bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomized clinical trial of subcutaneous versus interfascial bupivacaine for pain control after midline laparotomy
Authors: Khorgami Z , Shoar S , Hosseini Araghi N , Mollahosseini F , Nasiri S , Ghaffari M H , Aminian A
Published: February 2013

Background

Although patient-controlled analgesia for pain management after abdominal surgery is common, efforts to find alternative effective methods to control postoperative pain are continuing. The aim of this study was to compare postoperative pain levels following intermittent regional administration of bupivacaine via a catheter placed in the rectus sheath or subcutaneously at abdominal surgery through midline incisions.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing elective midline laparotomy were assigned randomly to a group with two catheters placed over the fascia (suprafascial group) before surgical wound closure or to a group with catheters placed between the two sheaths of each rectus muscle (interfascial group). Pain levels were determined every 12 h, both at rest and with movement, by means of a standard visual analogue scale (VAS) for 72 h after surgery. The amounts of administered opioid were recorded.

Results

Sixty patients were enrolled in the study (30 patients in each group). The median VAS score 36 h after surgery, both at rest and with movement, was significantly lower in the interfascial group than in the suprafascial group (P < 0·050). Repeated-measures ANOVA also showed a significant difference in the postoperative VAS scores (P < 0·007). The amount of self-administered morphine was significantly lower in the interfascial group, overall (P = 0·001) as well as on postoperative day 1 (P = 0·001) and day 2 (P = 0·016). Bowel sounds returned more quickly in the interfascial group (P = 0·040).

Conclusion

Locoregional catheter administration of bupivacaine following midline laparotomy is more effective when the catheter is placed in the rectus sheath compared with suprafascial delivery. Registration number: IRCT138810142982N1 (http://www.irct.ir).
Histories in Abusive Childhood Fractures: A Case Series
Authors: Wilson Brennan , Smith Hilary
Published: February 2013

A retrospective review was carried out of the histories given by the carers of children aged from newborn to three years with abusive fractures of the shafts of long bones, regardless of the truth or falsehood of their statements. Textual analysis of the medical and legal records was used to extract and define recurrent themes in a recursive fashion. Statements and reports were studied relating to 18 children under three‐years old with proven child abuse, including 13 boys. Seventeen of the 18 families presented to the health services because of signs of major injuries. Five families spontaneously described a ‘trigger account’, a minor household incident said to have caused the major injury. After repeated questioning, a total of 41 accounts were produced. Thirty two of these were minor household incidents and nine were confessions or accusations of rough handling of the child. The accounts were often vague or uncertain and multiple accounts were often given to explain the same injury. Three accounts were challenged by another carer. The misleading accounts given by parents and carers formed a distinctive ‘narrative’ and can be considered a likely indicator of serious child abuse. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘The accounts were often vague or uncertain and multiple accounts were often given to explain the same injury’.

Key Practitioner Messages

Carers of children with abusive long bone shaft fractures often give typical histories.

At presentation to the health services, they may give no history or they may describe a narrow range of trivial accidents.

On further questioning, they may give further accounts including accusations of rough handling.

Most accounts show internal reasons for suspicion of their truth.

These accounts may be used to identify abusive fractures.

‘Most accounts show internal reasons for suspicion of their truth’
Risk Assessment and Secure Accommodation Decision‐Making in Scotland: Taking Account of Gender?
Authors: Roesch‐Marsh Autumn
Published: February 2013

Risk assessment has become a key area of focus for child protection practice in recent years. Recent research has begun to identify how risk assessment practices and discourses in social work are gendered, particularly in relation to parenting and offending. There has been less attention paid to how gender impacts upon risk assessment practice with young people who present risks to themselves and/or others. This article begins to address this gap by exploring some of the findings from a recent study of secure accommodation decision‐making in Scotland. The article examines how risk assessment practices on the part of social workers and senior decision makers were influenced by gender discourses. The findings highlight the complexities of taking account of gender within the risk assessment process and the article concludes by making some suggestions for practice. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘How risk assessment practices on the part of social workers and senior decision makers were influenced by gender discourses’

Key Practitioner Messages

When considering a young person for possible placement in secure accommodation, practitioners should ensure that:

They undertake a collaborative, holistic, person‐centred risk assessment.

This risk assessment must consider how the risks that the young person faces are gendered, without stereotyping.

This risk assessment should consider the social and structural factors that have created these risks for young men and women and interventions should also target these wider issues.
Occult Rib Fractures: Defining the Cause
Authors: Cosway Ben , Mathura Narad , Mott Alison , Bredow Maria , Fraser James , Rawlinson Alicia , Wei Christina , Thyagarajan Manigandan S. , Harrison Sara , Kemp Alison
Published: February 2013

The probability of physical abuse (PA) is high in children with occult rib fractures. Other causes include non‐intentional trauma, post surgery and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Bone fragility increases the risk of fractures, namely metabolic bone disease of prematurity (MBDP), osteogenesis imperfecta, rickets and rare metabolic bone diseases.

