bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wavelength and position tuning of Čerenkov second-harmonic generation in optical superlattice
Authors: Kalinowski Ksawery , Kong Qian , Roppo Vito , Arie Ady , Sheng Yan , Krolikowski Wieslaw
Published: November 2011

We study experimentally the Čerenkov second-harmonic generation in an optical superlattice formed in periodically poled lithium niobate crystal. We demonstrate strong sensitivity of the Čerenkov signal to the wavelength, diameter, and position of the incident fundamental beam. We model the observed behavior by using simple approach based on multiple interference of second harmonic signals emitted from the vicinity of the domain walls.
Fixed nitrogen atoms in the SiO2/SiC interface region and their direct relationship to interface trap density
Authors: Kosugi R. , Umeda T. , Sakuma Y.
Published: November 2011

Nitrogen atoms fixed in the SiO2/SiC interface region were studied by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements. A thin oxide film (<5 Å) formed during annealing in an NO atmosphere on a (0001) 4H-SiC surface, incorporating nitrogen atoms into the interface region. Even after complete removal of the oxide layer by etching in hydrofluoric acid, XPS spectra clearly showed a strong N 1 s peak, revealing the presence of fixed nitrogen atoms with an areal density of 1014 cm−2 in the interface region. To evaluate their influence on interface traps, metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitors were formed by deposition of a gate oxide layer. The fixed nitrogen atoms decrease the interface trap density after post-annealing at high temperature.
Fabrication and magnetic properties of Fe and Co co-doped ZrO2
Authors: Okabayashi J. , Kono S. , Yamada Y. , Nomura K.
Published: November 2011

We investigate the effects of Fe and Co co-doping on the magnetic and electronic properties of ZrO2 ceramics prepared by a sol-gel method, and study their dependence on the annealing temperature. Dilute Fe and Co co-doping into ZrO2 exhibits ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature for annealing temperatures above 900 °C, accompanying the phase transition from tetragonal to monoclinic structure in ZrO2. The electronic structures are studied by x-ray absorption spectroscopy and Mössbauer spectroscopy, which suggest that the Fe3+ and Co2+/Co3+ mixing states are dominant in Fe and Co co-doped ZrO2.
A study on the dynamic behaviors of water droplets impacting nanostructured surfaces
Authors: Kwak Geunjae , Lee Dong Woog , Kang In Seok , Yong Kijung
Published: November 2011

We have investigated the influence of impact velocity and intrinsic surface wettability of nanostructures on the impact dynamic behaviors of water droplets on nanostructure surfaces. Nanowires array surfaces with tunable wettabilities ranging from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic were fabricated by the deposition of surface modifiers differing in alkyl chain length. The transition criteria of rebound/wetting state and rebound/splashing state based on the relationship between the Webber (We) number and the surface free energy were determined. We have confirmed that the critical We number that determines the transition of the rebound/wetting increased as surface energy decreased. Additionally, the We number at which fragmentation occurred on our superhydrophobic surface was relatively low compared to previously reported values.
Pioneer transcription factors: establishing competence for gene expression
Authors: Zaret Kenneth S. , Carroll Jason S.
Published: November 2011

Transcription factors are adaptor molecules that detect regulatory sequences in the DNA and target the assembly of protein complexes that control gene expression. Yet much of the DNA in the eukaryotic cell is in nucleosomes and thereby occluded by histones, and can be further occluded by higher-order chromatin structures and repressor complexes. Indeed, genome-wide location analyses have revealed that, for all transcription factors tested, the vast majority of potential DNA-binding sites are unoccupied, demonstrating the inaccessibility of most of the nuclear DNA. This raises the question of how target sites at silent genes become bound de novo by transcription factors, thereby initiating regulatory events in chromatin. Binding cooperativity can be sufficient for many kinds of factors to simultaneously engage a target site in chromatin and activate gene expression. However, in cases in which the binding of a series of factors is sequential in time and thus not initially cooperative, special “pioneer transcription factors” can be the first to engage target sites in chromatin. Such initial binding can passively enhance transcription by reducing the number of additional factors that are needed to bind the DNA, culminating in activation. In addition, pioneer factor binding can actively open up the local chromatin and directly make it competent for other factors to bind. Passive and active roles for the pioneer factor FoxA occur in embryonic development, steroid hormone induction, and human cancers. Herein we review the field and describe how pioneer factors may enable cellular reprogramming.
Diverse ways to be specific: a novel Zn-binding domain confers substrate specificity to UTX/KDM6A histone H3 Lys 27 demethylase: Figure 1.
Authors: Kim Eunji , Song Ji-Joon
Published: November 2011

Histone methylations are highly regulated by site-specific histone methyltransferases and demethylases. In this issue of Genes & Development, Sengoku and Yokoyama (pp. 2266–2277) demonstrate that a novel Zn-binding domain and the Jumonji domain of UTX/KDM6A (Lys demethylase 6A) recognize histone H3 and together function as a substrate specificity determinant for H3K27 demethylation. This study demonstrates the mechanism of site-specific demethylation by UTX/KDM6A and implicates that histone demethylases use diverse methods to accomplish target specificity.
Meta‐analysis: pioglitazone improves liver histology and fibrosis in patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Boettcher E. , Csako G. , Pucino F. , Wesley R. , Loomba R.
Published: November 2011

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 35: 66–75

Background  Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) have been used in the treatment of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the magnitude of treatment response associated with TZDs in improving liver histology in NASH has not been quantified systematically.

