher water contents with increasing protein contents, but stickiness was reduced and lactose crystallization was delayed which improved storage stability.
Assessment of Dietary Intake of Patulin from Baby Foods
Authors: Bonerba Elisabetta , Conte Rossella , Ceci Edmondo , Tantillo Giuseppina
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Patulin is a mycotoxin produced by microscopic fungi belonging to the Penicillium and Aspergillus genera, frequently detectable in moldy fruits and their derivatives fruit products. The EC Regulation 1881/06 has imposed the limit for the presence of patulin equal to 10 μg/kg or 10 μg/L in baby food on the basis of a PMTDI of 0.4 μg/kg bw set by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). A total of 120 homogenized baby foods were analyzed to evaluate the exposure of baby and children to patulin through the consumption of these products. None of examined samples has shown a toxin concentration above the limit imposed by the law, however a PAT concentration equal to 9 μg/kg was found in 22 samples, slightly below the fixed limit. The presence of patulin in marketed baby food can be regarded as a parameter indicative of the quality of raw materials used.
Analysis of tidal breathing flow volume loop in dogs with tracheal masses
Authors: Adamama‐Moraitou KK , Pardali D , Prassinos NN , Papazoglou LG , Makris D , Gourgoulianis KI , Papaioannou N , Rallis TS
Published: September 2010

Objectives To investigate whether there are any changes in the tidal breathing flow volume loop (TBFVL) in calm, non‐dyspnoeic dogs with intratracheal masses.

Methods We compared 4 dogs with intratracheal masses (group 1) with 10 healthy dogs (group 2). Routine clinical and laboratory examinations of the dogs were unremarkable, except for episodic upper respiratory obstructive signs in the dogs in group 1. Lateral radiography of the neck and thorax showed that group 1 dogs had masses that appeared to protrude into the tracheal lumen. Tracheoscopy and surgery or necropsy was performed to confirm the presence of the mass. Arterial blood gas and TBFVL analysis was carried out in all dogs to assess respiratory status.

Results The shape of the TBFVL for dogs in group 1 was narrower and ovoid compared with that for the group 2 dogs. Tidal volume and expiratory and inspiratory times were significantly reduced, whereas the respiratory rate was increased for dogs in group 1 compared with dogs in group 2. Arterial blood gas analysis was unremarkable for all dogs.

Conclusions TBFVL is a non‐invasive technique that is easy to perform and well tolerated by dogs. In the absence of abnormalities detected by routine diagnostic evaluations and arterial blood gas analysis in dogs with intratracheal masses, the TBFVL contributes to the definition of the physiologic status of the airways at the time of testing, and results suggests that these dogs breathe quite normally when they are calm and non‐dyspnoeic.
Reproductive history and absence of predators are important determinants of reproductive fitness: the cheetah controversy revisited
Authors: Wachter Bettina , Thalwitzer Susanne , Hofer Heribert , Lonzer Johann , Hildebrandt Thomas B. , Hermes Robert
Published: August 2010

Re‐introduction programs rely on reproductively sound individuals and high offspring survival once captively bred species are released into their natural habitat. Some species involved in captive breeding programs reproduce poorly: one prominent example is the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). Here we use the cheetah as a case study to test predictions from all current hypotheses explaining this phenomenon by monitoring postemergence cub survival and assessing the reproductive status of free‐ranging and captive female cheetahs in Namibia with ultrasonography. We show that reproductive activity and health of cheetah females is determined by reproductive history and age rather than innate rhythms, captive stress, or lack of genetic diversity, and that postemergence cub survival under natural conditions in a predator‐free habitat is high. Our results suggest that management practices of captive breeding and re‐introduction programs should encourage early reproduction in females to induce long‐lasting and healthy reproductive performance. With this practice, re‐introduction projects might increase their chances of success.
The Acoustic Velocity of Ge‐Doped Silica Fibers: A Comparison of Two Models
Authors: Dragic Peter D.
Published: August 2010

Two models are compared with measured data for the longitudinal acoustic velocity of Ge‐doped silica fibers as a function of GeO2 content in order to determine if either of them can be used in designing the acoustic velocity profile of an optical fiber. These are the Makishima–Mackenzie and additive (AD) models. Both models are found to fit measured data very well in the available test samples, and as a result both models offer a means to accurately design doping profiles for a number of Brillouin scattering applications. The major difference between these models lies in the slope of the curve between pure silica and pure GeO2 acoustic velocity values, the latter of which lies outside the range of our experimental data (<40 mol% GeO2 in silica). The AD model is also shown to fit the Sellemeier equation very well.
Monopolar Electrosurgical Thermal Management System to Reduce Lateral Thermal Damage During Surgery
Authors: Dodde Robert , Gee Jacob S. , Geiger James D. , Shih Albert J.
Published: August 2010