‘Occult rib fractures have a high probability of physical abuse’

This case series describes 61 children under two years of age with rib fractures and associations with clinical and radiological features and aetiology. There were 20 cases of PA, 11 post surgical and three non‐intentional trauma. Two cases had fractures following cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 18 MBDP and one metabolic bone disease. In six cases, the cause remained unknown. The number and distribution of rib fractures and the age of infants did not discriminate between MBDP and PA. Fractures were predominantly posterior, postero‐lateral or lateral. All cases of MBDP had a gestational age of 31 weeks or less and birth weight < 1.25 kg. Each child with MBDP had at least one additional risk factor. Chronic lung disease was recorded in seven, prolonged total parenteral nutrition in ten, steroid use in four, furosemide medication in eight and necrotising enterocolitis in three. All PA cases had other associated injuries or signs of neglect.

We recommend a comprehensive assessment of infants with occult rib fractures including an examination to exclude associated trauma, a child protection assessment and a full clinical assessment to exclude risk factors for co‐existing bone fragility. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Messages:

The number and distribution of rib fractures and the age of infants do not discriminate between PA and rib fractures seen in MBDP.

Assessment of infants with occult rib fractures should include an examination to exclude associated trauma, a child protection assessment and a full clinical assessment to exclude risk factors for co‐existing bone fragility.

‘An examination to exclude associated trauma, a child protection assessment and a full clinical assessment’
One‐year head to head comparison of the neointimal response between sirolimus eluting stent with reservoir technology and everolimus eluting stent
Authors: Shiratori Yoshitaka , Brugaletta Salvatore , Alvarez‐Contreras Luis , Azpeitia Yajaziel , Ospino Nestor , Gaido Sebastian , Delahanty Anuar , Santos Alejandro , Martin‐Yuste Victoria , Masotti Monica , Serruys Patrick W. , Windecker Stephan , Sabaté Manel
Published: February 2013

Objective

to compare the vascular healing process between the sirolimus‐eluting NEVO and the everolimus‐eluting Xience stent by optical coherence tomography (OCT) at 1‐year follow‐up.

Background

Presence of durable polymer on a drug‐eluting metallic stent may be the basis of an inflammatory reaction with abnormal healing response. The NEVO stent, having a bioresorbable polymer eluted by reservoir technology, may overcome this problem.

Methods

All consecutive patients, who received NEVO or Xience stent implantation between September 2010 and October 2010 in our institution, were included. Vascular healing was assessed at 1‐year as percentage of uncovered struts, neointimal thickness (NIT), in‐stent/stent area obstruction and pattern of neointima.

Results

A total 47 patients (2:1 randomization, n = 32 NEVO, n = 15 Xience) were included. Eighteen patients underwent angiographic follow‐up (eight patients with nine lesions for NEVO vs. 10 patients with 11 lesions for Xience). The angiographic late loss was numerically higher but not statistically different in NEVO compared with Xience treated lesions (0.38 ± 0.47 mm vs. 0.18 ± 0.27 mm; P = 0.171). OCT analysis of 4,912 struts demonstrated similar rates of uncovered struts (0.5 vs. 0.7%, P = 0.462), higher mean NIT (177.76 ± 87.76 µm vs. 132.22 ± 30.91 µm; P = 0.170) and in stent/stent area obstruction (23.02 ± 14.74% vs. 14.17 ± 5.94%, P = 0.120) in the NEVO as compared with Xience.

Conclusion

The NEVO stent with a reservoir technology seems to exhibit more neointimal proliferation as compared to Xience stent. The findings of our study, which currently represent the unique data existing on this reservoir technology, would need to be confirmed in a large population. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Membranous diaphragm formation after simultaneous kissing stenting with sirolimus‐eluting stents for the left main bifurcation
Authors: Yamada Takeshi , Takahashi Akihiko
Published: February 2013

Two patients who underwent simultaneous kissing stenting with sirolimus‐eluting stents in the left main coronary artery were investigated with optical coherence tomography (OCT) at just more than 1 year postoperatively. In both cases, follow‐up angiogram indicated complete coverage of the new metal carina with a membranous diaphragm, yet OCT showed varying tissue‐coverage patterns transitioning from stent inflow to stent outflow. These patterns included single‐strut coverage, bridge‐like membrane formation between more than 1 strut, and end‐to‐end coverage of the carina; no uncovered stent struts were detected. OCT also demonstrated mixed patterns of tissue characteristics on the metal carina, ranging from poor endothelialization to modest neointima formation. These varying tissue characteristics suggest that the process of tissue coverage in the metal carina is different from that occurring on the vessel wall; this may indicate delayed healing in the carina. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High pacing rates for management of aortic insufficiency after balloon aortic valvuloplasty or transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Ali Omar , Salinger Michael H. , Levisay Justin P. , Feldman Ted
Published: February 2013

Aortic insufficiency (AI) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is difficult to manage when associated with congestive heart failure. AI after balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) may be catastrophic, especially in patients who are not candidates for TAVR. We describe the use of urgent temporary pacing, followed by permanent pacing, to increase the heart rate to diminish diastolic filling time for the short term management of AI after BAV or TAVR. The strategy is particularly useful in patients who already have permanent pacemakers, which are common in this population. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new study on removal of cadmium by hybrid emulsion liquid membrane
Authors: Mortaheb Hamid Reza , Khormaei Hossein , Amini Mohammad Hasan , Moktarani Babak
Published: February 2013