Aim  To conduct a meta‐analysis of randomised, placebo‐controlled clinical trials (RPCTs) using pioglitazone and rosiglitazone in the treatment of NASH.

Methods  Pubmed/MEDLINE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials 2010 were searched until September 2010 and four RPCTs were identified. Peto odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the efficacy of TZDs in improving liver histological parameters.

Results  Four good quality RPCTs derived from three continents were included. The meta‐analysis showed that TZDs (n = 169) were significantly better than placebo (n = 165) in improving ballooning degeneration, lobular inflammation and steatosis with combined ORs of 2.11 (95% CI, 1.33–3.36), 2.58 (95% CI, 1.68–3.97) and 3.39 (95% CI, 2.19–5.25) respectively. The improvement in combined necroinflammation with TZD (n = 58) vs. placebo (n = 52) was also statistically significant (combined OR 6.52[95% CI, 3.03–14.06]), but improvement in fibrosis was not. When pioglitazone (n = 137) was analysed alone, the improvement in fibrosis with pioglitazone (n = 137) vs. placebo (n = 134) (combined OR 1.68 [95% CI, 1.02–2.77]) was statistically significant. The total body fat slightly decreased in the control, while it markedly and highly significantly increased with TZD treatment.

Conclusions  Thiazolidinediones significantly improve ballooning degeneration, lobular inflammation, steatosis and combined necroinflammation in patients with NASH. Pioglitazone may improve fibrosis. Larger randomised, placebo‐controlled clinical trials are needed to examine the efficacy of thiazolidinediones in improving NASH fibrosis.
The attitudes of neonatal nurses towards extremely preterm infants
Authors: Gallagher Katie , Marlow Neil , Edgley Alison , Porock Davina
Published: November 2011

gallagher k., marlow n., edgley a. & porock d. (2011) The attitudes of neonatal nurses towards extremely preterm infants. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(6), 1768–1779.

Aim.  The paper is a report of a study of the attitudes of neonatal nurses towards extremely preterm infants.

Background.  Alongside advancing survival at extremely preterm gestational ages, ethical debates concerning the provision of invasive care have proliferated in light of the high morbidity. Despite nurses being the healthcare professionals who work closest with the infant and their family, their potential influence is usually ignored when determining how parents come to decisions about future care for their extremely premature infant.

Methods.  A Q methodology was employed to explore the attitudes of neonatal nurses towards caring for extremely preterm infants. Data were collected between 2007 and 2008 and analysed using PQMethod and Card Content Analysis.

Results.  Thirty‐six nurses from six neonatal units in the United Kingdom participated. Although there was consensus around the professional role of the nurse, when faced with the complexities of neonatal nursing three distinguishing factors emerged: the importance of parental choice in decision‐making, the belief that technology should be used to assess response to treatment, and the belief that healthcare professionals should undertake difficult decisions.

Conclusion.  Neonatal nurses report unexpected difficulties in upholding their professionally defined role through highly complex and ever varied decision‐making processes. Recognition of individual attitudes to the care of extremely preterm infants and the role of the family in the face of difficult decisions should facilitate more open communication between the nurse and the parents and improve the experience of both the nurse and the family during these emotional situations.
Lack of health insurance in living kidney donors
Authors: Casagrande Lisette H. , Collins Sarah , Warren Abigail T. , Ommen Elizabeth S.
Published: November 2011

Casagrande LH, Collins S, Warren AT, Ommen ES. Lack of health insurance in living kidney donors.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01558.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Living donors are recommended to receive lifelong routine health maintenance after donation. There has been little examination of health insurance status among living donors, despite the fact that lack of health insurance is likely to impede donors’ ability to obtain long‐term healthcare post‐donation. We performed a retrospective chart review for all living kidney donors at our institution between 2004 and 2008 to determine insurance status, demographic, socioeconomic, and basic health characteristics. Twenty‐three percent of donors were uninsured at the time of donation. Odds of being uninsured were significantly lower in donors who were older than 40 yr of age or who had at least a college education, and significantly higher in donors who were non‐white, non‐English‐speaking, or non‐US citizens. Odds of being uninsured did not differ according to whether donors were obese, hypertensive, or smokers. On multivariate analysis, only non‐white race, non‐US citizenship, and education level less than a college degree were associated with lack of insurance. Lack of health insurance is more prevalent in living kidney donors than in the general US population. Its disproportionate impact on minorities, non‐citizens, and the less well educated is greater than that in the general population.
Pancreas transplantation after bariatric surgery
Authors: Porubsky Marian , Powelson John A. , Selzer Don J. , Mujtaba Muhammad A. , Taber Tim , Carnes Katerine L. , Fridell Jonathan A.
Published: November 2011