A monopolar electrosurgical device is the most commonly used energy-based surgical instrument. Monopolar devices are primarily applied to incise, ablate, dissect, and coagulate tissue by transferring electrical energy to the tissue in the form of heat generation through resistive heating. The substantial amount of heat created by the monopolar device has been shown to spread throughout the tissue, creating unintended tissue damage, which can lead to nerve thermal damage and loss of normal bodily functions. Due to this fact, energy-based devices have had a limited use in surgical procedures performed near neurovascular bundles. The extent to which the generated heat raises the temperature of the surrounding tissue is referred to as the device’s thermal spread. In this study, ex vivo and in vivo experiments have shown that a novel thermal management system (TMS) can reduce the amount of thermal spread created by a typical monopolar device, thus eliminating the thermal collateral tissue damage typically caused during a monopolar procedure. The incorporation of a TMS consisting of adjacent cooling channels reduces the thermal spread of the device, as illustrated in a reduction as high as 50% in the maximum temperature recorded during an in vivo experimental procedure. The design of the TMS was aided by finite element modeling (FEM). The phenomenon of monopolar resistive heating was modeled to analyze the temperature distributions in biological tissue subjected to heat generation by a commonly used monopolar electrosurgical device. The mathematical model was verified by comparing the model’s predicted temperature distribution with experimental results. Ex vivo experiments were performed with liver tissue heated by a monopolar pencil electrode. The experimental data for 1 mm distance from the electrode are seen to fit within 1% of the predicted temperature values by the FEM simulation.
Indicating Shortcomings in Surgical Lighting Systems
Authors: Knulst Arjan J. , Mooijweer Rik , Jansen Frank W. , Stassen Laurents P. S. , Dankelman Jenny
Published: August 2010

Ergonomic problems of surgical lighting systems have been indicated by surgeons. However, the underlying causes are not clear. The aim of this study is to assess the problems in detail. Luminaire use during 46 h of surgery was observed and quantified. Furthermore, a questionnaire on perceived illumination of and usability problems with surgical luminaires was issued among OR-staff in 13 hospitals. The results showed that every 7.5 min a luminaire action (LA) takes place, intended to reposition the luminaire. Of these LAs, 74% was performed by surgeons and residents. For 64% of these LAs the surgical tasks of OR-staff were interrupted. The amount of LAs to obtain a well-lit wound, illumination level, shadows, and illumination of deep wounds were most frequently indicated lighting aspects needing improvement. Different kinematic aspects of the pendant system of the lights that influence usability were also mentioned: high forces for repositioning, ease of focusing and aiming, ease of moving, collisions of the luminaire, entangling of pendant arms, and maneuverability. Based on these results, conclusions regarding to improvement of surgical lighting systems are formulated. Focus for improvements should be on minimizing the need for repositioning the luminaire, and on minimizing the effort for repositioning.
Miniature Implantable Pressure Sensors for Medical Applications
Authors: Stone Robert , Gardien FranÃois , Filipe Antoine , Pisella Christian , Roggi Alain , Boillot FranÃ ois-Xavier
Published: August 2010

Pressure sensors are requisite for many medical implantable devices to monitor physiological pressures or fluid pressure and flow from a subsystem. Size, power consumption, accuracy, sensitivity, stability, and biocompatibility are all key considerations in the design and fabrication of such sensors. Conventional designs, based on piezoresistive technologies, are power consuming with significant drift and temperature error, whereas capacitive solutions are often cumbersome when packaged for biocompatibility. Tronics Microsystems has developed absolute pressure sensors, which achieve the benefits of both technologies. Miniaturization is achieved using a MEMS sensing element and a multifunction ASIC with small form factors. Low power consumption, low drift, high resolution, and waveform capture capability are obtained by using a capacitive MEMS coupled with a sigma-delta, direct capacitance to digital converter. Biocompatibility is achieved with grade II titanium packaging in two form factors (“tubular” or “pancake”) for incorporation into various applications. These sensors have been fabricated, calibrated, and tested extensively over physiologic temperature ranges. The design has achieved power consumption lower than 500 ÂμW at 100 Hz and a drift lower than 0.5% full scale per year. An accuracy of +/−1% full scale, over the temperature range is obtained by on-ASIC nonlinearity and temperature compensation. The two packaging configurations allow analysis of the trade-offs on the temperature range, sensitivity, volume, sterilization, etc. Different feed-through materials permit optimization of the form factors for the tube and the flat sensor and wired or wireless communication.