A new application of hybrid emulsion liquid membrane, in which an O/W emulsion phase is placed between two supporting membranes, is applied in the present research for removal of cadmium from aqueous phase. The new setting has advantages such as higher stability of the emulsion phase, lower pollution of feed and stripping phases due to contacting with the membrane phase and higher removal capacity. Trioctylamine has been used as a carrier in the organic phase of the emulsion, while the applied surfactant is nonyl phenol ethoxylate. The effect of different parameters is investigated, such as pHs of aqueous and dispersed phases, organic to aqueous volume ratio in the emulsion, carrier concentration, temperature, stirring intensity and cadmium concentration in the feed phase on the performance of the system. The appropriate values of pH for stripping phase and the emulsion's aqueous phase are found to be about 13 and 7, respectively. The optimum organic to aqueous phase volume ratio in emulsion is found to be about 1. The removal efficiency increases approximately twice when the emulsion is stirred more rigorously. Applying the new setup can enhance the removal capacity comparing to the ultimate capacity obtained from the hybrid liquid membrane system.
Extending the empirical likelihood by domain expansion
Authors: Tsao Min
Published: February 2013

We extend the empirical likelihood beyond its domain by expanding its contours nested inside the domain with a similarity transformation. The extended empirical likelihood achieves two objectives at the same time: escaping the “convex hull constraint” on the empirical likelihood and improving the coverage accuracy of the empirical likelihood ratio confidence region to $O(n^{-2})$. The latter is accomplished through a special transformation which matches the extended empirical likelihood with the Bartlett corrected empirical likelihood. The extended empirical likelihood ratio confidence region retains the shape of the original empirical likelihood ratio confidence region. It also accommodates adjustments for dimension and small sample size, giving it good coverage accuracy in large and small sample situations. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 41: 257–274; 2013 © 2013 Statistical Society of Canada
Dynamic Parameters of Plant Communities Partially Reflect the Soil Quality Improvement in Eco‐Reclamation Area of an Opencast Coal Mine
Authors: Guo Dong‐Gang , Zhao Bing‐Qing , Shangguan Tie‐Liang , Bai Zhong‐Ke , Shao Hong‐Bo
Published: February 2013

The influence of soil physicochemical properties and the relationship between the plant community and edaphic factors have been studied through monitoring the community dynamic parameters and analyzing the soil properties from four plant plots at the Pingshuo opencast coal mine eco‐reclamation area. The results are obtained as follows: (1) the law of the quantity variation of total N and available K is affected by the different kinds of plant configuration mode. It is Robinia pseudoacacia + Pinus tabuliformis (SIV) > R. pseudoacacia (SV) > R. pseudoacacia + P. tabuliformis (SI) > R. pseudoacacia + Ulmus pumila + Ailanthus altissima (SIII). The quantity is close to or exceeds the level of the original geomorphology. The average content of available N has the following order: SIV > SI > SIII > SV; the average content of available P SV > SIII > SIV > SI, both are far below the level of the original geomorphology; pH SIV < SIII < SI < SV; bulk density SI < SIV < SV < SIII, moisture content SIV > SIII > SI > SV; in the soil layer of 20–40 cm, except the available P, other physicochemical factors are in accordance with the factors of the surface soil; (2) the population average density, height and diameter at breast height (DBH) have no obvious relevance with the average density of the stumpage; (3) the average density, height, and DBH of R. pseudoacacia are closely related to pH and the content of available N and available P and all the index can be fitted by the equation of linear regression of the edaphic factors mentioned above. The principal component analysis shows that the magnitude of the impacts of three kinds of edaphic factors on the R. pseudoacacia population has the following order: pH > available N > available P. The average density of U. pumila is closely related to the moisture content of the soil. This regression model can be used to direct the cultivation and propagation of R. pseudoacacia and U. pumila population at the mine eco‐reclamation area.
The Alleviative Effects of Salicylic Acid on the Activities of Catalase and Superoxide Dismutase in Malting Barley (Hordeum uhulgare L.) Seedling Leaves Stressed by Heavy Metals
Authors: Song Wei‐Yi , Yang Hong‐Chao , Shao Hong‐Bo , Zheng Ai‐Zhen , Brestic Marian
Published: February 2013