Porubsky M, Powelson JA, Selzer DJ, Mujtaba MA, Taber T, Carnes KL, Fridell JA. Pancreas transplantation after bariatric surgery.  Clin Transplant 2012: 26: E1–E6.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Obese transplant candidates are at increased risk for perioperative and postoperative complications. In many transplant programs, morbid obesity is considered to be an exclusion criterion for transplantation. The only potential option that would grant these patients access to transplant is weight loss. Non‐operative weight loss strategies such as behavioral modifications, exercise, diet, or medication have only very limited success in achieving long‐term weight loss. In contrast, bariatric surgery was shown to achieve not only more excessive weight loss, but more importantly, this weight loss can be sustained for longer periods of time. Therefore, bariatric surgery presents an attractive option for weight loss for morbidly obese transplant candidates. We report our experience with four patients who underwent bariatric surgery prior to successful pancreas transplantation. Even though gastric bypass and laparoscopic adjustable gastric band present as equivalent alternatives for weight reduction, we believe that in the population of morbidly obese diabetic patients who are possible candidates for pancreas transplantation, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band placement is the more suitable procedure.
Life‐threatening anaphylaxis to leuprorelin acetate depot: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Fujisaki Akira , Kondo Yoshimasa , Goto Kentaro , Morita Tatsuo
Published: November 2011

Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analog depots have been widely used for a variety of diseases including prostate cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine leiomyomas, and central precocious puberty. Most of the side/adverse effects of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analog depots, such as leuprorelin acetate depot, are related to hypotestosteronism in males. Anaphylaxis to gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analog depot is extremely rare. We present the first case report of a Japanese man who developed anaphylaxis to leuprorelin acetate depot during the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer and recovered successfully by conservative treatment. A drug‐lymphocyte stimulation test showed that not only leuprorelin acetate itself, but also its vehicle polylactic and glycolic acids, might be responsible for the anaphylaxis to leuprorelin acetate depot. Because anaphylaxis can be lethal, the present case suggests that one should bear in mind the possibility of anaphylaxis in all patients who receive gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analog depot and monitor such patients carefully.
Is there still a place for the use of nerve stimulation?
Authors: Dillane Derek , Tsui Ban C. H.
Published: November 2011

The introduction of nerve stimulation as a method of nerve localization sparked a new beginning in regional anesthesia. It was an epochal development akin to the utilization of ultrasound in more recent times. Many experts now consider ultrasound‐guided peripheral nerve blockade to be more efficient, less painful, and more successful than landmark and nerve stimulation techniques. However, inadvertent intraneural injection continues to occur despite the widespread use of ultrasound and nerve stimulation. Both of these technologies allow for only limited elucidation of needle position relative to the target nerve and are unable to reliably identify intraneural position of the needle. This article will review the role of nerve stimulation in modern regional anesthesia techniques in light of the introduction of ultrasound technology.
Does anybody like water restrictions? Some observations in Australian urban communities*
Authors: Cooper Bethany , Rose John , Crase Lin
Published: November 2011

Mandatory water restrictions continue to be the immediate response to urban water shortages in most major cities in southern Australia. Whilst generally rejected by economists on efficiency grounds, restrictions and the enforcement regimes used to invoke them are, nonetheless, viewed by some in the community as a positive way of dealing with water scarcity. Given the likelihood that urban water restrictions will persist for some time, there is value in understanding householders’ attitudes in this context. The impact and acceptability of differing approaches to enforcement is of particular interest, because this has wider ramifications for the administration of policy generally. This paper uses the results from a choice experiment to investigate the interplay between different components of a water restriction regime. In stark contrast to prevailing views that focus on the community benefits from ‘sharing the pain of water shortages’, results point to the significance of being able to inform on ones neighbours as a component of the enforcement regimes.
Bipartite Polar Classification for Surface Reconstruction
Authors: Chen Yi‐Ling , Lee Tung‐Ying , Chen Bing‐Yu , Lai Shang‐Hong
Published: November 2011