As toxic divalent heavy metal ions, Zn2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ exert certain negative effects on plant growth and development, which has been paid huge amount of attention to in the management of heavy metal pollution. As a novel kind of endogenous plant hormone, salicylic acid (SA) is considered to exert beneficial physiological effects on plants. In this paper, the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in seedling leaves of a malting barley variety (called Ganpi No.4) cultured under hydroponic cultivation was measured under different treatments of Zn2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ and under different treatments of SA alleviation, respectively, and such values were then compared and analyzed. The results showed that all treatments of different ions and the activities of CAT and SOD and all SA‐alleviated treatments and the activities of CAT and SOD exhibited nonlinear relationships. Zn2+, Cu2+, Mn2+ exerted less severe stresses on the activities of CAT and SOD at lower concentrations, and led to significantly inhibitive effects on the activities of CAT and SOD at higher concentrations. And Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ exerted significantly repressing effects on the activities of CAT and SOD. As for SA's alleviative effects, such effects were salient for most concentrations of Mn2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+ treatments and lower concentrations of Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ treatments, while were not significant for higher concentrations of Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ treatments. These data provided theoretical references for studies on physiological mechanism of cereal crops' resistance or tolerance to heavy metal stress as biomarkers.
Therapeutic Links between Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Cancer: Drug Discovery Consequences
Authors: Kraus Jean‐Louis
Published: February 2013

It was recently reported that female survivors of breast cancer have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This observation led to the hypothesis that there is a link between cancer and AD. This Viewpoint provides an analysis of the consequences of this hypothesis, not only from the perspective of drug discovery for new treatments, but above all, the awareness that any AD chemotherapy will require drug administration over longer periods of time before any cognitive effects are observed. Because such drugs will probably act as neuroprotective agents, slowing the progression of AD rather than curing it, they should be prescribed as soon as the first AD symptoms are detected. After a general survey of anticancer drugs that have potential therapeutic value for AD chemotherapy, new drugs that could affect specific signal transduction pathways known to be activated by anticancer drugs are presented, with the unfolding protein response pathway being one of the most relevant biological targets for new AD chemotherapeutic agents.
Experimental determination of laws of color harmony part 8: Harmony content versus relative surface coverage
Authors: Nemcsics Antal , Takács Jenő
Published: February 2013

Abstract: It is a recognized fact, that the relative surface coverage of the colors has a great influence on the harmony content. It is an open question that, in a composition, what is the optimum ratio between the surface area coverage of the colors, for maximum harmony content of the color pairs, selected for the composition. Various theories on color harmony already tried to answer this question, based on two substantially different principles. One is built on the mechanism of color vision, while the other one founded on statistical test results. The first approach was already proven not valid; but the second one was not proven right either due to the lack of available data. Our experiments aim is to fill this gap by using 324 compositions with different color coverage, to investigate its relation to harmony content. The statistical results were summarized in graphs as well as formulated in mathematical equations. The results show that the prime factor in the measure of harmony content is the relative surface coverage of the highly saturated colors. In most cases however the 50–50% ratio of color coverage leads to maximum harmony content in a composition. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 39, 387–398, 2014
The Influence of Multiple‐Dose Vorapaxar, an Oral PAR‐1 Receptor Antagonist, on the Single‐Dose Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Digoxin
Authors: Kosoglou Teddy , Zhu Yali , Statkevich Paul , Xuan Fengjuan , Schiller James E. , Johnson‐Levonas Amy O. , Cutler David L.
Published: February 2013

Vorapaxar is a novel orally active thrombin receptor antagonist selective for the PAR‐1 receptor. This open‐label, single‐center, fixed‐sequence, 2‐period, 2‐treatment study assessed the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of single‐dose digoxin in the presence/absence of multiple‐dose vorapaxar. Eighteen healthy adult subjects received two treatments in a fixed sequence separated by ≥8‐day washout: (A) digoxin 0.5 mg (Day 1); (B) vorapaxar 2.5 mg/day Days 1–6 and single‐dose vorapaxar 40 mg administered with single‐dose digoxin 0.5 mg Day 7. The geometric mean ratio (%; GMR) for the two treatments (digoxin alone and digoxin plus vorapaxar) and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for and AUCtf and Cmax of digoxin were calculated. Pharmacodynamics of digoxin was assessed by measuring changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters. The GMR (90% CIs) estimates for digoxin AUCtf and Cmax were 105% (91, 121) and 154% (130, 181), respectively. Except for differences in peak plasma concentrations, the pharmacokinetics of digoxin were similar between the two treatments. Coadministration of vorapaxar plus digoxin had no effect on digoxin Tmax or ECG parameters. The results of this study suggest that the coadministration of vorapaxar and digoxin is unlikely to cause a clinically significant drug–drug interaction.
Drosophila CIAPIN1 homologue is required for follicle cell proliferation and survival
Authors: Marzuk Orly , Peretz Gabriella , Bakhrat Anna , Abdu Uri
Published: February 2013

Background: The conserved cytokine‐induced apoptosis inhibitor‐1 (CIAPIN1) gene has been implicated in several processes, such as apoptosis, cell division, angiogenesis and Fe/S protein biogenesis. In this study, we identified the Drosophila CIAPIN1 homologue (D‐CIAPIN1) and studied its role in ovarian development. Results: We found that D‐CIAPIN1 is conserved as it can complement the nonviability of the yeast CIAPIN1‐deletion strain. Several D‐CIAPIN1 alleles were identified, including one allele in which that codon encoding the highly conserved twin cysteine CX2C motif is mutated, demonstrating for the first time the importance of this motif to protein function. We demonstrated D‐CIAPIN1 is an essential gene required for ovarian development. We found that D‐CIAPIN1 female mutants are sterile, containing rudimentary ovaries. We noted a decrease in follicle cell numbers in D‐CIAPIN1 mutant egg chambers. We further demonstrated that the decrease in follicle cell numbers in D‐CIAPIN1 mutants is due to a reduced mitotic index and enhanced cell death. Conclusions: Our study reveals that D‐CIAPIN1 is essential for egg chamber development and is required for follicle cell proliferation and survival. Developmental Dynamics 242:731–737, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of Foxi3 is regulated by ectodysplasin in skin appendage placodes
Authors: Shirokova Vera , Jussila Maria , Hytönen Marjo K. , Perälä Nina , Drögemüller Cord , Leeb Tosso , Lohi Hannes , Sainio Kirsi , Thesleff Irma , Mikkola Marja L.
Published: February 2013

Background: Foxi3 is a member of the large forkhead box family of transcriptional regulators, which have a wide range of biological activities including manifold developmental processes. Heterozygous mutation in Foxi3 was identified in several hairless dog breeds characterized by sparse fur coat and missing teeth. A related phenotype called hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) is caused by mutations in the ectodysplasin (Eda) pathway genes. Results: Expression of Foxi3 was strictly confined to the epithelium in developing ectodermal appendages in mouse embryos, but no expression was detected in the epidermis. Foxi3 was expressed in teeth and hair follicles throughout embryogenesis, but in mammary glands only during the earliest stages of development. Foxi3 expression was decreased and increased in Eda loss‐ and gain‐of‐function embryos, respectively, and was highly induced by Eda protein in embryonic skin explants. Also activin A treatment up‐regulated Foxi3 mRNA levels in vitro. Conclusions: Eda and activin A were identified as upstream regulators of Foxi3. Foxi3 is a likely transcriptional target of Eda in ectodermal appendage placodes suggesting that HED phenotype may in part be produced by compromised Foxi3 activity. In addition to hair and teeth, Foxi3 may have a role in nail, eye, and mammary, sweat, and salivary gland development. Developmental Dynamics 242:593–603, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of ski can act as a negative feedback mechanism on retinoic acid signaling
Authors: Melling Meaghan A. , Friendship Charlotte R.C. , Shepherd Trevor G. , Drysdale Thomas A.
Published: February 2013

Background: Retinoic acid signaling is essential for many aspects of early development in vertebrates. To control the levels of signaling, several retinoic acid target genes have been identified that act to suppress retinoic acid signaling in a negative feedback loop. The nuclear protein Ski has been extensively studied for its ability to suppress transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) signaling but has also been implicated in the repression of retinoic acid signaling. Results: We demonstrate that ski expression is up‐regulated in response to retinoic acid in both early Xenopus embryos and in human cell lines. Blocking retinoic acid signaling using a retinoic acid antagonist results in a corresponding decrease in the levels of ski mRNA. Finally, overexpression of SKI in human cells results in reduced levels of CYP26A1 mRNA, a known target of retinoic acid signaling. Conclusions: Our results, coupled with the known ability of Ski to repress retinoic acid signaling, demonstrate that Ski expression is a novel negative feedback mechanism acting on retinoic acid signaling. Developmental Dynamics 242:604–613, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in breeding phenology of eastern Ontario frogs over four decades
Authors: Klaus Samantha P. , Lougheed Stephen C.
Published: February 2013

Global climate change has been implicated in phenological shifts for a variety of taxa. Amphibian species in particular are sensitive to changes in their environment due to their biphasic life history and restricted reproductive requirements. Previous research has shown that not all temperate amphibian species respond similarly to the same suite of climatic or environmental cues, nor are individual species necessarily uniform in their responses across their range. We examined both the timing of spring emergence and calling phenology of eight anuran species in southeastern Ontario, Canada, using an approximately 40‐year dataset of historical records of amphibian activity. Rana pipiens was the only species out of eight considered to emerge significantly earlier, by an estimated 22 days over four decades. Both R. pipiens and Bufo americanus have advanced initiation of calling over a four‐decade span significantly earlier by an estimated 37.2 and 19.2 days, respectively. Rana sylvatica showed a trend toward earlier emergence by 19 days, whereas we did not detect changes in emergence phenology for the remaining five species. This significant shift in breeding behavior for two species correlates to significant regional increases in spring temperatures of an estimated 2.7–2.8°C overall over four decades. Our study suggests that local temperature increases have affected the timing of emergence and the onset of calling activity in some Ontario anuran species. Global decline or range shifts ultimately may be related to changes in reproductive behavior and timing mediated by shifting climate.
The evolutionary arms race between NK cells and viruses: Who gets the short end of the stick?
Authors: Miletić Antonija , Krmpotić Astrid , Jonjić Stipan
Published: February 2013