In this paper, we propose bipartite polar classification to augment an input unorganized point set ℘ with two disjoint groups of points distributed around the ambient space of ℘ to assist the task of surface reconstruction. The goal of bipartite polar classification is to obtain a space partitioning of ℘ by assigning pairs of Voronoi poles into two mutually invisible sets lying in the opposite sides of ℘ through direct point set visibility examination. Based on the observation that a pair of Voronoi poles are mutually invisible, spatial classification is accomplished by carving away visible exterior poles with their counterparts simultaneously determined as interior ones. By examining the conflicts of mutual invisibility, holes or boundaries can also be effectively detected, resulting in a hole‐aware space carving technique. With the classified poles, the task of surface reconstruction can be facilitated by more robust surface normal estimation with global consistent orientation and off‐surface point specification for variational implicit surface reconstruction. We demonstrate the ability of the bipartite polar classification to achieve robust and efficient space carving on unorganized point clouds with holes and complex topology and show its application to surface reconstruction.
A Graph‐based Approach to Continuous Line Illustrations with Variable Levels of Detail
Authors: Wong Fernando J. , Takahashi Shigeo
Published: November 2011

This paper introduces a method for automatically generating continuous line illustrations, drawings consisting of a single line, from a given input image. Our approach begins by inferring a graph from a set of edges extracted from the image in question and obtaining a path that traverses through all edges of the said graph. The resulting path is then subjected to a series of post‐processing operations to transform it into a continuous line drawing. Moreover, our approach allows us to manipulate the amount of detail portrayed in our line illustrations, which is particularly useful for simplifying the overall illustration while still retaining its most significant features. We also present several experimental results to demonstrate that our approach can automatically synthesize continuous line illustrations comparable to those of some contemporary artists.
Intelligent GPGPU Classification in Volume Visualization: A framework based on Error‐Correcting Output Codes
Authors: Escalera S. , Puig A. , Amoros O. , Salamó M.
Published: November 2011

In volume visualization, the definition of the regions of interest is inherently an iterative trial‐and‐error process finding out the best parameters to classify and render the final image. Generally, the user requires a lot of expertise to analyze and edit these parameters through multi‐dimensional transfer functions. In this paper, we present a framework of intelligent methods to label on‐demand multiple regions of interest. These methods can be split into a two‐level GPU‐based labelling algorithm that computes in time of rendering a set of labelled structures using the Machine Learning Error‐Correcting Output Codes (ECOC) framework. In a pre‐processing step, ECOC trains a set of Adaboost binary classifiers from a reduced pre‐labelled data set. Then, at the testing stage, each classifier is independently applied on the features of a set of unlabelled samples and combined to perform multi‐class labelling. We also propose an alternative representation of these classifiers that allows to highly parallelize the testing stage. To exploit that parallelism we implemented the testing stage in GPU‐OpenCL. The empirical results on different data sets for several volume structures shows high computational performance and classification accuracy.
Optimized Topological Surgery for Unfolding 3D Meshes
Authors: Takahashi Shigeo , Wu Hsiang‐Yun , Saw Seow Hui , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Yen Hsu‐Chun
Published: November 2011

Constructing a 3D papercraft model from its unfolding has been fun for both children and adults since we can reproduce virtual 3D models in the real world. However, facilitating the papercraft construction process is still a challenging problem, especially when the shape of the input model is complex in the sense that it has large variation in its surface curvature. This paper presents a new heuristic approach to unfolding 3D triangular meshes without any shape distortions, so that we can construct the 3D papercraft models through simple atomic operations for gluing boundary edges around the 2D unfoldings. Our approach is inspired by the concept of topological surgery, where the appearance of boundary edges of the unfolded closed surface can be encoded using a symbolic representation. To fully simplify the papercraft construction process, we developed a genetic‐based algorithm for unfolding the 3D mesh into a single connected patch in general, while optimizing the usage of the paper sheet and balance in the shape of that patch. Several examples together with user studies are included to demonstrate that the proposed approach works well for a broad range of 3D triangular meshes.
Authoring Hierarchical Road Networks
Authors: Galin Eric , Peytavie Adrien , Guérin Eric , Beneš Bedřich
Published: November 2011

We present a procedural method for generating hierarchical road networks connecting cities, towns and villages over large terrains. Our approach relies on an original geometric graph generation algorithm based on a non‐Euclidean metric combined with a path merging algorithm that creates junctions between the different types of roads. Unlike previous work, our method allows high level user control by manipulating the density and the pattern of the network. The geometry of the highways, primary and secondary roads as well as the interchanges and intersections are automatically created from the graph structure by instantiating generic parameterized models.
FOUR SONNETS
Authors: DES BARREAUX JACQUES VALLÉE
Published: November 2011

Translated by Ali Nematollahy
‘Stop the ECJ’?: An Empirical Analysis of Activism at the Court
Authors: Solanke Iyiola
Published: November 2011

This article uses a disaggregated approach to study the role of the Advocate General in the European Court of Justice (CJ). It presents original empirical material based upon interviews with Advocates General (AsG) and referendaires at the CJ to assess the question of activism at the Court. Using answers to specific questions, I conclude that while the AsG are entrepreneurs, neither they nor the Court can be described as ‘activist’per se.
Direct Concern in Regional Policy: The European Court of Justice and the Southern Question
Authors: Caruso Daniela
Published: November 2011