NK cells are innate lymphocytes that play a key role in the control of various viral infections. Recent studies indicate that NK cells may acquire some features of adaptive immune cells, including the formation of long‐lived memory cells. A large and growing body of data indicates that NK cells regulate the adaptive immune response as well. The function and the activation status of NK cells are tightly regulated by signals induced by a broad range of inhibitory and activating cell surface receptors and cytokines released by other immune cells. Here, we review the function of mouse NK‐cell receptors involved in virus control and in the regulation of the adaptive immune response. In addition, we discuss viral strategies used to evade NK‐cell‐mediated control during infection. Finally, the role of several activating Ly49 receptors specific for mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV), as well as some controversial issues in the field, will be discussed.
Viral infection transiently reverses activation receptor‐mediated NK cell hyporesponsiveness in an MHC class I‐independent mechanism
Authors: Mazumdar Budhaditya , Bolanos Fred D. , Tripathy Sandeep K.
Published: February 2013

Continuous engagement of the Ly49H activating receptor with its ligand (m157) in a transgenic mouse expressing m157 (m157‐Tg) results in hyporesponsiveness of Ly49H+ NK cells. The same interaction, during murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection, leads to activation of Ly49H+ NK cells. MCMV infection results in decreased MHC class I (MHC‐I) expression on the infected cell as well as inflammatory responses, both of which do not take place in the uninfected m157‐Tg mouse, potentially allowing for activation of NK cells in the context of MCMV infection. In this study, we demonstrated that viral infection transiently reverses activation receptor‐mediated NK cell hyporesponsiveness in an MHC‐I‐independent mechanism. Furthermore, Ly49H+ NK cells in an MHC‐I‐deficient environment remained hyporesponsive in the context of m157 expression, even when mature WT splenocytes were transferred into m157‐Tg mice in an MHC‐I‐deficient environment. However, the administration of cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐12, and IFN‐β resulted in a partial recovery from activation receptor‐induced hyporesponsiveness. Thus, the release of the aforementioned cytokines during MCMV infection and not the downregulation of MHC‐I expression appears to be responsible for partial resolution of Ly49H receptor‐induced NK cell hyporesponsiveness.
Triple Click to Tripodal Triazole‐Based Ligands – Synthesis and Characterization of Blue‐Emitting Ce3+ Complexes
Authors: Baschieri Andrea , Mazzanti Andrea , Stagni Stefano , Sambri Letizia
Published: February 2013

Tris(aryltriazolylmethyl)amine compounds have been synthesized by a one‐pot triple click reaction of azides from anilines with tripropargylamine. The resulting tripodal ligands have been employed to obtain six new Ce3+ complexes. The formation of the new complexes, which were obtained both as heteroleptic or homoleptic types, is influenced by the nature of the counterion (nitrate, perchlorate, or triflate) of the starting Ce3+ salts. All the new Ce3+‐based complexes are highly stable both in solution and in the solid state. Their structural features have been at first studied by NMR spectroscopy. In addition, by combining experimental and DFT theoretical approaches, the X‐ray structure of one heteroleptic complex has been used to simulate the structures of all the remaining complexes. Finally, both the heteroleptic and the homoleptic complexes are luminescent, and the analysis of their photophysical properties indicate that the Ce3+ center regulates the occurrence of radiative processes.
Lipophilicity Enhancing Substituents for ADDA Recognition Domains of DAAD·ADDA Heterodimers with Quadruple Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Otte Philipp , Taubitz Jörg , Lüning Ulrich
Published: February 2013

Four new ADDA receptors for DAAD·ADDA heterodimer formation by quadruple hydrogen bonds have been prepared. Their solubility has been improved by substitution with polyethylene glycol or branched alkyl chains. Three ADDA urea structures 8, 9, and 10 possess stabilizing intramolecular hydrogen bonds, in contrast to a related amide 7. The association constants Kass span several orders of magnitudes, with pyrimidinones 8 and 9 showing Kass values above 104 M–1.
The fate is not always written in the genes: Epigenomics in epidemiologic studies
Authors: Langevin Scott M. , Kelsey Karl T.
Published: February 2013

Cost‐effective, high‐throughput epigenomic technologies have begun to emerge, rapidly replacing the candidate gene approach to molecular epidemiology and offering a comprehensive strategy for the study of epigenetics in human subjects. Epigenome‐wide association studies (EWAS) provide new opportunities for advancing our understanding of epigenetic changes associated with complex disease states. However, such analyses are complicated by the dynamic nature of DNA methylation. In contrast to genomic studies, where genotype is essentially constant across somatic cells, EWAS present a new set of challenges, largely due to differential DNA methylation across distinct cell types, particularly for studies involving heterogeneous tissue sources, and changes in the epigenetic profile that occur over time. This review describes potential applications of EWAS from the viewpoint of the molecular epidemiologist, along with special considerations and pitfalls involved in the design of such studies. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 54:533‐541, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnostic Issues of Binge Eating in Eating Disorders
Authors: Birgegård Andreas , Clinton David , Norring Claes
Published: February 2013

Background

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria for eating disorders (EDs) are problematic and due to be revised. One area of debate concerns binge eating.

Aims

We investigated the impact of four aspects of binge eating (binge size, loss of control, frequency of objective and subjective binge eating) assessed by questionnaire and interview in adult ED patients on concurrent and follow‐up symptoms.

Method

Data came from two independent naturalistic Swedish ED databases (N = 2354, with 12‐month follow‐up; and N = 597, with 36‐month follow‐up).