For a few years, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has declared inadmissible, for lack of direct concern, a number of annulment actions initiated by sub‐state actors in the context of regional policy. This article compares the ECJ's holdings with the General Court's more generous application of the ‘direct concern’ standard in some of the same disputes, and argues in favour of the General Court's approach. The cases hereby analysed pertain to the implementation of structural funds in Southern Italy. Relating regional policy to the historical unfolding of the ‘Southern Question’, this article examines the unexpected opportunity for civic and administrative renewal brought by regional policy to Italy's South in the late 1990s, and links standing for sub‐state actors to the long‐term realisation of that opportunity. It further argues that a more direct judicial involvement with territorial policies would prompt taxonomic renewal in EU law as a discipline.
A novel mutation of CYLD in a Chinese family with multiple familial trichoepithelioma
Authors: Ying Z.‐X. , Ma H.‐Q. , Liu Y. , Xiao S.‐X. , Wang Y.‐X. , Wang G.‐X.
Published: November 2011

Background  Trichoepithelioma is a benign cutaneous tumour that originates from hair follicles and occurs either as a sporadic non‐familial or a multiple‐familial type. Recently, several mutations in the cylindromatosis (CYLD) gene have been reported in multiple familial trichoepithelioma (MFT).

Objectives  To report a Chinese family of MFT and to explore the genetic mutation.

Methods  A Chinese pedigree of typical MFT was subjected to mutation detection in CYLD. Direct sequencing of all PCR products of the whole coding regions of CYLD gene was performed to identify the mutation.

Results  The c.1178‐1179delCA (p.T393fs) mutation was found in CYLD gene in the affected members, but not in the healthy individuals in the family.

Conclusion  Our study found a novel mutation in exon 10 of CYLD gene.
Variations in immunohistochemical preservation of proteins in a mummification model
Authors: Metcalfe Ryan , Freemont Tony
Published: November 2011

Immunohistochemistry is an important tool in the investigation of ancient mummified remains because of its ability not only to detect proteins but also to isolate their location to specific tissues and thereby improve confidence that the results are genuine. A mouse model of Egyptian mummification has been used to demonstrate that the survival of proteins, judged by the retention of immunohistochemical staining, varies markedly. Some survive the process well, whereas others become barely detectable despite the morphology of the tissue being excellently preserved. The results obtained show that protein preservation is multi‐factorial, with tissue type and degradation, and the properties of the protein itself all having significant effects. Proteins forming large, multi‐subunit complexes such as collagen IV appear to be more resistant to degradation than those that do not, such as S‐100. Although modern modelling studies cannot replicate the full extent of degradative processes and taphonomic changes experienced by real mummies, the results obtained can be useful for guiding research that requires ancient tissues.
The effects of immobilization on vascular canal orientation in rat cortical bone
Authors: Britz Hayley M. , Jokihaara Jarkko , Leppänen Olli V. , Järvinen Teppo L. N. , Cooper David M. L.
Published: November 2011

It is well established that bone is capable of adapting to changes in loading; however, little is known regarding how loading specifically affects the internal 3D microarchitecture of cortical bone. The aim of this study was to experimentally test the hypothesis that loading is a determinant of the 3D orientation of primary vascular canals in the rat tibial diaphysis. Left tibiae from 10 rats (30 weeks old) that had been immobilized (sciatic neurectomy) for 27 weeks, right SHAM‐operated tibiae from these same rats (internal control) and right tibiae from 10 normal age‐matched rats (external control) were scanned by micro‐CT. Mean canal orientation (for the whole bone segment and by region), percent porosity, canal diameter and canal separation were quantitatively assessed in 3D. Canal orientation in the immobilized tibiae was significantly (P < 0.001) more radial (by 9.9°) compared to the external controls but did not differ from the internal controls (P = 0.310). Comparing the external and internal controls, orientation was significantly (P < 0.05) more radial in the internal control group (by 6.8°). No differences were found for percent porosity and canal separation. Canal diameter was significantly greater in the immobilized vs. internal (P < 0.001) and external control (P < 0.001) tibiae. The differences in orientation relative to the external controls indicated that the organization of cortical bone in the rat is affected by loading. Although the predicted difference in canal orientation was not detected between immobilized and internal control groups, the distributions of individual canal orientations, from which the mean values were derived, revealed distinctive patterns for all three groups. The internal controls exhibited an intermediate position between the immobilized and external controls, suggesting that paralysis on the contralateral side resulted in altered loading relative to the normal state represented by the external control. This was also evident in a regional analysis by quadrant. The loaded bones had the same cross‐sectional shape; however, their internal structure differed. These results provide novel insights into the impact of loading on the 3D organization of primary cortical bone and have implications for understanding the relation between cortical bone adaptation, disease and mechanical properties.
Functional neural correlates of psychometric schizotypy: An fMRI study of antisaccades
Authors: Aichert Désirée S. , Williams Steven C.R. , Möller Hans‐Jürgen , Kumari Veena , Ettinger Ulrich
Published: November 2011

Dimensional models of psychosis assume a continuum between schizotypy and schizophrenia. However, little is known about the overlap in brain functional alterations between schizotypy and schizophrenia. Fifty‐four healthy volunteers underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging during an antisaccade task, a measure of cognitive control known to be impaired in schizophrenia, and a prosaccade task. Higher positive schizotypy was correlated with higher antisaccade error rates. Associations between reduced blood oxygenation level dependent signal and higher schizotypy were found during antisaccades in the putamen, thalamus, cerebellum, and visual cortex and during prosaccades in the visual cortex, supplementary eye field, and posterior intraparietal sulcus. These findings show that increased schizotypy is associated with decreased antisaccade performance and reduced brain function in regions also affected in schizophrenia, therefore providing evidence of neurocognitive and neurophysiological overlap between schizotypy and schizophrenia.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitor and Statin Use and Incident Mobility Limitation in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults: The Health, Aging and Body Composition Study
Authors: Gray Shelly L. , Boudreau Robert M. , Newman Anne B. , Studenski Stephanie A. , Shorr Ronald I. , Bauer Douglas C. , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Hanlon Joseph T. ,   for the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To evaluate whether the use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and statins is associated with a lower risk of incident mobility limitation in older community dwelling adults.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

Health, Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) study.

Participants

Three thousand fifty‐five participants who were well functioning at baseline (no mobility limitations).

Measurements

Summated standardized daily doses (low, medium, high) and duration of ACE inhibitor and statin use were computed. Mobility limitation (two consecutive self‐reports of having any difficulty walking one‐quarter of a mile or climbing 10 steps without resting) was assessed every 6 months after baseline. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses were conducted, adjusting for demographics, health status, and health behaviors.

Results

At baseline, 15.2% used ACE inhibitors and 12.9% used statins; use of both was greater than 25% by Year 6. Over 6.5 years of follow‐up, 49.8% had developed mobility limitation. In separate multivariable models, neither ACE inhibitor (multivariate hazard ratio (HR) = 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.82–1.09) nor statin use (multivariate HR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.87–1.17) was associated with lower risk of mobility limitation. Similar findings were seen in analyses examining dose–response and duration–response relationships and a sensitivity analysis restricted to those with hypertension.

Conclusion

ACE inhibitors and statins widely prescribed to treat hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, respectively, do not lower risk of mobility limitation, an important indicator of quality of life.
Avulsion injury and levator hiatal ballooning: two independent risk factors for prolapse? An observational study
Authors: DIETZ HANS PETER , FRANCO ANNA V.M. , SHEK KA LAI , KIRBY ADRIENNE
Published: November 2011

Objective. To study whether avulsion and ballooning are independent risk factors for symptoms and/or signs of pelvic organ prolapse. Design. Retrospective analysis of data obtained in clinical practice. Setting. Tertiary urogynecology unit. Population. Seven hundred and sixty‐one consecutive women with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. Methods. Evaluation included history, vaginal examination and four‐dimensional translabial ultrasound. Ultrasound analysis was performed off‐line, blinded against clinical data. Hiatal dimensions were measured at the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions. Puborectalis avulsion was identified using tomographic imaging. Main outcome measures. Symptoms and objective signs of prolapse (ICS POP‐Q stage 2+). Results. Owing to previous surgery 156 women were excluded, leaving 605, of whom 258 (43%) had prolapse symptoms. Significant prolapse (International Continence Society Prolapse Quantification System grade 2+) was identified as follows: cystocele in 222 (37%) women, rectocele in 159 (27%) and apical in 40 (8%), while 110 (18%) had an avulsion. There was a strong association between avulsion, hiatal ballooning and symptoms/signs of prolapse (p < 0.001). On multivariable backwards stepwise logistic regression, puborectalis avulsion was associated with an increased risk of symptoms and signs of prolapse, even after allowing for the degree of levator ballooning. The presence of avulsion did not modify the relation between hiatal area and symptoms of prolapse. Conclusions. Puborectalis avulsion injury and levator hiatal ballooning are independent risk factors for symptoms and signs of prolapse. The role of avulsion in the pathogenesis of prolapse is not fully explained by its effect on hiatal dimensions. It is likely that avulsion implies not only muscular trauma but also damage to structures impossible to assess clinically or by imaging, i.e. myofascial and connective tissue.
Azithromycin in periodontal treatment: more than an antibiotic
Authors: Hirsch R. , Deng H. , Laohachai M. N.
Published: November 2011