Results

We found fair concurrent validity of criteria assessed using questionnaire, but poor concurrent validity for interview assessment, and no prognostic validity regardless of assessment method.

Conclusions

The findings give support to some planned DSM‐5 revisions, but challenge the assumption of binge eating as a useful diagnostic criterion, as well as having implications for measurement. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
THE NEONICOTINOID IMIDACLOPRID SHOWS HIGH CHRONIC TOXICITY TO MAYFLY NYMPHS
Authors: Roessink Ivo , Merga Lemessa B. , Zweers Hans J. , Van den Brink Paul J.
Published: February 2013

The present study evaluated the acute and chronic toxicity of imidacloprid to a range of freshwater arthropods. Mayfly and caddisfly species were most sensitive to short-term imidacloprid exposures (10 tests), whereas the mayflies showed by far the most sensitive response to long-term exposure of all seven arthropod species tested (28-d EC10 values of approximately 0.03 µg/L). The results indicated a high aquatic risk of chronic exposure of imidacloprid to mayflies. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:1096–1100. © 2013 SETAC
Aspect ratios and magma overpressures of non‐feeder dikes observed in the Miyake‐jima volcano (Japan), and fracture toughness of its upper part
Authors: Kusumoto Shigekazu , Geshi Nobuo , Gudmundsson Agust
Published: February 2013

We present a new method for estimating the length and maximum thickness (aperture) of a dike from the observed opening at one dike tip. We apply the method to 15 arrested non‐feeder dikes (where the upper tip is known, the lower tip unknown) in the caldera walls of Miyake‐jima, Japan, to estimate the length‐thickness ratio, as well as the magma overpressure and fracture toughness. The calculated length‐thickness ratio ranges from 61 to 246, with an average of 136. The ratios are low because the dikes are emplaced close to the surface in comparatively compliant (soft) rocks. Using these ratios and the appropriate elastic constants, the calculated magmatic overpressures of the dikes are between 2.3 and 8.9 MPa, and the stress intensity factors between 38 and 117 MPa m1/2. All these values are within the range of typical in situ estimates, supporting the validity of this new method.
Functional roles of glycogene and N‐glycan in multidrug resistance of human breast cancer cells
Authors: Ma Hongye , Miao Xiaoyan , Ma Qiuhong , Zheng Wenzhi , Zhou Huimin , Jia Li
Published: February 2013

Drug resistance is a major problem in cancer chemotherapy. Aberrant glycosylation has been known to be associated with cancer chemoresistance. Aim of this work is to investigate the alterations of glycogene and N‐glycan involved in multidrug resistance (MDR) in human breast cancer cell lines. Using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for quantification of glycogenes, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐lectin binding for glycan profiling, and mass spectrometry for N‐glycan composition, the expression of glycogenes, glycan profiling, and N‐glycan composition differed between drug‐resistant MCF/ADR cells and the parental MCF‐7 line. Further analysis of the N‐glycan regulation by tunicamycin (TM) application or PNGase F treatment in MCF/ADR cells showed partial inhibition of the N‐glycan biosynthesis and increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs dramatically both in vitro and in vivo. Using an RNA interference strategy, we showed that the downregulation of MGAT5 in MCF/ADR cells could enhance the chemosensitivity to antitumor drugs both in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, a stable high expression of MGAT5 in MCF‐7 cells could increase resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, the alterations of glycogene and N‐glycan in human breast cancer cells correlate with tumor sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drug and have significant implications for the development of new treatment strategies. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(5):409–422, 2013.
The diversity‐oriented synthesis of pteridines—achievements and potential for development
Authors: Suckling Colin J.
Published: February 2013

The importance of pteridines in the key cofactors, tetrahydrofolate and tetrahydrobiopterin, has encouraged the development of the chemistry and chemical biology of pteridines. In order to investigate the latter, versatile synthetic methods are required to prepare designed relatives of the natural cofactors for use as potential drugs or biological probes. Recently, diversity‐oriented synthesis has become a particularly powerful and versatile approach to the synthesis of pteridines and related heterocyclic compounds. This article describes and discusses available methods using radical, electrophilic, nucleophilic, and organometal mediated substitution reactions. © 2013 IUBMB Life 65(4):283–299, 2013.
The role of hair follicle nestin‐expressing stem cells during whisker sensory‐nerve growth in long‐term 3D culture
Authors: Mii Sumiyuki , Duong Jennifer , Tome Yasunori , Uchugonova Aisada , Liu Fang , Amoh Yasuyuki , Saito Norimitsu , Katsuoka Kensei , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: February 2013