Hirsch R, Deng H, Laohachai MN. Azithromycin in periodontal treatment: more than an antibiotic. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 137–148. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used extensively in medicine for the treatment of a wide range of infections such as upper respiratory tract infections, middle ear infections, sexually transmitted infections and trachoma. It is also effective against the most common periodontopathogens. The versatility of the macrolides extends beyond their antibiotic properties as a result of their well‐documented immune‐modulating/anti‐inflammatory effects. Macrolides, including azithromycin, are therefore used to treat diseases not associated with bacteria, such as severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases and, more recently, cystic fibrosis. Azithromycin is concentrated in neutrophils, macrophages and particularly fibroblasts; all of these cells are central players in the pathogenesis of most periodontal diseases. This paper reviews the diverse properties of azithromycin and the clinical periodontal studies of its effects in both the treatment of periodontitis and in resolving drug‐related gingival overgrowth. Evidence exists to support the use of a single course of azithromycin in the treatment of advanced periodontal diseases. Azithromycin could have a triple role in the treatment and resolution of periodontal diseases: suppressing periodontopathogens, anti‐inflammatory activity and healing through persistence at low levels in macrophages and fibroblasts in periodontal tissues, even after a single course of three tablets. If future periodontal research confirms these properties, it could become a valuable host‐modulator in periodontal treatment.
Shear bond strength of restorations applied to un‐complicated crown fractures: an in vitro study
Authors: Pamir Tijen , Eden Ece , Sebahtin Ahmed Shenay
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Background: Study was designed to evaluate shear bond strengths of different restorative techniques of uncomplicated enamel‐dentin fractures in permanent incisors. Material and Methods: Forty human mandibular incisors were divided into four groups. One‐third of their anatomical crowns from the incisal edges were cut off in three groups, representing an uncomplicated enamel‐dentin fracture. Intact teeth in group 1 were used as control. In group 2, edge fragments were reattached by flowable composite (Filltek Flowable Supreme XT). In group 3, teeth were restored with universal resin composite (Filtek Z 250). In group 4, pre‐impregnated glass fiber sheet (everStickNet) was positioned onto fractured surface, and then restorations were completed with resin composite. Three‐step etch‐and‐rinse adhesive system (Adper Scotchbond Multi Purpose) was used in all test groups. Shear bond strengths of all samples were determined in universal testing machine, and data were analyzed with Kruskal–Wallis followed by Mann–Whitney U tests. Failure types were observed by light microscope. Results: Shear bond strength of sound teeth was significantly higher than those of restored teeth (P < 0.05). Mean shear bond strengths of the reattached teeth were lower than the other two restoration types; however, differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Load‐bearing capacity of restored teeth was not as high as sound teeth in the uncomplicated crown fracture. However, shear bond strength of different types of restorations seems close to each other.
Initiation of microtopography in re‐vegetated cutover peatlands: evolution of plant species composition
Authors: Pouliot Rémy , Rochefort Line , Karofeld Edgar
Published: November 2011

Questions

How has plant species composition changed following initiation of microstructures in re‐vegetated cutover peatlands? How many years are required for plant species composition of re‐vegetated cutover peatlands to resemble natural boreal bogs?

Location

Newly formedSphagnumcarpets on restored, cutover peatlands (inCanada) or re‐vegetated spontaneously after site abandonment (inEstonia) and on undisturbed natural bogs nearby.

Methods

Plant frequencies (point intercept method) and abundances (vegetation quadrats) were assessed along linear transects. At each assessment point, moss surface height was measured relative to a local reference point (lowest point on a given transect) to associate frequencies or abundances to a position in the gradient of microtopography.PCAs (separately forCanada andEstonia) were conducted to follow evolution of plant species frequency in the gradient of microtopography in re‐vegetated sites and similarity with those of natural peatlands. InCanada, regressions were also performed to estimate relationships between moss surface height and vascular plant cover (ericaceous shrubs andCyperaceae) as well as time required for vascular plant cover to become similar to that of natural bogs.

Results

Species composition was still dissimilar to microstructures of natural bogs 10 yr post‐restoration and 70 yr post‐abandonment; however, some trends were observed in re‐vegetated peatlands. The greatest differences were for ericaceous species (two‐ to three‐fold less abundant in re‐vegetated peatlands), dominantCyperaceae, and relative proportions ofSphagnum. In addition, hummock formation was closely related to dense (>50%) ericaceous cover.

Conclusions

All species tolerant to abiotic conditions prevailing in re‐vegetated sites contributed to initiation of microtopography, although some species were found in atypical positions within the gradient of microtopography. Random events and establishment priority seemed initially to be more important in temporal evolution of microstructures than plant interactions. However, ecological restoration could effectively reduced time needed for species occurrences to approach those in natural peatlands, relative to time required for recovery of spontaneously re‐vegetated peat extraction sites.
Near‐Infrared Exposure Changes Cellular Responses to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Heselich Anja , Frohns Florian , Frohns Antonia , Naumann Steffen C. , Layer Paul G.
Published: November 2011