We have previously reported that nestin‐expressing hair follicle stem cells can differentiate into neurons, Schwann cells, and other cell types. In the present study, vibrissa hair follicles, including their sensory nerve stump, were excised from transgenic mice in which the nestin promoter drives green fluorescent protein (ND‐GFP mice), and were placed in 3D histoculture supported by Gelfoam®. β‐III tubulin‐positive fibers, consisting of ND‐GFP‐expressing cells, extended up to 500 µm from the whisker nerve stump in histoculture. The growing fibers had growth cones on their tips expressing F‐actin. These findings indicate that β‐III tubulin‐positive fibers elongating from the whisker follicle sensory nerve stump were growing axons. The growing whisker sensory nerve was highly enriched in ND‐GFP cells which appeared to play a major role in its elongation and interaction with other nerves in 3D culture, including the sciatic nerve, the trigeminal nerve, and the trigeminal nerve ganglion. The results of the present report suggest a major function of the nestin‐expressing stem cells in the hair follicle is for growth of the follicle sensory nerve. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1674–1684, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamics of focal adhesions and reorganization of F‐actin in VEGF‐stimulated NSCs under varying differentiation states
Authors: Lyu Jingya , Hu Ya'nan , Xu Xiaojing , Zhang Huanxiang
Published: February 2013

Precise migration of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs) is crucially important for neurogenesis and repair in the nervous system. However, the detailed mechanisms are not clear. Our previous results showed that NSCs in varying differentiation states possess different migratory ability to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In this study, we demonstrate the different dynamics of focal adhesions (FAs) and reorganization of F‐actin in NSCs during spreading and migration stimulated by VEGF. We found that the migrating NSCs of 0.5 and 1 day differentiation possess more FAs at leading edge than cells of other states. Moreover, the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and paxillin in NSCs correlates closely with their differentiation states. VEGF promotes FA formation with broad lamellipodium generation at the leading edge in chemotaxing cells of 0, 0.5, and 1 day differentiation, but not in cells of 3 days differentiation. Furthermore, cells of 1 day differentiation show a maximal asymmetry of FAs between lamella and cell rear, orchestrating cell polarization and directional migration. Time‐lapse video analysis shows that the disassembly of FAs and the cell tail detachment in NSCs of 1 day differentiation are more rapid, along with the concurrent enlarged size of FAs at the leading edge, leading to the most effective chemotactic response to VEGF. Collectively, these results indicate that the dynamics of FAs and reorganization of F‐actin in NSCs that undergo directional migration correlate closely with their differentiation states, contributing to the different chemotactic responses of these cells to VEGF. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1744–1759, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Histochemical comparison of the nonhost tomato with resistant wheat against Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici
Authors: Hao Chongzhao , Chen Yanli , Zhang Bing , Li Yuefei , Zuo Hai , Qi Tuo , Ma Qing
Published: February 2013

The nonhost interaction of tomato‐Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt) and resistant host interaction of wheat‐Bgt were compared histochemically. The percentage of appressorium formation had no significant difference on tomato and wheat leaves. Papilla formation occurred earlier and more on host wheat than on nonhost tomato leaves, while the incidence of hypersensitive cell death was much higher in the nonhost interaction. Whole‐cell H2O2 accumulation and hypersensitive cell death usually appeared in haustorium‐invaded wheat epidermal cells. In contrast, the vast majority of non‐haustorium epidermal cells were associated with H2O2 accumulation and hypersensitive cell death on tomato. Localized H2O2 accumulation and hypersensitive response were detected in effective papillae in both interactions. The peak percentage of haustorium formation was less than 7% in the nonhost interaction while reached 43% in the incompatible host interaction. These results indicate that hypersensitive cell death and papillae are likely to play an important role in preventing Bgt penetration and development on tomato and wheat leaves, both defense responses involving H2O2 accumulation. This study further implies that the nonhost and incompatible interactions share similar cytological mechanisms. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:514–522, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of the root canal final rinse protocols on the debris and smear layer removal and on the push‐out strength of an epoxy‐based sealer
Authors: Aranda‐Garcia Arturo Javier , Kuga Milton Carlos , Vitorino Keli Regina , Chávez‐Andrade Gisselle Moraima , Hungaro Duarte Marco Antonio , Bonetti‐Filho Idomeo , Faria Gisele , Reis Só Marcus Vinicius
Published: February 2013

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of QMiX, SmearClear, and 17% EDTA for the debris and smear layer removal from the root canal and its effects on the push‐out bond strength of an epoxy‐based sealer by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Forty extracted human canines (n = 10) were assigned to the following final rinse protocols: G1‐distilled water (control), G2–17% EDTA, G3‐SmearClear, and G4‐QMiX. The specimens were submitted to a SEM analysis to evaluate the presence of debris and smear layer, respectively, in the apical or cervical segments. In sequence, forty extracted human maxillary canines with the root canals instrumented were divided into four groups (n = 10) similar to the SEM analysis study. After the filling with AH Plus, the roots were transversally sectioned to obtain dentinal slices. The specimens were submitted to a push‐out bond strength test using an electromechanical testing machine. The statistical analysis for the SEM and push‐out bond strength studies were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests (α = 5%). There was no difference among the G2, G3, and G4 efficacy in removing the debris and smear layer (P > 0.05). The efficacy of these groups was superior to the control group. The push‐out bond strength values of G2, G3, and G4 were superior to the control group. The ability to remove the debris and smear layer by SmearClear and QMiX was as effective as the 17% EDTA. The final rinse with these solutions promoted similar push‐out bond strength values. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:533–537, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.