Near infrared (NIR) and X‐rays are radiations from different sides of the wavelength spectrum but both are used during medical treatments, as they have severe impacts on cellular processes, including metabolism, gene expression, proliferation and survival. However, both radiations differ strictly in their consequences for exposed patients: NIR effects are generally supposed to be positive, mostly ascribed to a stimulation of metabolism, whereas X‐ray leads to genetic instability, an increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damages and finally to cellular death by apoptosis in tumor cells. Since genomic stability after X‐irradiation depends on the mitochondrial metabolism, which is well known to be regulated by NIR, we analyzed the impact of NIR on cellular responses of fibroblasts, retinal progenitor cells and keratinocytes to X‐radiation. Our data show that previous exposure to naturally occurring doses of nonthermal NIR combined with clinically relevant X‐ray doses leads to (1) increased genomic instability, indicated by elevated ratios of mitotic catastrophes, (2) increased ROS, (3) higher amounts of X‐irradiated cells entering S‐phase and (4) impaired DNA double‐strand break repair. Taken together, our data show tremendous effects of NIR on cellular responses to X‐rays, probably affecting the results of radiotherapy after NIR exposure during cancer treatment.
Transfer of Kaempferia candida to Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) based on morphological and molecular data
Authors: Techaprasan Jiranan , Leong‐Škorničková Jana
Published: November 2011

Results of morphological studies supported by molecular analyses of chloroplast psbA‐trnH and partial petA‐psbJ DNA sequences indicate that Kaempferia candida cannot be retained in this genus. The species is here formally transferred to Curcuma and the name is typified. Notes on the species and colour plates are given.
How prokaryotes deal with arsenic†
Authors: Slyemi Djamila , Bonnefoy Violaine
Published: November 2011

Arsenic is a notorious poison classified as a carcinogen, a teratogen and a clastogen that ranks number one on the Environmental Protection Agency's priority list of drinking water contaminants. It is ubiquitous and relatively abundant in the Earth's crust. Its mobilization in waters by weathering, volcanic, anthropogenic or biological activities represents a major hazard to public health, exemplified in India and Bangladesh where 50 million people are acutely at risk. Since basically the origin of life, microorganisms have been exposed to this toxic compound and have evolved a variety of resistance mechanisms, such as extracellular precipitation, chelation, intracellular sequestration, active extrusion from the cell or biochemical transformation (redox or methylation). Arsenic efflux systems are widespread and are found in nearly all organisms. Some microorganisms are also able to utilize this metalloid as a metabolic energy source through either arsenite oxidation or arsenate reduction. The energy metabolism involving redox reactions of arsenic has been suggested to have evolved during early life on Earth. This review highlights the different systems evolved by prokaryotes to cope with arsenic and how they participate in its biogeochemical cycle.
Ethnobotanical and scientific aspects of Malva sylvestris L.: a millennial herbal medicine
Authors: Gasparetto João Cleverson , Martins Cleverson Antônio Ferreira , Hayashi Sirlei Sayomi , Otuky Michel Fleith , Pontarolo Roberto
Published: November 2011

Objectives

Malva sylvestris L., known as common mallow, is native to Europe, North Africa and Asia. In the Mediterranean region, this species has a long history of use as food, and due to its therapeutic relevance, some parts of this plant have been employed in traditional and ethnoveterinary medicines. The leaves in particular have been reported to have potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-complementary, anticancer and skin tissue integrity activity. Additionally, an anti-ulcerogenic effect was recently proven, demonstrating that the aqueous extract was more effective than cimetidine, a potent medicine used to treat gastric ulcers. Due to its wide use and medicinal importance, many studies have been conducted; however, the information in the literature is very extensive and disseminated, making it difficult to use.

Key findings

A complete review involving the ethnobotanical and scientific aspects of M. sylvestris has been made. The research has provided evidence that M. sylvestris has potential use as a medicinal plant and has highlighted a need for more studies involving clinical and toxicological aspects of its use.

This review can contribute to the field with its historical context, and by describing the progress made, new ideas for researchers can arise.
A Statistical Characterization of the Effects of Mistuning in Multistage Bladed Disks
Authors: D’Souza Kiran X. , Epureanu Bogdan I.
Published: November 2011

A great deal of research has been conducted on the effects of small random variations in structural properties, known as mistuning, in single stage bladed disks. Due to the inherent randomness of mistuning and the large dimensionality of the models of industrial bladed disks, a reduced order modeling approach is required to understand the effects of mistuning on a particular bladed disk design. Component mode mistuning (CMM) is an efficient compact reduced order modeling method that was developed to handle this challenge in single stage bladed disks. In general, there are multiple stages in bladed disk assemblies, and it has been demonstrated that for certain frequency ranges accurate modeling of the entire bladed disk assembly is required because multistage modes exist. In this work, a statistical characterization of structural mistuning in multistage bladed disks is carried out. The results were obtained using CMM combined with a multistage modeling approach previously developed. In addition to the statistical characterization, a new efficient classification method is detailed for characterizing the properties of a mode. Also, the effects of structural mistuning on the characterization of the mode is explored.